To know Rita and Noam is to love them. Fully and wholeheartedly. All of my clients are endearing in their own special and unique ways, but the way Rita and Noam flow through life, and subsequently flowed through their Rustic Ridge View Farm wedding day, makes you want to spend as much time with them as humanly possible. They’re funny, warm, gentle, and so kindly complimentary to everyone around them.

When I first walked into Rita’s getting ready room on the afternoon of her wedding, she teared up and said, “Having you here feels so special - it makes today feel real.”

It was one of the most heartfelt moments of my entire photography career.

THE COUPLE

By the time Rita and Noam got married, they had been together for about 6 years. They love spending time with family and friends, traveling, experiencing new things, and even weathered the pandemic together in NYC (eeeek!).

The way they work so well with each other is a joy to witness. They’re both silly in their own ways, able to make each other laugh easily. They’re not cheesy, but you can tell they feel grateful to have found each other. Their Jewish faith is important to them, which they wove into every aspect of their gorgeous wedding day.

THE VENUE

Rustic Ridge View Farm in Kerhonkson is truly a hidden gem in the Hudson Valley. I believe it’s one of the most special places to host a wedding, not only because of its gorgeous property, but also and especially due to its owner Wally. The grounds boast a beautiful ceremony location overlooking the mountains and a covered open-air pavilion for the reception, but Wally is the one who really makes the entire experience special. He lives onsite, and opens his own home for a getting ready space; he is also happy to jump in to help wherever needed, and has the most enjoyable, kind, and excited energy.

If you’re lucky enough, his horses will even make an appearance in the backdrop of your photos. The location is rustic in every sense of the word, and just the most magical little spot you could ever hope to stumble upon.

THE DETAILS

Rita and Noam’s wedding day details were some of my most favorite to ever photograph. All of the florals were vibrant and lush, with purple, pink, and red hues. The couple chose not to have a wedding party, but the details Rita and Noam chose to wear themselves were just absolutely stunning - Noam in a blue suit, and Rita in a lace gown with slight blush undertones.

As mentioned before, Rita and Noam’s Jewish faith is important to them, so they incorporated the ketubah, tisch, and bedeken traditions into their big day, which were all a privilege and joy to witness and document. The happiness felt during these moments was immeasurable and immense, and oh-so-special.

THE RECEPTION

Rita and Noam’s reception was a PARTY as soon as it began - starting with a 20-minute celebratory hora. It was the best kind of chaos - sweaty, scream-singing, and twirling as if the dancing would never end. Eventually, it settled down into the more traditional slower dances, but when I think back on Rita and Noam’s reception, the main thing I remember is Rita being hoisted into the air on a chair, her hair flying, the sun sparkling behind her. A glittery snapshot in my mind.

I barely remember how warm and humid Rita and Noam’s wedding day was - I guess that’s the way of good days. You don’t remember the little things that touched the day; you just remember how the people you were with made you feel.

Rita and Noam, you are dear and precious and everything good. I miss you, and I miss this day.