Oct
18
Wow! It has been awhile since I have written on the blog. I am hoping to get back on track and I can’t think of a better way to start than with a super fabulous getting ready session at the Liberty Hotel, followed by portraits at the Liberty and around Beacon Hill, and a ceremony at High Rock Church in Arlington. I just finished working on the design of Amy and Phil’s album, so the photos and all of the fun are fresh in my mind, as well.
To kick things off, here’s a ring shot, utilizing the Liberty’s awesome keys.
Up in the bridal suite as Amy was getting ready, I took the opportunity to capture a few of her dress. Loving the view she had. She got to look at the beautiful Boston skyline the whole time she was getting her hair and make-up done.
Before Amy went down to see Phil for the first time on their wedding day, her bridesmaids surrounded her and offered a prayer for her.
On one of the balconies, Phil took a deep breath as he awaited his first look of Amy.
A sweet moment when first they saw each other. The light and shape of the windows in the Liberty offered a beautiful backdrop and opportunity for this silhouette.
We had the bridal party all together so played around with the levels a bit.
In the lobby, a portrait of Amy.
After a few in the hotel, Dave took Amy and Phil out to the streets of Boston, Beacon Hill to be specific.
And along the way they ran into the Bruins‘ celebration. Amy and Phil just happened to be getting married on the day of the Bruins‘ Stanley Cup victory parade, which also happened to be taking place right next to where they were getting ready. It presented some challenges for the day, but also some super fun opportunities.
The streets also offered up a perfectly placed Coke truck.
When they finished with the Boston portraits, everyone headed to the church for the ceremony.
Proud dad with a very happy bride.
More to follow soon from the rest of the ceremony, portraits and the reception at Black Swan Country Club.
Sep
15
We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming…. Yup that’s right. You already saw these two get married, or at least the beginning of the wedding festivities, so while you are waiting for the final installment, I thought I would share a few from their super fun engagement session. They took us through their old stomping grounds of Boston’s beautiful Back Bay and then to the Charles River.
We started at Bar Lola, infamous for their first date and many others after that. The bartender knew them by name, knew their favorite drinks, even knew what to song to play for them. In fact, that first date ended with dancing right about here….
Since they used to live in the Back Bay, they spent time all around Commonwealth Ave. And it is perfect for photos.
As we made our way to the Charles River, we couldn’t help but enjoy this picturesque neighborhood.
More dancing.
Enjoying the view.
And a few more in the city they love…
If you want more from their engagement session, definitely check out the slideshow.
And now we return to our regularly scheduled programming. More from Janette & Wes’ Very Boston Wedding at the Trinity Church, Public Gardens and Fairmont Copley Plaza to follow soon.
Sep
08
Janette and Wesley married on a gorgeous summer day in Boston. The sun shone down on them as did the warmth of family and friends who had traveled from near and far.
We started the day with Janette who got ready at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. At first, it was just our bride, her stylist and us. Soon enough, the room was filled with Janette’s sisters who were primping, prepping, and helping.
We all walked through the hotel lobby and across the street to the Trinity Church, where Janette and Wes would get married.
Wes was ready before the ladies and had time for a couple portraits with Dave.
One vocalist on the alter of the Trinity Church.
Janette walked down to the theme song of the Princess Bride (definitively one of my favorite movies of all time, can’t help mentioning it). And her dad gave her away with a proud smile. Actually I also love Wesley’s smile; he seems to be bursting with joy in this moment.
I don’t know if I have ever seen such a big smile during communion. Clearly Wes’ mom is happy about this wedding. Love!
During the receiving line, guests- especially little ones- waved streamers in celebration.
Then the bridal party and our bride and groom hopped on the trolley to go to the public garden for portraits.
A bit of romance and sweetness under the willow tree.
And then Janette surrounded by beautiful flowers.
One final image from the public garden. Might be my favorite in a long time. I like the mystery of it.
And I just had to share this one. They (her sisters that is) said she knew how to shop. And this image seems to speak to that in so many ways. I love the feel of it.
And fear not, there are tons more from this beautiful Copley Square wedding! Check back soon.
Nov
15
Part Two: I left off the last entry (part one) and even with so many amazing moments to share, I hadn’t even reached the heart of the ceremony. Oh boy! So this one is going to be another lonnnnggggg post. But as I said before, it’s not my fault Lindsay and Alex had such a great day. Maybe I didn’t say it before, but I am not-so-secretly thrilled it was idyllic. Why? Because Lindsay and Alex are really lovely individuals- Alex is calm, courteous, thoughtful. Lindsay is joyous, warm, caring. And they put so much time and energy into all aspects of their wedding. Even with these two posts being long, I won’t be able to share everything I want to share. So I will do my best to just give you a glimpse of all that ensued.
We start back at the ceremony. I love this moment when Lindsay’s dad removes her veil.
Alex is Greek, so they chose to have their ceremony at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and celebrate his traditions. The ceremony was all in Greek and on the long side. In the midst of it, Alex stole a peek at Lindsay.
The afternoon light coming in from the windows was lovely and warm.
