Here's what I love about Meaghan and Joe: they are both extremely talented and accomplished, and yet they don't take themselves too seriously. They are the type of people that would hug you upon first introduction and make you feel right at home in their presence. They are a perfect match. We had been looking forward to shooting their wedding at the Willowdale Estate all year and when the day arrived it more than exceeded our expectations. The weather was the most perfect slice of September I'd ever experienced (you know, warm in the sun with a crisp breeze) and the wedding day timeline was easy and seamless - resulting in a stress-free and enjoyable afternoon and evening. We started the day with Meagan getting ready at the Estate and with a wedding party involving eight ladies and the most picture perfect Arts and Crafts style bathtub in her bridal suite, we just *had* to take a photo with all of them piled in! After Meaghan was fully ready she set off to see Joe for the first time during their first look which was super sweet. We took some portraits of them afterward on the luscious grounds of the Estate and then prepped for the ceremony which was filled with wildflowers and bumblebees. After the kiss, it was time for a few sunset portraits and then time to party! We enjoyed listening to the heartfelt toasts and watching the endearing first dances followed by a rocking live band that kept the party going. Meaghan and Joe, you two are the greatest. Enjoy Italy and be sure to eat some pasta in Tuscany for us!
Laura + Peter = Married
Laura and Peter are high school sweethearts - and what sweethearts they are! They are some of the kindest, gentlest, sweetest people you will ever meet. We loved photographing their Connecticut wedding at Saint Clements Castle, which they both worked at when they were in high school (isn't that cute?). We started the day off with getting ready photos. Laura and her attendants put the finishing touches on their preparations at a nearby B&B with the most adorable back yard, which we later took advantage of during their portraits. Peter got ready at a nearby hotel and after a few photos with his guys (I think they look really cool in that parking lot photo) he came over to the Inn for their first look and their couple portraits. Their sweet love made our job a breeze as we snapped away in their we're-almost-married excitement. The sky gave us mixed signals with sun showers and big clouds, making an eminent rain storm seem like a tease. Once we got to Saint Clements Castle for their ceremony and reception, the storm clouds had decided they were going to play a role in Laura and Peter' wedding day. A quick shift in outdoor ceremony locations and a prompt start to their ceremony allowed us to dash the rain storm almost completely. Just as the minister said "You may kiss the bride" as if it were choreographed, it started raining down on Laura and Peter. Everyone cheered and hurried their way inside for the cozy cocktail hour and reception. Their reception was a blur of hugs and laughter and ended with a giant dance party which even Grandma boogied down. All in all, it was a success! Laura and Peter, you're been a joy to work with. We're so happy for you and know you have so much to look forward to together. Congratulations!
Editorial with Whim Events
Even amongst the busy season, it's refreshing and fun to do an editorial shoot. The timeline is a bit more relaxed so it gives us vendors a little creative playground to try out new ideas and work together. For us, that included shooting film (which we do some of on wedding days anyway) and shooting in inclement weather. Of course the fabulously organized ladies from Whim Events didn't plan the rain, but it happened so we all went with it and I'm convinced that the shoot wouldn't have been the same without it! When Natalie from Whim Events told us the concept for the shoot was as though 'the beach herself was throwing a party' we were intrigued. They used the soft palates of sand and sea to influence the shoot as though it were a small elopement on the beach with the couple's nearest and dearest. Add in furniture rentals from New England Country Rentals, dresses from Flair Bridesmaid Boutique, makeup by Julie from The Stylish One, a swoon-worthy print collection from Hartford Prints!, ingenious flower design by Moria from Whim, tasty Oysters from Island Creek Oysters, wine from Framaggio Kitchen and coordination by Natalie from Whim - and you get an amazing result! We were floored by the organic elegance that was achieved when all these elements came together and felt honored to be able to tie them together through photography with such a talented bunch. Now, any of our brides out there want to throw caution to the wind, abandon their wedding plans and recreate this as your wedding? I've got just the team for you. :)
Ashley + Jamie = Married
Ashley and Jamie are beautiful souls. They are gentle, well-spoken, heart-felt and magnificent. Truly. It has been an extreme honor getting to know them during this time of their lives and we are happy to call them new friends. From the beginning of their wedding planning they wanted a wedding day experience that represented their values and taste as well as an enjoyable weekend getaway for their guests. In fact, I think their day could be categorized as part of the "The Slow Wedding Movement" (you know, as compared to The Slow Food Movement" and yes, I just made that up.) They selected The 1768 Hubbell Homestad in Bennington, Vermont as the backdrop to their big day and choose to have a Quaker Ceremony on a high hill overlooking the mountains where guests are asked to bring their thoughts, text, poems and encouragement to contribute as part of the ceremony. It was beautiful. I cried. Three times in fact. After the ceremony we took full advantage of the stunning grounds at the Homestead to grab some photos of Ashley and Jamie as freshly coined husband and wife. They were beaming in their newlywed glow, which made our job a cinch. The evening continued down at the Homestead under a clear night sky and more happy toasts to the couple. We enjoyed watching *all* of the wedding guests boogie down (especially the 50+ crowd) and drove the 3 hour drive back to Boston with a full heart and smile on our face. Ashley and Jamie, we couldn't be more grateful for you in our lives. Congratulations!!
