Julia Zave Lifestyles | Category Archives: Blog

ERIN + MIKE: DAY 2

From Washington Park on April 5th, we went onto party at the Normanside Country Club on April 6th! And party we did!

But first, everyone had to get ready! Vanessa (of Elegant Esthetics) arrived with all the party colors in hand and got to work!

Once make up was done, the girls helped Erin into her dress.

Since Finn, Erin and Mike’s adorable Boston Terrier made an appearance on Day 1, it was only fair that their cuddly cat – Ted Kennedy (no, not that Ted) did too! He watched over everyone (especially Erin) to make sure that all preparations went smoothly.

Earlier that morning, Mike received a sweet, sweet shirt from Erin!

While the girls got ready, Mike and Uncle Joe traveled to OTB to place some last minute bets.

Here they are with their game faces on!

Now, that didn’t last long…so home to get ready for the party they went!

Here’s Mike – GQ ready!
Mike and Joe got ready fast, wouldn’t anyone with a cigar break as a motivator?

One last look at Erin as she snuck in a little Yoga while Sarah’s (Maid of Honor) sister set Erin’s hair.

Before we knew it, it was time to party with all the guests at Normanside!

The delicious cake from Dolce & Biscotti (I vouch for it’s amazingness!).

After the cocktail there was a sweet slide show.

And then there were speeches that made Erin, Mike, friends and family – laugh and cry.

Followed by a first dance!

And the father-daughter dance!

DJ Playground got the party going!

Then, it was time for cake!

And more dancing, dancing, dancing!

Gangham style happened too…Everyone partied into the night!

Thank you Erin and Mike for allowing me to document your tremendous and awesome celebration. I wish you both, Finn and Ted Kennedy many, many, many years of happiness, laughter and love. Love is limitless.

xo,

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April 11, 2013 by julia

ERIN + MIKE : DAY 1

Erin and Mike’s wedding one was of the most unique celebrations I’ve had the honor of documenting so far! The two day affair started on Washing Park’s Bridge in Albany and continued the following day as a festive party at Normanside Country Club in Delmar. Below is day 1 of the amazing celebration and fun time had by all.

The springy invitation and Erin’s bouquet. Light and perfect!

A two day celebration calls for two dresses!
This embroidered handkerchief was given to Erin by her aunt and came straight from Ireland. It was sewn into Erin’s dress for good luck.

Love the subtle wave detail of Erin’s wedding ceremony dress!

The fun green shoes, the antique stunning ring and borrowed earrings completed the outfit!

Awesome Vanessa did Erin’s make up lightening fast!
Before we knew it, it was ceremony time. Check out Kate (Erin’s sister) and her fabulous fascinator hair accessory!

Erin and Mike-7

My super speedy assistant, Veronica, grabbed this shot as everyone gathered on the bridge.

The energetic and super creative, Erin Harkes did two songs especially requested by Mike, and as a surprise for Erin. So cool!

Then there were vows with happy tears.

And the kiss!

Mike and Erin’s adorable Boston Terrier – Finn, was fascinated by all the activity so they picked her up for a family photos

Everyone, but the happy couple headed over to dinner at Mingle (on Delaware Ave) while we took a quick stroll through Washington Park for some portraits. So much fun!

One of my favorite shots from the afternoon. A Marilyn Monroesque moment.

And the rings!
Day two blog coming soon! Get excited

xo,

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April 5, 2013 by julia

ZOEY AND SARAH

Almost two years ago, I shot Sarah’s Baby Shower for Little Zoey. Earlier this week, I spent some time with Sarah and officially met baby Zoey! We approached the photo session as a play date. We played with Zoey’s favorite bears, beads, cameras, mommy’s hats and Zoey even read a camera manual! I think we have a little photog here. Enjoy the photos!

Meet Zoey!
When I first got to Sarah’s house, Zoey has just woken up from a nap. Here she is still sleepy cute!

Zoey loves her mommy’s camera! We used mine for the shoot though

Zoey loves beads!

And her adorable pink bear too!

We played hide and seek. It was fun and full of laughs!

Then, Zoey borrowed her mom’s favorite hats and modeled for us!

Her favorite hat!

One of my favorites from the shoot…in this one, Zoey channels a very serious actress!

After, it was time for pictures with mommy!

