Bride and Groom pose for wedding photos after their first look at 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel

Miranda and Amel had their dream waterfront wedding at the gorgeous 1,000 Islands Harbor Hotel overlooking the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, NY. The weather was perfect for an outdoor wedding ceremony, following by a lot of fanfare as the happy couple celebrated the start of their life together.

When I arrived for the day, Miranda and Amel were getting ready in separate hotel rooms. I bounced back and forth between them to photograph details and snap some getting ready photos and group candids. Once Miranda was dressed, we waited patiently for Amel to get in place for the first look. She was starting to feel pretty nervous, and I reassured her that she would feel infinitely better as soon as she and Amel saw each other.

The looks on their faces during their first look was priceless. It was such a sweet and emotional reunion! They took a few minutes to reconnect, then pulled out small booklets and read each other private wedding vows. Miranda pulled me aside afterwards with a look of relief on her face to let me know she did indeed feel so much better!

Their outdoor ceremony overlooked the stunning St. Lawrence River with the sun shining down. To celebrate the blending of their two families, they partook in a sand unity ceremony, then sealed their marriage with an enthusiastic kiss. After the ceremony, we took some family photos both inside and outside the venue, then I took Miranda and Amel down to the waterfront for more portraits. The cool blue of the water paired beautifully with their warm radiating smiles, and the light breeze kept everything feeling very ethereal.

In the reception space, the details were stunning. The ballroom was humming with excitement as Miranda and Amel made their entrance. They went straight into their first dance, which was perfectly choreographed with plenty of dips, spins, and kisses to wow the crowd. Their loved ones gave toasts, then everyone enjoyed dinner. As their guests were being served, the newlyweds surprise me by sneaking out to eat in private, which I absolutely loved.

After dinner, they cut their cake, then made their way around the ballroom for table photos. Amel danced with his mom and Miranda danced with her dad, then she surprised her mom by inviting her to the dance floor for a unexpected mother-daughter dance.

When the dance floor opened to everyone, the three of us ducked outside for a few more photos near the water, then we left the hotel property briefly to get some shots in front of the Clayton sign. I love how much Miranda and Amel prioritized wedding photography and capturing these special moments. We even went back out a third time after dark for some night wedding photos with the fire, elevator, and the front of the hotel.

Before leaving, I made sure to grab a flatlay photo of their reception details. It was the perfect way to include some of the elements from their candy and dessert station and bar.

I truly loved this entire day at 1,000 Islands with Miranda and Amel. I’m wishing them the very best as newlyweds!

Venue & Catering - 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel
DJ - Brian Oddo
Florals - Allen’s Florist & Pottery Shop
Desserts - Europe Cakes
Dress - Heart to Heart Bride
Suit - A.Vitullos
Officiant - Jessica Dapson
Makeup - Carlee the Makeup Artist
Hair - Maria’s Styling Studio