And have I mentioned how much I love this church?! We’ve been there several times and each time I find something new to photograph and a new way to capture the ceremony. It is just so beautiful.
A fun moment. The ring bearer had walked right in front of them as they were circling the alter. He didn’t really want to move. Loving the smile on the priest’s face as he looks down at the little boy.
Putting on the crowns.
After the ceremony and portraits, Lindsay and Alex made their way out of the church. Dave captured of them on the stairs. Another new vantage point for us.
Dave and our associate Nikki went with Lindsay and Alex to capture a few portraits on Copley Square. They started at the Boston Public Library, a place I love, and Dave created this stunning portrait of Lindsay. During our premiere, she mentioned how much she enjoyed spinning in her dress. It shows!
Another at the BPL. Alex whispering something quite amusing in Lindsay’s ear.
The view from the library, looking back at the Copley Plaza, where they hosted their reception. These two look so great, and I am loving the moodiness of the image, as the sun was setting.
When Lindsay and Alex arrived at the hotel, they went up to their suite for a bite to eat and a moment of rest. I joined them and captured this image of Lindsay while her bridesmaids were working on her bustle.
Downstairs in the Oval Room, Dave spent a few moments documenting the amazing decor. Lindsay’s color pallette of burnt orange, creams, yellows, citrus orange and gold was absolutely stunning, especially against the blue and gold backdrop of the room. And Jessica of Jess’ Country Flowers interpretted her vision perfectly. We have tons more to share of this, but I thought I would save it for another post. So this is just a little tease of the beautiful space.
Lindsay and Alex entered to cheers and dancing and fun. The party got started right away.
I have to stop to celebrate their nephew (aka the ring bearer). He was absolutely adorable and was excited by all aspects of the wedding- from the ceremony to the band to the bouquets to Lindsay’s dress.
First dance.
That cake looked delish. Lindsay fed Alex. Alex fed Lindsay. Then Alex helped with a little touch up. So sweet.
Lindsay and her dad.
Alex with his mom.
The Greek dancing got underway. I LOVE Greek dancing. In the air.
Our bride and groom joining in the fun.
Guests danced in honor of Lindsay and Alex. Much merriment all around.
One of the new lead singer from the Flipside playing on the tambourine.
And a couple more of celebration. Lindsay and Alex took a quick break from the dancing to toast with friends in the Venetian Room. That is NOT water in their glasses, by the way.
And then back on the dance floor for more fun!
What a day! What a night! What a wonderful, fabulous, fun, beautiful wedding! Congrats, Lindsay and Alex.
So many outstanding professionals to thank for bringing their wedding together so perfectly. Every single one came through and exceded their expectations and dreams:
First of all, Lyndsay Picciano and her team at the Fairmont Copley Plaza provided exceptional service and the tastiest of meals.
Also, His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Krommydas and Rev. Dr. Cleopas Strongylis for their guidance and for presiding over the ceremony at Boston‘s Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
For Lindsay and Alex’s looks:
Wedding gown: Eli Saab
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Jim Hjelm
Hair: Laura from Jesamondo Salon
Make-up: Lili from Jesamondo Salon
Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire: the Calvin Klein Tuxedo line from Men’s Wearhouse
For the look and feel of the day:
Floral design: Jessica Robinson from Jessica’s Country Flowers
Wedding cake: Ellen Bartlett of Cakes to Remember
Ceremony musicians: Bryan Hilliard and the Occasional Brass Trio
Greek musicians: George Makredes of the Makredes Duo
Reception band: Corin Ashley and the Flipside
Invitations, save the dates, programs, and more: Jillian Sullivan of Fizz Paperie (formerly J. Sullivan Designs)
Rentals: Debbie Hewitt of Festive Occasions
Cinematographers: Lisa Teneriello of Precious Moments Video
Lindsay and Alex, a special note of thanks. We had been looking forward to your wedding for quite a while and we had such an amazing time being a part of your celebration. Thank you so much for including us. We are so excited for you to start the next chapter of your life together.
For all our readers, I know you want more. I don’t blame you. And while there is more to come, in the form of a whole entry all about the details and to provide inspiration. For now, I would recommend checking out Lindsay and Alex’s engagement session, sneak peek, and PicFlick.
Nov
06
I have a problem. And here’s the gist of it. Lindsay and Alex’s wedding was simply too beautiful. They are both stunning individuals, inside and out. Really, you won’t be able to resist falling in love with them. Their friends and family are great. The emotions were fun, crazy, sweet, joyful. And then wait til you see Lindsay’s decor choices. So I have a problem. It’s not my fault. But really, faced with so much awesomeness, I couldn’t choose just a few photos. So here we are and there are a lot of photos in Lindsay and Alex’s sneak peek. I guess it’s more of a part one than a sneak peek. And I beg your pardon and your indulgence as I couldn’t help myself. Enjoy.
I started the day with Lindsay at a fabulous apartment in Brookline. When I arrived the place was bustling. Lindsay was getting her hair done and the florist had just arrived with the personal flowers. Truly Lindsay was blown away. I do believe she had tears in her eyes. Her bouquet was just what she wanted.
That’s her dad. Yup, he’s bringing her dress to the bedroom for me to photograph it. But really I just like seeing him hold the dress.
