Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Duca Photography: Preserving the Wedding of Steve & Christine in 2015

Duca Came Through in a Big Way on Our Big Day

It was April 17, 2015—a big day for Stephen Trimble and Christine Tarlecki.
Soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Trimble, the couple had all the details sorted, and it was time to get ready for the nuptial festivities. My groomsmen had all arrived at our condo, and Christine, her bridesmaids, and her parents were all getting ready at her family’s home.
Then Tony—my photographer—showed up. Right away, he took charge of the situation, for which I was extremely grateful. He even helped me with a piece of my tux that wasn’t cooperating. He led us through several shooting situations and poses, and made us all feel at ease as we took shot after shot.
I had a sullen 12-year-old as part of my contingent (my cousin), and Tony had him laughing and smiling as we went through all the needed shots. Tony even helped me incorporate my beloved Chow-Chow Leo into some pictures.
In a little while, it was time to go and meet up at the church. One of my groomsmen, Jimmy, thought to pick up some sandwiches at a local deli, and we munched them in the parking lot as we waited for it to be time to go inside. Of course, Tony got some shots as we ate, and they made for some of the more entertaining photos.
Now, as we went into the church and made ready for the ceremony, I was really getting nervous. It was a bit of a blur from here, but I caught sight of Tony and the girls’ photographer, Cassie, as they took shots of the church, the guests, the clergy, and the entering bridesmaids. 
I'm nervous and ready!

Finally, my bride walked down the aisle, and I couldn’t take my eyes off her—and neither could anyone else. Both Duca photographers got some fantastic shots as she entered and approached the altar.
After the ceremony, we were able to get photos of the entire group of guests as well as the bridal party. Soon, however, it became apparent that there was a problem with the limousine, and we weren’t going to be able to ride in it to our other photo location or the reception. “No problem,” said Tony, “Bride and Groom, get in my BMW, and the rest of you follow us in your cars.” Problem solved!


We all met up at the beautiful Valley Forge Park, in full spring bloom, and quickly were able to take hundreds of beautiful shots there. These are easily my favorites of the bunch, as the natural setting complemented our dress and comportment.





From there, it was off to the reception. Both photographers captured the action masterfully as we danced, drank, ate, and sang. It was truly a magical evening, and I’ll never forget it. Thanks to Duca’s skill and professionalism, we have nearly a thousand memories we can look at any time we like as the years pass.

Thank you Duca Studios, and Tony and Cassie!

By Stephen Trimble, special correspondent


Monday, July 27, 2015

Coffeehouses of Stone Harbor, NJ

If you're like me, getting your caffeine fix each day is essential, even if you're relaxing on vacation!

One of my favorite places ever is to stay at The Reeds in Stone Harbor on 96th street in the heart of this fun beach town. After awaking in this gorgeous room, I head out in search of the perfect breakfast..and that includes coffee!
After getting my fave ham & cheese rolls at the Bread and Cheese Cupboard (on 96th), I stroll to any one of my favorite places to happily get charged up for a day working hard on the beach, reading my book and splashing in the waves! 
Cafe Noir 
Scones, croissants, and coffee! 
Plus salads and sandwiches for lunch, Cafe Noir (on 97th) is a little respite from a hectic day. 
French ambiance and delicious cups of coffee, tea, hot chocolate and more make this a local favorite.
Coffee Talk
Coffee Talk om 97th street offers a huge selection of coffees and lattes, smoothies and hot chocolates, plus bagels, scones and other delicious pastries. Relax in a comfy chair and people watch, the vibe here is very cool- and don't forget the oatmeal bar!

Take a day, take a week, head to the shore, and visit Stone Harbor and relax. And indulge in some wonderful coffees to start or end your visit!

Friday, July 24, 2015

PopSugar Must Have Box - Day 40



ooh what goodness lies herein!?

I love getting boxes in the mail- it’s like my birthday every month. I mean, Stephen gets BarkBox for the doggie, and he knows it’s for him each month!

But have you tried PopSugar’s Must Have Box?

Excuse me, what? NO!?

Well, you mustn’t wait another second!

A different box arrives each month for you full of fabulous surprises curated by POPSUGAR Editor in Chief Lisa Sugar. The boxes are geared towards the season and the weather, with a scarf in November or hair protectant in July or a good book in January.

For under $40, you’ll be getting easily over $100 worth of full-size products, candy, books, accessories, bath products, and makeup, and more. I nearly jumped up and down (ok, I actually did!) when I got my first box
Look at all the lovely items from PopSugar!
(And Leo eagerly looked on, thinking this was his box of fun!)

Nope, it’s all for momma. This box contained all sorts of lovely items- a soft gray scarf, gardenia body serum, fab eyeshadow kit, smart stationary, cute chevron paper straws, and nail polish with myrrh.

So order this box today- there’s even special edition boxes a few times a year which are fabulous- extra-special items from extra-special clients and designers!

August’s box sounds like it will be great, and fall is a special edition!


Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Marilyn Says: Frizz Ease to the Rescue!

It’s a crazy stormy day in Philly, with 99% humidity and lightning strikes besides…what’s 95.7 Morning Show Host on BEN FM and Philadelphia Woman of the Week Marilyn Russell to do!?

“Rainy days are not good hair days!” she says. “John Frieda Beyond Smooth Frizz Ease to the rescue...a great leave-in for days like today." 
Turn a bad hair day into a good one!



Be smooth like Marilyn and ease that humidity right out of your hair with this silky product- Pure Coconut Oil and the Frizz Immunity Complex seek to eliminate frizz at the source, keeping you- and Marilyn- beautiful!

Available where ever beauty products are sold in a 3.1 oz formula.

#500DaysOfBeauty Day 39

A Little Sweetness Goes a Long Way With HONEY

Can have your tea without some delicious honey? Introducing Some Honey—where pure, artisanal honey meets unmatched quality. Their honey is m...