Apr
19
After enjoying the beautiful day in the Public Garden, Janette and Wes returned to the Fairmont Copley Plaza for relaxation followed by their wedding reception. And what a celebration it was… the bands’ tunes, Janette’s sisters speech with accompanying slideshow, and the dancing. Of course, I couldn’t stop with that, because we were also able to capture portraits at night on Copley Square and in front of the Boston Public Library. The final treat of the evening were streamers blown into the air drifting down on the couple. Really kind of amazing, actually. So step right into this fairy-tale wedding.
Their pup didn’t get to enjoy the festivities, but waited for them in their suite.
Family portrait.
This was potentially a dangerous cake moment. But fear not, all worked out just fine.
A new member of our team?
A steamy evening meant so crazy air and light.
Ahhhh….. Tiffany’s.
Congrats to Janette and Wes. Special thanks to all of the professionals who helped make their day amazing….
Location for getting ready: Fairmont Copley Plaza / Ceremony Venue: Lauren Lukason from the Trinity Church Boston / Reception Venue: Tracey Gavin from the Fairmont Copley Plaza / Hair Team & Make-up Artist: Mariolga Pantazopoulos / Gown Designer: Marchesa / Bridesmaids Dresses: Lazaro / Groom’s Attire: Brooks Brothers / Groomsmen’s Attire: Joseph A. Bank / Officiant: Reverend Pamela Foster / Cake: Ellen Bartlett from Cakes to Remember / Floral Design: Orly Khon from Tangerine Creations / Band: Brian Delac at Murray Hill Entertainment / Ceremony Musicians: Steven Organek / Videographer: Nathan Suher from Wedding Reels Video / Transportation/limo: Gideon and Beth from The Original Party Trolley Boston / Invitations: Alice Ng from By Alice Boutique / Save the Dates: Minted
Want more? Check out their back bay engagement session and their Trinity Church wedding ceremony.
Mar
05
You really can’t go wrong when you get married at a Castle. So when Ayesha and Jon chose Searles for their backdrop, they knew they had found the perfect spot to celebrate their wedding ceremony and their reception.
The ceremony was held on the lawn to the left of the castle. Well actually the ceremony was held on the castle wall and the guests were seated on the lawn. They blended Ayesha’s South Asian traditions with Jon’s Christian ones, bringing together their two cultures in a beautiful way.
The bridesmaids entered first.
Followed by two of Ayesha and Jon’s adorable neices and nephews as flower girl and ring bearer. And then followed by Ayesha and her dad.
Especially love this shade of red accentuated by the creamy roses.
Groomsman watching the proceedings.
And back to the ceremony. Ayesha’s dad ties she and Jon (hidden behind her dad in this image) together. Love her dad’s quiet smile and her huge one!
Jon’s mom offers her own blessing. More wonderful smiles. Jon looks so happy and proud. And his mom his radiant.
A reading.
Jon puts Ayesha’s ring on her finger.
Sweet kiss.
And celebration.
After the ceremony, Ayesha changed into her western wedding dress. Jon got to see her for the first time, again.
After a few portraits and a little time alone, they joined their guests in the tent for their first dance.
A speech by Ayesha’s best brides’ man.
And because they met at Ohio State and had their fabulous peers at the wedding. We had to do at least one photo for their alma mater.
With such a beautiful setting and a lovely evening, we had to take advantage for one night photograph in front of the castle. Fortunately, Ayesha and Jon were very happy to oblige. I guess the kiss didn’t hurt our cause.
Such a great day and evening, filled with joy and color and magic. What else would you expect at a castle!
Special thanks to Ayesha and Jon for including us in your festivities. And to all of the pros who helped to make their day wonderful…
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Shaun and Scott from Searles Castle / Officiants: Sri Lankan Ceremony – Mr. Bogamuwa, Exchange of Vows – John Morse / Caterer: Shaun and Scott from Searles Castle / Cake: Jani from Jacques Pastries / Ceremony Floral Design: Susanne from Susanne’s Weddings / Lighting Design: Boston Uplights / Ceremony Musicians and Band/DJ: Chris D from NuImage Entertainment / Hair & Makeup: Brandon and Karla from Brandon Keith Salon / Bride & Bridesmaids Sarees brought in from overseas / Groom and Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Lindsay from Men’s Wearhouse / Save the Dates: Wedding Paper Divas
If you would like to see more from Ayesha and Jon’s South Asian wedding, check out their Searles Castle Wedding sneak peek and their dog-friendly engagment session.
