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.

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.

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.

Ironically, Lauren and Ryan may have been the only couple we have worked with that wanted to see each other before their wedding, but couldn’t because it didn’t work in their schedule. So we started off with a few getting ready photos. Ryan getting his boutonniere put on. Loving the silhouette and the line of light around his face.

And the girls helping Lauren with her dress.

And oh what a dress! It fit her like a glove, both literally and figuratively.

So in love with the flower and fabric details on the back.

And her make-up was soft, subtle, classic. Simply beautiful.

Before all the ladies headed downstairs for the ceremony, one helped her mom by pinning on the corsage.

And then Lauren (and her dad who is on the other side of the wall) waited for the call to come down for the ceremony. Still so relaxed.

The ceremony was beautiful, lead by a family friend, including a few special touches like the unity candle.

They kissed at the end of the ceremony. And they kissed again as they were walking down the aisle. Sweetness!

During the cocktail hour, we utilized the Hotel Northampton‘s gorgeous lobby for fireside family portraits. Love this one with their grandmother.

Just as the sun was beginning to set, we popped outside for a few with Lauren and Ryan alone. More smooching!

Eskimo kisses, too.

The party got rolling with some seriously entertaining entrances by the bridal party. Paparazzi fun!

And right into the first dance. Check out their smiles.

Ryan’s bro giving his toast.

And his mom enjoying it.

Kicking it up on the dance floor.

Because we didn’t have a ton of time for portraits earlier in the day and Lauren and Ryan were up for anything, we took a quick spin outside for a few night shots around the hotel.

Then we made use of these super cool old time phone booths (sans phones) inside the hotel.

Love this photo, because I adore the people in it. On the left, our wonderful bride and groom. On the right, Emily and Mark who were married just over 3 years ago, who we have been friends with ever since. So a very BIG thanks to Emily and Mark for introducing us to Lauren and Ryan. We are so grateful.

And an even BIGGER thank you to Lauren and Ryan for choosing us to photograph your wedding. You two are fabulous and your families are lovely. We had such a great time with everyone. Thank you.

And while I am spreading the thanks, a shout out of gratitude to all the pros who helped make Lauren and Ryan’s day so wonderful:
Getting ready venue: Ruby Meng of the Hotel Northampton
Ceremony and reception site: Ruby Meng of the Hotel Northampton
Floral Designer: Valerie Vassaos of VJS Designs
DJ: DJ Mike of MCO Productions
Ceremony Musicians: Joe Belmont of Duo Fusion
Cake: Deb Martin of Cakes by Deborah
Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas
Save the Dates: Shutterfly
Hair: The Lift Salon
Make-up: Brooks & Butterfield
Wedding gown designer: Galina Signature
Bridesmaids dresses: Alexia Designs at Pronuptia Bridal
Groom’s and Groomsmen’s suits: Jos. A. Bank

Want more? And you should because I had a really tough time narrowing these down to a reasonable number. Check out Lauren and Ryan’s slideshow.

And once again, we could not have done any of these without our amazing partners in crime. Thank you so much to the gals at Bridal Heirlooms- you ladies are so wonderful to work with and you have amazing style- thank you. And much gratitude to Bill and Anne at Mountain Meadows Lodge. Everything was perfect- we are so grateful for your warmth and hospitality!

Click here to see images from the sneak preview.

No slideshow this week; all the photographs are right here on the blog. Enjoy!

A bit about our wonderful collaborators for this wedding photography extravaganza:

Bridal Heirlooms is a full service bridal boutique in the heart of South Hadley, Massachusetts. The ladies at Bridal Heirlooms will provide you with the best service and guidance, in a comfortable, relaxed setting. The shop was started by two sisters who share the enjoyment of making a bride feel special on her wedding day. They provide each bride with personal and professional care as they work together to achieve each lady’s dreams.

The Lord Thompson Manor is a country estate perfect for dream-come-true wedding receptions. The stately elegance of the Manor, the serenity of their Frederick Law Olmstead designed grounds, their James Beard Foundation celebrated chefs and their outstanding service provide the ultimate setting that ensures any wedding is as perfect as a bride could dream of. Whether grand or intimate, or wildly extravagant, The Lord Thompson Manor has a wonderful way of bringing romance and individuality perfect for each bride and groom. The Manor is only a short distance from Boston, Hartford, Rhode Island, and New York City. When you arrive, you drive down a half-mile driveway to the front door; there you will begin to feel the tranquility of their 40 acre estate, towering trees, and quiet country paths. You will begin to experience the luxury of an unhurried celebration reminiscent of a time gone by.

Bridal Heirlooms has a wonderful selection of dresses and Christine and Shirley know just how to match a gown to a person’s style. We wanted to create a collection of images that hearkened back to times gone by, but with a modern touch. And we wanted to show off their fabulous gowns.

