Shades of blue, vibrant florals, Chinoiserie vases, and dreamy June sunlight. Every last detail of Emily and Seth’s bright and colorful summer wedding at Bear Ridge Destination was beautiful beyond comprehension. I don’t think we could’ve dreamed up a more perfect day in Western New York for these two even if we tried!
Rewind just a moment: I’ve known Emily Greer since we were teenagers (and frankly we don’t need to disclose exactly how many years ago that was, because it feels no greater than three in my mind) but she has ALWAYS been beautiful, outrageously athletic, tall, hilarious, and admirably bold. She knows exactly what she wants and has no issue expressing it– a trait I only dream of possessing someday. But it comes as no surprise that she absolutely refused to settle on spending her life with someone who wasn’t equally as incredible as she is.
Then along came Seth Hembree: down to earth, thoughtful, intentional, athletic, and so SO tall. I’m not sure that two humans have ever been more suited for each other. They are proof that really good things often take time, and rather than constantly searching for the right person, you should first become the right person.
Their day was downright incredible, but here are a few things I want to highlight as my absolute favorite:
- Earth Shatteringly Beautiful Vows
Emily and Seth chose to share their personal vows in front of all their family and friends, and at one point I felt like I was going to start hyperventilating behind my camera. I had tears rolling down my cheeks and was holding it together by a thread. They were the perfect mix of meaningful, funny, and lighthearted. - Bow Details & Perfectly Orchestrated Color Palette
From an invitation suite that perfectly matched the wedding florals, to bow details on her Adrianna Papell gown, blue shoes, and perfume bottle– Emily had a vision for this day and brought it to life through every single detail. No amount of photos could do justice to just how cohesive and stunning everything was. A special shout out to the blue glasses & “H” shaped chocolates at every place setting. They were the perfect, intricate touches to tie together the tablescapes! - A Myriad of People I Really, Really Love
As mentioned before, I have known the Greer family since high school, so the amount of hugs I was given this day felt insurmountable. There is something SO special about knowing so many people by name at a wedding. From vendors, to bridal party, to family and friends… I was surrounded by glimpses of my past in the very best way.
Emily & Seth-
Thank you for reminding me what a gift it is to do this job for people I love so deeply. When you chose your wedding date solely based on my calendar and availability… oh my goodness. It still brings tears to my eyes knowing that your photographs meant that much to you, and that you’d trust me enough to be the one to capture them. This is a privilege I vow to never ever take lightly, especially for amazing humans like you.
After my own wedding, I vividly remember someone asking me if I was sad it was all over. My answer was simple: “No, I don’t think I really can be, because there isn’t a single thing I would change.” There are certain days in our lives that surpass all our wildest expectations and end up feeling too incredible for words. Your day felt the exact same way for me. (Ok, maybe I’d tone down that early afternoon wind & choose more comfortable shoes for Seth… but I swear that’s it!)
You are incredible as individuals, but even better together. I cannot wait to see where life takes you two from here!
Shout out to the vendor team who made Emily & Seth’s beautiful day at Bear Ridge complete!
Venue: Bear Ridge Destination
Photography: Hannah Bryerton Photography
Videographer: ROSIE Photo Video
Hair Stylist: Buffalo Boho Bridal Hair, Casey
Makeup Artist: Beauty by Chinara, Chinara
Florist: Miss Millie’s Proper Petals, Nicki Elchynski
DJ: Millennium Sound, DJ Alec Gluvna
Cake: Lindsey Kalika
Custom “H” Chocolates: Romolo Chocolates, Erie PA
Catering: Cali’s West Catering
Custom Signage & Stationary: J.David Productions
Bride’s Dress: The Winner, Adrianna Papell
Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry
Groomsmen/Grooms Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
