Apr
22
When planning a destination wedding, it can be a challenge to bring all of the ideas you have together. With a unique location, inspiration is not the problem, but rather logistical details. Cassie and Dan had a beautiful vision for their wedding and selected the right team of people to bring it all together. Everything went off without a hitch, a pefect celebration on their much loved Martha’s Vineyard.
The pros:
Church: Old Whaling Church, Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard/ Reception: Dr. Daniel Fisher House, Edgartown, MV / After party venue: The Boathouse, Edgartown, MA / Getting ready location: The Wheel House at the Kelley House / Event Planning: Judy Murray of MV Event Planning / Bride’s hair and makeup: Sea Spa, Edgartown / Cake: Kim Garrison, Something Sweet / Wedding Gown: Priscilla of Boston, Boston, Mass / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dessy Lela Rose Collection / Groom’s attire: Raymond Personal Tailor / Floral & Event Design: Donaroma’s Nursery / Entertainment (ceremony): Eric Johnson / Entertainment (reception): Jon Bates Band and John Alaimo, pianist / Wedding invitations: Goosefish Press, Boston, MA / Save the Dates: Vera Wang / Rehearsal dinner invites: Wedding Paper Divas
Getting ready- Dan at Cassie’s family home and Cassie at her hotel- offered an opportunity to capture details that set the tone for the day.
The letterpress invitations with island details and their unique wedding bands.
This gorgeous white blossom on Cassie’s dress.
And her rustic elegant purple bouquet.
At the family home, little touches like this windchime created a whimsical feel.
The groomsmen’s dress shirts ready and waiting.
All decked out, our groom with his purple rose boutonniere.
At the Old Whaling Church, guests were welcome by this Scottish bag piper.
And the interior was decked out in shades of purple flowers.
A view of the steeple.
And the tent at dusk on the lawn between the church and the Dr. Daniel Fisher House.
Inside, the reception details were ready and gorgeous. I adore this cake with it’s oversized purple flower.
Multiple centerpieces in shades of pink and purples.
Each table named after a favorite MV location.
Favors for the guests- olive oil and a scented candle.
Cocktail tables on the patio of the house were decorated with smaller arrangements.
The party kicked off by the band.
A scrumption dessert bar.
Ending the reception with a sparkler send off.
A beautiful celebration with rustic elegance and whimsy inspired by the island, envisioned by Cassie and Dan, and executed by an amazing team of professionals.
More from Cassie and Dan’s wedding? Check out their Fenway Park e-session, their Chappy Rehearsal Dinner, their Old Whaling Church ceremony, their Daniel Fisher House reception, their Edgartown Boathouse after party and their destination wedding slideshow.
Mar
05
You really can’t go wrong when you get married at a Castle. So when Ayesha and Jon chose Searles for their backdrop, they knew they had found the perfect spot to celebrate their wedding ceremony and their reception.
The ceremony was held on the lawn to the left of the castle. Well actually the ceremony was held on the castle wall and the guests were seated on the lawn. They blended Ayesha’s South Asian traditions with Jon’s Christian ones, bringing together their two cultures in a beautiful way.
The bridesmaids entered first.
Followed by two of Ayesha and Jon’s adorable neices and nephews as flower girl and ring bearer. And then followed by Ayesha and her dad.
Especially love this shade of red accentuated by the creamy roses.
Groomsman watching the proceedings.
And back to the ceremony. Ayesha’s dad ties she and Jon (hidden behind her dad in this image) together. Love her dad’s quiet smile and her huge one!
Jon’s mom offers her own blessing. More wonderful smiles. Jon looks so happy and proud. And his mom his radiant.
A reading.
Jon puts Ayesha’s ring on her finger.
Sweet kiss.
And celebration.
After the ceremony, Ayesha changed into her western wedding dress. Jon got to see her for the first time, again.
After a few portraits and a little time alone, they joined their guests in the tent for their first dance.
A speech by Ayesha’s best brides’ man.
And because they met at Ohio State and had their fabulous peers at the wedding. We had to do at least one photo for their alma mater.
With such a beautiful setting and a lovely evening, we had to take advantage for one night photograph in front of the castle. Fortunately, Ayesha and Jon were very happy to oblige. I guess the kiss didn’t hurt our cause.
