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.
Jul
29
Mina and George first met during an Argentine Tango class. Music has followed them through their relationship and I honestly felt as if I heard a soundtrack accompanying their wedding day. So this post is primarily a tribute to that element of their day.
Starting with the birdsong backdrop during their portrait session.
During their first dance, guests enjoyed watching our couple show off their moves.
While they were visiting tables, a Persian game between the bride and groom and their guests turned into a spontaneous dance party.
Mina and George are not the only ones who felt the inspiration to dance. Almost instantly everyone was on the dance floor.
Mina and George took center stage.
Taking a break from the music, for a few toasts.
A sweet slow song.
Girls just want to have fun… with the bouquet toss. This one taken by our associate, Brian Lee. The ladies had such a good time.
Boys! Boys! Boys! The garter toss. Mina giving George a little instruction about what to do and not to do.
One boy getting psyched up for the garter.
Closing the evening out with a lullaby, my favorite by Brian. This young lady was pooped from all the fun.
What a pleasure it was photographing Mina and George and their families, such fun spirits. Thank you for including us.
And much gratitude to the team of professionals who made their day so lovely:
Getting Ready Venue: San Ramon Marriott
Ceremony and Reception Site: Canyon View
Cake: City of D’lights
Floral design: San Francisco Florist
DJ: Aykut
Hair and Make-up: Victoria’s Salon
Wedding gown: Jenny Packham at Nouvelle Vogue
Invitations and other products: Lovebirds Stationary
Can’t get enough of this musical duo? I don’t blame you. For more of Mina and George, check out their engagement session, sneak preview, and slideshow.
Jul
21
For Mina and George’s Northern California destination wedding, they brought together both of their cultural traditions and treated their guests to some really fabulous experiences. From the traditional Persian ceremony, complete with the Sofreh-ye Aghd (or spread), and Persian dancing to the Chinese tea ceremony and Dim Sum for Sunday brunch, their East meets Far East wedding was a perfect blend.
Guests traveled from near and far. Even Mina and George came all the way from Chattanooga, Tennesee. One of the other exciting elements for everyone was the fabulous Tri Valley view. Mina and George chose the Canyon View because the terrace offered 270 degree views of the gorgeous California hills.
Mina and George both got ready at the nearby Marriott hotel. Dave hung out with George as he prepped.
Loving the detail on Mina’s shoes and best of all George did all of the crafty work to add the bling. Seriously. He put on all of the crystals. Pretty amazing, no?
When Mina arrived from the hair salon, it was time to get into her dress.
Mina and George didn’t have a traditional bridal party, but Mina’s best friend Sarah was the best unofficial maid of honor ever. She helped Mina get all gussied up, and kept the whole day running smoothly.
Loving all the details of Mina’s look, from her sparkly earrings…
To the stunning back of her dress. And everything in between.
As soon as Mina was ready, we brought George to the hotel garden where they would see each other for the first time. Check out the big smile on his face as Mina walks towards him.
We took a few portraits of our bride and groom before heading to Canyon View for the ceremony.
The ceremony was held on the terrace.
I was particularly taken with the officiant’s use of the iPad. Never would have thought of that, especially given how bright out it was, but it seemed to work great for him.
Part of the tradition is for family friends to hold a canopy above the couple during the ceremony.
When the officiant asks the bride for her hand on behalf of the groom, she doesn’t speak at first. He asks 3 times and finally she says "Baleh." This moment is full of joy and laughter. Here it was captured by our associate Brian.
And one of my personal favorite moments from the ceremony. Mina and George give each other a taste of the honey from the sofreh. Sweet and sexy.
And just a hint of what’s to come, here’s one from their portrait session.
More soon from their fabulous party.
But if you want to see more of Mina and George now, check out their engagement session PicFlick.
May
03
Hooray! Hooray! I get to share the rest of the images from Selina and Greg’s wedding. This was the first wedding of our season and what a way to start off the year- a fabulous destination wedding at the stunning Palms Hotel in Miami Beach with a truly wonderful couple. Selina and Greg are so full of joy and vibrance and love and they are not afraid to show it. Honestly, I keep falling for them. I can’t help it.
So allow me to let them inspire you and infuse your day with joy. We begin at the beginning.
Preparing for the big day, Selina was relaxed and happy.
Of course, it didn’t hurt that this was the view from her window. Even on a stormy day, Miami Beach is gorgeous.
Selina’s mom helped her put on her veil. So beautiful.
Selina and Greg created amazing atmosphere for their wedding. I can’t wait to share more details and inspiration; everything worked together beautifully. But for now, here’s just a peek from the ceremony decor.
Walking down the aisle on her dad’s arm.