Sarah takes a lot of pictures of Zoey. Yet, it’s rare that she’s in pictures with her. That’s one of the big reasons I wanted to do this for her, because parents should always exist in photographs for their children. Love this next one <3

Nothing like a sweet kiss from mommy!

Thank you so much for spending part of your day with me Sarah + Zoey!

xoxo,

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March 24, 2013 by julia

NICO!

Today, I met a beautiful Viszla puppy named Nico. He is the newest addition to my best friend’s growing family. We never thought Laura would get another dog (after Sammy – her sweet tiny pup from high school. It was a sweet surprise when she posted the very first pictures of Nico and I couldn’t wait to meet him! This charming boy was love at first sight!

I love his sweet honey colored puppy eyes!

Laura already trained him to give a paw, for treats of course!

Nico comes from a family of show dogs, so his regal nature and intense focus is evident in everything he does.

Nico peeking out from behind the bookcase. So innocent!

The little love bug loves naps on the couch.

And chewing on his toes too!

This is one of my favorite shots from the day. His fur looks so soft, rich, velvety and perfect, just like him! Welcome home, Nico – we love you!

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February 21, 2013 by julia

Flowers In The Winter

We all know it’s winter. I personally wish it was summer, full of flowers and sunshine! While working away on my first ever portfolio book of wedding images and making new image selects for my website I found a running theme in my edits – flowers and portraits. If I didn’t have my friend, and fabulous graphic designer, Katie to help me edit, my book would be full of flowers and portraits. I guess I get carried away by colors and love! I wish there were peonies in the winter, lilacs in the summer and fresia’s all year round! Till that can be achieved I will revel in the memories of my favorite flower images instead. Here are just a few to feast your eyes (not edible).

Light blue hydrangea’s and cream colored roses from a September wedding. Gorgeous colors pop, yet remain subtle against the green of the grass and deep blue navy of the dress in the background.

Creme and light pink roses beg to be cherished.

These pink and white peonies are voluptuous stunners! Light, abundant and fragrant. When I think of them I remember hot summer mornings spent tending my grandmother’s grandmother’s garden, outside of Moscow. The take home was a hot, almost spicy, and unforgettable bouquet of pink and white peonies sprinkled with morning dew.

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February 15, 2013 by julia

Bridal Portraits With Dali

Erin of Erin Marzilli Make Up Artist, and I have been planning this shoot since the summer. When Erin first texted me a photo of Dali from her October wedding, I knew she’d be perfect! The awesome news kept coming when Erin texted me again and asked if I’d be interested in working with a vintage accessory designer on the shoot as well! The answer was, of course, a million times, yes! And Tara of Tiane Novati joined the shoot team!

When I got to Erin’s where we were getting ready, Tara had laid out the accessory options and they were stunning, just like our bride! After Erin finished Dali’s make up, we picked out the hair accessories we liked best. It would’ve been incredible to shoot them all, but there we just so many beautiful options from The Covenant Collection we could fit in one day. (Opportunity for next shoot? I think so!)

Once the pieces were picked out and Dali dawned on her wedding dress we wrapped her up in scarves and blankets to keep her warm on the way to Yaddo Gardens. After all, it was less than 30 degrees out! As you will see in the images below, Dali was a trooper all through the make up, accessory and location changes!

I wish I could find another synonym for ‘stunning’ because the only word that pops into my head when I look at these images is that Dali looks – effortlessly stunning!

I’ve seen many photo versions of the gates at Yaddo Gardens. I wanted these images to look elegant and yet infused with personality. This shot was taken between poses and encapsulates Dali’s fun and playful personality.

After the gates we moved onto the marble bench on the other side of the gardens. Following a make up change and a classic netting and feather accessory Dali took a seat and looked aristocratic without even trying!

One more glance

Dali nonchalantly checking out her prince

Love!

Dali at the marble wall surrounded by different shades of white marble, fabric and snow.

This was one of my favorite locations of the day. At the end of the shoot, I asked Dali to stand in the shade of the woods near the Yaddo Gardens. Just enough shade and ray’s of afternoon sun in the background gave the sharp contrast of the white and brown softness and depth I love!

Thank you Dali, Tara and Erin for a fantastic shoot!

