Aug
28
Just wanted to give a shout out to all of our loyal readers to let you know that we will be taking a break from our normally scheduled programming to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary. We promise to be back soon and in the meantime, please enjoy the archives.
Aug
26
Nope. Dorchester isn’t the first place that comes to mind when discussing where to do an engagement session. That’s probably why Ariel didn’t bring it up initially. But once we started talking, she mentioned how much they love their neighborhood and that there was this one area- the Lower Mills- that had beautiful old factory buildings. They reminded her of her past life in Pittsburgh. But when she and David looked around, they didn’t really know how we would be able to use the space for photos. I was intrigued, to say the least, so I popped down for a peak and instantly fell in love with the area. And so it was settled. The Baker Chocolate buildings would be the sweetest backdrop for their portraits.
The only thing sweeter than the reminder of chocolate in the air was watching Ariel and David together. They totally support each other and absolutely enjoy their time together.
Working with these two was definitely a collaboration, they were willing to try anything and pointed out architectural elements they saw that were interesting to them, such as the lines of the wood ceiling in this alleyway.
Plus they had just the right membership to gain access to this fire escape. When I found out about that, I was ecstatic. I have always wanted to shoot a couple on a fire escape- reminds me of the languid Porgy and Bess song Summertime. I so enjoy the steaminess of this image. Take your time on this one. Slow down. Look around. Dive into it. And enjoy.
After a quick outfit change, we made our way across the street to the Baker Chocolate Factory lofts. We played around a bit in the courtyard.
So while this area was perfect, I was a little concerned about all the red brick and really wanted Ariel and David to have another color in the mix. Plus Ariel had shared how much David liked to climb rocks and enjoyed green space. On my scouting mission, I came across an area with beautiful granite rocks down by the river. It only required a short walk to the water’s edge.
The rock above was the safe rock; the easy one to get to. Of course, David saw another rock- one that required some of his skills and a balancing act on mine and Ariel’s part as well. I happen to enjoy scrambling on rocks myself, so I was up for it, as long as Ariel was. Fearlessly, she took David’s hand and ventured to the rock hanging over the water. You can’t quite tell the tight rope walking adventures required to get there, but let me just say, I was impressed.
It was worth the effort. Looking back on the Mills.
A loving gaze and beautiful reflections in the water. Doesn’t look like Dorchester. And it felt like a million miles away from everything.
What a great afternoon! Thank you, Ariel and David, for your adventurous spirits. I absolutely can’t wait for your wedding at the Fruitlands Museum.
Aug
25
I can’t imagine a more perfect day to enjoy the photos from Suzanne and Andy’s wedding. I am sitting in our Boston studio and it is all dreariness and rain outside, but in front of me, on my computer screen, I get to see all kinds of sunshine. The day was beautiful, true, but I think the brightest part of the day was definitively our bride and groom. They couldn’t be more full of energy and fun. You will see it in the way they look at each other, in the way they interact with their friends and family, and in the way they celebrate.
Suzanne and Andy chose to see each other before their ceremony. They had a private moment in the gardens at StoneTree Golf Club to drink each other up. Suzanne approached Andy and teased him a little before she asked him to turn around.
He couldn’t stop looking at her. She was absolutely stunning.
We took the opportunity to do their portraits before hand. Not only did they look their freshest and had plenty of time for some great photos, but they were then able to enjoy all of their cocktail hour. It was the perfect choice for them.
So sweet and fun together.
I adored Suzanne’s dress. It was perfect on her- the best combination of sexy, glamorous, and playful. Check out the awesome mini-accordion crinoline underneath. Great texture.
And then it was time for these two to get hitched. Andy waited patiently at the end of the aisle for his bride to enter.
She walked in on her dad’s arm. And here, I have to take a little detour from the wedding narrative, because I got to hear a lot about Suzanne’s dad on the car ride from the hotel to StoneTree. He was an angel helping out with the wedding. Anything Suzanne or her mom needed, he took care of it. In fact, her mom said something along the lines of, "I love your dad more than ever today." She was so proud of and amazed by him. Probably the sweetest thing I have ever heard a mother of the bride say about her husband on her daughter’s wedding day. Really.
And now back to the story… Looks like he was pretty happy to help out, and especially happy to have his daughter on his arm.
