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.
Dec
07
When last I wrote, it was just before Thanksgiving and I wasn’t able to share all I wanted about Jen and Brian’s fabulous wedding day. So now, I can reflect back and share a few of my favorite memories from the day. Such as how excited Jen was, so excited in fact that she had already finished her make-up, put on her dress, put on her shoes before we even arrived. She simply couldn’t wait to get ready and get married. So fun.
And how nervous Brian was waiting for the ceremony to begin. And how they put a Patriots decal on the back of the limo, because Brian is a HUGE Pats fan. (I am sure he is feeling good today.) And how proud Jen’s dad was walking her down the aisle. All these special moments from the beginning of the day.
Now I also get to share a few favorites from the second part of the day, aka the Party. After the ceremony, we went directly to the hotel, because it was too cold to take any photos outside. Fortunately the downtown Hyatt Regency has some great spaces for portraits and there is only one wedding there a day, so we could use any of the spaces we wanted. We started with the quintessential grand staircase.
Jen has a great sense of style; she was absolutely beautiful from head to toe.
The groomsmen hung out with Brian upstairs while we were photographing the ladies.
Such an exciting entrance. You can totally see Jen’s enthusiasm pouring through; and I LOVE the way Brian is looking at her. These two couldn’t be happier to have gotten married.
They went right in to their first dance, which culminated with this stellar kissing dip. Sweet!
As part of the fun they had planned, they included a photo booth. The kids really got into all of the costumes and having their picture taken.
For that matter, so did the adults.
The adults also had an amazing time on the dance floor.
And best time ever…. Conga! I haven’t seen one of these in a while. Really so fab. They took their party all around the hotel.
Finally, have to conclude with this awesome shoe shot Dave captured at the end of the evening. (Feels right since we started the last post with a shoe shot. Bookends. ) It really incorporates so much of their day- love the colors, the fashion sense, and the people getting down on the dance floor in the background- all about the fun of it!
So many thanks to share with all of the people who teamed up for Jen and Brian’s amazing wedding day:
First off, Jen Nicholson played the roll of event planner for her dear friend and also works at the Hyatt Regency. She and her staff lead by Ellie Cash did an amazing job, as always.
And to the rest of the professionals:
Getting ready venue: Marriott Courtyard
Ceremony Site: Colleen Campoion and Father Salzmann from St. Timothy Catholic Church
Caterer: Hyatt Regency
Cake: Konditor Meister
Floral Design: Edison from Madison Floral
DJ: Jack Barrows from Entertainment Specialists
Ceremony Musicians: Joe Heffernan
Videographer: Laurie Fox
Invitations: Norwood Printing
Save-the-Dates: Wedding Paper Divas
Bride’s hair and make-up: Kris Perkins and Courtney from Green Tangerine
Bride’s wedding gown: Monique Lhuillier at L’Elite Bridal Boutique
Groom’s attire: Mr. Tux
Of course, we have to share our congrats and gratitude with Jen and Brian. It was such a pleasure working with you and your families. What a great celebration!
You want more? No problem. Check out their engagement session, sneak peek, and slideshow.
Nov
30
It was a crisp fall day when Mollie married Matt. The sunshine brought out the blues, greens and stunning fall reds, golds and oranges, creating a beautiful backdrop for their celebration. There was also a warmth running throughout the day, the comfort of loved ones and special familial traditions. Mollie got ready at her grandmother’s house, as her mother had done before her. She and Matt wed in the same church as her parents had wed. And even some of the photography hearkened back to Mollie’s mom’s bridal portraits. Throughout the day, the family bonds shone through.
Dave and I started with Mollie as she was getting ready. And she actually started by helping her sister.
Her sister, of course, returned the favor. Putting on her beautiful long veil was no simple task.
Dave headed over to the gents who were arriving at the church, while I did a few portraits of Mollie. The warm wood panelling was a lovely accent to her photos.
As was this delicious light.
Dave arrived at the church and it was clear the fall was still bursting out.
A few moments with Matt, allowed for a series of portraits.
Mollie and her dad were ready to get the show on the road.