Savannah
We met up with Savannah in August when we were shooting a midwest wedding. The nice thing about engagement sessions and senior photo sessions (compared to weddings) is that you can reschedule the shoot if the weather is less than ideal. In southern South Dakota, the thought of the slight chance of rain was not at all in our minds because of the hot, dry summer they had this year. I mean really hot. And really dry. We found a time amongst our busy schedules to shoot at 6:00am on a Saturday morning and what happens? It rains. Pours in fact. We met up bright and early, hoping to the rain to pass, but it didn't. Trying not to let the weather dampen our spirits too much, we found a different time that day and met up again later in the afternoon. I don't know about you, but we believe that everything happens for a reason. And boy were we happy to stumble upon the locations and light we did with Savannah! There is no way we would have had such luck if we had tried to do the shoot in the morning, so while we were tired and bummed that our first effort didn't go through, the way the session turned out was truly meant to be. Savannah is an extremely talented dancer and beautiful person inside and out, so she made the session a breeze. We're so happy we were able to capture her senior year and know she has a bright future in store. Enjoy your last year of high school, Savannah!
Christina + Dan = Married
When Christina and Dan first met with us and told us their vision of having a fun and relaxing weekend on Peaks Island (right off the Portland, Maine coast) for their wedding celebration - we were immediately hooked. They wanted an adventurous yet laid back experience for their guests that would feel like a holiday. From the moment our feet hit the ground after a quick ferry ride from Portland - we knew their vision had already been fulfilled. Dan happened to be relaxing on the front porch when we arrived and we were greeted with a big hug. I hopped upstairs to the spa where Christina and her ladies were getting ready and the vibe was calm and happy. Christina was as cool as a cucumber and was waiting until the last moment to change into her wedding dress. Typically bridesmaids are the ones walking around watching the action of the bride getting ready - but Christina was the one that was enjoying the hustle and bustle of everyone getting their final touches - she was grounded and ready to go! Minutes before the ceremony Christina slipped into her princess-worthy gown and enjoyed a quiet moment with her mom. The ceremony followed with a sky full of sunshine and the smell of fresh sea breeze as their guests watched with love. Everyone had a laugh when Dan's wedding ring wouldn't fit during their ring exchange and I can honestly say that hearing wedding guests laugh in unison is probably one of the happiest sounds ever. (It's totally not the same as a movie or comedy show, during a wedding ceremony people are laughing with happiness as they witness an extremely personal and emotional event). Guests enjoyed cocktail hour while we stole Christina and Dan away for a little while to get some sun drenched photos of them on the beach, which was a new experience for us to have a *western* facing sunset since we were on an island facing Maine. The evening ended with sweet toasts for the newlyweds and a rocking dance party which involved family members of *all* ages. Overall it was a happy and relaxing day, just what they had in mind. Christina and Dan, it's been a pleasure working with you. Congratulations on your marriage and enjoy Italy!! (p.s. It must be a sign that Matt and I need to go back to Italy with a surge of clients who are all visiting Italy on their honeymoons!)
