published

Bright and Lush Inspiration

Seeing as Tami is a former wedding planner, it’s no surprise that all of the wonderful details of her wedding were absolutely beautiful and perfectly reflected her and Gio. You may recall that they had an intimate wedding at the Outdoor Art Club in Mill Valley on a beautiful April day this spring. Now’s the time to enjoy a bit of inspiration and a few photos from the reception just for fun.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration-1

Check out the sweet flowers on her cake.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- wedding cake with flowers

An elegant table setting.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- pink tulips and orange and green

Introductions and speeches are always fun.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- bride and groom

Did I mention Tami’s beautiful red wedding dress?

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- brides red dress

A kiss while dancing, witnessed by more than one camera.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- first dance kiss

And since these two are tango dancers, they treated their guests to a show.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- first dance tango for bride and groom

Loving our bride’s hair accessory- feathers and pearls.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- feather and pearl hair accessory for bride

Enjoying toasts.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- bride and groom toast

This little munchkin was enjoying the gardens, and also happens to be one of our connections to Tami and Gio. Or more accurately her parents are. We photographed their Bernardus Lodge wedding, which Tami planned. So fun to see them and their growing family at Tami’s celebration.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- child of past bride and groom

A sweet bit of romance from their invitation for this ring shot.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- invite and ring shot

Good music.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- dj friend of bride and groom

Means good dancing.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-inspiration- guests dancing in what looks like an old barn- rustic wedding

Congrats again to our fabulous couple! Extra special thanks to the team of professionals who helped make Tami and Gio’s day so special:

Getting ready, ceremony and reception venue: Laureen Novak from the Outdoor Art Club
Tami’s hair: Ashley Smith of Flower and Gold
Bride’s make-up: Alexia Ogle of Flower and Gold
Bride’s gown designer: Amy-Jo Tatum, custom design
Groom’s attire: Black Tie Tuxedo
Caterer: Alicia from La Mediterranee
Cake: Matthew Reilly
Floral Design: Erika Frank
DJ: DJ Olly
Ceremony musician: Leo King
Invitations: Delphine Doreau
Wedding favors: Vosges Haut Chocolat
Dance Instructors: Gustavo & Jessica Hornos

Want more from Tami and Gio’s colorful California wedding? Check out their slideshow and sneak peek. Or check out Tami’s thoughts on her blog.

Colorful Cali Wedding

I’ve known Tami for several years now. It all started when she was a wedding planner and Jo and I had the distinct pleasure of working with her. Since then, our paths have meandered in different directions, but we have been in touch throughout. So when Tami found Gio and they decided to get married, I was thrilled that she asked me to photograph their celebration. She and Gio selected one of my favorite intimate wedding venues in the Bay Area, the Outdoor Art Club, and spring couldn’t have been more perfect on their wedding day.

I started with the two of them as they got ready at the club.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca-1

Tami wasn’t particularly worried about western traditions. She chose a chic birdcage veil and a stunning red dance dress for her wedding look.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- bride getting ready bay area ca

Our beautiful bride walking down the aisle.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- bride walking down aisle in red dress

Gio couldn’t be more smitten.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- groom gazing at bride during ceremony in bay area

Or more excited to be officially married to Tami.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- groom celebrating during ceremony in bay area

Sweet smiles leaving the ceremony in the garden.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- big smiles after the ceremony from bride and groom

During cocktail hour, I had the chance to capture a few portraits. Tami definitely planned another beautiful event. I loved her personal touches, like this sign.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- portrait of bride adn groom with their cool diy sign

We were all treated to some great music during the portraits and cocktail reception.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- guitarist during cocktail hour

One of the many sweet little ones at the wedding. She is captivated by the flowers in the garden.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- little girl enjoying the garden after the ceremony

Tami and Gio were able to enjoy a few moments alone.

outdoor-art-club-wedding-mill-valley-ca- intimate portrait of bride and groom in gardens- north bay- sf, ca

More to follow soon from Tami and Gio’s spring wedding in Marin County.

