Well It's spring. I finally feel it and already I’m afraid it’s going to be gone before I have a chance to enjoy it. It's amazing how fast time does go by, just when you’re in the thick of winter and think spring will never arrive, here it is, along with the start of wedding season.
During our “slow” time we're not really that slow and it’s hard for us to travel and maybe have a little time away. Because we are home bound for the most part, what we do like to do is try and learn, refresh and prep for the upcoming season. Mentally and physically.
FOOD…..
To refresh, one of the things we like to do is Eat! No, I don't mean a run to Sonic. We just try and eat at as many new and different restaurants as possible and try as many different styles of food as we can. Although it doesn't always work out for the best. (Just ask me about the Steak Tartare.) I truly believe that experiencing new and different cuisine allows you to grow in some way. I think its one of the few luxuries that everyone can enjoy. We definitely take advantage of the many "Restaurant Weeks" in the area and here are some of our new faves!!!
TREE Ahhhhh... so lovely. Think Mussels and clams in a saffron broth over linguine. They’re on first avenue.
We always enjoy Hudson Valley Restaurant Week and fell in love with Peter Kelly’s Xavier’s H2O on the Hudson. (On the Metro North, in Yonkers.)
Because I am strongly against drinking even one glass of wine and driving, we tend to go out either in walking distance of our apt or anywhere along the Hudson River with train access. This one is a charm!
http://www.xaviars.com/yonkers/index.html
When you think of going out for a lobster, well... it seems unattainable for the most part. Not anymore. Beautifully steamed lobster meat with just a touch of butter and special seasoning on a grilled bun! Heaven!!!
I have a much longer list of restaurants that I am always sharing with couples visiting New York. Feel free to email me for that list.
I have also become more serious about cooking. I consider my self at maybe a 5 However I am shooting for an 8. I found an Italian cooking class. that I think I’m going to try and take this summer. They teach the old roman techniques… should be interesting. Cant wait!
(NOTE: I owe Jeanne of Hudson Valley Ceremonies, one day of unlimited Margaritas and Ceviche. Jeanne I didn't forget and we're going to have to do this soon.)
BUSINESS…
UGH Camera equipment. I have been obsessed with going back and forth as to what new equipment I need and I realized I need/want everything. I think $20,000.00 should cover it. Hmmmm realistic? No! I just have to pick up another body and dream about the rest.
What many don’t realize is that with this business we are always having constant upkeep with our gear, I compare it to a runners sneakers. It never ends and there is always new technology coming out. I thank the blog work of Michael Grace Martin for doing some great canon testing. If only I can convince apple to let me test out their MB Pros every year… If only.
MY LOVE...
What I have also realized is where my passion lies with photography. Its new and interesting places, interesting couples and a little edge. Looking at our schedule for the next year, we certainly have an abundance of all of the above and I get chills thinking about the possibilities for the next year. I always strive to see more, experience more and be better. I am always learning and that is what excites me and motivates me, season after season.
Some things that haven’t changed are Lists.
Please do not ask us to follow a list from the knot or anywhere else. What happens is that we end up missing things that are happening in the now and that makes me sad. Also, please try and refrain anyone from suggesting we put you in the middle of a field/lawn, sprinkle rose pedals around your dress and have you stare directly into the sun. Really Kim? Yes really, the request came and I think the poor bride wanted to run away. Good intentions don’t always have good results.
I also wanted to take a moment to speak directly to couples. We are so lucky to have all of you as clients. We really are excited for everyone this year. Thank you!!!
To all the couples that contacted me and unfortunately I was already booked. Good luck! If I can say anything to you and give you any advice it's to HAVE FUN!
A GOOD CAUSE...
I wanted to tell everyone that my friend Christine is running in the Revlon Walk/Run in NYC on May 1st. She has had multiple doctor appointments, shin splints, and acupuncture treatments to be able to do this, So, please sponsor her if you can. You can follow the link here. https://www.revlonrunwalk.com/ny/secure/mywebpage.cfm?pID=525642
AND FINALLY…
A BIG thank you to all of the wonderful people we get to work with time and time again. I know this year will be spectacular!!!
Artisan Wine Shop (For the beautiful reds I sip while editing)
Mary Beaty, Eileen Regan and Beth Lamont
Kennedy of Ask a New Yorker
Max's on Main (For our after wedding cocktails)
The staff at Onteora Mountain House...
And all the many people that help make all these events amazing and memorable.
