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.
Jan
04
We knew that Eleni and Johnnie’s wedding was going to be fantastic long before the actual day arrived. First there was our initial consult and the way Johnnie looks at Eleni. And at that first meeting, he shared how much he wanted to just get married so they could start their life as a family.
Then there was their engagement session, which was loads of fun. The North End was Johnnie’s stomping ground, and where they had their first date. We saw more of the neighborhood than we ever had before. And then during our pre-wedding meeting, we asked them what they were most looking forward to and they both reiterated, “We can’t wait to be married!”
So we knew the day would be extraordinarily special, focused on their love and we knew based on how much fun these two are, that their friends and family would surely be a blast as well. We were not disappointed.
We started at Eleni’s parents home for her getting ready photos and family portraits.
Gotta love her dress, but this image is also about the home that she grew up in- the chandelier, the china cabinet and other family heirlooms.
Dave popped outside to get a photo of all the boys in the family. Eleni couldn’t resist sneaking in. Only one little guy noticed. Then Dave headed off to Johnnie’s mom’s house for their family photos.
Meanwhile, Eleni was helped into her beautiful dress by her mom and her sisters.
I took a few portraits of Eleni in her parents bedroom. The window light was gorgeous. But I also love all of the family details. In this image, I was able to capture her mother watching as well as her parents wedding photo on the wall, a layered story.
And the boys helped her make her way down the stairs.
On the way out, she kicked the glass of water down the stairs. Then she hopped into her vintage limo.
Meanwhile, Dave and the boys had made it to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Johnnie can totally pull off the Godfather look; he has the perfect smile.
But his true nature comes out as he waits in the back of the church. He must be thinking, “When can we start already?!”
And then the festivities began in earnest. The boys made their way out to the sanctuary. And as his niece was walking down the aisle, his sister waved her on enthusiastically.
Eleni waited outside the doors with her parents.
From the moment she entered, she and Johnnie were all smiles. And he kept stealing glances at his beautiful bride.
Just before the kiss, Johnnie’s smile grows even bigger.
And what a kiss it was!
Portraits followed… here’s one quick glimpse of what is to come following the ceremony.
And the Charles Hotel reception follows that with some seriously fun and funny Greek dancing!
Dec
26
Details don’t make a wedding, but they certainly can make it elegant, fun, romantic…. you name it. Here’s a bit of inspiration from Lindsay and Rob’s wedding which absolutely was all three of those.
Lindsay’s bouquet with soft pinks, purples, yellows and whites- roses, dahlias, berries and more- it had a romantic country garden feel to it.
Her flower girl’s bouquet with similar flowers in a brighter color pallette- yellows and oranges and pinks- was a perfect complement to Lindsay’s bouquet and the coral dresses the bridesmaids wore.
Lindsay is supremely talented, a graphic designer for a game company, a jewelry designer, a cake designer. She can pretty much do it all. And she certainly had her share of DIY projects. Including this beautiful necklace and the necklaces she game to her bridesmaids, each one unique.
She also made this special something for her hair.
The earrings however were an heirloom, something old.
Because they met at Hasbro and love games, their was tons of whimsy and playfulness in their day. Here, our groom’s boutonniere- with yellow calla lily- has a Scrabble letter attached to it. Happens to be an R for his name, Rob. The groomsmen all had similar flowers with their own letters.
Kiddush cup for their Jewish wedding ceremony under the chuppah.
The look of the ceremony continued with rustic elegance in fall shades.
Another DIY project by the couple, the ringbearer’s pillow with birch bark and moss.
The Garden House at Look Park looked amazing, warm, romantic, elegant. Then the names of each tables are names of games – Life is at the forefront.
They made a game of it, with the escort cards. Guests had pieces from the game on their name card. They had to match the piece to the game to find their table.
View from the sweetheart table, with bride’s bouquet as centerpiece.
At the guests’ tables, a little entertainment- Trivial Pursuit: the Lindsay and Rob Edition.
Cake designed by Lindsay to match her chocolate brown and coral orange theme, as well as the touches of fall.
The printed pieces also stunning. No surprise there. Menu…
Invitation suite.
The sweetest touch: Lindsay and Rob created cookie mixes for guests to take home. We made one batch for their premiere and instantly became addicted. Out of this world delish!
Congrats to Lindsay and Rob on creating a supremely special event in which the details helped tell the story of who you are individually and as a couple.