She was literally jaw-dropping gorgeous. Can’t blame Greg for this reaction upon seeing his bride for the first time on their wedding day.
Bringing in family traditions, Selina and Greg jumped the broom at the culmination of the ceremony.
Relaxing with her bridesmaids after the ceremony. I love their dresses- very fresh and flirty and tropical. Best of all, they are totally wearable.
A hint of what’s to come from the reception details and inspiration. Stunning.
I love how Dave captured this image from their first dance. For me, it tells the whole story of this moment, but still allows for mystery. Very romantic.
Later dances included the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance. Greg’s mom looks so happy.
The party got underway. And it was quite a party. In fact, Selina told me this group had so enjoyed the destination aspect of the wedding, everyone arrived a few days before the wedding. They had all been hanging out together until at least 2 am each night. This group was totally up for some fun times.
So cute how the girls formed a circle around Selina.
On the dance floor. Selina and Greg know how to have a good time together.
So it’s no surprise that during the cake cutting, Selina had a plan to play a trick on her new husband. She got him as close as she could. Note her right hand.
Then sneak attack. She hit him with cake on the face.
Laughter abounded- cause that’s just how these two roll- and of course a "make-up" kiss.
Just had to finish with one of my absolute favorite images. A totally natural, candid moment of pure joy, love and tenderness.
I absolutely couldn’t blame you if you can’t get enough of Selina and Greg and their gorgeous destination wedding. So definitely check out their Newlywed Session where we did a little Trash the Dress action or their slideshow.
And of course, we have to thank all of the professionals who helped to make their wedding great:
Wedding Venue: The Palms Hotel and Spa, Miami Beach, Florida
Wedding coordinator: Helen Diaz from Modern Events
Ceremony Officiant: Father Frank Fagan
Make-up artist: Miriam B.
Floral Design: Ever After Floral Design
Cake: Elegant Temptations by Rosie Cunill
DJ: Exquisite Sound Productions by Raquel Salcedo
Another huge thank you to Sarah and Bryan for introducing us to Selina and Greg. We are so glad we can continue to be a part of your family’s celebrations.
Most of all, we want to thank Selina and Greg for including us in your amazing wedding. We are thrilled we could capture these memories for you.
Apr
23
Heading into the weekend, I figure we could all use a little dreamy beachside gorgeous-ness. And Selina and Greg found just the spot for their destination wedding at The Palms Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach, Florida. Just sharing a few favorites from their newlywed session the day after their wedding.
Alas, it rains even in paradise, so we started off with portraits around the hotel. Fortunately the hotel is beau-ti-ful so we had no problem finding amazing locations around every corner. Plus Selina and Greg would look good anywhere. They totally made it easy for us.
We did jump from the veranda terrace to a little jungle-like oasis by the pool without getting too, too wet.
Then over to the bar with appropriate grass thatched roof.
Snuggling up among all the greenery…
and by The Palms gate.
As soon as there was a break in the rain, we headed out to the beach.
You might guess that Dave and I were a bit in love with the lifeguard stand. As it was raining, the lifeguard didn’t have a ton to do that day and was totally at ease with us playing on his perch. All of the stands along Miami Beach are decorated with Art Deco flair, but the one by The Palms just shouts sun and fun. How lucky is that!
We couldn’t miss the opportunity for a little Trash the Dress action, but only a little. Selina and Greg were flying off to their honeymoon that afternoon and we couldn’t have their baggage weigh more than the limit. So they couldn’t get too wet, but that didn’t stop them from taking on the From Here to Eternity moment and adding their own flare to it.
Oops. Didn’t expect that wave.
Yup, even with the stormy clouds, the view was spectacular.
So glad we were able to venture to Miami Beach with Selina and Greg. Can’t wait to share more from their fabulous destination wedding! More to come soon from the ceremony, the reception, the family and friends celebrating.
Feb
24
When Marla and Shawn chose to have a destination wedding in California‘s stunning wine country rather than wed in their Texas hometown, they certainly gave up some control. But they still found several ways to infuse their wedding with their own style and some very important personal touches.
Some things, like the get-away car, they could chose from a distance. The elected to hire Bow Tie Limousines for a vintage auto, completing the classic and romantic tone of their wedding.
Having chosen to have their wedding at Hans Fahden winery, Marla and Shawn were able to give their guests a taste of their fabulous wedding. A bottle of wine was the perfect remembrance.
And it wouldn’t be a fabulous california wedding without amazing food. What a treat for all of their guests!
As a playful farewell, they chose to exit amidst bubbles and found these adorable champagne bottle bubbles.
One of the most special elements was Marla’s something old. The spoon holding their wedding rings in the photo below, and attached to Marla’s bouquet in the next image, is a family heirloom. It was actually a wedding gift given to her great-grandmother over 100 years ago.
