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Welcome to 217 Photography

217, many assume this number represents an address, birth date or anniversary, however 217 symbolizes so much more. Two-seventeen has long been in my wife, Dawn's, family history. Here is her story:

The sentiment behind 217 originated over 55 years ago, when my mother, Shirley Haughton was a little girl. Shirley was the youngest of eight children, who idolized her older sister Ella May. Whenever Shirley told Ella May how much she loved her, Ella May responded jokingly "How much?" As little sisters often do, Shirley tried to impress Ella May by telling her the largest number she could think of, "Two Hundred and Seventeen." This quickly became a game the two sisters played over and over again. Shirley would tell Ella May she loved her two hundred and seventeen meaning the largest amount known to her little heart. To this day, Shirley and Ella May who are in their sixties and seventies, respectfully, sign every card & letter and conclude every conversation with "I love you, 217".

As far back as I can remember my mom has told my sister, Gina, and I that she loves us 217. I don't think we ever questioned or asked what it meant. We knew intrinsically the weight 217 carried when our mom said it. 217 was the greatest amount of love possible and nothing could be more than that love she felt for us. We have continued 217 as a sentiment in our own lives and families. You will see 217 written on every birthday card, holiday card, and letter to family and close friends. Pete and I even have 217 engraved on our wedding bands. There is no better way for us to express respect, commitment and unconditional love than those three numbers.

The women of 217 are honored that it's meaning lives on through Pete's photography in capturing the images of unconditional love at it's most intimate and celebrated moments. We are excited to incorporate the meaning of 217 into our family's business. We hope to share our passion and love of photography with you and your family.

Dawn & Pete Malone

Oct 28 2009

Lindsay & Fred’s Wedding at The Hotel Hershey

Posted in Wedding Photos

If it’s a weekend in 2009, you are most likely to find me shooting for my good friend (since the 4th grade) Jenn Childress. This particular weekend found Jenn and I at The Hotel Hershey to document Lindsay & Fred’s wedding day. I had met Fred several times before through Jenn as Fred & Lindsay are good friends of Jenn and her husband Jesse. So, this one was even more like a family affair. Jenn was technically a guest at this wedding who also happened to be their photographer. I was happy to come along as usual, but this location has a special importance to me. My Pop-Pop was the GM of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts in the late 70′s and early 80s. My sister, cousins and I used to run ALL around this hotel when we would visit Mom-Mom & Pop-Pop. I have to admit that we were a bit spoiled as the grand-kids of the hotel manager. We would always get special Hershey’s chocolate, stay in the nicest suites and get free passes to Hershey Park! Life was good as a little kid with “privileges” in Hershey, PA!
But, back to Lindsay & Fred’s wedding. They had a beautiful day with perfect fall weather for their outdoor ceremony, unlike all of the rainy days we’ve had here lately. There were plenty of cool rugby traditions during the reception too as Feed is a rugby player. I was happy to be a part of your day Lindsay & Fred. Congratulations and best of luck to you both!