And many thanks to the wedding experts who made the whole day such a success:
Getting ready location: Ruby Meng from Hotel Northampton
Ceremony venue: Jill Larken from Look Park, Pines Theater
Reception site: Jill Larken from Look Park, Garden House
Wedding planner: Caroline Levin from Sweet Caroline Weddings
Dress boutique: Bridal Heirlooms
Gown designer: Demetrios
Bridesmaids dresses: Alfred Angelo
Groomâ?(tm)s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen attire: Menswearhouse
Make-up: Karrie Welch
Ceremony musicians: Chari Peno from Con Fuoco Music
Entertainment: Tommy Plante from Hard At Play
Lighting: Jim Powers from CJC Event Lighting
Florist: Heather Sullivan from Durocher Florist
Caterer: Blue Heron Catering
Cake: Susan Forest from Royal Icings
Officiant: Rabbi Rachel Barenblat
Want more from Lindsay and Rob’s wedding? Check out their sneak peek, scoop, and PicFlick.
Nov
15
Romance + surprises + games = crazy good times for our bride, groom, their families, and their friends at this Look Park wedding.
Lindsay and Rob kicked off their wedding reception in the Garden House with an awesome first dance. Just the two of them at first….
Then the kids joined in.
And then more guests joined in with choreographed moves. And then more guests. A flash mob of awesome creation. And in the end, it was just Lindsay and Rob again. So fun!
Of course, Lindsay’s mom loved it and had to embrace her daughter.
Rob’s brother and best man entertained guests and Rob with one hell of a great speech.
It doesn’t hurt that he is actually a stand-up comic, but still he had his moments of seriousness.
Lindsay and her dad.
Rob and his mom.
Lindsay and her new step-son.
And Lindsay’s parents enjoying the party. Really, everyone wanted to be on this dancefloor.
And the whole family went up in the chair for the hora. First, Lindsay, then Rob…
Then their daughter and finally their son. He seemed to be enjoying this Jewish tradition.
I love that Lindsay had a chance to dance with her girlfriends too.
The party was wild good times with dancing….
And creative use of the game-inspired table names. (More on this bit of genious in a later blog post.)
Congrats to Lindsay and Rob! A fabulous day to begin a fabulous marriage!
And many thanks to the wedding experts who made the whole day such a success:
Getting ready location: Ruby Meng from Hotel Northampton
Ceremony venue: Jill Larken from Look Park, Pines Theater
Reception site: Jill Larken from Look Park, Garden House
Wedding planner: Caroline Levin from Sweet Caroline Weddings
Dress boutique: Bridal Heirlooms
Gown designer: Demetrios
Bridesmaids dresses: Alfred Angelo
Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen attire: Menswearhouse
Make-up: Karrie Welch
Ceremony musicians: Chari Peno from Con Fuoco Music
Entertainment: Tommy Plante from Hard At Play
Lighting: Jim Powers from CJC Event Lighting
Florist: Heather Sullivan from Durocher Florist
Caterer: Blue Heron Catering
Cake: Susan Forest from Royal Icings
Officiant: Rabbi Rachel Barenblat
Want more from Lindsay and Rob’s wedding? Check out their PicFlick.
Nov
01
When I met Lindsay and Rob about a year ago, I didn’t know them at all. They found us through Lindsay’s wedding gown boutique and came in because they liked what they had heard and saw. But all of that changed when we started to get to know each other. We quickly became friends. And really, if you met them, you would find them irrestibly fun and engaging too. They are easy to love- creative, talented, intelligent, so sweet on each other. I loved all of their stories. When they came over last winter to hang out, we played board games (an occupational hazard for them and a lot of fun for all of us). So when their wedding day arrived, it felt like we were going to the wedding of dear friends, and we wanted everything to be perfect for them. In truth, I think it was. So here’s a few of our favorites from their wedding day….
Dave popped by Rob’s room at the Hotel Northampton to see how things were going there. He and his son (aka ringbearer) were finishing getting ready. Loved the tailored suits and ties.
Meanwhile Lindsay was getting ready with the help of Rob’s little girl (aka flower girl).
Separately they made their way to the Pines Theater in Look Park, where they would enjoy a first look before the ceremony. Lindsay was so excited to see Rob she couldn’t wait, so she peeked out at him (his back was to her) from behind the bushes.
Then she walked out and made her way down to him.
If you want to see a few more from this first look (which was sweet and fun), check out their sneak peek on our facebook page. Following the first look, we had a good bit of time to enjoy the park and create portraits. We started with a few in the theater. These glorious trees rise behind the stage.
Then made our way over to the kiddie train. We only had a quick moment here because there was a long line of visitors waiting for the train, but the bridal party was able to hop on quickly.
There is some absolutely beautiful scenery in Look Park; one of my favorite spots is by this river.
