You know those couples who just make you feel instantly at home? That's Mel and Mike. When they decided to get married, they skipped the big venue hunt and chose something way more meaningful: Mel's childhood home. What happened was one of those perfect, imperfect days that remind you why the best celebrations are really just about love, laughter, and the people who matter most.
THE COUPLE
Mel and Mike are the kind of people who welcome you in like you've been friends forever. From the moment we walked through the door, they made everyone feel like family. Even though we were only there for a few hours, it honestly felt like we'd spent days with them because of how thoroughly they welcomed us all in.
They're not fussy people, and their wedding reflected that beautifully. Instead of stressing about all the wedding "rules," they focused on what actually mattered to them: celebrating their love in a place that meant everything, surrounded by their favorite people. And honestly? It was perfect.
THE VENUE
Mel's parents' house was the best possible backdrop for their big day. The living room got transformed into their ceremony space, and you could just feel all the history in that room. This was where Mel grew up, where family dinners happened, where holiday mornings unfolded. Having their wedding there added this incredible layer of meaning that no fancy venue could ever match.
The whole house just felt alive with warmth and memories. Natural light streamed in through windows that had watched Mel grow up, and every corner held stories. It was intimate in the best possible way, like we were all being invited into something really special and personal.
THE DETAILS
Mel and Mike kept things simple but thoughtful. Candles flickered throughout the living room, giving everything this soft, romantic glow. Their guests lined up along the wall to watch these good souls get married. Polaroids of Mel’s grandparents were tacked up near the fireplace so they could also be a part of the celebration.
But hands down, the best moment was totally unplanned. Right in the middle of their most heartfelt vows, their family dog decided the ceremony needed some excitement. This sweet pup came barreling through the living room at full speed, knocked over several pieces of decor, and generally spun himself round the room. Instead of anyone freaking out, the whole room just erupted in laughter. It was pure joy and exactly the kind of moment that makes a wedding unforgettable.
THE RECEPTION
After the ceremony, the party moved seamlessly to the most relaxed reception ever. No fancy ballroom or elaborate setup, just everyone gathering around the family dining table and sprawling on the living room couch. It sounds casual, but it felt absolutely celebratory, like the world's best dinner party.
Dances and toasts were held in the basement where little disco lights were flickering. It was absolutely delightful.
The whole reception just flowed naturally. Kids played in the background, adults lingered over dessert and stories, and Mel and Mike were right in the middle of it all, soaking up every moment with the people who love them most.
By the time we finally started saying goodbye, everyone was buzzing with happiness. Mel and Mike had created something really magical. They proved that the best weddings aren't about how much you spend or how perfect everything looks. They're about gathering your favorite people in a space full of love and letting the celebration unfold naturally. And it was the perfect way to spend a winter afternoon.
FROM THE COUPLE
"I knew from the minute I read Erica's website and saw some of her portfolio that I would be honored for her to photograph our wedding: I was even more sure of our decision when we met on a call, and finally IRL.
I always feel awkward taking professional photos, but as soon as Erica and Debbie walked in the door, it felt like old friends coming to celebrate with us. Erica's way with words, explanation, and instruction kept things fun and light ,rather than stuffy and forced, the way that other photoshoots have felt to me: and the fun and joy everyone had as a result REALLY shown through in ALL of the photos!
Erica has such a gift for capturing the most intimate moments, right down to the super impromptu ones (like your parents' dog crashing your ceremony lol). Looking through our portfolio brought back all of the magic that we felt on our special day all over again. I can't put into words how special the Sweet Alice Family made us all feel and how incredibly talented they are at what they do! Thank you for making an unforgettable day even more beautiful and amazing."
Westchester WEDDING VENDORS
Photography: Sweet Alice Photography // Catering: DeCicco & Sons // Gown: Lulu’s
Wedding Date: February 3, 2024
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