Feb
03
A few more from Amanda and Ed’s classic Boston wedding. After we left the Old South Church, I ventured with Amanda and Ed to the Public Garden for portraits.
Amanda and I had talked a bit about what she liked in portraits, and one of the things we wanted to capture was intimacy in the midst of busy-ness. Usually on the bridge in the Public Garden this is an easy task, because there are tons of people around. On this particular Sunday afternoon, it was actually a challenge to get people in our photo, and then to encourage them to keep walking. They were all so nice and respectful, not wanting to interrupt their session. Oh, the irony. Patience, however, paid off, as we captured this moment.
Not having too many people also had it’s benefits.
We could go anywhere without worrying about them. And were even able to capture a bit of fall, though in general the trees hadn’t started to turn.
You may recall we took a cab to the gardens. Amanda carefully gets out.
Back at the Copley Plaza, we took a few more portraits. Love the lines of the staircase.
Introductions, right into their first dance.
Such a sweet moment when Ed dances with his mum (mum because he’s from England).
The toasts were fantastic. Ed’s step-dad and best man went first. He was hilarious.
Amanda’s dad had his turn as well. Of course, he shared one or two embarassing stories.
Loving the autumn colors infused into their cake.
Another super special tradition. Amanda’s sorority sisters from Duke, sang her a song and passed around a candle in her honor.
Then the party really got underway. This crew knew how to have a good time.
One last treat from their celebration.
Many congrats to Amand and Ed. Such an all around amazing day. So many people to thank for helping make it perfect.
Getting ready and reception venue: Alice Fay from the Fairmont Copley Plaza
Ceremony venue: Helen McCrady from the Old South Church
Officiant: Cal Grenzel from the Old South Church
Cake: Ellen from Cakes to Remember
Floral Designer: Rob Galeski from Twig
Lighting Design: Paul from Boston Uplights
DJ: Greg from 5 Star Events
Cocktail hour musicians: Felice from Gilded Harps
Calligraphy: Katrin from Calligraphy Katrina and Maison du Papier
Gown Designer: Lazaro dress from Christinas Bridal
Bridesmaids dresses: Saison Boutique
Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Mens Wearhouse
Hair: Erik from Will Charles Salon
Make-up: Dani Wagener from Dani Wagener Studios
If you want to see more, check out their first entry and their PicFlick.
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
18
From our engagement session, I already knew a bit about how Ayesha and Jon were as a couple, and as parents to their pup Lucy. They are easy-going and each has a calming presence, but they also like to play and laugh. They are generally just really nice to be around. On their wedding day, we got to see another side of them. They were all of those things and more; they were gracious, warm hosts and even took care of us (totally not necessary but very much appreciated).
The day was hot, really steamy kind of hot, but night came and brought a bit of relief. Fortunately they also chose an absolutely gorgeous venue, which lifted sticky spirits and added to the whimsy and romance of the day.
We started with Ayesha as she was getting ready at the hotel. I had my first chance to see a woman dressed in a Sari. For South Asian brides (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, etc), this is the customary wedding attire. Can I just say- it is one stunning dress! Oh and it takes about 20-30 minutes to put on with the help of a professional.
Ayesha’s bridesmaids also got to wear these beautiful garments, though modified so they were a bit easier to put on.
The boys had it easy- tuxes. Still they look awfully good on this crew.
I especially love the contrast and vibrancy of the reds.
Having chosen to see each other before the ceremony, Ayesha and Jon had their first look amongst the castle walls.
Big smile from Jon when Ayesha told him he could turn around and see her.
Equally huge smile from Ayesha.
The girls hanging and enjoying the day.
