Kelsey Gene Photography

November 7th

Sydney + Taylor’s Hotel Lafayette Wedding, Buffalo, NY

Sydney + Taylor’s Hotel Lafayette Wedding, Buffalo, NY

I have been looking forward to this wedding day for so long. I’m not even sure how to start writing about such an incredible day, filled with the BEST people.

To say that I grew up with Sydney, doesn’t seem like a full enough phrase for what her family means to me… They are more like family. The kind of people that SHOW UP in good times and bad. I can clearly remember playing with Syd as a toddler, and even then she had the best laugh in the entire universe, and still does.

I know am not alone when I say, that when I met Taylor, it just clicked. It was so obvious that they are the perfect match. And when you love someone as much as we love Sydney….. sometimes the standards can be pretty high of like, is this guy really good enough? But even her parents will tell you, they quickly fell in love with Taylor too.

These two have weathered some seriously gut wrenching stuff together, and have come out stronger and more in love than ever. I am sooooooo over the moon happy for you guys! And I can’t wait to see what is down the road for you both. Thank you for letting me be a part of your beautiful wedding day.

GETTING READY

Syd and her best of friends began their day getting ready at the Hotel Lafayette. These girls have the best stories of their adventures and travels together. It was such a happy and laughter filled morning. I can’t think of a better start to the best day ever.

Sydney and her bridesmaids spent the evening before putting together their own bouquets… and MY GOODNESS, they did a fabulous job!! (Anyone need a florist for their wedding? 😉 )

Meanwhile, Rachel, my friend and second shooter, was with Tyler and his groomsmen, as they got ready for the day at an Airbnb over on the westside.

Sydney and Taylor shared a first look in the courtyard of the Hotel Lafayette. Afterwards we got started with some portraits. We had sooo much fun with these two. I think one of my favorite things about their relationship is their sense of humor. Not only are they both super funny, they have the kind of relationship that allows them to laugh and find joy in even the smallest moments.

Over the months of planning, Sydney had been filling me in about some of her details for the wedding day, like coordinating dresses with leather jackets for the bridesmaids and different color suits for the groomsmen. To say the least, I was super excited to see how everything came together. This girl has got style, because everyone looked amazing!!!

THE CEREMONY

After we finished up with the portraits, we all headed to the Kingdom Hall for their ceremony. This is it! Time to get these two married.

Their ceremony was really beautiful. Highlighting their promises to each other as well as scriptural principals to help create a relationship that will withstand the test of time. There was a section where their friend, Mike, who officiated the wedding, read notes that the couple had written explaining why they loved the other person. It was truly special and so romantic! I am happy that they have it all on video to relive those moments.

After the ceremony, we headed out for more portraits! Sydney and Taylor really prioritized their time for photos, which obviously makes me SUPER happy! But you know what… in addition to have a large variety of incredible images of the two of them from their wedding day… having enough time also means that taking pictures can be super fun. Really? fun? Not what most people would consider a good time. But seriously, just ask Syd + Taylor! Not being rushed really does have such a great effect on everyone’s spirits. I had so much fun during their portraits, I am pretty sure they and the whole bridal party did too!!

THE RECEPTION

We all headed up to the Green House room in the Hotel Lafayette, where the cutest mini donuts were waiting for us.

The dance floor, was packed, like you’ve never seen before! I love that Syd and Taylor had a spot on their online rsvp form where guests could request songs that they’d like played. I really think that contributed to the completely PACKED dance floor. I’m not joking, at times I had to stand on a chair just to get a view onto the floor, it was that packed.

All in all it was such a fun day! At one point after I had packed up my gear and was out on the dance floor with Syd, she leaned over, and said, “I am so happy that this is how today is going! “

Sydney + Taylor, we could not be more happy for you and hope that your wedding day was everything you envisioned. I know you are going to have a fabulous life together, and I can’t wait to see where it takes you!

THE VENDORS

Venue: Hotel at the Lafayette

Photography: Kelsey Gene Photography with second shooter Rachel Hackett

Videography: Timothy Blake

Florals: DIY

Dress: Bliss Bridal

Groomsmen Suits: Indochino

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September 21st

Claudienne & Isidore’s Anniversary Session

Tonawanda, NY

Claudienne & Isidore thought that the photo session was a lovely anniversary gift from her mom. Pretty straight forward, right? Well, what they did’t know, was that it wasn’t the only gift. It was only step one in an evening full of surprises. I had so much fun leading them to their surprise anniversary party where all their friends and family were eagerly waiting for them. Don’t worry, you’ll get to see their reactions at the end!

But let’s rewind a little… We planned the session for Ellicott Creek Park, which was the perfect backdrop, with cool bridges, lots of greenery, and of course the creek! It also happens to be conveniently close to Michael’s Landing, the venue for their surprise party! 😉 Their session was so relaxed and full of laughter. These two have such an beautiful connection, which surely will continue to grow and deepen in the many anniversaries to come!

As we wrapped up the session, I asked Claudienne & Isidore if they would humor me and head to one last location. ‘I have the perfect shot in mind. Just on the other side of this gate is a great view’ They opened the gate, and there was their family and friends welcoming them with a big ol’ “SUPRISE! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!”

… I mean I had to get a little sneaky right?

It is so evident that the people that worked hard to plan the party have sooo much love for Claudienne & Isidore! They are certainly fortunate to have such a loving group of friends and family.

Thank you Claudia for allowing me to be a part of such a great evening. <3

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September 15th

Elliott’s Newborn Session

Get ready for some major baby swoons… <3 Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Meeting little Elliott within the first few weeks of his life was such a privilege. It is so evident that this little man had brought so much joy to his parents’ lives.

For the session Amy & Brad really wanted to keep the images natural & minimal, focusing in on Elliott’s features. For that reason I chose very simple props and natural poses and reflect how curled up Elliott was in his mom’s belly. He loves to stretch his little legs out long and straight. He also really likes have his hand(s) up above him rather than at his sides. I am really looking forward to being able to photograph him again as he grows, and grows, and grows within this first year.

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September 12th

Hazel’s One Year Milestone Session

I have to admit, sharing this session is a little bittersweet. It almost feels like the end of an era. I have had the wonderful privileged of photographing this little girl as well as her older brother from the time they were each just a few days old. The fact that she is already a year old is just crazy! How does all that time go so fast!?

I certainly hope that I will be able to keep on photographing these kiddos as they continue to grow. But most importantly, I am so glad that her parents have these beautiful images to remember each milestone and stage of growth. (Check out her previous sessions, here & here.)

At a year old, Hazel is still rocking her adorable baby rolls and chubby cheeks. The latest addition? All those teeth! She is certainly growing up quickly and getting cuter by the minute.

Make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom. Some of my favorites from the whole evening might be those big wide grins of both kids on the swing set. That’s what childhood memories are made of right there. <3

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September 10th

Colleen & Matt’s Beach Engagement Session

Woodlawn Beach State Park

We came so close to calling this session off. It literally poured right at the exact time we had agreed to meet….and then something incredible happened. The sky over the lake completely cleared, giving us the absolute prettiest sunset ever. Colleen & Matt were a pleasure to spend the evening with. Their radiant smiles and easy going personalities set the mood for their session, despite the uncertainty of the weather.

I already can tell that their wedding next May at Salvatore’s Italian Garden, is going to be an evening filled with laughter and lots of energy!