Oct
31
The couple that boxes together, stays together.
Initially when we met with Anna and talked about her and Johnny’s engagement session, we thought we might do something at a pizza joint. They met while she worked with him at a pizzeria. I imagined flour being tossed and pizza being made. They would have been great photos. When we started making plans this fall, they had come up with the idea of boxing, as they attend a boxing gym together. I absolutely ADORED this idea. Immediately I had an idea for a photo I wanted to create. As it turns out, Dave also immediately had an idea. They were both different and both exciting. I couldn’t wait.
First, Dave’s concept. Larz Anderson was perfect for it. Anna and Johnny appear to be at the top of a ridge, fighting to the finish. Love the angle and color of Dave’s vision.
My angle on Dave’s idea. Don’t mess with Anna.
My vision was to create something akin to a Sports Illustrated cover or a boxing poster. I wanted off-camera flash (something we almost never use, but every tool has its time and place) times 2. The goal was to turn the sky dark by underexposing it and flash Anna and Johnny, giving them a surreal prominence and power. I am so excited by the way these came out.
This one actually reminds of a scene from The Princess Bride (Anna I will lend it to you, don’t let me forget). The one in which the Man in Black is dueling with Inigo in the ruins.
Anna and Johnny chose Larz Anderson as the backdrop for their portraits for a couple of reasons, one of which was the Boston skyline views. Horsing around on the hills.
Another reason was because Johnny grew up in Brookline and had spent a lot of his younger years in the park. He knew it inside and out.
After we had played around enough, they changed into regular clothes for a few more traditional portraits. Together on the lawn.
One of Anna alone. So pretty and at ease.
Capturing the beginning of fall and one sweet kiss.
We made our way to this beautiful rain pavillion for a few more. Loving the interactions of these two.
And in the gorgeous scene.
Really, this session was so much fun. Anna and Johnny really got into the photos and shared their ideas. Plus how often do you get such a knock out couple knocking each other out? I would highly recommend checking out a few more images here.
Oct
29
When last I wrote about Jess and Dan’s wedding day, I shared the getting ready, a few portraits, and a teaser for the ceremony. If you haven’t checked those out, here’s a teaser from the portraits. A quick note about this image. This was Jess’ inspired idea. We loved it and so we all made the walk to Harvard Square from the Charles River. So glad we did.
And now for the rest of the good stuff. The ceremony and reception. Dan gazing at Jess.
And what a kiss! Check out how all the guests are cheering them on.
Right into their first dance. Literally. I mean they walked 2 steps and started dancing. How sweet is that.
A moment in time from the dance.
Observing it all.
Since it was an intimate wedding, every single person had a special connection to our couple. This made for some wonderful moments. Jess and a friend admiring each other’s fashion choices.
The guests also knew each other, for the most part, so they all really enjoyed catching up as well.
Oh, and we were told that Dan would only be on the dance floor once, during his first dance. "Dan doesn’t dance," we were informed. Well, you can imagine how surprised everyone was when they were able to drag him onto the dance floor. And I would venture to say he enjoyed himself. Loving how he is surrounded by the ladies.
And another one, just to prove it wasn’t short lived, our groom kicking up his heels with his bride. Nice moves, you two!
What a night! Huge thanks to Jess and Dan for including us in your intimate wedding. It was such a joy celebrating with you and your guests.
Many thanks to all of the professionals who helped make their wedding amazing:
Getting ready venue: the staff of The Charles Hotel
Ceremony and reception site: Annie Sarkis from the Rialto Restaurant
Planner, caterer and cake: Annie Sarkis from Rialto
Floral design: Hiroko Takeshita of Hanaya Floral Design
Invitations and save the dates: Paper Source
Hair: Jessica Diop from Aquinn Hair Studio
Gown designer: Amsale
Bridesmaids dresses: Amsale
Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsman suit: Joseph Abboud
Can’t get enough? Me neither. Check out more from Jess and Dan’s engagement session, sneak peek, and slideshow.
Oct
28
For Alyssa and Slava’s wedding by the water, Dave teamed up with associate photographer, Brian Lee, to capture their wedding day. They were treated to stunning weather and beautiful views, not to mention a gorgeous couple, who are also truly kind, warm individuals.
They arrived in time to capture the groom getting ready in the billiard room.
Looking debonair.
Meanwhile, it took a bit longer for our bride. She started in curlers. So cute.
Checking out how the styling is going.
I adore Alyssa’s ring- here on their ketubah.
Her wedding gown.
And her shoes. Somehow this just works.
Once both our bride and groom were ready. Dave took them outside to see each other for the first time. Slava awaits his bride.