Such a great day and evening, filled with joy and color and magic. What else would you expect at a castle!
Special thanks to Ayesha and Jon for including us in your festivities. And to all of the pros who helped to make their day wonderful…
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Shaun and Scott from Searles Castle / Officiants: Sri Lankan Ceremony – Mr. Bogamuwa, Exchange of Vows – John Morse / Caterer: Shaun and Scott from Searles Castle / Cake: Jani from Jacques Pastries / Ceremony Floral Design: Susanne from Susanne’s Weddings / Lighting Design: Boston Uplights / Ceremony Musicians and Band/DJ: Chris D from NuImage Entertainment / Hair & Makeup: Brandon and Karla from Brandon Keith Salon / Bride & Bridesmaids Sarees brought in from overseas / Groom and Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Lindsay from Men’s Wearhouse / Save the Dates: Wedding Paper Divas
If you would like to see more from Ayesha and Jon’s South Asian wedding, check out their Searles Castle Wedding sneak peek and their dog-friendly engagment session.
Feb
27
Party! That’s what “part deux” of Amanda and Greg’s wedding is all about. From the cocktail hour on the Liberty Hotel‘s 5th floor catwalk to the dancing going down inside in the ballroom to our own faux-to booth, designed and created by the lovely bride, fun was had by all.
Before Amanda and Greg joined their guests, we had to capture just one image. Love the levels in the Liberty, a great chance to play around with creative portrait ideas.
Of course, we couldn’t and wouldn’t keep them away from their favorite peeps for long.
Family announcements and entrances.
Much applause for our bride and groom. And love the expression on the young man in the back.
First dance romance.
Sweetness, joined by friends and family on the dancefloor.
Hilarious. Greg with his not-so-little-anymore girl.
Let the fun begin.
Amanda selected amazingly cool props for our Faux-to Booth, and the guests rocked them.
Favorite from the end of the night. Our bride and her mom.
A big round of thanks to Amanda and Greg for including us in your super-fab day. And much gratitude to the team of pro’s who made the day absolutely perfect.
Wedding Venue: The Liberty Hotel / Hair + Make-up: Sara Faella + Sara’s Glam Squad / Bride’s Gown: Lazaro via Kleinfeld / Bride’s + Bridesmaids’ Earrings: TEJANI / Custom Gown Hanger: Suspended Moments by Dawn Hill Creations / Bridesmaid Dresses: Alvina Valenta via Here Comes the Bridesmaid / Junior Bridesmaid Dress: Bari Jay via Bridal Reflections / Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse / Floral Design: Winston Flowers / Furniture Rentals: Taylor Creative / Dance Floor + Linen Rentals: Rentals Unlimited / Lighting Design: Swank AV /Cake & Cupcakes: I Dream of Jeanne Cakes / Custom Cake Topper: Crystal Celebration / Ceremony Music: La Bella Musica / DJ: Seth Isaacs of Beat Train Productions / Officiant: Gary D. Fine / Invitation Design: Go Against the Grain / Invitation Printing: Lion in the Sun
Want more? Check out the slideshow from this Style Me Pretty featured wedding and their at-home engagement session.
Feb
23
Cassie and Dan’s hometown destination wedding on Martha’s Vineyard was truly picture perfect. From the Chappy rehearsal dinner (photos to come) to the wedding day to the Sunday brunch, Edgartown’s waterviews, white washed buildings and picket fences, and amazing skies provided a gorgeous backdrop for their celebration.
Picking up after the ceremony with a view of the Old Whaling Church, and our happy couple now as husband and wife.
A few portraits around the Daniel Fisher Estate before joining the guests in the tented reception.
First dance.
I don’t blame Cassie’s mom one bit. I felt it too.
Toasts by the Best Man and Cassie’s sisters. There were tears and…
laughter. Actually lots and lots of laughter.
Celebrating with our groom.
Dancing with her dad.
Dan with his mom. So sweet.
Observing and remembering.
The dancing got underway and this crew definitely knew how to have a good time.
The send off began with a group familial hug. Such joy and love!
And continued with sparklers and cheers.
How could you not be smiling after seeing this gorgeous day? And yet, if you want more smiles, you will have to come back because the after party was an absolute blast too.
