We’re goin’ back, folks.  WAAAY back.  We’re going back to a time when snow still paved our streets and warm winter coats, scarves, hats, and gloves were all a part of our daily attire.  OK…so it’s not that far back, and recent bouts of cold rainy days don’t make that ever brisk season feel like a distant memory for all of us, but hey, I can pretend, can’t I?  Actually, I lied.  We’re going a little past that, we’re going back to when my journey all began…

After Mr. Hallmark & I got married, I decided I really wanted to do something that I loved – something I was passionate about that I hoped would bring others joy for a long time. When wedding and children’s portraiture photography came into mind,   something immediately clicked in me.  I was beyond excited about the possibilities, but I hadn’t the foggiest how to get started in the process.  Enter Jose Reyes.

Jose, of Jose Reyes Photography had taken beautiful photographs of my dear friend Kendra’s wedding and I thought of no better person to ask how to get started. With a list full of questions in hand, and the receiver in the other, I nervously dialed, hoping he might take a moment out of his busy schedule to speak with me.  Little did I know how that one phone call would influence and impact me in the way it has.

Jose is not only incredibly gifted, but, he’s also amazingly kind and humble and has a way of making everyone feel comfortable around him.  That first time I spoke with him, he answered every single question I had, and I ask WAY too many questions!  The ever generous Jose took me under his wing.  He shared his wisdom, his talent, his experience, and he provided and continues to provide me with opportunities and knowledge that I’m unbelievably grateful and humbled by.  To put it simply, Jose, without a doubt, has been THE reason I had the opportunity to discover this joy firsthand.  Without him, I would still be going door to door around the streets of New York City begging photographers to take a shot and let me second shoot with them.  Jose opened the door to infinite possibility and let me try, and I will be forever indebted to him for taking a leap of faith on me.

My first wedding as a second shooter was actually the weekend of my birthday, and Mr. Hallmark and I went out with his family to celebrate my old age at Union Square Cafe. Mmmm!  (P.S. I highly recommend the Chicken Milanese.)  And, yes, it’s so amazing that I still think about it…but, what was I talking about again?  Oh, yes, so I had my camera, camera bag, all my rented equipment and a tummy full of butterflies, ready to go!   I left everyone a little early to get there and compose myself, scope out Washington Square Park and begin shooting a little before everyone arrived.  Shortly thereafter, I looked across from where I was standing and saw Jose, pointing his lens at the same arch I was from the other side.   It. was. showtime.  Oh…boy…

Kim & Dave will always hold a special place in my heart.  Not only because they were the first bride and groom that I shot (ha ha, a little photography humor for you!  Hey, folks, I know, but I did warn you of my cheesiness, and I’m gonna have to blame my Dad entirely for inheriting corny jokes :) – love you, Dad!), but because they allowed us to really share in their day.  They were so open and completely present in their day.  It was not all about the details.  For them, it was about the people that surrounded them.  And, as such, their day was filled with an indescribable joy.  I knew immediately that I had found my niche.  I felt home.

Now, bear with me, folks.  This was my first wedding.   And, I have to admit something: I found it easier being the bride!  But, I also have to say that I ADORED being on this side.  It made me have a whole new appreciation for what our vendors went through on our wedding day.  And, though I certainly have a TON to learn, this entry and these images will always serve as a reminder of where I started.  And, hopefully, I can only improve from here.  With deep admiration and appreciation to Jose Reyes for giving me the chance to discover this joy firsthand, here are a few shots from my very. first. wedding…