Playtime? Absolutely (and this is only the beginning).
A super sweet family portrait.
Our ringbearer was hilarious.
Quick trip to mini-golf before the ketubah signing.
The guests have started to arrive and the kids couldn’t help but play with the bubbles in the field below the stage.
A strong embrace when Rob’s son arrives at the chuppah.
Rob’s daughter spreading rose petals for Lindsay to walk on.
A grand entrance.
So here’s the part where being a friend to the bride and groom can actually present challenges. Rob and Lindsay prepared beautiful and touching vows for each other. I couldn’t help myself; I was in tears, just like everyone else.
After the vows.
After the kiss and the glass stomp, Lindsay and Rob dashed off! It was like all of the pent up feelings of the day were released in a physical expression of energetic joy. (And Dave nearly got run over- too funny!)
They were soon followed by the kids.
More to come from the second half of the day and all of their amazing details.
Jun
01
Late summer/early fall of last year, we had the opportunity to work on a beautiful wedding with Tasha Bracken of SD Events. Tasha and her team planned a weekend that started with a wonderful rehearsal dinner at a family home in Manchester-by-the-Sea. They dealt gracefully with some less than perfect weather.
The next day brought stunning blue skies and joy to the happy couple and their families. The bride prepped at the Seaport Hotel while the groom got ready at a family home in Cambridge. The couple wed at the Harvard Memorial Church and celebrated with a reception at the Boston ICA. I thought it would be fun to share a few images showcasing the fabulous details from this New England and art-inspired wedding.
First the church florals (all by Honey of Lotus Designs). Here, her designs incorporate warm fresh hues of yellow, oranges, bright greens, and whites.
To get the guests from the church to the museum, what could be more Boston than a Duck Tour?
When the guests arrived, they were greeted by the view of the Boston Harbor.
Colors for cocktail hour were deep purples and blues.
The Wolfgang Puck team always ready with a smile!
For the dinner reception, Honey looked to shift the color palette. Here fuschia orchids, reds, greens, and blues made a contemporary statement for the modern space of the Barbara Lee theater.
When you take a step back, you can see how cool the space was with all of the floral sculptures floating from above.
Note the table cards, a tribute to museums around the world.
A special gift for the guest at each table setting.
Dinner music, string trio.
Downstairs to the lobby for dessert and dancing.
One final floral look… all shades of purple. Red linens were brought in to offset these arrangements.
So grateful to be able to capture these images from such a wonderful weekend. A very special thank you to Tasha Bracken of the Simple Details Events and Stephanie Rossi, and our bride and groom and their families.
And to the team who made this event come together beautifully, it was a pleasure to work with you:
Getting ready hotel: The Seaport, Boston
Ceremony site: Harvard Memorial Church, Cambridge
Reception venue: Institue of Contemporary Art, Boston
Caterer: Wolfgang Puck
Florist: Honey from Lotus Designs
Transportation: AA Allstars Rolls Royce, Duck Boat, and Trolley
Reception music: Hip Pocket Orchestra
Feb
28
Thrilled to share a few photos from a fall family portrait session. We absolutely adore this crew. You can feel their warmth, their playfulness and their enjoyment spending time together. For their portraits, we focused on the ways in which they interact. I hope you will enjoy the hugs, the laughter, the joy of the trampoline, and the freedom of a bike ride. I am pleased to introduce one of our favorite Wellesley families.
Thank you all. It was fabulous to work with you!
Want more? Check out their slideshow.
Jan
31
Excited to share the second part of Mollie and Matt’s beautiful wedding at the Crane Estate. They celebrated with the last bit of fall still in the air, and on the trees. After their ceremony at Mollie’s family church, they traveled to Castle Hill for their portraits and their reception.
First off, portraits of our beautiful couple. Loving the oranges and golds in the background.
Enjoying the architecture of the Great House.
Before they were introduced, Mollie went upstairs to the bridal suite for a few touch-ups. On her way back down…
The guests dined in the central hall.
A few guests spent a bit more time enjoying the views of the Grand Allee. (For Amazing Race fans, this view may look familiar. Last season the host started the journey here.)
The first dance.
Mollie and her dad.
After Matt danced with his mom, she was all teary eyed.
Mollie’s parents enjoying the party.
Little boy getting down.
Such a perfect cake. Fits right in.
One final moment. Mollie and Matt enjoyed a slow dance towards the end of the night, amidst all their guests.
What an absolutely amazing evening! Congrats to Mollie and Matt and many thanks to all of the professionals who teamed up for their wedding day.