Putting her gown on.
And her necklace. Love the softness of this one.
Oh my goodness. She takes my breath away.
Checking herself out and a few final touches by one of her bridesmaids.
Then she sees her dad.
On the way out.
Meanwhile, Dave and our associate Nikki met up with Alex and his boys at the Fairmont Copley Plaza (where we would end our evening). They dashed off to the Public Garden (where Alex would see Lindsay for the first time in her wedding dress).
While they were waiting for us, they popped into Cheers and Dave captured this portrait. Very masculine.
Not too long after, the ladies arrived.
Nikki captured Alex with his back to Lindsay so he wouldn’t see her before he was supposed to.
And then, he sees his bride.
And she sees him.
Sweetness.
We photographed several family portraits in the park and a few details. Dave really liked the softness of Lindsay’s dress next to the hard polished look of the stones.
Alex and the crew hopped into their limos. But Lindsay and her dad had a special vintage car and driver. No windows, just a clear view of the city.
Time for the ceremony. This little one was more than ready. He even walked down the aisle before it was actually his turn.
Did I mention that I love their families?
Alex getting ready to see Lindsay for the second first time.
The Greek Orthodox Cathedral is one of my favorite ceremony sites in Boston. It is simply gorgeous. Nikki captured this image from the balcony. You can totally get a sense of the beauty of the space.
But you can’t beat this moment. She looks so happy to be walking down the aisle.
I hope you enjoyed part one as much as I did. There are so many more great photos to come, from the ceremony, from Lindsay and Alex’s portraits, from the reception and all of their amazing details. In the meantime, you should definitely check out their engagement session along the Charles River.
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
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.
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.
Jul
02
We get to see all kinds of weddings, for sure, from the most minimal- a couple at city hall- to the most extravagant- a bride and groom with huge numbers of guests in grand venues- and everything in between. And we enjoy them all; the beauty in each truely comes down to the people involved. When Meagan contacted me, I was very excited. You see, Meagan was referred to us by her friend Leigh-Ann, who also happens to be our friend and a wedding industry peer so we knew Meagan would be fantastic to work with. She and Chris and their wonderful families did not disappoint. And their intimate wedding was absolutely beautiful.
Meagan and Chris had been engaged for awhile, but hadn’t gotten very far into the wedding planning, until this spring, that is. At which point, they decided not to mess around and scheduled the date for early June. They planned a small ceremony at her parent’s home in Beacon Hill, with portraits to follow in the Public Garden, and then dinner at a favorite restaurant. The whole feel of the evening was warm, loving, bright.
Meagan arrived at the ceremony on foot. Calm, at ease, and joyful.
She entered the living room where their guests were gathered. Some stood, some made themselves comfortable on the couches and chairs.
I found myself completely caught up in the meaning of the ceremony, truly listening and feeling the impact of the moment.
The kiss and the applause.
And the hugs and the tears. Pretty much everyone was in tears.
Meagan definitely thought about the details and they seemed to match her sophisticated taste to a tee. Her J.Crew wedding dress was modern and chic; her bouquet of cream roses with touches of whites and greens was the perfect accent.
Following the ceremony, we took a few portraits in the condo.
I love the moment just before the kiss.
Snuggling up by the window.
Then we ventured down to the Boston Public Garden.
The big tree in the back and the way Meagan casually holds her dress gives this one an old world romantic feel.
I am thinking these tourists definitely got their money’s worth from their Duck Boat adventure.
We went back up to the flat to hang out for a bit before dinner.
The yummy looking cake. Mmm…. I think I am getting hungry.
Then over to the Beacon Hill Hotel & Bistro for dinner.
And some more photos?!
Many thanks to Meagan and Chris. What a joy it was to work with you and be a part of your celebration!
If you want to see more, check out their slideshow.
Jun
09
We often say that engagement sessions are like double-dates, except we have cameras. After all, there’s a lot of laughter, we go to beautiful places, and we generally have fun. Our e-session with Maren and Steve was no exception, plus their session included dinner and dancing to boot.
We started off in the North End, for a really beautiful and quaint bit of Boston. We were lucky enough to enjoy near-perfect weather. So we wandered and strolled and found some quiet nooks and a few more public spots for a wide variety of surroundings.
Monday was a great night for the shoot as it also happens to be the night that many restauranteurs take a break. We had the doorway to this little Italian restaurant all to ourselves.
At the edge of the North End, you also get a unique view of Boston.
We then took the Charlestown Ferry across the river at sunset. The light was beautiful, the wind cool, and the views amazing. I am so glad Dave suggested this- what a great way to enjoy the water and the cities on both sides.
Once in Charlestown, we walked along the pier and captured a few images of Maren and Steve enjoying the scenery, the breeze and each other.
Among the boats.
We took a break as the dusk turned to night and enjoyed a meal at a favorite Tavern overlooking the water. Then ventured out for a few more on the pier.
As promised, there was dancing.
It was so hard to choose which ones to share. These two can not take a bad photo. Definitely check out their slideshow for more photos.
We can’t wait for their wedding at the Glen Manor House near Newport.
