
There are weddings that stay with you long after you pack up your camera — the kind that remind you why you fell in love with photographing love stories in the first place.
I met Shaun and Julie through their friends Amanda and Shank — whose wedding I photographed three years ago. When Julie and Shaun reached out to inquire about my availability for their own wedding, I immediately knew these two were something special. During our first conversation, we talked about their plans, their friends, and how important their tight-knit group was to them. There was so much laughter in that call, and I could already tell their wedding day would be filled with warmth, connection, and joy. This past summer, I photographed their engagement session, which was just as full of laughter and love, and I’ve been looking forward to their wedding day ever since.
When I arrived that afternoon, there was a calm excitement in the air. Shaun and his best friends were all smiles — joking, laughing, and savoring the moments before the day officially began. Julie and her bridesmaids met me at her parents’ home, which happens to be right next door to her and Shaun’s house — a sweet detail that made the day feel even more personal and connected. Shaun carried with him two incredibly meaningful keepsakes: a pocket watch from his dad and a key from his mom that she gave him when he was sixteen. Both of his parents have since passed, and it was such a heartfelt way for him to keep them close throughout the day.
Their first look took place in their backyard, beneath a beautiful old tree that Julie adores — the kind of spot that feels almost sacred in its simplicity. It was quiet, tender, and full of emotion — just the two of them taking in the moment before walking down the aisle to say I do.
The ceremony at the Cheshire Rod and Gun Club was intimate and deeply personal, officiated by their dear friend — and Shaun’s fourth-grade teacher — Stacie Vigard. Every word felt intentional and full of love. Their wedding party was made up of their favorite people — the ones who have stood by them through every chapter — including their three beautiful children. It was a true reflection of family, friendship, and connection woven together.
As the sun dipped lower and the celebration began, laughter filled the reception space. The stories shared during the toasts were full of heart, humor, and deep affection. It was so clear that Shaun and Julie are surrounded by an incredible community of love and support. You could feel it in every hug, every dance, every moment of joy that carried into the night.
Shaun and Julie’s wedding wasn’t just a day to celebrate their love — it was a celebration of everything that’s shaped them, the people who have walked beside them, and the life they’re continuing to build together.
It was an honor to capture their story — a day full of laughter, love, and the kind of moments that remind you what truly matters most.
Congratulations, Shaun and Julie. Your day was absolutely perfect — a beautiful reflection of your love story and the family you’ve built together. 💛
I’m so grateful to have worked alongside such kind and talented professionals who helped make Shaun and Julie’s wedding day everything they dreamed of and more.
Venue: Cheshire Rod and Gun Club
Officiant: Stacie Vigard
Associate Photographer: Jessica McClung
DJ/Band: MusicChris: Chris Plankey
Cake/Dessert: Lindas Pastries
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Nicole April Photography is an award winning wedding photography company based in Upstate New York.
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