Each time I look at this photo of Alyssa and Slava seeing each other for the first time, I get a wee bit giddy. It is so rich with emotion.
In the scene. Stunning.
Then time for the ceremony. A beautiful silhouette by the water.
Their tented ceremony and reception followed, and with it are more amazing photos. But you will have to wait just a little longer to see those.
Oct
24
An intimate wedding with their closest family and friends, amazing food and wine, and works of art surrounding them…. These were the elements that Jess and Dan sought when celebrating their wedding. When they discovered that one of their favorite restaurants Rialto had a private event space, they knew they had found their location. The space offered the intimacy they wanted as well as the good eats.
Because the restaurant is located in the Charles Hotel, it was only natural for Jess and Dan to get ready there as well.
Jess had the help of a few close friends as she prepped.
Loving this image Dave captured of Dan getting ready. A completely different take on it.
I took a little liberty and included this image of Dan’s niece and nephew with his getting ready photos, even though it happened during his 2nd getting ready. Aren’t they adorable?!
After both Jess and Dan were ready, we brought them outside to a secluded walkway near the hotel so they could see each other for the first time in private.
Dan awaiting Jess’ arrival.
Jess is full of spunk, and this photo totally captures her personality. She did, indeed, boogie down the path to go meet her groom. I’m surprised we were able to keep our camera’s straight as we were laughing pretty hard.
When they saw each other, it was all tenderness; the mood changed to one of joy and peace.
Of course, the benefits of seeing each other beforehand are many. One of the reasons Jess and Dan chose to do so was so they would have enough time for their portraits, and be able to attend cocktail hour. We definitely love having the time to play around with our couples before their ceremony. Relaxed, fun, beautiful portraits come out of that time. A few of my faves.
Classic beauty.
Smoky sensuality.
Fun.
Oh, and here’s a good time to talk about the structural art surrounding them. First of all, Jess chose this phenomenal couture wedding dress by Amsale. And she worked with her florist to create floral arrangements that had depth and dimension. You can see it here in her bouquet and later in the table arrangments.
We worked our way back to the hotel for a few touch ups and to hide Jess away in the restaurant so none of the guests would see her. While we waited for the ceremony, we captured a few of Jess alone.
The guests gathered in the ceremony room, and then the music changed. It was Jess’ entry music. The curtains were drawn. And ….
You will have to check back for the rest from Jess and Dan’s wedding day. They are not quite ready. But if you need another fix now, you can see a few from their engagement session.
Oct
22
A shared history and personalities that fit just so, Junnie and Wing are definitely starting their baby-to-be off on the right foot. Both Junnie and Wing were born in other countries but came to the US as young adults. They found each other at their church and realized they each filled in the others’ gaps, just like matching puzzle pieces. A perfect example- Wing is the artist and graphic designer; Junnie is the financial organizer and accountant. They are the yin to the other’s yang. Their little one is lucky to have such a great balance from the get-go.
We met up with Junnie and Wing to photograph their maternity session on a cool October afternoon. Starting off in Boston‘s beautiful Beacon Hill neighborhood.
And did I mention how adorable these two are? Good genes indeed.
The blue skies were intermittent so Dave made sure to highlight them when we saw them.
Loving this photo of Junnie.
We made our way to the Boston Common for a little greenery and in the hopes of some fall color.
Making a wish…
We found the greenery. Autumn leaves were more elusive.
One of my absolute faves over at the Public Garden. An abstract family portrait.
We had such a great time hanging out with these two. Highly recommend checking out their slideshow cause these two were so sweet and even brought props for their session. Enjoy!
Oct
20
What do you get when you mix a family of Italians and a family of Greeks celebrating a wedding? Great food, yes. And also full on Mediterranean zest for life, which translates to one helluva good time. And so it was when Loula married Massimo.
It started with a ceremony at Boston’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Lovin’ the look in Massimo’s eyes.
You have to check out the beauty of this place- so vibrant and colorful- with stunning crystal chandeliers, an amazing space for a wedding.
And the lights are kept pretty low, so there is a romantic ambiance and warmth as well.
The ceremony was presided over by his and hers officiants, aka a representative from both Loula’s and Massimo’s faiths, making the service doubly official.
The newlyweds….
We dashed off to the State Room for their reception. Loula and Massimo added beautiful touches, such as custom designed menus and table numbers, as well as elegant floral arrangements, making the already elegant venue truly shine.
Their first dance, surrounded by their guests, with the city lights in the background.
As is customary in the Greek tradition, this dance becomes a money dance. This young man is helping the couple start their lives with good fortune.
