Kingdom of the Hawk Wedding | Nikki + Pat - wedding photographer in CT

{Kingdom of the Hawk 5.17.25}

Okay, let me just say—Nikki and Pat’s wedding day at Kingdom of the Hawk was an absolute dream. Think: May sunshine, a romantic and timeless vibe, and the kind of joy that’s impossible to fake. These two are the real deal, and their day felt like one big, elegant party with their favorite people. The kind of wedding that just feels like them.

And as their photographer, capturing every emotion-filled, artful moment was such an honor. If you know me, you know I live for those film-inspired, nostalgic photos—the ones that hit you right in the feels—and Nikki and Pat’s day was full of them.

A love story that started with pancakes 🥞

Nikki and Pat first met on the night of her sixteenth birthday (hello, teenage rom-com moment) through mutual friends. Their first date? iHop, over a stack of pancakes—yes, really. And honestly, it feels so fitting for them. Sweet, a little silly, and so genuine.

When I asked Nikki how she knew Pat was “the one,” her answer melted me. It wasn’t just one moment, but a mix of little things: seeing him be the big brother her younger sister never had, his endless patience, and the way he showed up for her during hard times. Those quiet, behind-the-scenes moments that build a love story? Yeah. That’s them.

The proposal? In their own home—on their porch, surrounded by flowers and candles. So simple, yet deeply personal. They renovated their whole house together, so it made total sense that the next chapter started right there.

A kingdom of the hawk wedding day full of heart + hype!!

The weather could not have been more perfect—a warm, golden May day at Kingdom of the Hawk. The setting felt like something out of a fairytale, but with a modern, trendy twist. Think elegant florals by Wallingford Flower, twinkling bistro lights by EZ Occasions, and a dance floor that stayed packed all night thanks to Dawson Entertainment.

Nikki was glowing in her gown from Love Bird Bridal Shop, and her girls in dusty-hued Azazie dresses were the perfect complement to the romantic spring vibes. The glam squad—Brides by Jenna on hair and Cree Victoria Krohelski on makeup—brought the bridal magic, and Pat looked sharp in his Men’s Wearhouse suit, along with his guys. Every detail felt classic but fresh, and so them.

Their ceremony had everyone teary-eyed (including me, behind the camera—oops), and their reception? Let’s just say, they were not lying when they said they were excited for the dancing. The energy in that room was electric.

From quiet moments on the porch to golden hour portraits that looked straight out of a vintage film still, every part of this day was filled with emotion and beauty. I always say I aim to create images that feel like art—and Nikki and Pat made it easy. The way they look at each other, the way they laugh, the way they soaked in every second—it was magic.

Forever starts here 💞

When I asked them what they were most excited about in marriage, their answer was “traveling—and then kids!” I can just see them road-tripping, adventuring, building their next chapter with the same thoughtfulness and joy that was all over their wedding day.

Nikki and Pat, thank you for trusting me to tell your story. Your love is beautiful and strong, and I’m so grateful I got to witness the start of your forever.