The ceremony was beautiful, under clear blue skies.
With the rings, it became official.
And the celebration began immediately following the pronunciation of husband and wife. Let the party begin!
Did I say party? You betcha. Absolutely do not miss this one- coming soon. The 80′s cover band knocked our socks off and kept this party rocking!
Aug
17
Brace yourself. This one’s a long one. I just couldn’t help myself. Too much fun. Too many beautiful spaces. Too many wonderful people. So there are a few more than usual.
Maren and Steve planned an absolutely stunning destination wedding at the Glen Manor House in Portsmouth, RI. Their guests traveled from far and farther to celebrate with them and were treated to a weekend getaway celebration. Care was given to the smallest of details (each guest had their own personalized itinerary) and thought to the feel of the whole event. Spaces were created for relaxation, for dancing, for socializing. More on all of that later in a details blog post. For now, I want you to be able to get a sense of what it was like to be a guest at this wonderful wedding. And the answer is nothing short of amazing.
As I skipped ahead to Maren’s entrance in my last blog, I thought I would take a step back because I love this moment before Steve enters. The anticipation gives me goosebumps.
The guests also couldn’t wait to see Steve’s reaction to Maren’s entrance.
The ceremony was full of smiles and tears. When Maren and Steve brought each mom a specially embroidered handkerchief and white rose, Steve’s mom already had tears on her cheeks. So Maren helped wipe them away. Steve’s love and understanding of his mom came out in his smile.
Gotta love the folks who bring out the laughter.
At the end of the ceremony, Maren and Steve had not one, but two kisses, and then this very tender look as they enjoyed their new husband and wife status.
Oh wait, make that 3 kisses.
We snuck away for a few portraits on the grounds.
Immediately it felt like Maren and Steve were meant to be on this estate. They were so at ease at the Glen and comfortable in the space. It fit like a glove.
A private toast before they joined their guests.
The cocktail hour was enjoyed on the back lawn and guests spread out to all of the outdoor spaces, really enjoying the property.
Steve and Maren were such excellent hosts. It seemed as if they had invited all of their nearest and dearest to their private country estate. They really took ownership of the celebration, graciously welcoming their guests.
Loving the playfulness that comes with children.
And the sweetness. I can just imagine the conversation, something along the lines of "You look like a princess" from one of the ladies. Followed by "So do you," from the other.
A quick portrait on the steps with the whole bridal party. The kids are simply too cute.
For that matter, so is Maren. This moment during their first dance is hilarious. Maren is perfectly in character.
Loved hearing the story of how they chose the first song. Steve had requirements, well really just one. He didn’t want a song that would make him cry. Something upbeat fit the bill and as he liked Dean Martin, "Ain’t that a Kick in the Head" seemed a perfect choice. It was all fun, no tears.
As it turns out, his mom had similar requirements. So Steve surprised her with his favorite song from his childhood, Elvis Presley’s "Teddy Bear." The crowd, and his mom, loved it.
Dinner was served.
And guests wandered in and out of the ballroom, the dining rooms, and the outdoor spaces on this perfectly lovely evening.
What it actually means to be married I think. Too funny.
Just as we were about to depart, Steve broke out the cigars. He was hanging out with his friends- the whole group of guys, and gals, enjoyed a celebratory smoke.
Oh, what a night! And day, for that matter. This was such a wonderfully joyful wedding. I am so glad we could be a part of it. Many, many thanks to Maren and Steve for including us.
Additional gratitude goes to all of the professionals who helped make their day so fabulous. Each and every person was amazingly talented and wonderful to work with. Honestly I think Maren said it best though. "I just want to invite them all to Thanksgiving dinner." Now if that isn’t high praise.
A very special shout out of thanks to Katie Wilkinson the manager of their ceremony and reception venue, the Glen Manor House. What a joy it was to work with you! Everything was impeccable.
Getting Ready location: Kate Jenkins of the Pelham Court Hotel
Caterer: Ingrid Martins of Blue Rocks Catering
Cake: Kate Repko from Cappuccino’s
Floral Design: Sayles Livingston of Sayles Livingston Flowers
DJ: Sidney Posey of DeeJays Etc.