Loving this sweet moment of father and son, prior to the ceremony.
We also learned that the priest who presided over the ceremony was a cousin of Mollie’s. It added a personal element to the ceremony as he shared stories from the family’s history.
Loving this stolen moment between our bride and groom.
Perhaps my favorite part of the Catholic wedding ceremony is the moment when guests greet each other. It is such a warm way for everyone to connect.
And just a quick peek of what’s to come when I share from the second part of the day. All kinds of fun details and beautiful touches. These two lovebirds were inside a birdcage which collected cards. Sweetness.
Check back soon for more from the rest of Mollie and Matt’s beautiful fall wedding reception at the Crane Estate, including stunning portraits, inspiring details and one heck of a party. In the meantime, you can also check out the slideshow from their engagement session.
Nov
24
This one is just a quick post because we really wanted to give Jen and Brian a taste of what’s to come, basically whetting their Thanksgiving appetites for more. We hope you enjoy!
I promise there’s more to come soon with the story of the day and all the fun, including their super fabulous party at the Downtown Hyatt Regency. In the meantime, if you want more of Jen and Brian, definitely check out their engagement session.
Nov
18
A few years back, Brenna found herself in London for work. During her stint, she met Dan and they fell in love. When she started to plan their wedding though, she decided that Boston (where she was from and her family still lives) was the perfect location. Her stateside friends and family would easily be able to join in the celebration and she and Dan could introduce their English family and friends to a great town.
I started the day with Brenna in her bridal suite at the Boston Harbor Hotel. When I arrived, she was in the midst of having her make-up applied.
A final check before she put on her dress.
When I initially met with Brenna and her mom, I remembered Brenna talking about her wedding gown and how she was so excited about the dress. (I can’t help myself- when the groom’s not there, I always ask.) So I myself was looking forward to seeing what she picked, and I absolutely love this Monique Lhullier gown she chose.
The lace and the silhouette looked amazing on her, and she was completely at ease in this dress.
A classic beauty.
I would be remiss if I didn’t share a portrait of Dan. Such a cutie.
When Brenna was all set, she and her sister rode in a town car to St. Stephen’s Church.
Awaiting our arrival were two ushers.
The walk down the aisle can be a nervous one, but Brenna found great joy in seeing her friends.
Simple elegance of St. Stephen’s.
These two are absolutely and completely enamored with each other. They couldn’t help smiling and kissing and snuggling at every chance. It was a joy to observe because their smiles are truly infectious. Like this moment when Brenna is placing the ring on Dan’s finger.
Of course, there were a few tears from the guests.
After they sealed the deal with a kiss.
A few portraits at the church. We popped up to the balcony for some quiet moments.
One of my absolute favorites. This one feels like it should be on the front of a Going to the Chapel single. Plus you can see the red brick of the North End through the window.
More to come soon from their portraits at the Boston Harbor Hotel and the fun reception in Wharf Room.
Aug
17
Brace yourself. This one’s a long one. I just couldn’t help myself. Too much fun. Too many beautiful spaces. Too many wonderful people. So there are a few more than usual.
Maren and Steve planned an absolutely stunning destination wedding at the Glen Manor House in Portsmouth, RI. Their guests traveled from far and farther to celebrate with them and were treated to a weekend getaway celebration. Care was given to the smallest of details (each guest had their own personalized itinerary) and thought to the feel of the whole event. Spaces were created for relaxation, for dancing, for socializing. More on all of that later in a details blog post. For now, I want you to be able to get a sense of what it was like to be a guest at this wonderful wedding. And the answer is nothing short of amazing.
As I skipped ahead to Maren’s entrance in my last blog, I thought I would take a step back because I love this moment before Steve enters. The anticipation gives me goosebumps.
The guests also couldn’t wait to see Steve’s reaction to Maren’s entrance.
The ceremony was full of smiles and tears. When Maren and Steve brought each mom a specially embroidered handkerchief and white rose, Steve’s mom already had tears on her cheeks. So Maren helped wipe them away. Steve’s love and understanding of his mom came out in his smile.
Gotta love the folks who bring out the laughter.