Behind the Scenes with MFW

If you are anything like me, you have always wanted to be a part of a TV production- to see what happens backstage, so to speak; to watch as the characters move on and off screen; to observe the camera crews and the director. Well, Dave had just that opportunity when he photographed Christina and Ed’s wedding for WeTV’s My Fair Wedding. He followed the planner and star of the show, David Tutera, as well as capturing the bride and groom and their wedding details. So you feel like you were actually part of the shoot. Since I posted about the book earlier this week, I thought I would share the behind the scenes photos today.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes-1

Tutera is not only an amazing planner, he’s a fabulous designer. He created a beautiful Mexican inspired wedding for Christina, whose Riviera Maya destination wedding had to be canceled. His first stop was to check on the decor at the hotel where the reception would be. His team was already doing a great job; he added a few more touches to the look.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- preparing the flowers and candles for the reception of this mexican inspired wedding in staten island ny

Next he visited the bride who was in the process of getting her hair and make-up done.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- popping in to check on the bride during her getting ready and to bring her wedding gown- a david tutera by faviana bridal collection convertible dress

Never a private moment on a TV show.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- more cameras than you imagine as tutera checks on his bride

This is when he reminded Christina of the 3 dresses she tried on. He is about to tell her which one he chose for her. (This also happens to be one of my fave moments each episode of the show. I can’t help loving that they don’t know which gown he chose. The suspense is super fun. And while most women wouldn’t want someone else to chose this most important of all dresses, I actually would have loved it. I had such a hard time figuring out what to get.)

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- discussing the exciting stuff that will be happening during the day

Before and during the ceremony, there is tons going on both behind the camera and in front of the camera. These portraits show how David is working to make sure that everything goes off without a hitch. Before the ceremony he is checking to see everything is in place. As guests arrive, he greets them and helps them get where they need to be. During the ceremony, he is watching here, there and everywhere.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- during the ceremony david tutera watches all different aspects to make sure things go off without a hitch

Being on a public Staten Island beach with lots of cameras, the wedding was sure to draw a crowd.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- public beach in staten island offers passers by their own chance to watch a tv show in the making

Still, the crew was pretty inconspicous during the ceremony. One team all the way back and two teams on the side at the front. No guests’ views were interrupted. As photographers, we pride ourselves on putting the wedding first. After all that’s why we are all there. So it is really nice that Tutera’s team also has this in their mind, even when their work is for TV.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- a wedding ceremony like others, but with big tv cameras- on staten island beach, new york

After the ceremony, whether for TV or not, David brings his couples into the reception hall before all of the other guests, so that they can actually take a moment to enjoy the space he has created for them. So they can check out the details they have thought about and planned with him. Christina and Ed are clearly enamored with their colorful chocolate cake.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- david brings the bride and groom in to their reception site so they can see what he has created for them

Their first dance in the dreamy tropical space.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- dancing in a dreamy site with greens hanging from the chandeliers and lighting

One question we get about the show and working with David is: Is he really that nice? The answer is absolutely 100% yes. He is a truly down-to-earth, caring gentleman AND he likes to have a good time. He doesn’t dance at every wedding but when appropriate, he will enjoy the party with the couple and their guests. Enjoying a moment with the bride.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- tutera enjoys the party as well, dancing with the bride during the staten island ny reception

Dancing with a bridesmaid.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- dancing with a bridesmaid during the reception at staten island hotel on the beach in ny

Clearly he felt a connection with this group and they with him. They even invited him into their group hug.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- part of a group hug with bridesmaid bride groom groomsmen after fireworks

The folks who make it a televsion show. Yup, that’s a lot of paparazzi.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- the film crew

And finally, David and David.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-behind-the-scenes- david lee of allegro photography with david tutera of my fair wedding at the end of the night

What a great day to be a part of! We are so thankful to David Tutera and his team for asking us to photograph this My Fair Wedding episode.

Published in David Tutera’s My Fair Wedding Book!

I am literally doing a little dance; I am so proud of my partner in all things. Dave’s work was recently published in David Tutera‘s My Fair Wedding book!!! We just got our hands on a copy and it is fabulous. Each chapter is devoted to a different episode and has great tips for your wedding- tips ranging from choosing your dress to engaging with your guests to permit needs to thematic choices. Really practical. And of course the photos are amazing!