The flower girl dresses were especially cute. Check out the black embroidery at the bottom.
Similar style was brought to the design on the cake.
Another special treat, the guest sign-in book. The guests participated in making this book even more special for Marla and Shawn by including their well wishes for the bride and groom within its pages.
Marla selected black magic roses and wine calla lilies for her bouquet and Shawn’s boutonniere. The merlot color scheme fit perfectly with the setting. She also included pheasant feathers, a reminder of her hometown.
One final detail to celebrate… Marla’s veil. I love the delicacy of it, so very feminine.
Despite the long distance planning, Marla and Shawn were able to put their stamp on their wedding and include so many personal touches.
Special thanks go out to all of the professionals who helped them in their efforts:
Wedding venue: Hans Fahden Vineyards, Calistoga
Caterer and Wedding Cake: Knickerbockers, St. Helena
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals, San Francisco
Florist: Claudia K Florist, St. Helena
Officiant: Harry Jackson
Limo: Bow Tie Limousine, Santa Rosa
Jan
13
Marla and Shawn had a stunning destination wedding at Hans Fahden Winery in Napa Valley, California. They had many of the traditional elements and celebrated in good style, but the day after their wedding, they wanted to spice things up a bit. So we did a very special newlywed session in the Marin Headlands and along the California Coast.
First stop, Point Bonita Lighthouse- so fun- everyone was cheering and so gracious, allowing the newlyweds to cross the bridge at the head of the line.
When walking back up the hill from the lighthouse, we noticed this little path in the grasses and a fabulous view of the Golden Gate Bridge. We had to stop and enjoy the scenery.
We had parked by this old bunker. It was a great place to play around for a bit. All of the old, rusty metal provided great texture and contrast to Marla’s softness.
We concluded our tour at Rodeo Beach for a little wave action and an opportunity to Trash the Dress.
Yes, they got wet and yes, it was very, very cold. These two were such troopers though. I was amazed!
We really got so lucky with the weather and the day turned out to be perfect. If you want to see more from their TTD session and their wedding, definitely take a look at their slideshow, their sneak preview, and their scoop.
Oct
07
Me oh my- I am so excited to share more from Lauren and David’s amazing day at the Castle Hill Inn.
With the rain far behind us, we captured a few images of our happy couple with the beautiful scenery whenever we could steal them away.
And then we spent the rest of the evening photographing all the joy- and there was lots.
Lauren and David definitely like to have fun. They are so playful together. And Lauren must have had about a thousand different facial expressions to show her happiness.
After the first dance, the hora.
Each couple went up in turn, Lauren and David first, followed by Lauren’s parents, and then David’s. His mom was a little nervous I think.
David’s cousin gave one of the toasts and he rewarded her with a huge thank you hug.
Dancing got underway in full force. Lauren’s parents, so fun.
I loved this moment. Just before they fed each other the cake, there was definitely some teasing going on. And Lauren, all with her eyes, says, "Please."
Then more dancing. Lauren made sure to have a little time with each of her grandfathers.
And with her girlfriends.
Lauren’s sister was a great help throughout the day, and also enjoyed a little time on the dance floor once the party got underway.
Maybe the best thing about a destination wedding, like this one in Newport, is that everyone has more time together, because all of the guests stay for the weekend.
Lauren enjoys another chance to connect with friends.
I have to close with one of my favorite images from the day. We had this amazing sunset over the water. Such a beautiful place to spend a couple of moments as newlyweds.
Many thanks to the professionals who helped make Lauren and David’s day so special.
A big shout out to Nancy and her team at Castle Hill. Nancy was truly amazing, top notch all the way.
Also special thanks to Rocco Michaluk of Video & Vision. It was really great to work with you.
And for helping to complete Lauren and David’s vision:
Floral Design (more on this in a later post because WOW! gorgeous work): Laurel Lane of Laurel Lane Floral Design
Wedding cake and groom’s cake: Scrumptions
Invitations: Ruth at The Party People
Other printed materials: Judith Carroll at Papers
For creating Lauren and David’s personal looks:
Hair and Make-up: Jen Murphy and Frank Antonio from Frank Antonio Hair & Makeup
Lauren’s wedding dress: Romona Keveza from Bridal Reflections
Bridesmaid dress: Lazaro from Fontana’s
David’s attire: Georgio Armani
Groomsmen’s attire: Calvin Klein from Century 21
Plus a huge thank you to Lauren and David and your families. It was such a joy to be a part of your day and to celebrate with you.
Make sure to check out their slideshow as well.
