Felina Ridgewood Wedding | Ariana + Luke - francescamariephotography.com

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Based in New Jersey, Francesca is a wedding photographer specializing in Catholic, estate, and coastal weddings throughout New Jersey and the East Coast. She is drawn to weddings rooted in family and tradition.

Her approach blends gentle direction with genuine moments, creating photographs that feel natural yet refined. She photographs weddings with the understanding that the people in the photographs matter just as much as the photographs themselves. The result is imagery that feels just as meaningful years from now as it does today.

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Felina | Ridgewood, NJ

Ariana and Luke’s wedding day was everything a September evening should be — warm light, a joyful energy, and the perfect mix of personal, emotional, and lively moments. From morning preparations in Montclair to their reception at Felina in Ridgewood, the day was full of excitement from start to finish.

Felina is one of New Jersey’s most unique wedding venues. Originally a neoclassical bank, the space now serves as a celebrated restaurant and event space with soaring ceilings, marble columns, and a mezzanine that wraps around the main ballroom. Brass details, a floating chandelier sculpture, and the iconic bank vault door make it both dramatic and memorable. It is a true statement venue for a wedding.

Getting Ready at the MC Hotel in Montclair

The morning began at the MC Hotel in Montclair, just a few blocks from me. Ariana slipped into her Galia Lahav gown — a fitted trumpet silhouette embroidered with blush and ivory 3D florals, sheer illusion panels, and playful tulle bows on the shoulders (and they’re removable!). The dress was both romantic and modern.

Before heading to Ridgewood, Ariana shared a few first looks with all the important men in her life. Luke’s face on the rooftop terrace said it all when he turned to see his bride. He was filled with pure excitement and love. Ariana also shared emotional first looks with both her dad and stepdad, which were such meaningful moments for their family.

Felina Wedding Ceremony & Reception

Their ceremony took place in Felina’s main ballroom, surrounded by marble, soaring windows, and the dramatic chandelier sculpture above. The space felt grand but still intimate as they exchanged vows in front of their closest family and friends. Guests then moved upstairs to the mezzanine for cocktail hour while the ballroom was transformed for the reception.

The reception details were classic and fresh, with white roses, delphinium, and lush greenery decorating the space. Once the party began, the dance floor stayed full all night. After cake cutting, I took Ariana and Luke outside for a few nighttime portraits before they headed back in to celebrate the rest of the evening.

I loved capturing their story in such a striking space and being part of a day so full of joy! I associate shot this wedding for Lizzie Burger Photography.