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.
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
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.
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!
Oct
24
More from Amy and Phil’s wedding because there really were so many beautiful images. Their ceremony, for instance, spoke to the story of their relationship, with special mention of how Phil won over Amy. These personal touches brought smiles…
and tears…
And laughter as Phil wiped away Amy’s tears.
They also took the opportunity to hold each others’ hands during the ceremony.
And sealed it with a kiss.
Lots of smiles and cheers as they exited the church.
After family portraits and a tea ceremony at the church, we continued to the Black Swan Country Club, where they would host their reception. They wanted a few more portraits on the golf course, so we started with those.
The stone wall separating the greens is very New England.
Loving the reaction of the bridal party to this kiss.
Inside, Amy changes so she would have just the right outfit for their first dance, a beautifully choreographed number. Of course, that also meant opportunities for portraits of the couple prior to their entrance.
Practicing alone.
As they were being introduced, the bridesmaids and groomsmen had a special dance of their own for Amy and Phil.
Oh the fun moves in this dance. Spinning…
and lifting.
After the Best Man’s toast which spoke to all of the things that make Phil, Phil; he was in full smile mode.
Taking his mom for a spin.
Finally the cake cutting. Gotta love this little sweet treat which was situated on top.
All around a beautiful day and kudos go to all of the professionals who helped make it such:
Getting ready location: the Liberty Hotel
Ceremony venue: Myca Wherlie from High Rock Arlington Church
Reception site: Caryl Nansel of Black Swan Country Club
Wedding gown: Maggie Sottero
Bride’s hair: Joe from Hair Adventure
Bride’s make-up: Veronica Shin
Groom’s attire: Men’s Warehouse
Cake: Cakes! Bakery
Floral design: Myca Wehrli from Whirly Girl Flowers
Uplights: Paul Therrien from Boston Uplights
Want more? Check out their slideshow.
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.