At the end of the ceremony, Maren and Steve had not one, but two kisses, and then this very tender look as they enjoyed their new husband and wife status.
Oh wait, make that 3 kisses.
We snuck away for a few portraits on the grounds.
Immediately it felt like Maren and Steve were meant to be on this estate. They were so at ease at the Glen and comfortable in the space. It fit like a glove.
A private toast before they joined their guests.
The cocktail hour was enjoyed on the back lawn and guests spread out to all of the outdoor spaces, really enjoying the property.
Steve and Maren were such excellent hosts. It seemed as if they had invited all of their nearest and dearest to their private country estate. They really took ownership of the celebration, graciously welcoming their guests.
Loving the playfulness that comes with children.
And the sweetness. I can just imagine the conversation, something along the lines of "You look like a princess" from one of the ladies. Followed by "So do you," from the other.
A quick portrait on the steps with the whole bridal party. The kids are simply too cute.
For that matter, so is Maren. This moment during their first dance is hilarious. Maren is perfectly in character.
Loved hearing the story of how they chose the first song. Steve had requirements, well really just one. He didn’t want a song that would make him cry. Something upbeat fit the bill and as he liked Dean Martin, "Ain’t that a Kick in the Head" seemed a perfect choice. It was all fun, no tears.
As it turns out, his mom had similar requirements. So Steve surprised her with his favorite song from his childhood, Elvis Presley’s "Teddy Bear." The crowd, and his mom, loved it.
Dinner was served.
And guests wandered in and out of the ballroom, the dining rooms, and the outdoor spaces on this perfectly lovely evening.
What it actually means to be married I think. Too funny.
Just as we were about to depart, Steve broke out the cigars. He was hanging out with his friends- the whole group of guys, and gals, enjoyed a celebratory smoke.
Oh, what a night! And day, for that matter. This was such a wonderfully joyful wedding. I am so glad we could be a part of it. Many, many thanks to Maren and Steve for including us.
Additional gratitude goes to all of the professionals who helped make their day so fabulous. Each and every person was amazingly talented and wonderful to work with. Honestly I think Maren said it best though. "I just want to invite them all to Thanksgiving dinner." Now if that isn’t high praise.
A very special shout out of thanks to Katie Wilkinson the manager of their ceremony and reception venue, the Glen Manor House. What a joy it was to work with you! Everything was impeccable.
Getting Ready location: Kate Jenkins of the Pelham Court Hotel
Caterer: Ingrid Martins of Blue Rocks Catering
Cake: Kate Repko from Cappuccino’s
Floral Design: Sayles Livingston of Sayles Livingston Flowers
DJ: Sidney Posey of DeeJays Etc.
Ceremony Musicians: Crystal Pascucci and Quartetto Vivo
Hair and Make-up: Wavelengths Salon & Spa
Wedding dress designer and salon: Simone Carvalli; Maria Spyridopolous of Sabella Couture
Bridesmaids Dresses and salon: Watters & Watters; Cheri Amor of Perfect Bridal
Groom’s attire: Jos. A. Bank
Groomsmen’s tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse & Tuxedo
And the knock your socks off invitations, place cards, save the dates- aka the full design suite put together for their wedding, by none other than our groom, a professional designer by trade, Steve Reepmeyer.
So honestly truthfully, I had such a hard time narrowing these down for the blog. I really hope you will check out their slideshow and their PicFlick. And if you haven’t yet seen their engagement session, definitely check that out.
Apr
19
Last night, Jackie and William came over for the premiere of their engagement session photos. The viewing of the photos was a central part of the evening to be sure, but honestly I just had so much fun getting to know them better. I knew their story, the story of how they met, that is; and a good bit about their wedding planning. But now I feel like I know so much more about them, such as that they love good food and they enjoy cooking together. So then they tipped us off to a great Boston secret- a culinary school for average folk in Cambridge. We can’t wait to try it out.
But I digress, this entry is really about their engagement session, which was a blast! We journeyed down to Princeton University where they met while attending a reunion. It was the perfect location to do their engagement session. We were happy to oblige and found a weekend in early April that worked for everyone, including Naomi and Jack of Generations Cinemastories, who came down to film their story.