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-1

Here’s a few pages from Dave’s Chapter in the book. Yup, a whole chapter. Did I mention I was proud? He photographed Christina and Ed’s Mexican dream wedding. They had initally planned a destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico, but had to change their plans suddenly. With no time whatsoever, they were at a loss. David Tutera created a stunning Latin inspired wedding in Staten Island. They were even able to wed on the beach. Amazing!

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- finding your vision through his revisions

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- helping brides fulfill their wedding dreams

And now a few details that actually aren’t in the book for those who want more.

Christina’s dress was one of the first from the David Tutera by Faviana bridal collection. It’s perfect for both the ceremony and the reception; the skirt below the flowers can be removed for a fun party dress.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- david tutera by faviana bridal collection wedding gown

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details-convertible wedding gown- reception party dress by david tutera by faviana bridal collection

If you’ve watched My Fair Wedding, you know that David makes the decisions. The brides can voice their opinions, but in the end, the buck stops with Tutera. Once he decided on the Latin theme, he included it at every turn. The bridesmaids dresses, for instance, were light, airy and supremely colorful.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- bridesmaids latin party dress

As I mentioned, they were able to host their ceremony on the beach. It was quite breezy.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- beach ceremony windy flags

David transformed this corner of the beach into an oasis with tropical plants, orange and yellow roses, green turf and gold chiavari chairs.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- orange yellow roses, tropical plants, green grass, beach sand and chiavari chairs

The string ensemble enhanced the mood with beautiful music.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details-string ensemble on the beach

Blue skies and puffy white clouds with an oceanview. Oh my!

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details-oceanview wedding ceremony on the beach- mexican theme

In the distance, the clouds weren’t quite as playful, but I love the bridge peaking through them. And a chance to see what was going on nearby at the beach.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- beach wedding with view of staten island and bridge

Everyone went inside the hotel for the reception. The colors and theme were carried through into these spaces as well.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- orange roses yellow roses tropical plants palm leaves escort card table

Cocktails with fruit.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- champagne with fruit and limes

A Mariachi band started off the party with Mexican flair.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details-mariachi band for mexican themed wedding reception

A very romantic, warm dinner table. Roses dripping from everywhere and amber plates and glassware.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- amber orange red yellow dinner setting at latin inspired wedding

Candlelight always great for ambiance.

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- orange yellow amber candles and roses with wood tables- caribbean flare wedding reception

Bringing in the tropical flowers and more vibrant colors on a chocolate cake. Mmmmmm…..

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details-tropical sugar flowers on chocolate wedding cake

To end the day, what could be better than fireworks?

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- fireworks end off the celebration with views of the beach

The bride and groom were definitely surprised and happy with this ending!

david-tutera-my-fair-wedding-ny-book-details- bride and groom enjoying the fireworks and the beach view

Congrats to my hubby, Dave Lee; to our friend and fellow photographer, Critsey Rowe, who is also published in the book; and of course, to the man behind it all, the extremely talented, warm, and charming, David Tutera. It is such an honor and pleasure to work with David and his team- consummate professionals and creative geniuses!

Check back soon for a behind the scenes look at the making of this season 2 episode of My Fair Wedding.

Published: Vogue Japan

Huge congrats to our friend and colleague David Tutera for being featured in Vogue: Japan. And we are so excited that they chose one of our photos to highlight his amazing work. That’s right, we were recently published in Vogue Japan. International and chic, no?!

Vogue-Japan-David-Tutera-Plaza-2008

I’ll be honest I can’t tell you all about the article our work is part of, because, as you would expect, it’s in Japanese, but what I can gather is that they were highlighting several vendors celebrated in the international wedding industry. They focused on florists and event planners, in particular. And David Tutera, whom we have worked with on several occassions, was number one on their list. It’s no surprise as his work is astounding- it completely captivates all of my senses.

Our image was taken during a wedding at The Fairmont’s Plaza Hotel in New York City. The whole concept was based around crystals and they were everywhere. The ballroom sparkled.

If you want to see more of David‘s work, definitely check out:

David Tutera’s Metropolitan Club Wedding
Tutera’s Gotham Hall Wedding

Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer Inspiration

More of David’s designs still to come from a fall episode of My Fair Wedding.

