Rustic Glam Mandana Barn Wedding in Skaneateles, NY

I remember talking with Marisa on the phone when she first reached out about photographing her wedding, and she kept coming back to this idea that she had of the wedding having a “community feel.”  It was less about the wedding, and more about them actually getting married (YES!!!) and being surrounded by all the important and special people in their lives (AMEN).  Can we just take a moment to appreciate this… THIS is the way weddings should be.

So the morning started as any other would.  Hair and makeup with the girls at the Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel.

Marisa and Eric decided to not have a traditional bridal party.  Instead, they invited their closest friends and family to be a part of their day, get ready with them, and wear whatever they wanted!

OBSESSED WITH YOU M

We sent the girls back inside, and I caught up with the guys

Then everyone headed to the Mandana Barn in Skaneateles for the ceremony and reception.

Much of the ceremony was a surprise to Marisa + Eric.  They asked friends and family to speak or sing, but didn’t necessarily request particular songs or words.  My favorite part of their day was watching Marisa, as what started off as just a few friends singing, turn into at least 20 people… and then the entire audience with little egg shakers, singing and shaking to the beat.  She had no idea!  It truly felt like a moment out of a movie.

Marisa + Eric’s Favorite Part of the Day:  “It’s hard to choose, but we would probably say the ceremony. We spent a lot of time creating a ceremony that felt like “us.” From the vows, the music; having someone close to us as the officiant, the rings, etc. it was really incredible to see it all come together.”

Inside the couple shared their first dance in the sunlit spot-light before heading to the tent for dinner.

Marisa and Eric’s wedding day advice:  “Ask for what you need. Don’t be afraid to ask friends & family to help! My cousin did my flowers, my aunts made the cookies, my best friend’s parents cooked for the dinner, our friend Megan and my sister Marie did all of the decor. Everyone felt invested and part of the day in a special way – and were happy to help. My mom and I made the seating mirror and table names. It felt so amazing to look around and experience the personal touches and community aspect. It felt so personal and touching.

This also helped us “splurge” on a few things – like Gannon’s icecream truck or an open bar the entire night.”

During the speeches, an unexpected letter was read.  Written by her late father, there was a note for Marisa and her new husband on their wedding day.  I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house.  This was such a beautiful gift and moment, I don’t ever think I could put into words.

As if you needed more reasons to love this wedding, they had an ice cream stand out front from Gannon’s Ice Cream!

This wedding might forever be one of the most heartfelt and emotional wedding I ever attend.  So much raw emotion, and thoughtful gifts of song/word (and dance!), such authentic love, a real sense of community, coming together to celebrate this couple on their big day.  My heart is so full for you two!

XOXO
Bridget

Photographer:  Bridget of By Bridget
Videographer: Ashley Morrell of Moved By You Videography
Venue: The Mandana Barn
Hotel: Sheraton Syracuse University
Hair: Jennifer Bersani of Frederick Anthony’s Salon
Make-Up: Christina Samuels of Christina Samuels LifeStylist
Dress: BHLDN
Flowers + Decor: Krystal Parizot + Megan Hopp
Rings:
Eric- Wedding Band: Anna Rei Jewellery UK,
Marisa- Engagement Ring: Arik Kastan, Wedding Band: Bride’s Mother’s
DJ: Ryan Dixon
Cookies: Homemade Italian cookies from bride and groom’s families
Ice Cream: Gannon’s Isle Ice Cream