As a wedding photographer in South Jersey focused on documentary style wedding photography, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless stories. Victoria & Andrew’s story will always hold a special place in my heart because our journey together started over 3 years ago! And over that time I’ve had the privilege of documenting several milestones in their lives, and consider them to be good friends.

Documentary Style Wedding Photography | A Story Years in the Making

Victoria and Andrew’s story is a testament to destiny. Introduced by their siblings, they embarked on a journey that led them to their dream wedding day. But what sets them apart is their unconventional, fun-loving nature. These two are anything but “traditional!” For example, when Andrew decided to pop the question instead of visiting a jewelry store, he chose to propose with a ring hidden inside a bath bomb!

I first met Victoria and Andrew in January 2020 over drinks, to discuss photographing their upcoming wedding. Little did we know that two months later, the world would be gripped by the pandemic. But Victoria & Andrew weren’t going to let that get in their way! That summer I had the privilege of documenting their intimate, socially distanced ceremony in Andrew’s parents’ garden while their friends and family joined the celebration remotely via live feed.

Documentary Style Wedding Photography | A Meaningful Start to the Day

Victoria & Andrew decided to return to Andrew’s parents’ home for the morning before their wedding celebration. The beautiful historic home already held many memories for the couple, so it was the perfect backdrop for them to get ready at, and have their first look! Victoria was of course excited to show Andrew the wedding dress that she had picked out 3 years ago!! She looked absolutely stunning in it.

After an intimate morning with their family and an emotional first look, Victoria & Andrew headed to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation where they would say their vows and celebrate with their friends and family!

Documentary Style Wedding Photography | A Fun Celebration

The anticipation was high in the “Earth Room”, as guests gathered to witness Victoria & Andrew say their vows in person! The couple beamed, as Victoria’s father officiated their ceremony peppered with emotion and many personal jokes!

After the ceremony, the couple spent time taking portraits with their grandparents before joining their guests in the main reception hall. Guests savored scrumptious food from the couple’s favorite Mediterranean restaurant, Lemon. It was a delightful fusion of flavors that left everyone craving for more!

Victoria and Andrew’s wedding day was a reflection of their personalities—lively, unconventional, and full of surprises. They wanted their guests to have options and enjoy every moment, so they brought boardgames for their friends and family to enjoy during breaks from dancing! Their guests took home custom clay coasters, lovingly handcrafted by Victoria’s grandfather.

And as a fun personal touch, Victoria handcrafted dinosaur cake toppers, complete with a custom tie that perfectly matched Andrew’s! It was a perfect, unique way to end their fun night.

As a South Jersey photographer focused on documentary style wedding photography, capturing Victoria & Andrew’s story has been a dream come true. I’m so glad we had that first meeting in a whiskey bar in New Brunswick and that 3 years later I get to call this amazing couple friends! Documenting their wedding celebration and seeing their family and friends together was amazing, and I’m looking forward to documenting many more milestones for Victoria & Andrew down the road!

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer to capture genuine moments and your unique personalities, let’s connect! I’d be honored to be a part of your story, just as I was with Victoria and Andrew’s unforgettable wedding day.

---

Documentary Style Wedding Photography | Vendor Team:

Photographer: Gen Palmer Photography

Photography Assistant: Christine Bell

Venue: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Monmouth County

Caterer: Lemon Mediterranean Restaurant

Victoria’s Hair & Make Up Artist: Sparks At Rj’s

Victoria’s Bouquet: Bloomers Weddings