April 11, 2023
Nickolett and Kyle set out to plan a rustic barn wedding at the stunning Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown, NY and two weeks ago all of their hard work paid off. I first met Nickolett when I photographed her sister Shelbys micro wedding (remember when that was a thing?) and I truly adored her close knit family. Nickolett is the baby of the girls and it is clear how much she is loved. Kyle is a tall drink of water, he’s cool calm and collected. But don’t let his level headed demeanor fool you, he’s a professional Motocross racer so he’s basically cooler than ill ever be. They make a precious couple and their wedding day was the perfect start to my 2023 wedding season.
As a wedding photographer rain used to terrify me, however I now welcome the challenge. Never underestimate what a front porch can do for you! When I arrived at the Barn at Villa Venezia Nickolett was all smiles and ready to enjoy the best day of her life, this says so much about her character. I have shot exactly 180 weddings in my career and many brides have not handled rain well, but Nickolett set the tone of joy despite cloudy skies. Kyle joined in right with her and they embraced the grey sky and each other. They are clearly ready to weather not just this rainy day, but the rainy days to come in their marriage. As I tell my children all the time, ” Grey skies are gunna clear up, put on a happy face”.
Watching Kyle and Nickoletts parents during the ceremony was precious, I could’nt help but tear up. Because they knew what their “kids” were entering into. When your parents have been married for years you are starting off with a stellar example. Nickolett and Kyle, you have what it takes to make a marriage last. You know of commitment and determination, love and the importance of supporting on another.
Marriage is truly a race. I know little about racing but I know something about marriage. It starts out with a bang and confidence will be through the roof. I know that hills and valleys throw you for a loop, that keeping steady can be the difference between falling off and fighting. But unlike a race there is not a “finish line”, because there is the strangely wonderful vow of ” Till death do us part”. Trust me, thats good news.Unlike racing, you are not doing this alone, you move forward together. Dearest Nickolett and Kyle thank you for letting me be a part of the beginning of your race, Congratulations!
I am so thankful that the Barn at Villa Venezia has the cutest bridal cottage with a picture perfect front porch. The bridal party gathered inside and eagerly peaked through windows to watch Kyle and Nickolett. While they hugged and laughed (all through some tears) I snapped away at their precious first moments together on their wedding day. First looks can be such lifesavers. Firstly you get about 40% more portraits which is nothing to sneer at. Secondly you get TWO opportunities for romantic portraits. When the forecast calls for cloudy skies a first look increases your chances of shooting during a break in the weather.
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These guys were CHAMPS! It was about 38 degrees out and a *teeny* bit windy. They were all just so happy that some of their favorite people were getting married in less than an hour! It is always such a joy to photograph bridal parties like this, so if you are in these images know that I appreciate you!
Right after the ceremony we ran outside and took full advantage of the break in the rain. By the time we got to these post-ceremony images they were fully ready to party the night away, I can visibly see a drop in their shoulders and they were substantially more giggly. I highly recommend having your photographer (preferably me) follow you from a distance for those first few ” Oh my gosh we are married moments”.
I would like to thank the following wedding vendors that collaborated together to create a dream wedding. Make sure to check them out!
Venue: The Barn at Villa Venezia learn more
Bridal Gown: Wild Blooms Bridal Boutique learn more
Bridal Hair and Makeup: Bella Trucco learn more
Bridesmaids Gowns: Birdy Grey learn more
Shoes: Franco Sarto learn more
Jewelry: Molino Jewelers learn more
Floral Design: Tallulah Rose Etsy Shop learn more
Cake: Palermo Bakery learn more
Wedding DJ: Digital Musicians learn more
Wedding Photography: Nidya Lloyd Photography learn more
Second Shooter: Katie Klercker Photography learn more
My name is Nidya (thats me right there to the left) and I am a professional Wedding Photographer based out of the Hudson Valley, NY! I have photographed over 180 weddings durning my 6 year career and I would love to get your gorgeous face in front of my camera!
© 2023 Photos by Nidya lloyd photography
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