Shannon + Mike = Engaged
Shannon and Mike have an ease about them. They have a natural spark together that feels like they've been married for years. She is sweet and smart. He's a history buff with a love of the outdoors. They work perfectly together, and we're super excited to shoot their downtown Boston city wedding next June. Since they live in South Boston (or Southie as the locals call it) we decided that meeting in their neck of the woods would be a great way to capture their life as it is now. We started at Telegraph Hill which has an amazing skyline and harbor views, then ventured down to the waterfront while planes landed overhead. To end the evening on a perfect note, they invited us up to their top floor deck which had an amazing view of the city. We watched the sunset and snapped a few of them in front of the sun dipping behind the city lights. The evening left us excited for more time with Shannon and Mike. We have the best clients!
Sarah + Ben = Married
We've had the distinct honor of knowing Sarah and Ben since the beginning of their relationship, which coincided with our cross country move from Minnesota to Massachusetts four years ago. They too, were moving from MN to MA and Sarah was a dancer, Ben was an academic - just like us. It was destiny that we meet once we moved out here and the four of us became fast friends. Our time in Massachusetts has been bench marked by a few very special relationships, and Sarah and Ben are a huge part of that. We've shared countless dinners, artistic projects and genuine conversations with them. To say that photographing their wedding was an pleasure would be an understatement. We loved documenting their day in a way that reflected their distinct personalities and united commonality (in fact, their wedding ceremony readings were from The Metamorphosis of Plants and Julia Child's autobiography...which is SO perfect for both of them). Ipswich Mass has become a very special place for Sarah and Ben, so The Inn at Castle Hill was a perfect backdrop for their intimate 21 person guest list. The Inn lies within the grounds of The Crane Estate, so we were also able to photograph them by the breathtaking mansion grounds, which we loved and felt as though we'd be swept to an English Palace. Their ceremony started with the sound of the wind gently moving hand bells that their guests held (which was so peaceful and beautiful) and ended ended with an emotion filled kiss and an explosion of laughter and cheering. Their evening boasted a beautiful sunset and heartfelt toasts as they enjoyed a foodie-approved dinner catered by Fireside Catering. Sarah and Ben, we are so happy for you and know that the future will hold great things for you both. Congratulations!!
Marleah + Chris = Married
While Marleah and Chris live on the beautiful island of Nantucket, they decided to get married in the equally beautiful town of Scituate for their wedding. A ceremony at Saint Mary of the Nativity was followed by a reception at the gorgeous cottage home Marleah grew up in (yay backyard weddings!). Add in some portraits out by the water (not to mention an extremely photogenic couple) and, well, you can see the results above! Did we mention that their lab Fletcher makes his second appearance on our blog here? All of the details were perfectly suited to emphasize the relaxed, coastal ambiance and laid back vibe that Marleah and Chris share. It was like one giant dinner party - with some rocking dancing! Marleah and Chris, we have loved getting to know you and enjoyed every moment of working with you. We know you will provide each other a lifetime of happiness. Congratulations!!
Janet + John = Married
What do you get when you combine a stunning New England mansion, a sea of happy faces, an adorable Golden Retriever named Pudgey, a steadfast and happy groom and an beautiful bride? I'll tell you. Janet and John's wedding. Photographing Janet and John's big day was a true delight. I started with the ladies at The Lenox Hotel in Boston (she got ready in the room Judy Garland called her favorite...swoon) and loved watching the excitement buzz around as Janet primped and prepped for the ceremony. Matt went with the guys as they enjoyed a glass of beer, casually got their suits and ties on and hung out with Pudgey. Their ceremony was on the lawn of the mansion at Elm Bank which is part of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, and it was STUNNING. Guests cheers as John entered the ceremony space, leaving him gleaming with happiness as Janet floated down the aisle to her groom. We took advantage of the manicured lawn and flower gardens for their portraits (with Pudgey in tow of course) and watched as guests danced the night away in the carriage house. Janet and John; we are so happy for you both and wish you a lifetime of happiness together. It was an honor being a part of your day! Congratulations!
Annette + Jason = Engaged
We had a great time with Annette and Jason during their engagement session a few weeks back. They are down to earth, sophisticated and so sweet together. Choosing a location for their photos that was meaningful for Annette and Jason was easy - their neighborhood! They live in one of Minneapolis' most charming areas; Linden Hills, which boasts amazing eateries, great coffee shops and the highlight of the area: Lake Harriet. Their loveable pup, Nola came along for the session too which we had fun with. Doesn't Annette sparkle when she's looking at Jason? We just love these two and can't wait for their Saint Paul wedding this fall!
