Alison & Chris a Wedding at Nicotra’s Ballroom

This one sentence sums up Alison and Chris’s relationship: “A friend whispered in my ear he’s single, hot AND a NYC Fireman. I was hooked ever since.” ~ Alison Reilly

Getting to know Alison and Chris over the past few months has been a blast. Although Alison and I first met back in High School, the last few months we really got to spend time together between planning her wedding and buying her first house, it was great to be there with her for some many important firsts! We all know buying a house isn’t easy… and well planning a wedding too.

Alison and Chris got engaged in October 2010. When we got together last Fall to catch up on life I asked her how he proposed… Alison said “Just after a conversation about our future he took the ring out, left it on the table OPEN in the box. Chris waited for me to see it and said he was ready. After waiting 6 years, I was ecstatic. Chris is my best friend, my companion and my #1 favorite person to be around. Although he commonly refers to me as “poop” or sometimes “poop whistle” (which is another word for a fart), I think still think he’s the best guy in the whole world and I’ll never let him go.”

When we were chatting, Alison mentioned she never wanted a “big wedding,” although that was what she got. Between Chris’ family, his FDNY family, their friends and Alison’s family they had over 200 guests. The dance floor was packed throughout the entire night. It was a huge room with an enormous dance floor. I don’t think there were many people seated except for speeches and the first dance. It was truly a celebration for everyone and a day Alison with never forget.

“Being able to plan a wedding of this size seemed impossible to me. We were able to have an unbelievable wedding at a spectacular location — something I never dreamed possible. Everything was perfect. Nicotra’s Ballroom was amazing – the food, decorations and staff far surpassed my expectations. In addition to the services the Hilton provided, we had a superb photographer (Natalie Licini; YOU!) who my father was so impressed with, by the end of the cocktail hour he offered to adopt.

Now that some time has passed since the wedding and I’ve had some time to reflect, if I had to do it all over again I would. The whole experience of planning, feeling like a princess for a day, reconnecting with all the wonderful friends and family we don’t get to see very often left me with lasting memories I’ll never forget. Although the wedding was still a very expensive endeavor, the memories we are left with are priceless. “ ~Alison

This wedding has a special place in my heart. It was magical from start to finish. Throughout the planning and on the very day, it was truly a memory that “I” will always reflect back upon. Maybe it’s because I’ve known Alison for nearly two decades, but most likely it’s the overwhelming love felt in the room.

THE DAY:

When I arrived at the Hilton, the maitre’d had everything in order. I’d expect nothing less from Nicotra’s Hilton. They have a lovely bridal suite and take great care ensuring the day goes perfectly. As I walked into the living room, I noticed Alison glowing and cool as usual. She looked absolutely beautiful. Her dad was watching her from the couch with a look of pure happiness on his face. He’s got one of the best smiles as you’ll see in her pictures. I was absolutely honored when I heard that Mr. Jay offered to adopt me. And I’ll be honest, I encouraged it. He’s just one of those dads that you would love to have as a father. He’s caring and thoughtful and he wrote a special song which he played for Alison during the reception instead of a traditional first dance. Man, did the room stand still while he played. You could just see the look in her eyes and happiness in her heart. It was a beautiful day and a testament to why I LOVE doing what I do!

Here are a few pages of Alison & Chris’s wedding album… Enjoy!

This is a FIRST LOOK for anyone considering taking pictures prior to the ceremony. What I love about a FIRST LOOK, is the excitement and suspense leading up to the moment they see each other. It’s different because its very intimate. I love capturing the expressions from afar…

I had to include a picture of my adopted father. Look at that smile as he plays a song he wrote just for Alison (his actual daughter). He’s absolutely wonderful and very handsome I might add!