On a beautiful March afternoon, I had the utmost honor of photographing Leif & Grania’s destination wedding at 501 Union in Brooklyn, New York (see their engagement session here). Leif & Grania are not only one of the absolute coolest couples who I have ever had the opportunity to photograph, but I am also fortunate to call them both my dear friends. A creative and adventurous pair, the couple, who are passionate about travel, design, and food, have traveled across the globe together, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, renovated a 19th-century building and turned it into their home, and, judging by the overflow of love that was their wedding day, have touched more people’s hearts than they will ever know.
Grania started the day with her bridesmaid by enjoying champagne and snacks in an absolutely gorgeous loft at the Wythe Hotel which featured picture-perfect views of the Manhattan skyline. The plethora of natural light and beautiful wallpaper made for an absolutely dreamy backdrop for her getting ready photos, and I had so much fun celebrating with her awesome group of friends. From there, we traveled to a charming brownstone-lined street in Cobble Hill to snap some photos of Grania and her bridesmaids in the beautiful sunshine. Afterward, we were off to 501 Union for the wedding!
The ceremony could not have been more personal or intimate. Officiated by one of their close friends, Leif & Grania chose to write their own vows and, by the time they shared their first kiss as husband and wife, there was not a dry eye in the house (including mine). As guests sipped champagne, we snuck off to DUMBO for their couple’s portraits framed by Brooklyn Bridge, lit aglow by the late afternoon sun.
The beautiful reception was illuminated by gold Modo chandeliers designed locally in Brooklyn, a vaulted skylight, and glowing candles running the entire length of the long farmhouse tables covered in greenery. From the heartfelt speeches to the incredible family-style dinner to the surprise first dance that Leif had with his younger sister to the epic dance party, it was truly a perfect evening and one that I will forever be thankful to have been a part of!
“Like a river flows surely to the sea, darling so it goes, some things are meant to be. Take my hand, take my whole life too, for I can’t help falling in love with you.” – Elvis Presley
Photography by New York City Wedding Photographer Molly Carr Photography | Hotel: The Wythe | Venue: 501 Union | Wedding Gown: Jenny Packham from Luxe Redux Bridal | Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Groom & Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux | Wedding Design & Planning: Marlene Sims | DJ: Greg Ruben | Catering: Vinegar Hill House Foods | Cake: Milk Bar | Second Photographer: Upasana Mainali
These photos are marvelous. You certainly captured the joy on Leif and Grania’s faces and the spirit of their wedding day.
I’m sure they will cherish the photographs forever