Mia + Christopher’s Elegant Lodge at Turning Stone Wedding
Mia and Christopher’s Lodge at Turning Stone wedding was a fantastic way to kick off my 2023 wedding season! They are the absolute sweetest couple, and their wedding was so elegant and full of feel-good moments.
When we arrived at their respective hotel rooms, Mia and Christopher were finishing up getting ready for the day ahead. I loved all the little blue details that were found in both of their outfits. I scoped out the perfect spot for their first look - a shady nook in a garden just off the great lawn (where the ceremony would be taking place shortly). Chris was so excited to see his wife that he could hardly stand still as she snuck up behind him. Mia tapped on his shoulder, he turned around, and it become an emotional moment for everyone involved!
I really appreciate that Mia and Chris chose to do a first look so we could take family photos before the ceremony. They’re both big family people, and spending as much time as possible with their family and friends was really important to them. The first look helped make that possible! After family photos, we snapped some photos with their stunning wedding party, and had a few laughs before it was time to hide away for the ceremony.
They wanted to incorporate some Jewish aspects into their wedding ceremony, so they took a moment before the ceremony to sign the Ketubah. This signing is an important part of a Jewish marriage, and their closest family and friends were able to witness this touching tradition. Once Mia and Chris signed, it was signed by two witnesses, then the Rabbi. After that, it was time for the ceremony to begin. Their wedding ceremony was traditional but short. I loved how they had their parents stand beside them along with their wedding party! The ceremony ended with Chris stomping on a glass so they could start their new lives together.
While the cocktail hour got underway, Mia, Chris, and I snuck off to take some more photos of just the two of them. Turning Stone is seriously so gorgeous, especially with the pond and willow trees in the background! They were able to catch the end of their cocktail hour, then we all took a moment to preview the reception space, which felt really special. Chris requested a photo of the two of them in front of their table, standing underneath the large ornate chandelier.
Reception entrances lead straight into a group dance, followed by parent dances and toasts. After dinner, Mia and Chris cut their cake, then joined the dance floor with all the other couples present. This lead into the hora, which almost every single person participated in. Mia and Chris were lifted into the air on chairs, and everyone had such a great time! Once that was over, their friends performed a dance for them, then the dance floor was on fire for the rest of the night!
What a super fun wedding this was! The day went by so fast. I’m wishing you both the very best as newlyweds!
Venue: Turning Stone Resort Casino
Florals: St. Agnes Florist
DJ: Brian Oddo
