I know I could easily write this blog in Dutch, given the amazing speech Jessica gave last Saturday, but in honor all the friends and family from abroad I will keep this post in English. Last Saturday it was finally their day. The result of an amazing love story brought us all to Amsterdam to celebrate their love. Two beautiful souls that crossed paths at an Australian airport fell in love, became a couple and are now husband and wife. He decided to follow his heart and take that giant leap of faith moving to the other side of the world. Last Saturday they brought their two worlds together.
It was a day that reminded why I love photographing weddings so much. It’s not the fancy locations or ridiculously good food (trust me I was spoiled last weekend). It’s the gratitude of two people celebrating their love. Grateful for their life together. Grateful for their story, how faith brought them together. Grateful for the opportunities they have had to meet each other. Grateful for the parents that raised them and grateful for all the people in their lives.
The day of Carlo and Jessica was all about gratitude. They are one of the nicest people I have ever met. Making absolutely sure you feel comfortable around them. Even though we only met online, through zoom and different timezones, we connected. They allowed me to see more than just the surface. They opened up, and when meeting all their special people around them I could easily tell, that opening up, being grateful is in the core of their being. And spending the day around such wonderful people that feel like friends at the end, is really what makes my work so special.
Getting Married at Pulitzer Amsterdam
I started the day at the beautiful Pulitzer hotel in Amsterdam. What a wonderful place. The honeymoon suit was the perfect place to start the day. Carlo got ready first and when he left the room it was time for Jessica to arrive. Friends came over, champagne was popped and an amazing wedding dress got put on. Time to meet Carlo again, get reunited and kick-off the amazing day. We had a short photo session at the hotel and walked over to the Onze Lieve Vrouw church next door. A Spanish, English, Dutch ceremony was performed in the beautiful setting of this old church. The perfect place to exchange rings and vows.
Boat trip around the canals
After the ceremony a boat was waiting for us. What better way to show Amsterdam to all your friends and family from abroad. The sun was slowly peaking from behind the clouds again when we set to cruise through the canals. Champagne was served and all the guests had the perfect time to sight see and catch up together.
After the boat we got back at the Pulitzer for an amazing diner in a beautiful room of the hotel. Beautiful speeches were made – of which a beautiful speech of Jessica in Dutch, as a big surprise to Carlo, which brought tears to all of our eyes.
Let’s party at van Puffelen
After diner we walked over to van Puffelen, a typical Amsterdam cafe, where the party was held. Time to turn on the playlist, listen to their favorite songs and dance! And as the party was evolving I had my traditional “I can’t get away from the party” moment. Showing how much I enjoyed being with them and their amazing group of friends and family. Time for the final hugs and leave Amsterdam and this amazing day behind me.
Jessica and Carlo, I am beyond grateful that our paths crossed as well. It was an honor capturing all the special moments of your day. Thanks for being such amazing human beings. Enjoy your preview.