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January 28, 2013 by julia

Heather + Jason 1.19.13

I’ve known Heather and Jason ever since we all did crew together back in college. After we graduated, they moved to Japan and then to New York to start their life together. Then last January, soon after they got engaged, Jason called me to talk about the wedding!!! Seems just like yesterday that Jason and Heather began dating! Their beautiful day was planned to take place close to where Heather grew up, at The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown. When I got to the hotel, Heather’s mom told me that she dreamed of having her wedding there ever since she was a little girl. So beautiful!

Heather getting ready, looking beautiful from the very start!

Every girl needs her Chanel and beautiful shoes!

The embroidery on Heather’s dress was gorgeous!

Heather’s maid of honor, Gabrielle, helped her get dressed.

Doesn’t she look radiant?

Something elegant.

Must have Tiffany & Co!

The flowers.

Heather is ready to see her dad.

A sweet hug with dad.

Meanwhile the guys were downstairs having breakfast. Here is Jason telling a very intense story.

Ben showed up to breakfast all ready for pictures. So what did the guys do? Haha!

Then it was time to get ready.

Jason putting on his cufflinks – engraved with their wedding date!

They’re ready!

Jason + his dad looking all GQ right before the ceremony.

Jason sees Heather for the very first time as she walks down the aisle with her dad.

They’re so happy!

The vows.

The first kiss as Mr. & Mrs!

Heather’s mom tearing up a little during the ceremony.

Meet the new Mr. & Mrs. DeNivo!

Heather hugs her mom and Jason hugs his dad after the ceremony.

Everyone had a ticket to the game!

Every table had a famous hall of famer! The favors were bats!

The reception ballroom was light and bright.

The cake and details were gorgeous.

The beautiful bridal party!

After the bridal party photos, Jason, Heather and I had some fun with bridal portraits. I love how in love Heather + Jason look!

After the portraits, it was time to party!

First dance as husband and wife!

Heather and her dad. Jason and his mom.

Heather hugs her Dad. Love it!

Before we knew it, it was time for cake and dessert!

Looks good enough to eat!

The dance floor was packed all night!

Parents of the bride and groom!

Friends checking out silly pics!

One of my favorite portraits from the evening! Jason + Heather, thank you for allowing me to document your beautiful, special day!

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January 23, 2013 by julia

2012 Family Portrait Favorites

Spending time with families during portrait sessions is one of my favorite past times. I love running around with the kids, chatting with the parents and just enjoying the day with camera in hand. Below are some of my favorite moments from family photos in 2012. What a year!

The Malinowski’s braved the cold the day after Christmas and looked great doing it!

Christopher and Matthew are as ready for their close up as they’ll ever be. Love how expressive they are!

Adorable Ceci went for a walk.

Ceci loves running through the sprinkler. Who doesn’t?!

Tickle time!

Little Carson is one happy little boy. He clasps his little hands and smiles whenever he’s excited. Adorable!

Carson loves cowboy hats. What a handsome little man!

Carson duck gazing by the Congress Park pond.

Little Red Riding Hood.

Ceci smiles!

The Shinebarger’s were a very special family. This was their very first family portrait since little Kristin has gone into remission. They are my smiling heroes.

Little girls love pretty bows! Grace laughing with her dad, Doug.

Where is daddy? There he is! Grace is so excited she’s jumping up and down!

I love how simple and classic both of these photos are. Grace with her teddy and Grace dancing on her father’s shoes. Love.

Hayley, Tosha, Robyn, and Callie are – The Girls!

Emily, Ben and Juliana playing in the grass.

Georgie being greeted by a doggie at The Crossings.

Georgie, Naim and Janette – the most stylish family I know.

Memphis and Austin playing airplanes at the park. Memphis is a strong little boy and a survivor of pediatric cancer. He wanted to take a photo with the word blocks as a reminder that he is a survivor. <3

Who could ever say “No” to that smiling face? I know the answer! No one!

The Shultzes have a beautiful wooded property. We went for a walk!

A magic forest lies ahead.

