Rachael Hoellig & Matthew Zimmerman planned the dreamiest backyard wedding with the help of Syrie from Social Maven in Buffalo, NY! It was the garden party of ALL our dreams— every last detail was intricately chosen with thoughtful intention. Stunning florals from Ashley Kirnan of Tarry Grove, paired with the chinoiserie style linens and decor, created the perfect atmosphere for the bride’s childhood backyard!

A huge shout out to the amazing family & vendor team that worked tirelessly to make this rainy day a raving success. The morning started out with a very relentless downpour, leaving everyone with the underlying skepticism that an outdoor ceremony would be possible. Shockingly, even to my surprise, I never worried for a moment; I knew everything would work out perfectly one way or another. We utilized every covered space we could for first looks and portraits, along with some clear umbrellas in between. And thankfully, the rain stopped JUST in time to bring the entire outdoor ceremony and reception to life!

Even with rain and zero sunshine throughout the day, Matt & Rachael never allowed it to steal their joy. This couple and their families are next level spectacular—truly the only way to describe them is “sunshine in human form.” I joked with Rachael that “Hannah Hoellig” had a very nice ring to it, and her parents were more than welcome to adopt me into their family at any time. (Just kidding mom & dad, I’ll keep you guys) But in all seriousness, this family is one that instantly welcomes you with open arms to make you feel like one of their own. As a wedding photographer, I deeply love intricate details & photographing beautiful events… but there is nothing I cherish more than the relationships I find along the way. This group will always be close to my heart!

Rachael & Matt-

As bold as this is to say, I truly believe your wedding will go down in history as one of my all-time favorites. I’m pretty sure I could not even dream up a more kind hearted, loving, go-with-the-flow, and incredible group of people to work with. It was an absolute honor to be the one to document all your little moments. I cannot wait for you to relive these memories over and over again for years to come; there are truly so many more images where these came from!!!

All my love, always.
Xoxo,
Hannah B

After the first look, we headed over to the GORGEOUS sailcloth tent in the backyard to utilize the reception space for portraits. A HUGE “thank you” to the Social Maven & Tarry Grove girls who had it perfectly set up for us. They got everything done in record time & this never would have been possible for us without their hard work!

*notice the raindrops coming off the tent in the background!? Truly one of my favorite details of this shot— just the sweetest reminder that even the rainiest days can still be so magical!

We then gathered up the bridal party to snag a few portraits before the ceremony. These girls (& guys!) were absolute troopers with all the rain. They were down for anything and didn’t complain for a single moment.

The planning and styling team created the most spectacular cocktail hour space for guests to enjoy while we documented family & couple’s portraits. Pictures will never do justice to how incredible the Hoellig’s ENTIRE home looked. Everyone’s endless hard work preparing for this day was so evident everywhere you looked!

Rachael referred to the running portraits as her “Taylor Swift Moment,” and that alone is proof that we were destined for each other. Her floral gown was an entire vibe in itself, but her wearing it was next level. She truly was THE moment.

What an absolute honor it was capturing this day and working alongside some of the area’s best! Thank you to everyone who brought this incredible day to life for Rachael & Matthew!

Venue/Reception: Private Residence, Orchard Park NY
Planning & Design: Syrie Roman, Social Maven
Floral Design: Ashley Kirnan, Tarry Grove
Hair Stylist: Rachel Rizzo Hair and Makeup
Makeup Artist: Laura Amaya Beauty
DJ: Washburn Entertainment – DJ Tori Vee
Officiant: Uncle of the bride
Catering: Oliver’s Catering
Desserts: The Grange Outpost (cake), Oliver’s (chocolate mousse bomb)
Stationary: Purple Wagon Designs (place cards and seating chart), Minted (invitations)
Bride’s Gown Boutique: Alexia’s Bridal Boutique
Bridal Gown Designer: Monique L’Hullier
Gown Alterations: John Emily Studio
Groom Attire: Ralph Lauren (designer), Neiman Marcus (retailer)
Groomsmen Attire: Vera Wang (designer), Men’s Warehouse (rental)
Rentals: McCarthy Events, Quaint Rentals, BBJ La Tavola Linens
Rings: Custom design from Ring’s True
Restrooms: Zuechs Environmental
Shuttle: Buffalo Limo