When I think back on the trajectory of my photography career, there are little moments strung together that are actually big moments when I recall them now - small encouragements, sweet encounters, kind words that, put together, really propelled me to where I am today.

One of those small moments happened with Essie, right as I was starting to consider leaving the safety net of my 9-5 job to pursue photography full time. For 12 years, I had built this business alongside a desk job, and had never really let myself dream that something different may be possible for me… But then, I did.

At Essie and Mikhail’s engagement session in early 2021, as I was encouraging them through poses and prompts, Essie was encouraging me to envision something different for myself. I vividly remember her saying, “When you set aside your 9-5, you’ll be amazed at how different you feel and how different things will become when you are no longer splitting your brain in half every day.

Over the next year, every time I doubted whether or not I would feel secure enough to make the leap away from my 9-5, I remembered Essie’s encouragement.

She was right. And here we now are.

THE COUPLE

Essie and Mikhail are some of my favorite people to spend time with. At this point, I’ve spent multiple days with them - engagement session, wedding, family session. They’re fun and funny, and feed off of each other’s down-to-earth yet humorous energy. Essie is direct and matter-of-fact, with a giggle thrown in at the end. She calls things like they are, and Mikhail is right there with her. They are realistic yet go-with-the-flow.

It rained on their wedding day, and instead of becoming stressed about the weather, we all just waited it out until it cleared up enough that they could still host their wedding ceremony outside. They changed plans without batting an eyelash because they understood that no wedding day goes 100% according to plan, were realistic about their options, and just moved forward with no frustration - which I admired.

THE VENUE

The Stagecoach Inn in Goshen, NY is truly such a beautiful venue for smaller weddings. It’s unique in that it has a house-like layout, but has gorgeous outdoor locations for photos or guests to explore. This venue has a quaint feel - as if it could be a part of the set of Stars Hollow on Gilmore Girls.

Although it feels quaint and homey, it is not too dark or cozy. The reception room has a lot of light that filters through the windows, and is decorated in lighter, more modern tones. There are other rooms in the house that welcome people to lounge and enjoy each other’s company, and I think the layout of the venue makes it feel more welcoming than some larger, traditional venues may feel.

THE DETAILS

Essie and Mikhail’s details were some of my favorites ever. Everything they included in their day was so meaningful and pretty. From the items Essie brought to include in their jewelry and invitation photos, to the intricate, vibrant florals incorporated into their chuppah, everything was well thought-out and a delight to photograph.

Essie and Mikhail were also intentional about infusing their Jewish traditions into their day, choosing to sign their ketubah separately prior to their ceremony, get married with an amazing rabbi under their gorgeous chuppah, and blessing the challah as the reception began. It was a blessing to witness and document.

THE RECEPTION

Essie and Mikhail’s reception was pure and total fun, delight, and joy. Although the guest list was small, the dance floor was consistently filled, and everyone just CELEBRATED.

When I was getting ready to leave Essie and Mikhail’s wedding day, one of their friends pulled me aside, and said, “Once you’re in Essie’s world, you’re there for life - she will keep and take care of you forever.”

I’ve already found that to be the truth.

Essie and Mikhail, I was added to your world by chance, but I know that I get to stay by your choice, and I am so incredibly grateful to have you in my life. Thank you for you.

FROM THE COUPLE

“There aren’t enough words to describe the experience and person that Erica is. Erica’s not only insanely talented but the love, care, passion and talent is unparalleled. Erica makes the process easy with her professionalism, organization, and communication. Our engagement shoot was like laughing and hanging with a friend. Day-of she brings energy - just such a great vibe to add to your day. She doesn’t make you feel awkward, tells you the right poses, and really truly makes your day seamless and fun. We cannot thank Erica enough, and are leaving our wedding with a friend.”