Based on my extensive experience with Colameco weddings, I can give you this advice: bring your dancing shoes and tissues. Lots and lots of tissues. In fact, go to Costco and buy them in bulk because you and everyone else will be leaking everywhere. You’re welcome.
I had the pleasure of being the photographer for Christina and Chris’ wedding at Camp Ockanickon in Medford, NJ. They wanted their wedding to involve BBQ and feel laid back so they found this place, traditionally a summer camp for kids, that had the perfect vibe for their affair.
Of course the wedding party were staying at their respective boy’s and girl’s lodges.
Somewhere along the line, Chris was encouraged to bury a bottle of bourbon on site months prior to ward off wedding day rain. It was their job to find and drink it that day before the ceremony. Based on my sample size of 1, this is an excellent idea for all future couples. The day was glorious!
Christina wore earrings that were a gift from her late father to her mother. She also carried grandfather’s handkerchief and her father’s St. Michael’s medal and Claddagh ring. Take a look at these amazing green velvet peeptoe heels!
Christina and Chris shared their first look on a sweet little bridge on the property. Add tissues here.
From there, we explored the fabulous wooded areas. I feel like we could have spent the entire day roaming around and taking pictures.
We met up with the wedding party and families for pictures. The bridemaids were all asked to pick out green gowns and they came up with dresses in almost the exact same hue.
Kate’s daughter and flower girl gets quite the reception whenever she is greeted. Chants of“Maddie! Maddie! MADDIE!” explode every time. I wish I were so lucky!
The ceremony was held down a narrow, bumpy rooted path on Chapel Island. There were great readings – A letter from John Steinbeck to his son, A Marriage by M. Blumenthal, and a few words from the Weeblos and Boy Scouts manual. Add tissues here.
We has a relaxed afternoon for cocktail hour. An old metal canoe held the beers and there was an adorable tent for the little ones. Pigs in blankets and grilled cheese with tomato soup shooters were clutch. Everyone enjoyed the picturesque setting.
The reception was intense in the best possible way.
“Nothing Can Change This Love” by Sam Cooke started the dancing for Christina and Chris.
Fantastic toasts by all of the siblings gave the guests all of the feels. Add tissues here.
The party was off the charts. Bruce Springsteen ruled the night as a tribute slideshow to Christina’s father played. Add tissues here. The dining hall was shaking from the crowd that never stopped! And yes, there was pulled pork, mac and cheese, fried chicken, oven roasted potatoes, biscuits, and corn bread and s’mores, doughnuts, and a beautiful friend-made cake for dessert!
And I must mention the best themed props I’ve ever seen for the Oh, snap! Photo Studio. Christina and Chris scoured thrift stores galore for vintage camp accessories like scout hats, wooden rackets, coonskin caps, scout sashes with merit badges, and a lot more. Big kudos!
It was such an amazing day and night. You two have wonderful friends and family. Add tissues here.
If I go, a million miles away
I’d write a letter, each and everyday
‘Cause honey nothing, nothing can ever change this love I have for you
~ Sam Cooke, “Nothing Can Change This Love”
