Like I said in the title Sam and Jackie’s Aqua Turf wedding was energetic. There was positive energy from the beginning of the day till the sparkler exit at the end (well the end of my time with them). I am a pretty calm person on a wedding day, which is a reason people book me for their wedding day. Jackie was cool as a cucumber from when I showed up for the getting ready part of the day at her bridesmaid Haley’s house til I hugged her and Sam goodbye. There was laughter and joy throughout the day, which to me feels like a success.
Though you won’t be able to tell by looking at the photos (except for the fact that a lot of the photos were inside) it rained the entire day. It did stop in time for some outdoor photos and for the end. The rain did not even put a damper on the day because these are two of the most chill people on the planet.
Like I mentioned before Jackie got ready at her friend’s home while Sam got ready at the venue and was captured by the second shooter. I loved how prepared Jackie was when I arrived. It made photographing the details easy and allowed the day to flow perfectly.
Now when I think of this wedding, I think about the first looks. Even though the couple didn’t do one Jackie did three of them with people who meant so much to her. The one with her dad was a joyful event, the one with her future mother-in-law was sweet, and the one with her grandmother was decorated with tears. Her mother and sister helped her with her dress, which is an honor in itself.
The ceremony at St Bridget’s Church in Cheshire CT was followed by some family portraits. Then we headed to the venue for more photos. Following the introductions and touching first dance with the dry ice, which the Aqua Turf is known for ( it looks like they are dancing on a cloud.
Random Fact: I actually used to work at the Aqua Turf and used to train new waitstaff.
The toast was actually tag teamed by the maid-of-honor and the best man, who are actually engaged. They were followed by her father who came out to No Diggity by Blackstreet sporting a Yankees cap. There were many laughs. After that Jackie thanked everyone, including the vendors by name, which reminds me of the custom sign they had made that had my name on it… It was so cool.
Jackie and Sam partied hard with their friends and family for the rest of the night. Especially to the Village People’s classic YMCA, which is where Jackie and a lot of the guests work. The night was capped off with a sparkler exit on the Aqua Turf bridge.
Table of Contents
Aqua Turf Wedding Photos
Aqua Turf Wedding Team
Planner: Dana Marie Weddings
Venue: Aqua Turf Club
Hair and Makeup: Beauty by Alexis Karedes
Flowers: Elise Floral
Bakery: Bella Confections
DJ: Lights Camera DJ
Jewelry: Joseph A Conte Jewelers
Dress Designer: Anomalie
Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Azazie
Wedding Signs: Something Borrowed Event Decor
Thank you to the new Mr and Mrs Gaidish for choosing me to capture your special day. It was such a great day that I will never forget.
More From GEM Photography
If you would like to see their engagement session click here
GEM Loves Teachers
Sam and Jackie are both educators so they are part of the GEM Loves Teacher crew. To find out more about GEM Loves Teachers check it out here.
Til Next Time
Raina