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!
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.
Jan
21
Let me start by saying the Greeks know how to celebrate! They seriously have a rollicking good time at their parties- there’s dancing and dancing and more dancing and lots of hugging and smiling and laughing. Viki and Niko’s wedding certainly had all of the above, plus a substantial dose of very chic style.
After leaving the church amidst rice and confetti and diving for cover in the limo, the champagne was opened as the bridal party left for their portraits.
The crew stopped off at Faneuil Hall to enjoy the beautiful architecture and the fabulous winter decorations.
I adore Viki’s style- she looked like she stepped out of a painting of a greek goddess, with some very modern touches. Her Vera Wang dress was bejeweled at the neckline and had layers of light tulle. The back was accented with several little bows. She completed her look with stunning pieces of crystal jewelry, a very chic veil and a furry wintery wrap.
As it was just after Christmas, holiday lights draped the trees, there were wreaths decorating the buildings, and they even had a beautiful Christmas tree in the Quincy Market courtyard.
I think this image totally captures the spirit of the day. I love how the world continues to move and hussle and bustle, but Viki and Niko are in their own world and time has stopped for them.
Showing off the beauty of Boston’s light display. Simply magical.
After the portraits, we walked around the corner to 60 State Street- where Longwood Events‘ State Room is on the 38th floor. This, of course, translates into spectacular views. Above the city, Viki and Niko made their entrance into their first dance. The guests honored the romance of the moment and gave them some time to enjoy it.
Then everyone gathered around them and began showering Viki and Niko with money. So very fun.
Soon after, the Best Man took the floor to give his toast.
He brought down the house with laughs.
Then Viki’s sister and her koumbara both gave their toasts. They brought down the house with tears of joy and love.
Viki and her twin sister after the toast.
Viki took the dance floor again; this time with her father. I am totally enamored by his smile.
The Greek dancing got underway. Everyone was in such a good mood.
At one point, a spontaneous performance occurred. Niko took the stage and put on a dance for Viki. Viki soon took her turn.Then others followed to dance in honor of the bride and groom.
Remember that view of Boston I mentioned? The windows in the State Room are amazing, but with everything going on, it is easy for a bride and groom not to experience their surroundings. However, Viki and Niko paused for a moment to take it all in and to enjoy being with each other.
Many thanks to all of the people who helped make Viki and Niko’s wedding day so very special:
Father Cleopas and Mrs. Pangiota at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Stuart Horwitz and Joslin Carroll and their team at the State Room
For the bridal party’s look:
Hair: Ana Meleger of Jesamondo Salon and Spa
Make-up: Dani Wagener
Wedding gown designer: Patricia at Vera Wang
Flower girl dresses: Shanna at Fairy Wonderful
Groom’s attire: Armani
Ringbearer’s tuxedos: Classic Tuxedo on Newbury Street
For tantalizing all of the senses:
Floral Design: Lee Hopwood from Merriweathers
Lighting Design: The State Room
Ceremony Musicians: organist Dimitri Yiannacopoulos
DJ: Kosta Blathras
Caterer and wedding cake: The State Room
Invitations: Heath from MasterLabPhoto.com
Additional printed materials: Tara Vaccaro Gudmundsen
Limo: Rene Doherty from Black Tie Limousine
And many thanks to Generations Cinematories for helping us document the day. Naomi, Jack, Lauren and Jean- it was great working by your sides.
And of course, much gratitude to Viki and Niko for choosing us to photograph your day. We had an amazing time. It has been such fun getting to know you and celebrate with you.
If you would like to see more from this festive and fashionable evening, check out their sneak peek and their slideshow.
Jan
10
Just after Christmas and just before New Year’s we had the good fortune to photograph Viki and Niko’s wedding at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the State Room. Viki and Niko are such an absolutely delightful couple- they both have the warmest smiles. You can’t help but want to be around them.
When Naomi from Generations Cinemastories and I arrived at Viki’s home to document her getting ready, I could not believe how calm she was. All of her family was there to celebrate and help and there were adorable children running about. Viki just smiled at all of it and continued doing whatever she needed in order to get ready.
While she finished with her prep, I captured a few details of her dress. She selected a gown by Vera Wang, and it might be the most unique dress I have ever seen- jewels on top and tulle for the skirt- light, airy and extraordinarily sophisticated. Best of all, it was perfect on Viki.
Viki is one half of a set of twins and her sister was there throughout. I love this photo of the two of them. Viki had just put on her dress and Eva was watching on- both with gorgeous happy smiles.
At their home, there were several Greek rituals and traditions that took place. Viki’s dad helped her with her dress. She wrote the names of the single ladies on her shoe; apparently the first one to rub off is the next to get married- no need to toss the bouquet. And her koumbara (aka religious sponsor) helped put on her shoes and insisted on sending her off with a little good luck cash. Once all these were complete and we took a few portraits, we were off to the church.
While I was in Boston, Dave headed down to Niko’s family’s home to capture a few of the groom’s traditions and a few of Niko getting ready. When I saw this one from Dave’s set, I couldn’t help but smile. This may be the first time I have seen the groom get his hair done for the wedding.
We met up at the church- and what a church it was. But I share this image just to give you a sense of the day. We had been dodging awful weather and expected that it might snow or rain. Somehow the fates stepped in and shed a little sunshine on Viki and Niko’s wedding day. We even enjoyed blue skies….
And light streamed in through the stain glass windows.
While we are looking at the flower girls, you have to hear about their tutu dresses. The girls’ gowns matched Viki’s perfectly. She found them at a children’s boutique; they looked like little fairy princesses. So precious!
The ceremony began shortly after I arrived.
It included traditional Greek Orthodox customs- the crowns, the candles, the drinking of wine. And of course, it was set in this absolutely stunning space. Did I mention I love this church? So colorful and artful, pretty much every direction you look.
After the ceremony, a few portraits. One of the happy couple.
And then off they went with rice and confetti tossed at them as they made their way to the limo. Honestly, even after well over 100 weddings, I had never seen actual rice thrown before. Very fun!
There are lots more to come- portraits at night around Faneuil Hall and one rockin’ good time at the State Room reception, complete with awesome Greek dancing. So definitely check back.
