Giovanni Rana Pastificio & Cucina Wedding

If KakaoTalk had not existed, you would probably not be reading this story right now, and Ellen & Robert would never have celebrated their restaurant wedding reception at Giovanni Rana in New York (or anywhere else, for that matter).

Many people I know can thank modern technology for being together today. The couple in this story is one such example. Ellen and Robert worked together in the summer of 2004. That’s how they knew each other. However, they were not particularly close (except for one lunch they had outside of work). For three years, Robert would text her happy birthday (Robert remembers birthdays like nobody else), and then eight years later they felt the chemistry.

In 2012 Ellen used the Kakao app to chat to her cousin without knowing she would pop up in Robert’s friend suggestions. It took him only 5 minutes to text her. They reconnected and met (as friends) for the next 5 months. The inevitable happened in October 2012 (yeah, they officially started dating!) and ended up with a wedding three years later. And, what’s truly remarkable about this story is that Robert was actually Ellen’s first boyfriend at the tender age of 27 (waiting for the right one eventually pays off!).

I have photographed many wedding ceremonies in my life, and this one was very beautiful and emotional.  During his vows, Robert paid his respects to Ellen’s late dad who sadly did not get to witness his daughter’s joy on her big day. The bride and groom got teary-eyed making the moment even more intense.  Ellen would have truly loved for her dad and Robert to have met in person. As that is impossible, Robert did the very next best thing by paying his respects in front of all their family and friends. Ellen said she felt her dad's happiness for them that night. Later on, at the party, Robert danced with his dad (who is rarely seen on the dancefloor) and Ellen’s mom. He enjoyed every second of it and never saw his dad so happy for him in his life.

Ellen couldn’t have felt happier about marrying Robert who has been her precious support and guidance during the past years. In his turn, Robert believes his better half is the most lovable person ever, making anyone like her instantly with her magnetic aura.

The dinner (a delicious Italian menu at the cozy Giovanni Rana restaurant in NY), the dancing (you should have seen the groom in action!) and the cutting of the cake (check out the funny moment where the bride points a huge knife at the groom) were beyond enjoyable, and I invite you to browse Ellen & Roberet's wedding photos for a little visual delight.

Ellen & Robert: Thank you for welcoming me so openly.  I am so grateful that you asked me to document it all as you tied the knot on such a beautiful, emotional, and happy day.  I love having two new friends in the city now, and look fwd to being involved in your lives again soon!