Nicole + Jeff = Married
Tears welled from her eyes as she grasped her father's arm. She took a big breath and started walking. Jeff stood, solid and present at the end of the aisle with his eyes locked on her. Nicole glanced at the family and friends who were there lifting her up. There was so much fullness, but also a very obvious missing presence. Nicole's mother, and Jeff's father had both unexpectedly passed away when Nicole and Jeff were teenagers, and their presence was missing like a roaring lull. The day was clearly incomplete without them, and yet, as her eyes met his, and the warmth of their communities poured out in support, their ceremony started with joy and sent the best kind of shivers down my spine. Joy. Fullness. Love. Sunshine. Everything was there. It had been a long time in the making with lots of ups and downs, but there they were - presenting themselves as the imperfect beings we are - ready to become husband and wife. The entire day was filled with moments like those, and after an extremely hot summer in South Dakota, it was as if Nicole's mom and Jeff's dad were anointing their wedding day with the most *perfect* 75 degree wedding day weather anyone could ask for. The entire day went flawlessly, and we were honored to share in Nicole and Jeff's wedding glow. Nicole and Jeff: you have both been through so much. We adore you and love the way you light up when you are together. We wish you nothing but the best in your new life together and know that together; you can face any storm that may come your way. We love you!
Jessica + Jon = Married
After shooting Jessica and Jon's wedding, we have a new favorite type of wedding: BACKYARD WEDDINGS. Jessica and Jon wanted a wedding day that was zero fuss (they were even barefoot for their ceremony) and full of love and family. When we met up with them at a neighbor's house for first looks portraits their neighbor friend was chopping fruit for their wedding reception later. Jessica arrived with a stunning floral wreath (her step-mom arranged all the flowers) and a nervous excitement to see her groom for the first time that day. Jon was smooth and sweet as he turned to see his beautiful bride and their connection gave me chills as they shared their excitement for the evening ahead. We couldn't have had better light or setting as we snapped away for their woodsey couple portraits. After some family photos we were ready for the ceremony where Jon's children played a leading role as they welcomed Jessica into their family. Jessica's father quickly orchestrated the ceremony space switch as it turned into a magical reception as the guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres on the lawn. The musical playlist lulled the group into a casual yet classy gathering as Jessica and Jon hugged their nearest and dearest as Mr. and Mrs. So easy, laid back and full of love. Mission accomplished!
Samantha + Ben = Married
Samantha (aka, Sam) and Ben are fun loving people. They share a love for animals, good food and lazy Saturdays spent together (amen!). With their adventurous spirits and a slight obsession for nerdy humor - they are a perfect match. The New England Aquarium was an awesome backdrop for their outdoor wedding which was oozing with love and laughter. We started the day by photographing their wedding preparations at the beautiful downtown Boston Hilton Hotel. Once they were ready to go, we met at Post Office Square down the street where Sam and Ben shared an adorable first look. In retrospect, they were waiting for us to tell them to turn around and see each other (which we don't usually direct), but before that happened a good five minutes passed where Sam stood behind Ben as he waited to see his her - and they just talked to one another. Their body language changed just by the sound of each other's voice, which was so sweet. After their first look we walked around and grabbed some portraits of the two of them, including some of our favorites on a carousal. Once photos were done they prepared for the ceremony which overlooked the entire Boston harbor. The ocean breeze was refreshing and all of their guests were enamored with their sweet vows and first kiss. Cocktail hour was spent among the fish tanks and penguins which everyone loved, followed by a rocking reception behind the Aquarium. The wedding party even had a surprise choreographed dance which was a lot of fun. Based on some of the reception photos, there is a little hint to what song they danced to. Anyone? Leave your guess in the comments and I'll personally high five anyone that gets it right. Sam and Ben, we were so happy to share in your Wedding Day and know you'll make each other eternally happy. Congratulations!
Kristen + Brian = Engaged
We met up with Kristen and Brian last month to capture their engagement in the heart of Boston. They are both fun loving, laid back people who enjoy life and adventures together. They are living in Rhode Island but both have a soft spot for the city and enjoy going to comedy shows and spending time at Fenway together. They are also both school teachers and when we passed the sweetest little "bookstore" alley we had to take some photos there since Kristen teaches English. We also loved the glowing lights under the theater that provided asymmetrical interest to their already stunning good looks (I mean seriously, how photogenic are these two!?) We had a great time getting to know them better and can't wait for their wedding next summer!