Ceremony Musicians: Crystal Pascucci and Quartetto Vivo
Hair and Make-up: Wavelengths Salon & Spa
Wedding dress designer and salon: Simone Carvalli; Maria Spyridopolous of Sabella Couture
Bridesmaids Dresses and salon: Watters & Watters; Cheri Amor of Perfect Bridal
Groom’s attire: Jos. A. Bank
Groomsmen’s tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse & Tuxedo
And the knock your socks off invitations, place cards, save the dates- aka the full design suite put together for their wedding, by none other than our groom, a professional designer by trade, Steve Reepmeyer.
So honestly truthfully, I had such a hard time narrowing these down for the blog. I really hope you will check out their slideshow and their PicFlick. And if you haven’t yet seen their engagement session, definitely check that out.
Aug
16
They had talked about getting married. They had planned on getting married. They knew they were getting married. They just hadn’t made it official yet. So Emily had no qualms about joining one of her dearest friends, who happened to be engaged, on a wedding dress expedition. She figured she would start her search as well.
When Yeung got wind of this, he knew it was time to make his move. He wanted Emily to start her own journey on the right foot. He wanted her to have a ring on her hand when she went shopping for that perfect dress. So he arranged to surprise her outside their first wedding salon. On the spot, he proposed to her. Of course, she said yes! Honestly, I can’t believe how sweet this is. Sort of reminds me of the scene in Sweet Home, Alabama where Patrick Dempsey proposes to Reese Witherspoon by bringing her to Tiffany’s to choose her ring. Que romatico!
When it was time for their e-session, I just knew their chemistry would shine through. They already have such a great story. Plus they are both pharmacists; there had to be chemistry. We were not disappointed. So here’s a few from their session near Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA.
Want more? Check out their slideshow.
Aug
12
With absolutely perfect light and such a stunning couple, not to mention the picturesque scenery of Nahant, we felt unbelievably lucky to be photographing Loula and Massimo’s engagement session. They wanted to celebrate their love of the beach during their e-session and came up with the long stretches of beach, as well as the 40 Steps area in this north shore town. Wow!!!!! Neither Dave or I had been to Nahant, though he had always wanted to go, and really, truly such a stunning place. Better still, Loula and Massimo were completely at ease in what is clearly their natural habitat. So without further ado, meet Loula and Massimo…
Loula was great about getting involved and sharing ideas for their session. One of her brainstorms was to bring along a couple of magazines- Psychology Today for her and Sports Illustrated for him- to set the scene for what they mostly do at the beach- relax. I absolutely love that. And I love this scene- looks like a beach in Italy. Perfect as Massimo is Italian, no?!
I absolutely can not wait for their wedding at the State Room this fall.
Honestly, you have to check out a few more. We just couldn’t put all our favorites on the blog. So definitely take a look at their slideshow too.
Aug
09
Hanging out with Jen and Brian for their engagement session was nothing short of a blast. They are totally cute together and sweet on each other, such a great match.
And I love their story. Jen was introduced to Brian by her best friend, who is Brian’s cousin…. so when Jen and Brian get married in October, in addition to getting to spend the rest of her life with the love her life, Jen will truly be family with her best friend. Now that seems too perfect for words.
For their engagement session, we wanted to celebrate a beautiful part of the city and we wanted to go back to the scene of the crime, where Brian popped the question. So we started our session in the Boston Public Garden. Getting snuggly on a park bench…
With a guardian angel.
Hangin’ out among the trees.
On the landmark bridge, with the swan boats floating beneath.
The proposal? Well, Jen had been travelling and arrived into Logan airport one afternoon. Brian picked her up from the airport. Before long, he pulled off the highway and stopped off at the Hyatt Harborside Hotel. He took Jen for a walk along the water, and popped the question with amazing views of Boston in the background. You can’t beat this for romance. Way to go, Brian!
Of course, she said, "Yes!" And they enjoyed an evening celebrating at the hotel.
During our session, we wandered a bit and found this beautiful ivy covered wall.
Need more? Check out their don’t-miss slideshow.
Aug
06
On the radar, there was a rain cloud stretching from New Hampshire to Washington, DC and it was moving East at a steady pace. We had been watching the weather reports all week long, dreading what was to come for Maren and Steve’s wedding. They had chosen the most beautiful location for their destination wedding- an estate by the water in Portsmouth, RI- with an outdoor ceremony in the gardens. And they had planned a photo tour prior to the wedding which would take us around Newport‘s stunning coastline. Of course, this required a rain-free day. Dave and I were certain we would be relegated to Plan B. I brought the red umbrella for whatever photos we would be able to take outside.
