As Seen in the New York Times Wedding

Weddings

new york times featured ny wedding

When a Juilliard pianist and a Juilliard dancer fall in love, the result is pure harmony. Christopher and John’s love story began with a Trixie Mattel t-shirt and an Instagram follow—and led to a wedding so beautiful it was featured in the New York Times.

You may recognize these two powerhouse artists, Christopher Reynolds is a professional pianist and dancer John L Hewitt.

A Juilliard Love Story

At a school where music and dance rarely overlap, Christopher (a doctoral student in collaborative piano) and John (a dance undergrad) defied the odds. A shared love of cats and drag queens sparked their connection. Their first date at E’s Bar on the Upper West Side sealed the deal. “John told me he loved to talk,” Chris said. “Which was perfect—because I love to listen.”

A Day Filled With Meaning featured as a New York Times Wedding

Their wedding weekend was filled with intention, joy, and heritage. Christopher honored his Japanese roots by wearing a traditional kimono for the ceremony. A custom made Kimono House NY piece. Cherry blossom décor transformed the tent into a vision of springtime serenity. Handmade origami cranes—folded by both grooms—added delicate, symbolic beauty. Even the cake featured kimono patterns and soft floral detailing.

Favorite Moments

John: “Exchanging vows was everything I hoped for. And our first dance—half slow, half choreographed surprise—felt like such a perfect mix of romance and fun.”

Chris: “Walking down the aisle, surrounded by everyone from every chapter of our lives, was the most surreal and beautiful moment. I practiced that dance for two weeks in front of the mirror—and it was worth every second.”

A serenade at cocktail hour: Chris performed with broadway star, Mikaela Bennett, to serenade his love on their wedding day.

A Photographer’s Dream

John and Chris made it clear: they wanted to be present. They didn’t want the camera in their faces all day. And that’s exactly how I work best—by blending into the celebration and capturing the magic as it naturally unfolds. Being granted full creativity is part of the reason this wedding found it’s way to being featured on the New York Times Wedding Vows.

“Julia is the secret ingredient to making your wedding day perfect. She captured not just the moments—but how we felt. We forgot she was there half the time and yet she caught everything. Her ability to disappear and photograph the most candid, emotional, and human moments is truly magical.” – C&J

Their upstate NY wedding at Osmica at Spring Trail Farm in Ithaca, New York was a delight to photography and a joy to see published in the New York Times wedding vows.