In the meantime, check out their engagement session at Fenway Park and the getting ready and ceremony on Martha’s Vineyard for more fun photos.
Feb
03
A few more from Amanda and Ed’s classic Boston wedding. After we left the Old South Church, I ventured with Amanda and Ed to the Public Garden for portraits.
Amanda and I had talked a bit about what she liked in portraits, and one of the things we wanted to capture was intimacy in the midst of busy-ness. Usually on the bridge in the Public Garden this is an easy task, because there are tons of people around. On this particular Sunday afternoon, it was actually a challenge to get people in our photo, and then to encourage them to keep walking. They were all so nice and respectful, not wanting to interrupt their session. Oh, the irony. Patience, however, paid off, as we captured this moment.
Not having too many people also had it’s benefits.
We could go anywhere without worrying about them. And were even able to capture a bit of fall, though in general the trees hadn’t started to turn.
You may recall we took a cab to the gardens. Amanda carefully gets out.
Back at the Copley Plaza, we took a few more portraits. Love the lines of the staircase.
Introductions, right into their first dance.
Such a sweet moment when Ed dances with his mum (mum because he’s from England).
The toasts were fantastic. Ed’s step-dad and best man went first. He was hilarious.
Amanda’s dad had his turn as well. Of course, he shared one or two embarassing stories.
Loving the autumn colors infused into their cake.
Another super special tradition. Amanda’s sorority sisters from Duke, sang her a song and passed around a candle in her honor.
Then the party really got underway. This crew knew how to have a good time.
One last treat from their celebration.
Many congrats to Amand and Ed. Such an all around amazing day. So many people to thank for helping make it perfect.
Getting ready and reception venue: Alice Fay from the Fairmont Copley Plaza
Ceremony venue: Helen McCrady from the Old South Church
Officiant: Cal Grenzel from the Old South Church
Cake: Ellen from Cakes to Remember
Floral Designer: Rob Galeski from Twig
Lighting Design: Paul from Boston Uplights
DJ: Greg from 5 Star Events
Cocktail hour musicians: Felice from Gilded Harps
Calligraphy: Katrin from Calligraphy Katrina and Maison du Papier
Gown Designer: Lazaro dress from Christinas Bridal
Bridesmaids dresses: Saison Boutique
Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Mens Wearhouse
Hair: Erik from Will Charles Salon
Make-up: Dani Wagener from Dani Wagener Studios
If you want to see more, check out their first entry and their PicFlick.
Jan
29
For Cassie and Dan’s wedding, location was everything. And rarely is the setting of the wedding so personal and meaningful, especially when it is a destination wedding. You see, Dan is from Martha’s Vineyard and Cassie’s family has a place on the island, so they have both basically grown up on its beaches. Of course, they also met there. Though they now live in Boston, their ties to this beautiful place are deep and unbreakable. It was truly the perfect location for their wedding. And now a peek at their magical day…
Dan got ready at Cassie’s parents’ house with the rest of the groomsmen, and their two pups. Tank smiles for the camera with Dan prepping in the background.
Cassie and her girls were at a hotel in town. The place had that special beach house quality to it. So when her flowers arrived, I thought it would be perfect to use the surroundings to show them off. Love the whimsy in her bouquet.
Upstairs the ladies prepped and primped.
Cassie checking our her hair and make-up.
The ladies hopped on board the trolley to go see the guys and do a couple of portraits. One of the most beautiful locations for a first look ever.
He’s already smiling and he hasn’t even seen her yet.
And then his smile gets even bigger.
Loving everything about this spot. All the way down to the grasses.
Everyone hopped back on the trolley to go to the Old Whaling Church, where they would celebrate their wedding. The views were beautiful. Loving the beach umbrella in this image.
More sweetness from our couple.
Just before they make their way onto the stage.
Cassie with her dad… two perspectives.
Such a pretty spot. Absolutely fits with the look and feel of Edgartown.
Happily married!
So this is just the beginning, because I have so much more to share from Cassie and Dan’s beautiful wedding- the reception at the Dr. Daniel Fisher House, the after-party in a private club by the water, and even the rehearsal dinner on Chappy. Check back soon.