With a backdrop as beautiful as Princeton’s campus, we were truly experiencing an embarrassment of riches. Add to that all of the connections that they have to their school and we ended up shooting for hours. We would have kept on going if the daylight hadn’t left us.
We wandered around campus with Jackie and William pointing out favorite spots from their time at Princeton as well as the important locations from the weekend when they met and fell in love.
They saw each other for the first time in this amazing library in Chancellor Green.
In the courtyard outside the library.
William’s dining club from his year’s at Princeton, called Tower, also happens to be one of the places where they met up during the reunion weekend. The light shining through the doorway was glittery and magical when we popped in to look around.
Naomi and Jack took a few moments to interview Jackie and William.
Of course, early April on the East coast is hit or miss as far as weather goes. Clearly Jackie and William have done something right with their lives, because we were so lucky. They had the most perfect weather and all of the stars were aligned for trees full of blossoms. I am a magnolia fanatic so this was heavenly.
For mom….
For our fabulous couple….
Apparently Princeton has some very fun traditions, and Jackie and William were holding out on us until the very end of our session. It is customary for each class to have their own reunion uniform when they come back for reunion weekend. Celebrating the school’s colors- orange, black and white- and their mascot- the tiger- Jackie and William donned the outfits they wore that weekend for a few photos around Princeton’s landmark tigers at Nassau Hall.
I just have to close with one image that’s a bit more abstract, but I think it expresses what it must have felt like for Jackie and William to find each other. They were in what I imagine was a somewhat crowded space attending a reunion party and somehow they saw each other; the world slipped away. I created this in the library where they met for the first time and the effect is done completely in camera.
Of course this is only a glimpse of all the fun we had, so if you want to see a few more, definitely check out their slideshow.
Apr
06
When last I shared about Judy and Burgess’ Blackhawk Country Club wedding, we left off with the elation that followed the ceremony. Next up, portraits (which Dave knew would be great after their awesome engagement session), cocktail hour and then one heck of a party.
This might just be my favorite image from the day. It is very simple and direct, and I love the reflection of the sky behind them.
Judy and Burgess had lots of guests coming up and congratulating them. Judy looks so happy to receive the warm wishes.
Judy’s maid of honor shared a first look at Judy’s new name.
The speeches were hilarious. Perhaps Burgess doesn’t think so at this moment.
Everyone wanted to get involved.
Burgess and his groomsmen serenaded Judy.
Enjoying their first dance as husband and wife.
Later, Judy changed into her qipao. The games played during the reception are some of the most fun moments at a Chinese wedding. Judy and Burgess actually got their guests involved in the fun. What the guests did, Judy and Burgess did.
I had to share just one more image from the night. Clearly everyone was having an amazing time. But no one would have expected this fantastic hug attack. Too funny!
If you would like to see more from Judy and Burgess’ wedding, definitely check out their PicFlick.
Mar
22
After seeing Judy and Burgess’ engagement session, you can see why Dave was so excited to photograph their wedding. They are super fun, love playing with the camera, and totally sweet on each other. So without further ado, a few faves from the first part of the day….
Judy got ready at Blackhawk Country Club, where they would also be celebrating their wedding ceremony and reception.
The boys arrived early enough to take a few portraits. Looks like they had a good time! Love that each one has a different expression- totally get a sense of their personalities.
The clouds were playing with the light, letting bits in here and there. The hills look luminous in this photo. Can you believe this amazing view from the ceremony site?
While waiting for the ceremony to begin, we always enjoy taking photos of the guests.
Then the fun began. Everyone was pretty excited to see Judy as she walked down the aisle.
Watching during the ceremony.
Judy listening to Burgess’ vows.
Putting the ring on. Sometimes this can present challenges.
No problems with the kiss, however.
Celebrating!!!!
The ring in question….
I just have to close with a couple of their portraits. So sweet together!
Lots more from the day and their details still to come, but if you need more right now, check out their engagement session story and PicFlick.
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.
