Jessica & John — 30A Wedding & Family Photography - 30A, Rosemary Beach, Panama City Beach, Charleston, Alys Beach

Jessica and John's wedding was without a doubt one for the books! What an incredible day, for two truly incredible people. This wedding can be described as nothing less than elegant, classic, and traditional in all the best (and most fun!!) ways. Without a doubt, a fabulous start to their marriage. These two met in high school, at a study abroad program, and have been together for the last decade+ of their lives. What an amazing thing to have found so early! Someone to go on adventures with (and in the case of these two, those adventures have taken them around the globe and then some), and witness, together, some of the most beautiful places in the world. Furthermore, someone to support you through arguably some of the most diverse and challenging years of your life. Even for your average accomplished adult it can be difficult to be selfless enough to maintain a relationship through those years, let alone when the pressure of law school. Not only are these two going to be attorneys, they stepped it up a notch, and are both on the path to become corporate attorneys.

Honestly though, these two make it appear effortless. The comfort they have around each other is something I don't witness very often, even in couples that have been married for decades. It's downright impressive. Watching them throughout the day I noticed John has this incredibly sweet habit of holding Jess' hand, frequently and unprompted, and every now and then he pulls her hand up and kisses it. You know, just one of those relationship nuances that often go unnoticed (unless you're a photographer and LIVE for those moments, hehe).

Their wedding was nothing short of stunning. They chose to start and finish their day at The Coveleigh Club in Rye New York, an 83-year-old private country club with views of the Long Island Sound. Their ceremony was in the heart of Manhattan, at St. Ignatius Loyola, on Park Ave., just near the Central Park where they often would meet up when they first started dating (and where we shot their engagement session). The reception was full of fabulous dancers, chair lifts, and some super awesome tradition from Jessica's side of the family (so. much. fun. - just go look at the photos!). Also, I find it highly unlikely you'll get through these photos without falling in love with Jessica's grandmother. Aside from the bride & groom, she was probably my favorite person that day (and probably everyone else's, too!).

I wish you two a lifetime of happiness, but I know you really don't need my well-wishes. You are each other's rocks, and it shines through after only minutes of seeing you together. So, enjoy the adventure. <3

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Bride's dress || Custom gown by Marisa Groom's tuxedo || Ralph Lauren Bridesmaid dresses || Alfred Sung Groomsmen tuxedos || The Black Tux Flowers || Arcadia Floral Church || St. Ignatius of Loyola Reception & catering || Coveleigh Club Invitations || Invitations by Tiffany Letterpress printing || Czar Press Second shooter || Mike Reilly

From Jessica: "Desiree was a dream to work with. Even though my husband and I were in Virginia and our wedding was in New York, getting in contact with her was always quick and seamless. I’m generally very camera shy, but she made me feel beautiful and completely at ease from the very beginning. She does her job with the perfect amount of enthusiasm, care, and patience. She was more than just a photographer at our wedding—she was a true friend, lending a hand when I couldn’t figure out how to pin the boutonniere on my dad’s lapel and helping retie my bouquet when I didn’t like what the florist delivered. Her photos show that she is not only talented, but that she has the ability to truly connect with and understand the visions of her diverse clientele."