Samantha Ferraro

The Waldorf-Astoria, one of the most legendary hotels in the world, is closing for renovations for 2-3 years on Wednesday in order to be partially converted to luxury condos. Photographer Samantha Ferraro has a look back at the iconic space. In 2012, I photographed my first indoor wedding ceremony that didn't involve a holy church or temple. The couple was coming from the UK to elope with both sets of their parents. They actually contacted me through Flickr and wanted some images to remember both their time in Manhattan as well as their elopement itself to take place at The Waldorf-Astoria.  This hotel, after almost 86 years in its current location, is now shutting its doors for renovations so that many of its units can be converted to luxury condos. Many of the interior spaces are set to be landmarked, but the soul of what once embodied this space will be put to rest.    Lauren and Owen were one of the first couples who gave me the feeling that they trusted me completely, and wanted me to create something beautiful with them. Our relationship was solidified during their extremely emotional wedding ceremony on the 39th floor of the Waldorf Towers in a private suite. The most spiritual Reverend Annie Lawrence presided, and she created a beautiful space. Afterwards, the hotel staff brought an assortment of handcrafted appetizers while everyone took a moment to congratulate the couple. They toasted champagne and we headed downstairs for a few portraits in the lobby. The other e