What we didn’t count on was Maren and Steve’s good fortune. We had no idea they had some kind of extra special karma hanging out in their corner. Because what unfolded was nothing short of a miracle.
Maren got ready at the Pelham Court Hotel- a sweet boutique hotel with a great suite for our bride and her ladies. She didn’t seem at all concerned about the weather, which at that point was all sunshine in Newport.
She and Steve saw each other for the first time in the courtyard of the hotel. I love this moment where they get a good look at each other. And I love that Dave purposely captured the blue sky as part of the image. He wanted to make sure they had at least one photo with blue skies from their wedding day.
We took a couple of portraits in the courtyard. We actually had to have them sit in the shade, because it was still so bright out.
Then we headed off to Ocean Drive, for photos along the rocky coast line. As we drove there, we could see the storm clouds getting closer.
Check it out in this image. Towards the west an ominous sky.
In the same spot, but toward the east, the bridal party got to enjoy a few more moments of beautiful blue.
At this point, the sky was getting dark fast. Steve asked his groomsmen to bring the umbrellas to us, just in case. They were ready for the worst. Strangely the storm seemed to stop and hold it’s position.
We were able to capture a few more at this spot, and even stop at another along the coast.
I was so glad that we had been able to get those photos in. I figured that was all the luck we would have and was prepared for the inevitable indoor ceremony. When I arrived at the Glen Manor House, I was greeted with blue skies again. What?!? I thought. Then I saw that the gardens were set up for the ceremony. I honestly thought the coordinator had made a mistake. She told me she had checked the radar and it looked fine. I was shocked but happy.
Then of course, the skies turned to gray again. Didn’t bother the ring bearer one bit, though.
Maren and Steve took a moment to enjoy the view of the water, gorgeous even with the gray skies.
Then the ceremony began. And unfortunately just as the bridal party made their entrance little drips of water started falling very lightly to the ground. This is it! I thought. Now it’s going to downpour on their ceremony. The pessimist in me came out. I couldn’t help being concerned for all of the guests and our truly fabulous couple. And just as quickly as it had started, Maren walked out, and I kid you not, the drizzle stopped.
Not one more drop fell. Crazy? Maybe. True? Yes. A miracle? Absolutely.
Post script- I suppose all this sounds a bit overdramatic. And I can be prone to that, but just to give you a sense of how bad this storm was, everywhere but at Maren and Steve’s wedding that is, check out this article.
Aug
03
A party that happens to be a wedding allows for all sorts of non-traditional elements and playful bits. Donna, along with her designer Jane from D’Lish Intimate Catering, pushed the boundaries at every turn.
Opening with my favorite of all the details from Donna and Jimmy’s wedding- the Cake. Konditor Meister definitely outdid themselves with this wild animal print cake. So so so fun!
Taking a step back in time. The ketubah that Donna and Jimmy signed prior to their chuppah ceremony.
On to cocktail hour, drinks galore and check out the awesome zebra print linen below.
Multiple small glass containers held orchids in the lobby and cocktail space.
Time for the reception. A peak from above, looking down onto the table arrangement. Loving the gold linens, which match the Chiavari chairs.
The menu and place setting.
The centerpiece, orchids in a clear vase. Candlelight completes the look.
The head table had its own centerpiece arrangements. Love the peonies.
And a look at the whole set up.
Gotta give credit where credit is due. And the pros who helped make their event spectacular definitely deserve props. Inspiration provided by Donna and Jimmy’s Team:
Event designer: Jane Pofcher Goldman of D’Lish Intimate Catering
Getting Ready Venue: The Hotel Marlowe, Cambridge
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Exchange Conference Center, Boston
Caterer: Legal Seafoods
Wedding Cake: Konditor Meister
Floral design: Winston Flowers
Chuppah Design: Jessica Erickson
Chuppah Rental: Tommy Wholesale Design
Linens: Rentals Unlimited
Wedding Gown: Vera Wang
Invitations and Graphics: Jessica Erickson of J.L. Erickson Design
If you still want more, check out their e-session in Ashland, their sneak preview, their scoop and their slideshow.