Jan
23
Amanda and Ed are both scientists, but they do not fit the mold the word conjures up. Of course, I never saw either of them in their lab jackets, but still… As a couple, they are sweet, romantic, in tune with each other. As individuals, they are intelligent, creative, talented. Their wedding day brought together their style, their love of family, and their connection to Boston.
Talented? Case in point. Ed carved this traditional Welsh lovespoon himself; it’s all from one piece of wood. Typically this is given earlier in the relationship, but Ed’s gift on their wedding morning couldn’t have been more sweet or more appreciated. We included the engagement ring in the photo, another very special gift.
And the wedding ringshot on the Globe.
And now to Ed, during his getting ready at the Copley Plaza. Did I mention his sense of humor?
The gents took the stairs down to the Oak Room, for a toast before the ceremony.
A good opportunity for a portrait of our dashing groom.
Meanwhile, the ladies were still getting ready. Dani Wagener provided her expertise for Amanda’s make-up.
Love this photo of Amanda’s wedding dress in her hotel room; mysterious and romantic.
Such intricate and beautiful detailing.
Amanda is a classic beauty; she chose to keep her personal style natural, simple, elegant. It was perfect for her.
The ladies also enjoyed a toast before the ceremony.
So pretty.
Her church is across the square and she can see it from the window. Getting ready for her big day, she looks out.
The ceremony in the Gordon Chapel of the Old South Church had a very intimate feel. I also especially liked the Gothic look of the space as it reminded of Duke, where Amanda went to school (about 10 years after me).
They included readings by friends.
This little gal really wanted to be with the bride.
Afterwards we took portraits in and around the church and on the square lawn. A casual bridal party shot.
A classic bride and groom (aka husband and wife) portrait.
When we finished up there, I hopped in a cab with Amanda and Ed to take photos at the Public Gardens. Love this moment in the taxi. Definitely one of my favorite photos of the year.
More to come for sure… there were tons of amazing portraits at the Garden and a great party with their wonderful families, so check back soon.
Jan
18
From our engagement session, I already knew a bit about how Ayesha and Jon were as a couple, and as parents to their pup Lucy. They are easy-going and each has a calming presence, but they also like to play and laugh. They are generally just really nice to be around. On their wedding day, we got to see another side of them. They were all of those things and more; they were gracious, warm hosts and even took care of us (totally not necessary but very much appreciated).
The day was hot, really steamy kind of hot, but night came and brought a bit of relief. Fortunately they also chose an absolutely gorgeous venue, which lifted sticky spirits and added to the whimsy and romance of the day.
We started with Ayesha as she was getting ready at the hotel. I had my first chance to see a woman dressed in a Sari. For South Asian brides (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, etc), this is the customary wedding attire. Can I just say- it is one stunning dress! Oh and it takes about 20-30 minutes to put on with the help of a professional.
Ayesha’s bridesmaids also got to wear these beautiful garments, though modified so they were a bit easier to put on.
The boys had it easy- tuxes. Still they look awfully good on this crew.
I especially love the contrast and vibrancy of the reds.
Having chosen to see each other before the ceremony, Ayesha and Jon had their first look amongst the castle walls.
Big smile from Jon when Ayesha told him he could turn around and see her.
Equally huge smile from Ayesha.
The girls hanging and enjoying the day.
I love the way these two hold hands, so sweet.
Yup, pretty stunning here.
Too bad, ladies, he’s taken.
Melts my heart.
We went back up to the main house to get ready for the ceremony. The light was beautiful and so was our bride.
A quiet moment before things really get underway.
More to come from the outdoor ceremony and the tented reception.
Jan
14
You may have already read about Amanda and Greg’s wedding on Style Me Pretty, but I wanted to share a few more of my favorite images and a bit more of their story here for our readers. And of course you can check out the story (and leave comments, etc) there as well.
Let me start by saying that Amanda and Greg are awesome. He was pretty laid back about all of the wedding stuff; she had definite ideas. And her ideas were amazing! Amanda is a lady all sewn up with style- from head to toe, truly. Her dress, her shoes, her hair, her make-up, her jewelry= stunning. The decor, the location, the food= fantastic. Throughout the planning, Greg provided the witty commentary that was needed to balance Amanda’s perfect vision.
