Scott & Katie
Scott & Katie’s Thousand Islands Wedding
June 7, 2025 | Thousand Island Harbor Hotel
There’s something uniquely special about photographing a wedding for someone you’ve known since childhood. Katie and I go back over 15 years, all the way to elementary school, so getting to capture her wedding day wasn’t just another event for me. It felt like watching a lifelong friend step into a beautiful new chapter.
Katie’s wedding morning unfolded inside her family’s Thousand Island Park home, sunlight spilling through the windows and the gentle hum of loved ones filling each room. Surrounded by family, she moved through the morning with a quiet calm, laughter drifting in from the porch, her mom’s hands carefully zipping her into the gown, and little details clicking into place as if the day had been patiently waiting for this moment. From behind the lens, it felt like watching a story write itself, every glance, every gesture, effortlessly cinematic.
On the front porch of the family home Katie stepped out to find her dad waiting. The moment he turned and saw her, time seemed to still. His eyes softened, his shoulders lifted with pride, and in an instant they were in each other’s arms. The breeze off the river, the creak of the old porch boards, the way sunlight wrapped around them, it all framed a moment that felt both fleeting and timeless, the kind of scene you want to tuck away and keep forever.
Katie and Scott’s first look together took place right on the public dock in the park, a spot filled with history, beauty, and meaning. As soon as Scott turned around, the two of them melted into each other’s arms, laughing, tearing up, and taking in the view of the water behind them. It was the perfect mix of calm and excitement before the rest of the day unfolded.
Family portraits at the park felt effortless with lush greenery framing every image and the waterfront stretching out behind them. The light danced off the water creating a soft glow that wrapped around each moment.
When it was time for couples portraits Katie and Scott moved with an ease that comes from years of knowing each other’s rhythm. Midway through the session a boat full of friends cruised by waving and cheering and for a few minutes it felt like they were celebrities on their own private red carpet by the river.
The ceremony was held at a charming local church, just a short drive from the park. Stepping inside felt like stepping into a warm embrace, pews were filled with family, friends, and the kind of love you can feel. The joy in that room was contagious. Every smile, every tear, every quiet hand squeeze during the vows seemed to reflect the deep connection Katie and Scott share. When they walked back down the aisle as husband and wife, the church erupted in cheers, setting the tone for a day of pure celebration.
Cocktail hour took place along the waterfront at the Harbor Hotel, the perfect setting for reconnecting with old friends and family. It felt less like a formal wedding event and more like a reunion of people who have shared a history with Katie and Scott, all gathering in one of their favorite places. Guests mingled with drinks in hand, sharing stories, laughing, and taking in the views of the river that has been such a meaningful backdrop in Katie’s life.
The tables were stunning, adorned with summery florals that brought light and life into the dark, moody reception hall. Shades of soft pinks, creams, and greenery were paired with golden hues that caught the light just right, casting a warm, inviting glow across the room. Every place setting and centerpiece felt thoughtfully curated, striking the perfect balance between elegance and effortless charm, making the space feel intimate and full of personality.
When the reception began, it did so with a bang, or rather, with a bark. Katie’s brothers made their grand entrance wearing dog collars and leashes, dancing into the room to “Who Let the Dogs Out.” The room erupted in laughter, perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the night: fun, spirited, and completely unforgettable.
The reception began with intimate, heartfelt moments that set the tone for the evening. Katie and Scott shared their first dance as a married couple, moving effortlessly together as if the world had melted away just for them.
The father daughter dance followed, full of laughter, quiet smiles, and a few happy tears, capturing a lifetime of love in just a few minutes. Guests then enjoyed an exceptional plated dinner, savoring each bite while the room buzzed with conversation, toasts, and the kind of warm energy that makes a celebration feel truly special.
Speeches added another layer of warmth and connection to the evening, with words from Katie’s best friend and father, Scott’s brothers, a blessing by grandma . Each toast revealed glimpses of their journey together, the love they share, and the way they’ve grown as individuals and as a couple. Stories unfolded slowly, showing how they got to know each other, supported each other’s passions, and built a partnership rooted in respect, laughter, and unwavering care. The room was full of quiet smiles, laughter, and heartfelt moments that reminded everyone just how special their love truly is.
Just when I thought the day couldn’t get more perfect, the sun dipped low and painted the water in golden light. We stepped outside for a few quiet minutes, letting them soak in the view, their view, as husband and wife. One of my favorite moments? The totally impromptu boat ride around the Thousand Islands. No one planned it. It just happened, a spur of the moment decision that felt like pure magic. Katie calls her crew here her “river friends,” and watching her laugh with them out on the water brought this sense of nostalgia and joy to the whole day.
From there, the reception was absolutely unforgettable. The band was electric, the kind of group that makes it impossible to sit still, and the dance floor stayed full all night. At one point, a special guest (and talented friend) even joined the band for a couple of songs, and the crowd went wild. It was one of those serendipitous moments that made the night feel even more personal.
Then came the cake cutting, not just your typical “slice and feed each other” moment, but one filled with laughter, playful energy, and a little extra flair that felt perfectly Scott and Katie. You could see the joy radiating between them as everyone gathered close to cheer them on.
Seeing Katie and Scott made it all the sweeter. Scott is the kind of guy who not only treats her with kindness and respect, but fits into her world so seamlessly, it’s obvious to everyone who sees them together. And if you know Katie, you know her personality shines in everything she does, so of course their wedding day was filled with touches that were so them. The Thousand Islands aren’t just a pretty backdrop for Katie, they’re part of her story. She grew up coming here every summer, and now her family has their own home on the river. That made their wedding day deeply sentimental, like everything had come full circle.
Katie and Scott, thank you for trusting me with your memories. You gave me the honor of not just photographing a wedding, but telling the story of a place, a love, and a friendship that’s been years in the making. Here’s to many more summers on the river, boat rides at sunset, and a lifetime of love that feels just as free and easy as that June day.
A special thank you to all of the amazing vendors who made this day unforgettable:
Photography: JV Films, Natalie
Videography: Jordan Beach
DJ: Atlas Band
Dress Shop: Lovely Bride, Rochester
Suit / Tux: Indochino
Florals: Next Step Florals
Venue: Thousand Islands Harbor Hotel
If you're planning your own special day and want to ensure every moment is captured with the same care and attention to detail, feel free to reach out. I'd love to help you tell your unique love story through stunning photography.
Stay Beautiful,
Natalie Javier | JV Films Photography