Wedding planners: Megan Whithed from Linnea Tangorra Events
Church: St. Williams Church, Tewksbury
Reception venue: Ashley DiCarlo from The Crane Estate
Tent: Seacoast
Caterer: Tables of Content
Wedding cake: Jenny’s Cakes
Make-up artist: Dani Wagener
Hair: Derek Yuen and Aurora Salon and Spa
Wedding gown: Pronovias at L’Elite Bridal
Bridesmaids dresses: Vera Wang at L’Elite Bridal
Groom’s attire: Calvin Klein
Groomsmen’s tuxedos: Classic Tuxedo
Bagpiper: Murray Hill Entertainment
Band: Unity Band
Floral designer: Tony from Paul Anthony Designs
Rolls Royce: Phyllis at Le Limo
Guest transportation: Black Tie Limo
Rental Furniture: Seacoast Tents
Definitely check out more of Mollie and Matt- their engagement session and sneak preview.
Dec
27
Happy Holidays, Everyone! And a very extra special congrats to all those sweethearts who received the very best present of all, the "Yes!" that means a wedding is in the works. The engagement period is such fun. One of our fave parts is the e-session. These are fun, unique opportunities for us to get to know our couples. And so today I thought I would share one beautiful session from earlier this year.
We spent a Sunday morning at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate with Mollie and Matt, tromping around the grounds and enjoying some amazing views. They chose to do their engagement session on the estate, which also happens to be where they celebrated their wedding, because they loved the venue so much and were concerned they either wouldn’t have time to do all they wanted on their wedding day, or that the weather might not cooperate. We were happy to oblige as it is absolutely one of the most beautiful spots in the Boston area.
We started in the sunken Italian gardens. I adore this area of Castle Hill. The ruins complemented by the greenery are absolutely magical.
Then we worked our way up to the Grand Allée and the Casino Ballroom area.
We wandered around the Great House.
Finally, we went down to the Inn at Castle Hill, also where they started their honeymoon.
A beautiful and fun way to spend a morning!
If you want more from their engagement session, definitely check out their slideshow.
Dec
20
When I think back to Brenna and Dan’s fall wedding at the Boston Harbor Hotel, there are two things that particularly stand out. The first was the romance. Their love is truly captivating; they are so into each other. During the ceremony, they kept stealing kisses. The rest of the night continued in the same fashion. So sweet, so cute, so fun! Of course, their portraits reflect their intimacy. Check out Dan’s smile as they snuggle up to each other.
We also wanted to capture the beauty of their surroundings. And there is nothing like the BHH’s rotunda. Gorgeous.
And then there was the rain- intermittent and not at all dampening their spirits- providing an opportunity to pull out our red umbrella. This one under the rotunda.
Brenna in the Wharf Room, playing with her veil. Classic.
The second thing that I will remember was the food. Brenna and Dan love good food and have travelled all over the world experiencing the best of it. They wanted to share that with their guests. Thus a six-course meal was the centerpiece of their reception. I promise a future blog post all about the food, which looked amazing, and was personally prepared for them by the executive chef of Meritage, Daniel Bruce. What a treat!
Of the course the evening also included lots of time for fun and play. Brenna with a friend and her sister.
Dan’s toast.
The best man’s toast and reason to celebrate!
This crew was hilarious. They wanted a few group photos during the reception, but I think they were simply having too much fun.
First dance. Sweetness.
Looking on.
Then more dancing between courses. Group hug!
Enjoying the dance floor.
Really everyone seemed to have an amazing time. The whole celebration was intimate and warm, with smiles, laugther and kisses throughout the evening. Many thanks and congrats to Brenna and Dan for welcoming us into your celebration.
And much gratitude to the team of professionals who helped make the day a success:
Getting ready venue: Boston Harbor Hotel
Church: St Stephen’s Church on Hanover St, North End
Reception site: Michael Bovin and his talented staff; the Wharf Room at the Boston Harbor Hotel
Hair: Janet, Salon Marc Harris Newbury Street
Make-up: Sherri Snowden
Wedding gown: Monique Lhuillier
Planner: Michael Boivin, Boston Harbor Hotel
Caterer: Daniel Bruce, executive chef of Meritage
Cakes and desserts: DessertWorks, Norwood
Floral design: Honey, Lotus Designs
DJ: Dave Pettengill, Music Management
Ceremony musician: AnneMarie David
Transportation: Old Town Trolleys
Invitations: Mark Harris Stationer, Chestnut Hill
Save the Dates: Mark Harris Stationer, Chestnut Hill
So many great photos from Brenna and Dan’s wedding! Definitely check out their sneak preview and their slideshow.
