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I capture the unspoken — the glances, the silences — drawing from New York's pulse and the richness of global cultures. Every wedding is its own intricate narrative. Rooted in theatre and life's everyday rhythms, I document moments both transient and timeless. 

Hey, I'm susan!

New York Botanical Gardens Wedding

New York Botanical Gardens Wedding

Who? : Leslie + Justin

Where?  Stone Mill at the NYBG

When? : June 2019

What can I say about a couple so wonderful?  And how can I describe our weird, long road that led to Leslie and Justin’s day?  I met Leslie back in 2007-ish when she was a student at FSU and I was in my first new studio in Tallahassee, Florida.  We were both young, and early in careers that would eventually lead us both to New York and back to each other.  I photographed Leslie here in New York onstage, worked with her and Justin at Fort Tryon Park for their engagement images, and have now photographed their wedding.

It’s crazy how the world works.  I had no idea that these sweet, tiny babies (okay, mature teenagers) from FSU would still be a presence in my life over a decade later.  Shayla and I work often together at weddings, on events for The Wedding School, and she’s evolved into a brilliant production manager, filmmaker, entrepreneur, and Jedi minister destined to be besties with Lance Bass (it’s a long story).  Justin Bowen has worked on Broadway and is now exploring his almost hilariously enormous talent as a true artist in the field of hair design (there is no other word for it, he’s an artist).  Nick has emerged as one of the top rising makeup artists in the NYC area, another genius artist destined for stardom.  Leslie has been in almost too many Broadway shows to count, and her presence onstage is as dazzling as her ferociously beautiful voice and gorgeous, gorgeous dance talent.  Michael, Hardy, and so many more – you light up the world, and my life is better with you all in it.

Leslie and Justin had the kind of day you can only dream of.  Brilliant sunlight, the best of friends who have become your family, family that warms the heart, a stunning outdoor venue, and so much tears and laughter.  My love for these two has grown my heart a couple of sizes, and I hope the sweetness that they have together shines through in the photography of their day.

Here are a few of my favorite images from their wedding:

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New York Botanical Garden: A Natural Haven for a Dreamy Wedding

Nestled in the bustling heart of New York, the New York Botanical Garden offers an enchanting escape for couples dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature’s splendor. This remarkable venue, spread across 250 acres in the Bronx, is not just a garden but a mosaic of diverse landscapes, each offering a unique and magical setting for a wedding celebration. The beauty of the botanical garden, with its lush greenery, vibrant floral displays, and serene water features, creates an idyllic backdrop that transforms a wedding into a fairy tale.

A Tapestry of Gardens and Landscapes

The New York Botanical Garden boasts a variety of natural settings, each with its own charm and character. The Conservatory, a stunning glasshouse filled with tropical rainforests, deserts, and lush flower gardens, offers a picturesque indoor setting. The Palm Dome, with its towering palms and exotic plants, provides a tropical oasis that is both breathtaking and intimate.

For those who prefer an outdoor setting, the Rose Garden, with its thousands of blooming roses, creates a romantic and fragrant backdrop. The Native Plant Garden, showcasing the natural beauty of the region’s flora, offers a serene and rustic setting. Each of these spaces offers a unique canvas for capturing the beauty and emotion of a wedding day.

Photographic Opportunities Amidst Nature’s Masterpiece

Photographers at the New York Botanical Garden are presented with an endless array of stunning visuals. The natural light filtering through the trees and plants creates a soft, ethereal ambiance, ideal for capturing the warmth and joy of the occasion. The garden’s diverse landscapes, from manicured lawns to wildflower meadows, provide a variety of backdrops, allowing for creative and diverse photographic compositions.

The garden’s architecture, including the charming stone mill and the elegant Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, adds a touch of historical charm and elegance to photographs. The water features, including sparkling fountains and quiet ponds, offer tranquil settings for intimate couple portraits.

A Celebration in Harmony with Nature

A wedding at the New York Botanical Garden is not just a celebration of love but also a celebration of nature’s beauty. The garden’s commitment to sustainability and conservation is reflected in every aspect of its operations, making it an ideal choice for couples who value environmental stewardship.

The culinary offerings at the garden are crafted to complement the natural setting, with menus featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The garden’s experienced events team ensures that every detail, from the floral arrangements to the décor, is in harmony with the natural surroundings and the couple’s vision.

An Unforgettable Experience in a City Oasis

Choosing the New York Botanical Garden for a wedding means stepping into a world where nature’s beauty and tranquility meet the vibrancy and energy of New York City. It’s an experience that combines the serenity of a natural haven with the excitement of a city celebration. For couples seeking a wedding venue that is both breathtakingly beautiful and deeply connected to nature, the New York Botanical Garden offers a dreamlike setting that is as unforgettable as it is unique.

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