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Emma + Jessica

United Presbyterian Church, Binghamton, NY + The Riverdale, Endwell, NY

Videographer / Filmmaking: 

Select Photo + FIlm

Reception Venue: The Riverdale

Photographer: Kristy's Imagination

Entertainment: Kevin Ludwig

A New Year’s Beginning: Jessica and Emma’s Unforgettable Binghamton Wedding

There is something inherently magical about a New Year’s Day wedding- it’s a day already brimming with the promise of new beginnings, and for Jessica and Emma, it was the perfect backdrop for a celebration filled with heart, humor, and high energy. From downtown Binghamton to a high-octane reception in Endwell, their wedding was a beautiful reflection of who they are as a couple: fun-loving, deeply connected, and surrounded by an incredible community.

The day began with preparations at Traditions at the Glen. While we weren't officially hired to cover the early morning prep, Jessica and Emma’s mothers captured some wonderful behind-the-scenes moments on their cell phones. I decided to edit some of these clips into a small, upbeat "vignette" to lead off their film. It adds a personal, complimentary layer of excitement to the story, showing the raw joy of the morning before the "official" cameras even started rolling. 

After some final bridal touches in the quiet of the church basement, the energy shifted to the foyer of the United Presbyterian Church in downtown Binghamton. It was here that Jessica and Emma shared a touching first look. Seeing each other in their stunning gowns for the first time, surrounded by their closest friends and family, was a moment of pure, cinematic emotion.

The ceremony itself was a masterclass in personal storytelling. The couple exchanged heartfelt, hand-written vows that were moving, poetic, and admittedly, a challenge to edit! Their words were so beautiful that it was difficult to pare them down for the highlight film, but every line kept for the final cut serves as a testament to their bond (the full, unedited vows will be featured in their dedicated ceremony film). The service reached a crescendo with their first kiss. As the wedding party showered them with confetti cannons from the altar and the flanking balconies above. It was a spectacular visual transition that signaled the "party mode" was officially engaged.

After a quick photo session back at Traditions at the Glen, we headed to the Riverdale in Endwell. Following a classy cocktail hour, the evening flowed seamlessly into a night of high-energy celebration.

One of the most thoughtful touches of the night was a separate side room appointed with games and for their younger guests or anyone that preferred less stimulation. It was a testament to how much Jessica and Emma care about the comfort of everyone in attendance. Meanwhile, the main ballroom was electric. Between the delicious dinner and the heartfelt speeches, the dance floor stayed packed all night. The DJ, Kevin, did a fantastic job reading the room and playing tracks that kept every generation moving.

A wedding of this scale stays on track thanks to an incredible vendor team. It was a total pleasure working alongside Kristy  Johnston of Kristy's Imagination Photography. She is a complete pro, and our styles complemented each other perfectly throughout the day. A huge shout-out also goes to Lisa Melena,  the coordinator at the Riverdale, who ensured the entire evening flowed without a hitch.

Final Thoughts

I’ll admit this edit took a little longer than planned while waiting for those special clips from the parents, but once I sat down at the timeline, it was an absolute emotional roller coaster. I found myself laughing and crying right along with them.

Jessica and Emma, it was an honor to document your day. You two are a blast to be around, and I am so grateful to have played a part in creating this memory for you. I wish you both nothing but the best in this new chapter! <3 

About the Event

Planning your wedding at The Riverdale or anywhere in Binghamton, NY? Select Photo + Film specializes in bright, timeless wedding photography and cinematic wedding films throughout the region.

📅 Check Your Date & Get in Touch 📞 Call or text: 315.400.0482

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