Syracuse, New York
Maeve and Saman tied the knot last weekend and their wedding is easily one of my favorites we’ve ever photographed! They transformed their backyard to host an intimate garden wedding and the result was stunning!
Maeve and Saman knew they wanted an intimate wedding right from the start. Saman’s family is from Iran and currently live all around the world, so they knew it wouldn’t be possible to have everyone there. When you add in the restrictions from COVID-19, the idea of a very small gathering just made sense. While they had originally planned on having their reception at Francesca’s Cucina, they opted to host it in their own backyard garden instead!
Maeve and Saman both came to Syracuse a few years ago as graduate students. They met while completing a math-requirement (“math camp” as they jokingly call it) and soon became friends. Friendship led to dating and then to Saman proposing to Maeve in their backyard garden. It’s only fitting that this would also be the spot where their wedding would be celebrated as well!
The setting was lovely. Lush greenery, made even more beautiful by a surprise shower that morning… Candles everywhere, even in the trees… Mix-matched chairs that loving neighbors had donated for the evening… And their closest friends to celebrate with.
I’ve really been loving the “micro-weddings” that we’ve had this season and this wedding exemplifies why. While large parties are always a lot of fun, there’s always the feeling of distance between us and the guests. With small weddings, every person in attendance gets to talk and have real conversations with each other and us!
When Saman and Maeve sat down to eat their dinner, they instantly were engulfed in conversation about how they met, the funny moments of dating, and their guests were all able to chime in with their memories. It was so unique and special to see the conversation flowing more like it would at an intimate dinner party than at a big event. It was just such a sweet and genuine moment that I won’t soon forget!
So, without further ado, here are my favorite moments from Saman and Maeve’s garden wedding!
Vendors
Bride’s gown: J Crew
Bride’s jewelry: All heirloom pieces from grandmothers
Bride’s Shoes: Michael Kors
Groom’s Suit: J Crew
Bouquet: Whistlestop Florist
Appetizers/Charcuterie Board: Brown Built Rentals, Naomi Brown
Catering: Mello Velo Bicycle Shop and Cafe
Cakes: Homemade by Bride