Published: grace ormonde WeddingStyle

So very excited to share the news that we have been published in the Spring/Summer 2010 issue of grace ormonde WeddingStyle. Absolutely love this wedding magazine- chic, elegant, fashion forward designs and style aplenty. If you are planning a wedding, you should definitely check out their current national and New England issues. Tons of great stories, real weddings and inspiring ideas.

Grace-Ormonde-spring-2010-David-Tutera-Plaza

We submitted images from this fabulous Plaza Hotel wedding in New York City. It was designed by the trend-setter David Tutera and his talented team. With his table decor, he not only defines the space around a table, but creates a feeling like you have been transported to whole other world. All of your senses are enticed. It’s an amazing experience. We are thrilled that we could share one of his signature designs with Grace Ormonde readers.

If you would like to see more from this wedding, definitely check out our story from the wedding.

And if you would like to see other David Tutera wedding designs and ideas, check out these posts- NY Metropolitan Club Wedding, NY Gotham Hall Wedding, Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer Inspiration. More of David’s designs still to come from an episode of My Fair Wedding.

Cover image by Jade Studio Productions.

Published: Gala Weddings Magazine

gala-weddings-june-2009-opening

Fabulous news! We had four full-page photos published in Gala Weddings Magazine. We received the proof and the magazine, and it looks great!

gala weddings- june 2009- cover

The magazine focuses on the New England region and the brides and grooms who get married in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire and Connecticut. Most of our images are from Becky and Danny’s wedding last summer. They were married at the Chanler at Cliff Walk in Newport.

Here’s Danny looking over his vows before he walks down the aisle…

gala weddings- june 2009- groom reads vows before wedding in chanler hotel on cliff walk- newport ri

And here’s Becky with her Dad walking towards the ceremony on the lawn.

gala weddings- june 2009- bride and her father at the chanler at cliff walk for her newport wedding

The used this one from their portrait session as the lead image for their RI section.

gala weddings- june 2009- bride and groom at the chanler at cliff walk in newport ri

And this one is from Ariana and Jesse’s wedding, used for their lead photo in the VT section.

gala weddings- june 2009- bride and groom in the forest

Then they sprinkled a few more smaller images throughout. The bouquets and table arrangements in this spread are both ours from Becky and Danny’s Newport wedding.

gala weddings- june 2009- inspiration ideas flowers, cakes, drinks, dresses, shoes

And the mooncake is ours in this inspiration spread of citrus colors; it’s from Krista and Andy’s wedding.

gala weddings- june 2009- inspiration ideas- flowers gifts and rings

If you want to see more from Becky and Danny’s RI wedding, check out their sneak peak, the scoop, their CT bbq, the details, and the slideshow.

If you want to see more from Ariana and Jesse’s Tilden Park wedding, check out their sneak peak, scoop, and slideshow.

If you want to see more from Krista and Andy’s Hakone Gardens and Decathlon Club wedding, check out their scoop part 1, scoop part 2, details, and slideshow.

 

Published: Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

allison_adam_wedding-wine country fall wedding- napa valley ca

Really exciting news- Allison and Adam’s wedding was just published in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons magazine. The mag recently hit the stands, and it looks awesome.

destination weddings published cover allison adam

You can actually catch a sneak peak here.

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Featured on Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

Totally awesome news! We just found out from Genevieve that her wedding to Jack is featured as the Wedding of the Week on the Destination Weddings and Honeymoons website. DWH also profiled this fabulous wedding on their blog.

destination weddings and honeymoons wedding of the week by allegro photography

Genevieve and Jack are absolutely wonderful and their wedding was truly gorgeous. Genevieve planned her California wedding from Chicago with the help of Jack’s sister (who lives in the Bay Area) as well as her planner Michelle Martinez of Event Designs. She and Jack chose the Outdoor Art Club in Mill Valley, California as the backdrop for the ceremony and reception. You can read all the details on the Destination Weddings site, but I couldn’t help but share a few of my favorite pix from this amazing wedding.

beatiful bride portrait at the outdoor art club in mill valley ca- north bay

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