And sharing a different kind of fortune.
Some guests watched (and cheered) from the upper gallery as the party got started.
Dancing got underway quickly, first with modern music.
Then with Greek tunes. Loula’s dad with a few great moves.
During the evening, toasts and merriment prevailed. Our bride…
and our groom definitely had a good time.
Oh, and did I mention that Loula changed into a party dress later in the evening? So cute and fun, complete with the perfect shoes.
Lovin’ this look on Loula. Beautiful!
What a crazy night! Really. Everyone knew how to have a good time.
Congrats to the professionals who helped make their day so special:
Getting ready venue: Boston Harbor Hotel
Ceremony site: Father Cleopas from the Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Officiant: Father Tom
Reception site: Venessa Hoyle from the State Room
Cake: Claudio of Modern Pastry
Floral design: Kerranne of Les Fleurs
Ice Sculptures: Brookline Ice & Coal
Cinematographers: Naomi, Jack and Lauren from Generations Cinemastories
For ladies’ looks:
Hair: Shelly of Dellaria
Make-up: Luiz Filho of Luz Beauty
Wedding gown designer: Claire Pettibone; and Shelly from Sewly Yours
Party dress designer: Lazaro; and Maria from Cristina’s
Bridesmaid dresses: Jim Hjelm at Cristina’s
Want more from Loula and Massimo? Check out their engagement session, their sneak peek and their slideshow.
Oct
18
Jackie and William’s premiere was last night and it was so great reliving their wedding with them. They were married a few months ago but they have been so busy we hadn’t had a chance to get together. It was wonderful to catch up and to enjoy a really leisurely afternoon, into evening, viewing all the photos.
You may recall that Jackie and William celebrated their ceremony and reception at a private women’s club in the Back Bay. While we aren’t able to share photos that show a lot of the interior, I picked out a few images that don’t show the space, but give you a sense of the emotion of the evening.
Jackie and William stealing a moment after dinner.
Soon after, they made their way to the ballroom for their first dance as husband and wife.
Then the dancing really got going. They had an intimate wedding, but all of the guests took their turn on the dance floor. The party was raging, with some fabulous 80′s music. And perhaps one of my favorite memories of the evening, the club staff always takes a spin on the dance floor- a special house tradition. And so we figured we would too. We got to party with our bride and groom. Very very fun!
After everyone left for the evening, we spent a couple more hours with Jackie and William doing some night portraits around the city. We started by their very cool vintage Cadillac, outside the club. Loving the feel of the brownstones and the way the car is a character in this image (those are William’s words, but he is so right).
And we met them at the Boston Harbor Hotel, where they would start their honeymoon.
Catching the reflection of the BHH’s Atrium on the waterfront.
And one of my absolute fave’s, in front of the hotel, with the city streaming passed them. A very cinematic capture by Dave.
Jackie and William’s wedding really was an amazing event. So I want to thank all of the people who made it so very special:
Getting ready venue: Boston Harbor Hotel and the club
Ceremony and reception venue: Back Bay private women’s club
Wedding dress: Vera Wang
Groom’s tux: Brooks Brothers
Floral Design: Edison from Madison Floral
DJ: Mike Love
Cinematography: Naomi, Jack, and Lauren from Generations Cinemastories
And so much gratitude to Jackie and William for including us in your beautiful, beautiful day. We are so glad we could capture these photos for you. It has been an absolute joy.
If you would like to see more from Jackie and William, definitely check out their engagement session and their sneak peek.
Oct
15
Prepping and primping for a wedding takes time, takes experienced professionals, takes vision- well, at least for the women it does. For the men, it takes about 5 minutes, and they’re done. So of course, the photos captured during the getting ready of the men and the women are vastly different. For Loula and Massimo’s wedding, Dave and I split up- Dave hung with the boys at Massimo’s place in the North End and I played with the ladies at Loula’s suite at the Boston Harbor Hotel.
The rings were with the boys. And Massimo wanted an image documenting the ring alongside the day’s newspaper.
Meanwhile, I was capturing details of Loula’s wedding dress, shoes and veil.
And of course, documenting the process of the preparation.
As I mentioned, the boys don’t take much time to get gussied up. So Dave had time for some fun portraits of the boys.
Loula getting into her dress.
Her koumbara put on her shoes, a special Greek tradition.
Loula takes a moment by herself, almost, to put on her jewelry. I love how her pup watches her captivated.
I have time for a quick portrait before we head out.
Dave and the boys are already at the church. This little sweetheart is so intent.
As the boys arrive at the church, we are heading out. Loula hired a beautiful vintage car to carry her and her parents to the ceremony. Just a moment before we leave.
