Samantha + Arek’s Ballroom Wedding at Marriott Syracuse Downtown

I was so excited for Samantha and Arek’s ballroom wedding at Marriott Syracuse Downtown to finally arrive! I had photographed their proposal at the JMA Wireless Dome which felt so special and joy-filled, and I had a feeling their wedding would not disappoint!

We arrived at the venue to start taking detail shots, and I loved incorporating both Samantha and Arek’s accessories into one photo. This one picture alone really set the stage for the elegant wedding about to take place. I grabbed Samantha’s dress and ducked into the Grand Ballroom for a few shots of it hanging from the balcony. Meanwhile, back in the getting ready suites, Arek’s sister asked him what he thought Samantha was going to look like. It was such a sweet moment listening to him describe his future bride and take a guess at what kind of dress she was wearing.

For their first look, I got Arek in position on the ballroom balcony, then grabbed Samantha. The moment Arek saw her, he dove into a non-stop string of compliments. I loved seeing his excitement! We snapped a few photos of them together before moving into family and wedding party pictures.

Before we knew it, it was time for the ceremony! The ballroom was absolutely stunning filled with gold chiavari chairs, large crystal chandeliers, and the beautiful blue sky with clouds painted on the ceiling. Once they exchanged vows and rings, Samantha and Arek lit a unity candle, then sealed their marriage with a kiss. There was no time for pleasantries as we ran out the door, piled into their car, and made the 10 minute drive to Upper Onondaga Park for photos.

This has always been a favorite location of mine and my couples’, but it’s extra meaningful to Samantha and Arek as it’s where she told him she loved him for the first time (he had said it previously and was anxiously waiting to hear it back!). This took place in the spot that overlooks the city of Syracuse, so we made sure to grab some photos right where it happened. I loved that the JMA Wireless Dome (where they had their first date and got engaged) was in the background as well!

We arrived back to the Marriott Syracuse Downtown right on time, and the wedding party did their entrances before Samantha and Arek shared their first dance. After that, the evening carried on in a traditional manner with dinner, toasts, cake cutting, and parent dances. Once the dance floor opened, it was busy the rest of the night! I stepped outside to grab a photo of the strawberry moon, which was especially stunning rising over the dome.

Samantha and Arek wanted a photo of all their guests, which we took from the balcony. What a great opportunity to remember everyone who celebrated with them! Thank you both for allowing me to document another major milestone in your lives. It was the best day (I’m sure you agree!). I wish you both a lifetime of happiness!

Venue: Marriott Syracuse Downtown
Videographer: Needle Media
DJ: AP Entertainment
Floral: St Agnes Florists
Cake & Desserts: The Gingersnap Bakery
Dress: Ever After Bridal Boutique
Suit: The Black Tux
Hair: J. Luxe Salon