The Sterling at Arrowhead Summer Wedding

Some wedding days feel like pure sunshine; warm, inviting, and full of the kind of laughter that settles right into your bones.  Dylan and Cara’s wedding at The Sterling at Arrowhead was exactly that. Soft summer light, willow trees swaying behind them, and a love story that’s been steady, goofy, and beautifully grounded from the very start.

Their story began like so many modern fairy tales: a quick swipe on Tinder. But the moment they met in person at a bonfire Cara was hosting, everything clicked into place. They went on their first date the very next day, wandering Canalside, grabbing sushi at Sato and dancing the night away at The Cowboy. It was during the height of the pandemic when the world felt upside down… but somehow their connection felt easy. Safe. Unmistakably right.

They both knew that night they’d found their forever.

A Day Rooted in Meaning

Every detail of Cara and Dylan’s wedding day carried intention. The soft pink rose theme wasn’t just aesthetic, it was a thread woven through generations. Cara’s middle name is Rose, and both Dylan and Cara’s grandmothers also share the name Rose. Those florals weren’t just decor; they were a legacy.

And their favorite photo of the day?

The quiet moment under the willow trees right after the ceremony, a single frame that shows Cara’s smile in a way that needs no explanation. It’s the kind of image you can feel.

Personal Touches That Made Their Day Truly Theirs

These two brought so much personality into their celebration:

• Dylan’s pitching net — let’s just say it turned into the unofficial after-ceremony entertainment for him and his former baseball buddies.
• A New York Mets themed wedding cake — complete with Mets hats and their classic team song “Meet the Mets.” It was quirky, personal, and SO them.

Those unique touches are the heartbeat of a wedding day. They’re what make the memory last longer, hit deeper, and feel unmistakably yours.

Growing Together, A Love Story Five Years Strong

Since meeting five years ago, Cara and Dylan have moved homes, changed jobs, welcomed new seasons, and learned more about each other in the process. They’ve grown through change, communicated better, learned each other’s love languages, and strengthened their foundation through every up and down.

That’s the magic of a relationship that’s built to last, it evolves with you.

The Wedding Planning Journey

Having a year and a half to plan gave them time to create intentionally and save realistically. Cara absolutely loved picking out her dress (with her mom, MIL, and sister/MOH), celebrating at her bridal shower, and soaking in every minute of her bachelorette trip.

The hardest part? Finances, which every couple can relate to. But the sacrifices were worth every second.

Her advice for couples planning?

“Make sure you’re ready — mentally, emotionally, and financially. And make sure you’re choosing what you two want, not what others want for you.”

What They Looked Forward To

Cara couldn’t wait to hug family members she doesn’t get to see often, read their vows aloud, tear up the dance floor, and dive into the wedding cake.

What she looked forward to least?
The hangover. (Honestly, iconic.)

Finding Their Photographer

Cara first heard about Brittany Ford Photography through The Sterling’s recommended vendor list. After checking out my Instagram and seeing my vibrant, colorful, documentary style images that feel alive and modern, she knew it we were the perfect fit.

After the wedding, she shared:

“We had an amazing wedding experience and really enjoyed working with you, Brittany. We are so excited to see all the beautiful photos and share them with our family and friends! Thank you so very much once again!!”

Cue the happy tears!!

A Summer Wedding Filled With Joy

Cara and Dylan’s day was tender, intentional, personality filled, and deeply rooted in love and family. Between the willow trees, the rose details, the Mets cake, and all the in between magic, their wedding at The Sterling at Arrowhead was nothing short of unforgettable.

If you’re dreaming of a vibrant, emotional, story driven wedding day at The Sterling at Arrowhead or anywhere across Buffalo, Rochester, or the East Coast, I’d love to photograph it in a way that feels real, colorful and true to your story!
Reach out here to inquire about your date, I can’t wait to hear your love story.