More from Loula and Massimo’s wedding- ceremony at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and reception at The State Room- to follow soon. In the meantime, check out their engagement session in Nahant.
Oct
12
Though they grew up on the east coast, Lauren and Ryan definitely have a super laid back and relaxed attitude. It might come from their recent years in California or may be the balance to their intrinsically adventurous spirits. Or perhaps it was because their wedding was also a homecoming, offering all the warmth and joy that went with that. Either way, they weren’t worried about anything. They were all about enjoying the moment.
Ironically, Lauren and Ryan may have been the only couple we have worked with that wanted to see each other before their wedding, but couldn’t because it didn’t work in their schedule. So we started off with a few getting ready photos. Ryan getting his boutonniere put on. Loving the silhouette and the line of light around his face.
And the girls helping Lauren with her dress.
And oh what a dress! It fit her like a glove, both literally and figuratively.
So in love with the flower and fabric details on the back.
And her make-up was soft, subtle, classic. Simply beautiful.
Before all the ladies headed downstairs for the ceremony, one helped her mom by pinning on the corsage.
And then Lauren (and her dad who is on the other side of the wall) waited for the call to come down for the ceremony. Still so relaxed.
The ceremony was beautiful, lead by a family friend, including a few special touches like the unity candle.
They kissed at the end of the ceremony. And they kissed again as they were walking down the aisle. Sweetness!
During the cocktail hour, we utilized the Hotel Northampton‘s gorgeous lobby for fireside family portraits. Love this one with their grandmother.
Just as the sun was beginning to set, we popped outside for a few with Lauren and Ryan alone. More smooching!
Eskimo kisses, too.
The party got rolling with some seriously entertaining entrances by the bridal party. Paparazzi fun!
And right into the first dance. Check out their smiles.
Ryan’s bro giving his toast.
And his mom enjoying it.
Kicking it up on the dance floor.
Because we didn’t have a ton of time for portraits earlier in the day and Lauren and Ryan were up for anything, we took a quick spin outside for a few night shots around the hotel.
Then we made use of these super cool old time phone booths (sans phones) inside the hotel.
Love this photo, because I adore the people in it. On the left, our wonderful bride and groom. On the right, Emily and Mark who were married just over 3 years ago, who we have been friends with ever since. So a very BIG thanks to Emily and Mark for introducing us to Lauren and Ryan. We are so grateful.
And an even BIGGER thank you to Lauren and Ryan for choosing us to photograph your wedding. You two are fabulous and your families are lovely. We had such a great time with everyone. Thank you.
And while I am spreading the thanks, a shout out of gratitude to all the pros who helped make Lauren and Ryan’s day so wonderful:
Getting ready venue: Ruby Meng of the Hotel Northampton
Ceremony and reception site: Ruby Meng of the Hotel Northampton
Floral Designer: Valerie Vassaos of VJS Designs
DJ: DJ Mike of MCO Productions
Ceremony Musicians: Joe Belmont of Duo Fusion
Cake: Deb Martin of Cakes by Deborah
Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas
Save the Dates: Shutterfly
Hair: The Lift Salon
Make-up: Brooks & Butterfield
Wedding gown designer: Galina Signature
Bridesmaids dresses: Alexia Designs at Pronuptia Bridal
Groom’s and Groomsmen’s suits: Jos. A. Bank
Want more? And you should because I had a really tough time narrowing these down to a reasonable number. Check out Lauren and Ryan’s slideshow.
Oct
05
Jess and Dan are so much fun to be around and we had a wonderful time photographing their engagement session, just before their wedding.
First and most importantly, they are completely comfortable with each other. They began their relationship as close friends, having met at work in the hot bed that all start-ups offer. After a bit, they discovered their fondness for each other had grown and changed. They realized a romance was brewing. After spending even a short time with Jess and Dan, you can tell they know each other top to bottom.
Secondly, they chose a great location for their engagement session- the locale where they first met and spent much of their time together, One Kendall Square in Cambridge, MA. So the engagement session was also a tour of their favorite haunts. And now I leave you to enjoy Dan and Jess!
At The Blue Room…
These two were so interactive. Telling us great stories and sharing ideas. Loving this ramp, a mix of old and new architecture.
Around the corner from the main square, a quiet funky little spot.
Then into the parking garage for views of the area, but enjoying the stairwell just as much. These two are too cool. Love the light, the sunglasses and the lines.
Their wedding was just last week and we had such a great time with everyone- an intimate celebration at Rialto! Check back soon for a sneak peek of the festivities.
