An Elegant Wedding At The Grand

When I learned about Suzana and Max’s love story, I was in complete awe of the love and affection that they shared for one another. Their remarkable resilience in wedding planning during Covid was worth the results — a truly magical and exquisite wedding day at The Grand!

Their Love Story

Suzana and Max met at one of my favorite places in the world… Starbucks! While in school, Suzana would study at the Starbucks location where Max worked as a barista. One day on his break, he asked to sit with Suzana, and the rest is history!

Like many, Suzana and Max had to postpone their original wedding plans due to Covid 19. Instead of delaying their marriage, the couple chose to get legally married on April 8th, 2021, at Newark Historic Courthouse. One year later, I joined the couple on their one-year anniversary as they celebrated with their loved ones at The Grand in Totowa, New Jersey.

The Wedding Day

After Suzana and Max’s emotional first look at the venue, we headed to Branch Brook Park and took the dreamiest photos amongst the cherry blossom trees. It is said that there are over 4,000 cherry blossom trees in the park, and when they bloom, it is a blush-pink dreamland. They couldn’t have picked a better location for their whimsical spring wedding photos.

Ceremony & Reception

The wedding ceremony took place in the courtyard of The Grand amongst the immaculate gardens and stone backdrop. Post-ceremony, guests were invited inside for an elaborate cocktail hour before being introduced to the ballroom for dinner.

Suzana and Max’s wedding reception at The Grand was exquisite! They went with a vintage mauve, white, and blush pink color palette with elegant details. From the white and pink flowers to the elegant gold accents, everything was divine. When I walked into the reception space, I felt like I was in a palace and instantly knew that photographing here would be a dream!

As Suzana and her family are from Albania, the couple chose to incorporate traditional Albanian music and dancing into their reception. This traditional music was a huge hit amongst the guests and was absolutely amazing to be a part of! Standing in the middle of the dance floor, capturing Suzana and Max with their guests hand in hand, singing, chanting, and laughing while moving in circles, was a surreal, incredible experience. I love it when my couples incorporate traditions into their wedding day, and I am truly honored to document these moments for them.

The Grand Wedding Venue

As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to work at many wonderful venues over the years. I was absolutely blown away by the hospitality, genuine kindness, and thoughtfulness of the staff at The Grand. Never before have I worked at a venue that takes such good care of the vendors and guests. They treated my couple like absolute royalty as to be expected, but truly did the same for my team.

A special shout-out to Sal, the maître d’ who went out of his way to ensure a stellar experience for me and, most importantly, my couple. From the impeccable service, delicious food, and beautiful photo locations, everything about The Grand was exceptional! Of course, not every venue has it all, but I’d say this one does! The Grand is an outstanding New Jersey wedding venue for your wedding day!

Suzana and Max’s resilient love story will forever have a place in my heart. It was such a privilege to be a part of their wedding day and to witness them finally being able to celebrate with all of their loved ones. Thank you to Suzana and Max for choosing me to be a part of your special day! If you’re looking for a destination wedding photographer to capture your love story for eternity, I’d be thrilled to be there for you! So, let’s connect! Be sure to reach out and share your love story with me – I look forward to getting to know you!

love always Avery