The Lord Thompson Manor is a stunning wedding site nestled in the woodlands of Northeastern Connecticut. It is just a short drive from Boston, Rhode Island, Hartford, and even, New York. A perfect getaway close to home, this estate was once a hunting villa. The feel of the site is still warm and welcoming and intensely glamorous – a wonderful place for wedding photography.

Here’s a sneak preview of the Lord Thompson Manor bridal fashion shoot.

We owe a huge thank you to our model Samantha, who was amazing and patient and gracious, throughout the shoot. And of course we are so grateful to Christine and Shirley from Bridal Heirlooms and to Jackie from the Lord Thompson Manor. We had such a wonderful time working with you and at the Manor. Thank you!

After meeting them to chat about the photos, we learned that they love going out to eat at Zen, a super yummy restaurant in downtown Northampton. In fact, they met there. And then when they got engaged, they returned to their favorite spot to celebrate. We knew that we had to take their engagement photos there. Fortunately, the management was super-cool and invited us in during the afternoon. It was a perfect spot to start the shoot.

Later, we went a bit more casual and took a walk in Northampton. Our town is full of amazing photo spots. We were psyched to get out and photograph Mori and Nate about town.

Mori had the fabulous idea to go to the rail trail, where the old railroad bridge crosses the Connecticut River. She wanted to get some leafy greens in a few photos. We loved the lines with the wood and rust. All in all a perfect combo.

After this shoot, one thing I know for certain is that their wedding and marriage will be filled with laughter. Congrats, Mori and Nate! And thank you so much for choosing us to create these images for you.

Check out their slideshow here.

Janeâ?(tm)s gown of buttercream silk had belonged to her grandmother. We completely disassembled the original dress, cleaned it and stitched it back together. Unwanted fullness was removed from the skirt and pouf elements stripped from the gloves and bodice. The train was also shortened considerably. What Jane loved however, were the long streamer elements. These we made detachable at the shoulders. In addition we made sure to restore the tiny covered buttons that provided side closure and reinforced this area with an invisible interior placket and snaps so this element could be both decorative and functional (Jane and Jason love to dance!) Their wedding was featured in the most recent issue of Boston Brideâ?(tm)s Magazine.

While Careyâ?(tm)s ensemble (the shell pink ballgown worn with ostrich feather headdress) did not belong to a family member, it did undergo a similar transformation. She was seeking a playful yet dramatic look and after extensive searching purchased a vintage gown from the 1950â?(tm)s. The original bodice was ill-fitting and not in a style that appealed to her. The anemone skirt, however, is a show stopper! The pink taffeta underlayer was removed and the fabric harvested to create a perfectly matching strapless bodice with ruffle trim which echoed the detail on the full waltz skirt. Ruffle trim was also added to her quilted boots. Her dramatic dress and quirky costumey accessories demanded a headpiece of equal flare. Her headdress is comprised of shell pink, ivory and dove grey ostrich feathers as well as elements of the dress. In addition, a detachable tulle and taffeta train was created for the ceremony which could also be worn as a shawl. It snaps on or off as needed and was intended to provide (modest) protection from inclement weather.

Jen and PJ desired a Renaissance themed wedding. In the creation of their garments we interpreted this rather loosely so that their attire offers a fanciful reference to that era rather than a historically accurate recreation of garments from that time. For her gown Jen chose cranberry silk dupioni with matching silk velvet bodice. Both the bodice and custom corset (also in cranberry silk) lace up the back. The voluminous cathedral length train detaches at the waist. For PJâ?(tm)s ensemble we used tone on tone metallic silk dupioni in shades of chocolate and bronze. Frequent Renaissance Faire attendees they have been fortunate to have many opportunities to wear their garments again.

Also featured in the show was the incredible beading and embroidery of Sarah Beth Atherton. She was the final model at the event and was responsible for the snowflake rhinestone and crystal beading on her white silk gown. She and I have worked together closely for a number of years and it is her handiwork that you can see on Nancyâ?(tm)s peach/pink silk brocade gown with organza overlay…her dress is framed by floral scroll embroidery at the hem and neck edge and has Nancyâ?(tm)s two cats included in the design. Sarah Beth also beaded Nancyâ?(tm)s shoes so they would co-ordinate perfectly with her ensemble.

If you would like to see more images from the show, click here.

Cassandra Holden attended Smith College, Alfred University, and Massachusetts College of Art. There she studied art history, printmaking, and fashion design before opening her studio in 1998. Since that time she has been building one of a kind garments for discerning clients nationwide.

I should mention, however, that this was not your typical runway experience. Cassandra creates custom wedding dresses. They are designed for specific people, not for the mass market. And they are truly one-of-a-kind. In order for her to share her work, she invited the owners of the dresses, the ones for whom she designed, to be her models. They were fabulous. And so were the dresses.

Cassandra and her clients are not bound by tradition, though they are not immune to its influences. Many of the dresses incorporated colors- from subtle pinks to brown to crimson. In other cases, she helped brides modernize a grandmother’s dress. These may well have been my favorite dresses because not only did they look amazing, but they were rich with stories.

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