May is probably one of my favorite months to shoot wedding because, alas, I’m a Taurus and spring is my time shine. However I do notice that there’s a new electricity beginning to pulse in people that feels like it’s finally awakening come the first weeks of warmth of the year. That all to say: it was a recipe for portraits with a genuine awesome energy to them.

* associate wedding shot for sammi shea photography

Brandon kept it fresh with a day-of barber cut, done by his brother Tyler (@slcktyler on instagram), while Ashlei got dressed in some rocking vintage pieces (—the best fringe jacket I’ve ever seen, if I may add).

…and you know we had to grab some personality-filled bridal shots! So earthy, so in her element.

After these moments alone, it was time for first look, portraits, and El Bar. Oh, and their completely adorable cats. (Believe it or not, cats and puppies have become a common occurrence at weddings I've shot over the years.)

As we got to the reception and wrapped up with a few more b+g portraits, the evening air felt like one of those pre-summer nights thats gets you excited for summer nights outside. You know what I mean? Everyone around Fishtown was walking around having drinks, the city air was buzzing, and we were all about to go to an epic & beautiful wedding ceremony/reception.

You may know of The Brooklyn Bowl for their events in Philly, ranging from concerts to Emo Nights to Disco Bowls, or even just to hang and get some strikes. But this is the first time a wedding was hosted there, and it was one for the books. (Who else can say they went bowling on their wedding day?!)

Tears, smiles, laughs - a ceremony that we all wont forget. As a nostalgic person, hearing the officiant recall and share memories that Ashlei & Brandon had together - memories that set each other apart from every other human - makes me feel so honored to be right here in these moments.

The stage was immediately flipped into a long, beautiful dinner table for reception, while everyone bowled their hearts out & listened to some heartfelt speeches.

The night ended with a video Brandon’s brother put together of Ashlei & Brandon’s relationship, and it had the entire room both laughing & crying.It’s days like this with so many personal touches to them that make me feel fulfilled & purposeful in my work, crafting images that showcase peoples personalities & stories, and document the day in a way that grabs ahold of the moments that are there one second, and gone another.

Cheers, to a totally rad and wholesome wedding at the Brooklyn Bowl with Ashlei & Brandon.