A Wedding at Carey Lake Ballroom in Macedon, NY
- Kierra Huihui-Gist
- May 22
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 16
Shavonna & Jesse’s Wedding at The Ballroom at Carey Lake | A Story 13 Years in the Making
The Wedding I Couldn’t Wait to Film
As a wedding videographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing dozens of couples saying “I do.” But some weddings — and some couples — just stick with you for a lifetime. Shavonna and Jesse were one of those couples for me. From our first virtual conversation, I felt like I already knew them. They trusted me deeply with their day, and that trust became the foundation for a wedding film I couldn’t wait to create.
They chose The Ballroom at Carey Lake, a venue nestled just outside Rochester, NY, known for its timeless elegance, serene lake views, and versatile indoor-outdoor spaces. It was the perfect setting for a multicultural celebration that honored their love, their families, and their journey together.
A First Look in the Garden, a Love Grown Over Time
Before heading to Carey Lake, we captured their first look at the Sunken Gardens at Highland Park, and let me tell you — it was cinema. This hidden gem in Rochester, framed by stone steps and lush greenery, was the perfect private moment for Shavonna and Jesse to connect before the day took flight.
They’ve been together for over 13 years — a story that began as college teammates on the track team. Their love wasn’t rushed. It was built with intention, strengthened by time, and beautifully unique. And on this day, surrounded by people who knew that story intimately, they finally crossed the finish line — or rather, stepped into the starting line — of marriage.
The Ballroom at Carey Lake: The Perfect Backdrop
The Ballroom at Carey Lake didn’t just host a wedding — it elevated it.
With its sweeping high ceilings, gleaming floors, and scenic outdoor ceremony spaces by the water, Jody and her incredibly team Carey Lake weddings offer something many Rochester wedding venues don’t: modern elegance paired with natural beauty.
Their reception was held inside the grand ballroom, where string lights shimmered above and champagne flutes sparkled on tables. It was effortlessly glamorous and warm — a true reflection of Shavonna and Jesse’s style.
Why I Loved Filming at Carey Lake:
Gorgeous natural lighting outdoors
Spacious indoor ballroom to set the mood
Expert coordination and vendor collaboration
Photogenic lake and wooded backdrop perfect for portraits
They offer fireworks as an add on! Epic!
If you’re looking for Rochester wedding venues or a venue with a balance of nature and elegance, The Ballroom at Carey Lake should be at the top of your list.
Vows That Moved the Room
Jesse’s vows were incredibly heartfelt, and his authentic self shined through. “I promise to make you smile and laugh, mostly by telling bad jokes or the same stories you’ve heard seven times over,” he joked — before affirming his commitment to support, protect, and love her as her best friend and partner.
Shavonna’s vows? Instant goosebumps.
She shared how she knew Jesse was the one before they even dated — observing him from afar as a teammate, seeing his kindness, humility, and strength. “You were the embodiment of what love is,” she said. Her words reflected wisdom beyond years, delivered with warmth, humor, and a soft steadiness that left not a dry eye in the room (mine included).
Their vows were a blend of poetry, real-life grit, and deep soul connection. You don’t hear love like that every day — and getting to capture it was a creative and emotional honor I’ll never forget.
Speeches That Spoke Volumes
This wasn’t just a wedding — it was a gathering of people who knew Shavonna and Jesse’s story and have been there since the beginning. From parents to siblings to college friends, every toast reflected the unique fabric of their relationship.
One of my favorite moments? When Shavonna’s dad recounted how she once ran laps around a field as a little girl, and he realized she had a fire in her — a tenacity that track would one day hone, and love would one day cherish. And when he finished a story years in the making: handing Jesse back the $20 bet for brunch the next day, a bet won years ago, and that he had been saving in his dresser drawer for this day.
Or when Jesse’s brother recalled being the best man at his own wedding and how Jesse had once said he was the role model. “Truth is,” his brother said, “I’ve learned more from you than you’ve ever learned from me.”
The couple and their friends shared stories of late-night hangouts, long-distance love, and snow-filled evenings turned into Michelin-star dinners in tiny apartments — the kind of anecdotes that reminded us all: it’s the everyday magic that makes a marriage.
Personal Touches That Made the Day Unforgettable
This was not a copy-paste wedding. From a multicultural guest list to non-traditional vows, everything about this day felt intentional. It was Shavonna and Jesse's day.
Shavonna and Jesse didn’t just plan a celebration — they planned a statement. A joyful, inclusive, authentic reflection of their values. And as someone lucky enough to be behind the camera, I could feel that energy in every detail:
A wedding guest list that radiated joy
Thoughtfully chosen vendors who respected their story
Heartfelt, tear-worthy parent blessings
A packed dance floor and 17 states represented in the room!
Can we also give a massive credit to the specific wedding date chosen? do you remember, the 21st night of September?
My Personal Reflection as Their Videographer
Shavonna wrote in her review that they weren’t just looking for a vendor. They were looking for someone who listened, who understood, who respected their story — not someone who showed up to run the day their way.
That meant everything to me.
They trusted me with this moment in a way that goes beyond a business transaction. I felt that responsibility deeply — to create something that didn’t just look beautiful, but that felt like them. Every frame, every clip, every music cue was curated with love and intention.
Their story deserved nothing less.
Vendor Highlights That Helped Tell the Story
Venue: The Ballroom at Carey Lake
Photography: Megan Dailor Photography
First Look Location: The Sunken Gardens at Highland Park
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Final Thoughts: A Film I’ll Always Be Proud Of
Shavonna and Jesse — thank you. Thank you for trusting me to tell your story. Thank you for choosing me not just as a videographer, but as a creative partner who saw the beauty in your history and the hope in your future.
To any couple reading this: if you're looking for a videographer who cares deeply about your vision, and not just another portfolio piece, I’d love to help you tell your story too.
Because weddings like this? They’re more than just one day. They’re legacies in motion.
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If you enjoyed the teaser trailer above, make sure to check out more of my work in my blog or wedding portfolio. Check out feature films too! If you are interested in having me film your wedding, head over to my wedding package pricing page or feel free to contact me!
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