When we were able to finally meet in person at their engagement session (virtual conversation up until then due to their living out of state), I knew their wedding was going to be an absolute blast. And it really was. These two set the stage for an incredible party; their friends and family obliged with energetic dancing and celebratory spirit. And it was a great way for us to conclude our 2011 wedding season. So let’s get to sharing some pics….
Amanda checking out the work of her make-up artist, natural beauty shining through.
Having chosen to see each other beforehand, Greg and Amanda enjoyed a first look on one of the catwalks at the Liberty. Greg’s big smile.
And a beautiful silhouette, kiss, and pretty fall views from the hotel.
A fun bridal party pic. The Liberty Hotel is an old jail and as such still has some of the prison character.
Couple portraits. One of my favorites is always the moment before the kiss.
A few of Greg.
Did I not say she had amazing style? I totally love her dress by Lazaro.
Ruffly fun for this bridal portrait.
Amanda went to hide away before her guests arrived, but Greg got to check out the ceremony space. He was pretty excited about the day!
The ceremony included all sorts of personal touches, with only ladies standing up for the Bride and a family ceremony for the groom’s daughter, Olivia. It was truly special. Here, Olivia walks down the aisle in her role as junior bridesmaid.
Amanda’s entrance.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this photo captured by Dave. Everyone is so happy and Amanda is absolutely glowing as her Dad kisses her.
Of course, it doesn’t stop there. She can’t stop smiling at her groom.
Sealed with a kiss.
Such a beautiful beginning to their lives together as husband and wife. And in their next entry, it’s all about the party! Get ready for some real fun.
Jan
10
I pick up where I left off with Eleni and Johnnie’s joyous wedding. We had just finished our portrait session at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, so Eleni and Johnnie climbed into their vintage limo to head to Cambridge for their reception.
At the Charles Hotel, we had a little extra time for portraits. (We had originally planned to take portraits at the pedestrian bridge over the Charles River, but it was covered in scaffolding. So bummed about that, but really glad the hotel has a pretty awesome lobby.) The lighting and the art at the hotel is mysterious and rich, lending to some amazingly unique images. Here, blending reality with a dreamlike quality- kind of like a wedding day, actually.
Meanwhile the guests enjoyed an outdoor cocktail hour. One of my favorite things about the Charles Hotel as a venue is this courtyard.
Inside the romantic scene was being set with candles,
Warm lighting and vibrant colorful floral arrangements,
And this decadent, sparkly wedding cake.
Eleni and Johnnie made their grand entrance.
Right into their first dance.
As is the Greek custom, their family and friends showered them with money.
Ultimately they were joined on the dance floor by everyone. I especially enjoyed their nephews dancing crazily beside them.
And the party begins….
After the DJ got things heated up, the Greek band led the Greek dancing.
A highlight for all… the men’s dance. Hilarious. I am not 100% sure what it is about, but the boys have to get down on their knees,
On their backs,
and drink. Too much fun!
And I’ll drink to that.
Huge congrats to Eleni and Johnnie and their families. What an amazing celebration. We are so glad we could document it for you.
Additional thanks to all of the pro’s who help make it a fantastic day:
Ceremony Officiant and Venue: V. Rev. Dr. Cleopas Strongylis of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Reception venue and planner: Sarah Chatigny of the Charles Hotel
Caterer: Henrietta’s Table at the Charles Hotel
Cake: Danny Angelopolus at the Charles Hotel
Brides wedding gown: Monique Lhullier from L’elite Bridal Salon
Bridesmaids dresses: Melissa at Allegria Bridal with Jim Hjelm and Lazaro gowns
Groom and groomsmens tuxes: Russo’s Tux
Bride’s hair: Maria Iannessa from Bella Capelli
Bride’s make-up: Eddie Fee
Floral and lighting design: Donna Fucaloro of Pepperberry Flowers
DJ: Kostas Flathras of Hellenic Sound Productions
Ceremony Musicians: Lindsey McChord of Longly School of Music
Videographer: Jesse Barack of Mass Videography
Invitations and other printed materials: Lynne Johnson of The Inviting Company
If you still want more, check out their engagement session, Part 1, and their PicFlick.
