Taughannock Falls & Ithaca Farmer’s Market Wedding in Ithaca, New York - Rachel & Alonso

A colorful wedding in Ithaca, New York at Taughannock Falls & the Ithaca Farmer’s Market

If you’ve ever been in love, and I mean REALLY in love, you know how all-consuming it can feel. That notion that everything good and happy and full of joy is YOURS when you’re in the arms of your favorite person. That indescribable safety and deep sense of KNOWING that this person is your forever person. It’s an incredible and powerful feeling to be that firm in your love for another human being.

And it was so inspiring to know that that is how deeply Rachel & Alonso love one another.

a colorful and organic wedding on the shores of CayUga lake

Ithaca, New York is their home. They have seen so much of the world together, meeting one another in Central America - put planted their roots firmly in a town alongside Cayuga Lake. It was the perfect place to hold a heartfelt ceremony, with wind and water coursing through the air.

Alonso shed SO many tears, both during the first look and as Rachel walked toward him down the aisle. He has always struck me as deeply sentimental and romantic, and she has always been light hearted and joyful. Together, they just make you HAPPY to be among them. They are a couple that truly inspires you to smile more, seek more, and feel more. You can’t help but be swept up in their infectious energy.

My favorite moment of the day was when Rachel decided to dip her toes into the water after the ceremony. With her skirt in hand, she shed her shoes and carefully stepped into the Lake. Alonso looking on at first- he didn’t immediately plan to get into the water, but eventually stepped out of his shoes to join her. It was one of those moments that felt like it was straight out of the Notebook. “If you’re a bird I’m a bird.” If you’re going to step in the water on our wedding day, so will I.

Before the waterfront ceremony, we were able to take the bulk of their bridal party and family photos in front of the overlook at Taughannock Falls. The crowd gently cheered them on as they laughed and held one another in view of the falls. Afterwards, we celebrated their reception at Ithaca Farmer’s Market. An incredibly fun space for a reception, the outdoor space overlooking the water felt so comfortable and rustic, while still very much modern and eclectic. All the details were made by the bride and her family and friends, which gave it that personal touch that felt so very Rachel and Alonso.

All in all, an incredible wedding day. I’m so lucky to have shot Rachel’s sister’s wedding less than a year prior in the Poconos, and it was so very special to be able to be there to celebrate with their families once again. Always a great honor to be invited into your couple’s world over and over. Take a peek at Amber & PJ’s wedding here! (Portraits with their mama got me good both times!)

I hope you enjoy soaking in Rachel & Alonso’s wedding day, and if you’d like chat about working together for your upcoming wedding day in Ithaca or beyond, you can start by contacting me here!

I leave you with these wise words from the couple :
Rachel on wedding planning: Everything is going to be fine, feel your way through this process, don't overthink. In general: Trust your heart.
Alonso: Respect each other, empathize, communicate and be willing to learn from the other.

Vendor Love :
Florist : Two Sparrows Farm
Catering & Planning : Van Noble Farm
DJ: DJ Tico
Reception Venue: Ithaca Farmer’s Market
Hair & Makeup : Grace Holistic