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By Lauren Fair Photography

The Blog

I’m Jill, a wedding photographer based in New Jersey — and I’m so excited that you’re here! Follow along with the blog to get a glimpse into the heart behind my work.

Elegant Grand Ballroom Wedding at The Ryland Inn

Whitehouse Station, New Jersey

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Ashley and Sal are married! From our first conversation to finally meeting at their engagement session, all the way through their wedding planning journey, I’ve had such an amazing connection with this sweet couple. Every time we’re together there isn’t a moment we aren’t laughing and having the best time — and their wedding day was no exception! The forecast threatened storms all week, but like so many of my weddings this summer we only got a few drops of rain all day. Not to mention, the sun burst through right before their first kiss during their ceremony!

These two first met through mutual friends who were dating at the time. As Ashley tells it, “We went out in Jersey City for our friend’s birthday and met for the first time at the Airbnb we had before going out for the the night. I picked Sal out in a picture before meeting up with the guys, so I guess you could say I made the first move! From there, we hit it off. After that night we didn’t talk for a little while, and then Sal messaged me on Instagram asking to go on a date. After that, we’ve been together ever since!”

Sal officially asked Ashley to marry him in his hometown! “Sal, his family, and friends are originally from Cape May. So, right around Halloween time Sal told me we were going to Cape May for a Halloween party at his friend’s house. While we were down there, we decided to go to grab food at a local restaurant before the Halloween party.”

“As we are walking downtown waiting for our reservation, he tells me that the local hotel has really cute decorations for the fall and we have to go see them. We walk down and then in the middle of the courtyard at Congress Hall, he pops the question! I was so surprised! Little did I know there was a photographer and our parents hiding away during the whole thing, who soon jumped out and made the moment extra special.”

“Moments later, we walked over to the beach and when we get there all of our family and friends are standing in a big group with a giant sign that said ‘just engaged!’ After the proposal, Sal had set up for everyone to stay in an Airbnb on the beach and we spent the weekend celebrating. It was the best day, but the only downside was there was no Halloween party!”

Ashley’s ring is absolutely stunning. “My ring is an oval diamond in the middle set pretty high up! It has a band with diamonds around it 3/4 of the way. It’s elegant, classy and timeless which is exactly what I was looking for! Sal picked it out himself with a little guidance from me! We showed each other pictures before being engaged, so it wasn’t a complete surprise but Sal picked which one he thought was the best fit for us.”

Together these two love adventuring with their dog, Koa, as well as going to the beach and trying new restaurants. “We definitely consider ourselves huge foodies, and we love a good winery! On our days off we like to explore new places, dive into a good tv show every so often, and cook new recipes together.”

This wedding day was truly stunning, and encompassed such a classic and timeless vibe. From the traditional white florals and plentiful greenery, to the thoughtful details and cozy candlelit ambiance of the reception space, it couldn’t have been a more perfect celebration. Not to mention, Ashley’s uncle surprised both Ashley and Sal with dancing robots — I’ve shot a few weddings with these robots and they are HUGE, but they never fail to get a party started! I had the best time document this special day, and wish the new Mr. and Mrs. Sorace a lifetime of love and happiness!

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Vendors:

Photography: Jill Sahner Photography
Venue: The Ryland Inn
Florals: Thistle Bee Florist
Videography: Brandon Michael Productions
Hair: Mane Bridal
Makeup: Makeup by Michele Eva
DJ: Baseline Productions
Music: Chevy Lopez Music
Saxophonist: The Essential Jason Nelson
Invitations & Signage: Nicole Alexis Design
Gown: Anne Barge from Kleinfeld Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: The Modern Groom
360 Booth: CG Photobooth

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