Oct
01
I adore Lauren and David. Yup, I do. Why? Because nothing could dampen their spirits on their wedding day. And they had a few more things than normal to contend with, including a torrential downpour that came out of nowhere about 20 minutes before their outdoor ceremony was set to begin. Throughout it all, they handled everything that came their way with grace. I not only adore them, I admire them. And it doesn’t hurt that they are super nice and darn cute together.
So let’s start at the beginning of their day. We met up with Lauren at the Castle Hill Inn in Newport where she and David were celebrating their wedding. We started with Lauren in her room as she and her girlfriends were getting ready.
Then she met up with David in the chalet garden, where they saw each other for the first time on their wedding day.
The rain started coming down just as we finished the family portraits. And it kept coming down for a good long time. Fortunately, the ketubah and bedeken ceremonies were scheduled to be indoors. The went off without a hitch.
It seemed like the rain would pass. It was amazing- on one side of the building you could see sunshine and blue skies, on the other side rain. Lauren waited and watched.
They held off the ceremony as long as they could and just in time, the skies cleared completely. Except for a few of the most perfect fluffy clouds. It was definitely worth the wait.
A few of my favorites from the ceremony…
That’s David’s brother walking Lauren and David’s puppy, and ringbearer, Henry. Isn’t Henry such a sweet little pup?
Lauren walking down the aisle under the enormous sky…
Lauren during the ceremony…
The sun shining down on the happy couple under the chuppah…
I love Lauren’s smile.
And David’s.
And a fabulous kiss under blue skies.
Talk about weathering the storm. Lauren and David absolutely enjoyed all of the good stuff that came their way. It was such a delight to be with them on their wedding day.
There are definitely lots more to come. But if you want more now, check out the sneak peek on the Allegro Photography fan page.
Sep
17
Did I promise dancing? Or did I promise dancing?
When Heather met up with us for her planning meeting, we talked about all sorts of details regarding timing and portraits for her wedding at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston. But what she was most excited about was the dancing. She couldn’t wait for the party. She wanted to see all of her friends and family having a good time. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint. But before we get to the dancing party, a few formalities, with a less formal air.
Early on in the dinner reception, Heather’s dad welcomed guests and toasted the bride and groom and their future together.
His words and thoughts definitely connected with Heather.
Throughout dinner, the guests relaxed and got to know each other. Many were meeting each other for the first time. The long tables were perfect not only for the physical space of the ICA’s theater, but also for encouraging interactions. Conversations never lulled.
Being a theater, dramatic lighting was a must. The reception had an elegant chic feel to it.
Christian took a spin around to visit with his friends and family who had traveled from Italy to celebrate with he and Heather. There was much joy and merriment.
After the sun set, Dave stepped outside to take in the whole scene. On the left the theater’s long expansive window allowing a view into the dinner reception, and to the right Boston’s beautiful waterfront skyline.
And now for the party….
One of my fave’s of the night. I love the feeling Dave captured in this image- the intenisty, the connectedness, the energy….
From the abstract to the literal. These two were crazy fun on the dance floor; they had some serious moves.
Feeling the music.
A little showmanship and all about the fun.
I have to close with my favorite image from the night. For me, this one image tells Heather and Christian’s story. Actually watching them dance together, I got to see so much about how they work together- the give, the take- each completely in tune with the other. And so clearly enjoying being together. I can’t help smiling.
Everyone had a great time dancing under the stars. All in all a truly amazing evening.
And now my chance to say thank you to a truly fabulous team of professionals who created and assisted in making this vision a reality:
I absolutely have to thank Kim Stone and Billy Evers of Rafanelli Events and their amazing colleagues. What a night! Heather and Christian didn’t have a thing to worry about with you guys on the job. The whole event went perfectly. And the look of it all, the feel of it all…. Well, don’t worry, I will go on in another blog post, but for now I just have to say I loved the way you mixed a modern aesthetic with classic elements. You guys throw one hell of a party!
Also thank you to:
The ICA Staff, who took care of all aspects of the location including lighting
The crew from Wolfgang Puck for their amazing food and service
Cakes to Remember for the beautiful wedding cake
The look of the evening would not have been complete without the talent and assistance of:
Winston Floral
Be Our Guest
Signature Event Rentals
Party by Design
Peterson’s Party Center
The entertainment for the evening was out of this world. Huge kudos to DJ Kupah an DJ Kaz from Upside Entertainment.
And a special thank you to Matt Teuten of Matt Teuten Photography for the photo booth. What a hit!
A few final thank yous for helping the get the day started on the right foot:
Westin Waterfront Hotel
Vera Wang for Heather’s gorgeous white dress
Luis from Luz Beauty for the hair and make-up
Congrats again Heather and Christian! You guys make an amazing couple; it was such a joy documenting your celebration.
If you would like to see more from Heather and Christian’s Soiree, check out their sneak preview and their slideshow.
