Wedding Under the Cherry Blossoms at The Brooklyn Botanic Garden

On such a cold winter day (almost 0 degrees!!!), it is so nice to think back to warm sunny spring nights when flowers were in bloom and trees had lush new green leaves. Last April 23rd, I had the pleasure to second shoot at the wedding of Desiree Cifre and Josh Waitzkin at the spectacular Brooklyn Botanic Garden for Kimberly Salem of Kimberly Salem Photography.

So here is the amazing setting for the ceremony. Isn’t it spectacular!!! Look at those Cherry trees just laden with blossoms. Desiree and Josh certainly timed things perfectly. Just breathtaking! It reminded me of the cherry blossom trees where I grew up in Mamaroneck, NY. I always loved it when they were in bloom. It is hard not to smile when you see mother nature’s display.

I spent some time with Josh at the grove while Kim photographed Desiree getting ready. I just love this shot of Josh I snapped in between greeting their guests. Certainly doesn’t look at all nervous.

Just before the ceremony, Josh took a few minutes to himself to walk in the groove. With all the snow on the ground as I write this, it is particularly nice to think back to this moment.

Here comes the bride. I love this shot of Desiree and her mom and the walk down. Desiree had not seen the set-up until this moment. That look of wonder is priceless. Josh has a great look of wonder too as he admires Desiree coming down the aisle.

You would never know from this next shot that there are all those people behind Desiree and Josh. They really enjoyed every moment of their ceremony and each other.

They even turned around to face their guests to savor their ceremony with their guests and family.

Desiree was a such beautiful bride. Her enthusiasm was infectious!

Another moment between Desiree and Josh where you might almost think they were all alone under a spectacular tree.

Now this was a kiss! You could just feel the passion and the joy!

The newly married couple grabbed a couple of minutes to themselves after the ceremony. These were two of my favorite shots.

OK, so I just never got tired of seeing Desiree’s excitement as she marveled at the breathtaking cherry blossoms.

The reception was held at The Palm House at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and here is my favorite shot from cocktails outside.

The tulips were absolutely gorgeous! I love the colors! Here in Fairfield County, Connecticut we rarely get to see tulips like this, as they are a delicacy for the wild deer that live all around us.

Just before heading inside, here’s Josh and his mom catching a beautiful moment together.

They brought the cherry blossom theme inside. Look at these beautiful place cards. What was really unique is that they included blossom seed paper that the guests could plant. The paper was embedded with a handful of annual and perennial wildflower seeds. Isn’t that cool!

Their first dance… Desiree and Josh looked so comfortable together, you could just feel the love.

The Palm House is just spectacular all lit up at night. What an incredible venue!

Tracey Reynolds, of Bridal Bouquet Design did a beautiful job with the bouquets. I loved how they used them here at Desiree and Josh’s table. The lighting was so dramatic!

The spectacular cake by Ana Parzych perfectly showcased the cherry blossom theme.

All the best Desiree and Josh! You are a great couple. Thanks Kim, it was great fun shooting with you!