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January 16, 2013 by julia

2012 Wedding Favorites

When 2012 came along, I went full speed ahead with it. I’ve been a freelance photographer for over 5 years, but it has never been my sole source of income until this past year. Beginning on that path was like a beautiful nightmare, exciting and terrifying, with so much uncertainty that at first my little heart could hardly take it. Yet, with the support of friends and family, as well as my incredible 2012 brides and grooms, I survived. I can’t believe how fast the year flew by, how much I’ve learned, and how much all of the people I’ve met have taught me. To say that I’m grateful would be an understatement, to say I’m happy is not enough either. So I’m doing what I know best… posting images that will show how much fun I had doing what I love most – capturing your most special day with the ones you love most. <3

Brian and Sarah’s wedding, at Franklin Plaza, started off the busy season. The day flew by so quickly! Here’s Sarah glancing over Brian’s shoulder at the end of cocktail hour. I love this photo. Unforgettable!

Sarah’s dress was stunning. Every detail was perfect and simply sophisticated.

Sarah’s dad sees her for the first time.

Katie O was there for Brian and Sarah every step of the way, leading up to and day of the event! She even called me to see how I was feeling when I came down with a horrendous sinus infection a week before the wedding! Katie and team glowed with pride as Sarah walked down the aisle to greet Brian during the ceremony at Franklin Plaza! This lady truly loves her job and that makes us love her even more.

The veil is lifted. Brian is in awe. Love!

Most excited and adorable parents ever!

A lucky six pence in Dody’s shoe – what a great tradition! We all know that I love cake, especially carrot cake! Dody and Dan had the tastiest ocean theme carrot cake, from Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe, ever! They even got me a mini one with my name on it! Now that’s a sure way to a photog’s heart!

Dan + Dody at The Inn at Erlowest. Dody looks so happy and radiant!

Jill and the boys, Callen and Hudson – most adorable!

Jill’s angelic flower girls! The only thing they’re missing is little wings!

Brian is beaming with anticipation as he waits to see Jill at the altar. The ring bearers hurry down the aisle.
Jill + Brian all smiles and happiness in downtown Albany.

McKenzie + Doug – love in Albany’s Washington Park.

Love the thank you note! Grace is a part of the ceremony on top deck of the Dutch Apple Cruise – so cute!

Lindsay + Justin on the Hudson River dock at Yanni’s Cucina. Lindsay hugs her mom after their special mother, daughter dance. You can feel the love in that hug!

Heather + Pat are high school sweethearts. Adrianna is Heather’s little angel. So cute!

Carson prepares for his mommies wedding – this little man is ready to go! Val + Kara, in love in the garden. The shot reminds me of a Victorian postcard.

Emily hugs, her sister, Margaret in Saratoga’s Congress Park on the way to church. Emily + Wes, a very Saratoga city wedding!

Emily + Wes – the evening’s last dance at Canfield Casino.

Nicole’s wedding jewels.

Nicole’s Maid of Honor, Kat, and her mom help with the dress. Nicole + Derek – kisses at Saratoga National.

Kathë glancing at Vlad during our portrait session by The Gideon Putnam.

Kathë + Vlad, happily ever after with the sun at their back!

Angela, one of my bestest friends in the whole world got married this summer. Due to a previous commitment, I was not able to make the wedding, but I did come down for a visit to Nyack the day after. We had a fun impromptu shoot before she and Sam took off for Japan.

Ducks on the Hudson and a perfect sunset! Who doesn’t love both?!

Love and safe travels to you both!*

*All of the couples included in this post will also get their own blog in the coming months with more photos and the story of their beautiful day. Stay tuned!

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January 5, 2013 by julia

2012 Engagement Shoot Favorites

2012 was amazing! Coincidentally, it was also my first year working as a full-time photographer. There were many challenges and many triumphs. I’m very grateful for the incredible people I’ve met along the way.

It was very hard to decide, took me all day, but here are some of my favorite engagement photos from the year. Each couple will eventually have its own blog post (I know this is not the typical order of things), but it’s my own little way of going back to the future!Bill + Laura + Lamont in their backyard.

Laura + Bill in Albany’s Washington Park. Emily + Wes near Saratoga’s Congress Park.

Emily + Wes hanging out at Yaddo Gardens in Saratoga.

Sylvianne + John braved the eicky drizzle in Albany while making the most of their time on camera. We had a great time that day! Eric proposed to Esmeralda on the SUNY Albany campus – their alma mater. She cried, I cried, I think even Eric might’ve teared up (I’m sure he’ll never admit it).