I love the way these two hold hands, so sweet.
Yup, pretty stunning here.
Too bad, ladies, he’s taken.
Melts my heart.
We went back up to the main house to get ready for the ceremony. The light was beautiful and so was our bride.
A quiet moment before things really get underway.
More to come from the outdoor ceremony and the tented reception.
Dec
26
Details don’t make a wedding, but they certainly can make it elegant, fun, romantic…. you name it. Here’s a bit of inspiration from Lindsay and Rob’s wedding which absolutely was all three of those.
Lindsay’s bouquet with soft pinks, purples, yellows and whites- roses, dahlias, berries and more- it had a romantic country garden feel to it.
Her flower girl’s bouquet with similar flowers in a brighter color pallette- yellows and oranges and pinks- was a perfect complement to Lindsay’s bouquet and the coral dresses the bridesmaids wore.
Lindsay is supremely talented, a graphic designer for a game company, a jewelry designer, a cake designer. She can pretty much do it all. And she certainly had her share of DIY projects. Including this beautiful necklace and the necklaces she game to her bridesmaids, each one unique.
She also made this special something for her hair.
The earrings however were an heirloom, something old.
Because they met at Hasbro and love games, their was tons of whimsy and playfulness in their day. Here, our groom’s boutonniere- with yellow calla lily- has a Scrabble letter attached to it. Happens to be an R for his name, Rob. The groomsmen all had similar flowers with their own letters.
Kiddush cup for their Jewish wedding ceremony under the chuppah.
The look of the ceremony continued with rustic elegance in fall shades.
Another DIY project by the couple, the ringbearer’s pillow with birch bark and moss.
The Garden House at Look Park looked amazing, warm, romantic, elegant. Then the names of each tables are names of games – Life is at the forefront.
They made a game of it, with the escort cards. Guests had pieces from the game on their name card. They had to match the piece to the game to find their table.
View from the sweetheart table, with bride’s bouquet as centerpiece.
At the guests’ tables, a little entertainment- Trivial Pursuit: the Lindsay and Rob Edition.
Cake designed by Lindsay to match her chocolate brown and coral orange theme, as well as the touches of fall.
The printed pieces also stunning. No surprise there. Menu…
Invitation suite.
The sweetest touch: Lindsay and Rob created cookie mixes for guests to take home. We made one batch for their premiere and instantly became addicted. Out of this world delish!
Congrats to Lindsay and Rob on creating a supremely special event in which the details helped tell the story of who you are individually and as a couple.
And many thanks to the wedding experts who made the whole day such a success:
Getting ready location: Ruby Meng from Hotel Northampton
Ceremony venue: Jill Larken from Look Park, Pines Theater
Reception site: Jill Larken from Look Park, Garden House
Wedding planner: Caroline Levin from Sweet Caroline Weddings
Dress boutique: Bridal Heirlooms
Gown designer: Demetrios
Bridesmaids dresses: Alfred Angelo
Groomâ?(tm)s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen attire: Menswearhouse
Make-up: Karrie Welch
Ceremony musicians: Chari Peno from Con Fuoco Music
Entertainment: Tommy Plante from Hard At Play
Lighting: Jim Powers from CJC Event Lighting
Florist: Heather Sullivan from Durocher Florist
Caterer: Blue Heron Catering
Cake: Susan Forest from Royal Icings
Officiant: Rabbi Rachel Barenblat
Want more from Lindsay and Rob’s wedding? Check out their sneak peek, scoop, and PicFlick.
Nov
15
Romance + surprises + games = crazy good times for our bride, groom, their families, and their friends at this Look Park wedding.
Lindsay and Rob kicked off their wedding reception in the Garden House with an awesome first dance. Just the two of them at first….
Then the kids joined in.
And then more guests joined in with choreographed moves. And then more guests. A flash mob of awesome creation. And in the end, it was just Lindsay and Rob again. So fun!
Of course, Lindsay’s mom loved it and had to embrace her daughter.
Rob’s brother and best man entertained guests and Rob with one hell of a great speech.
It doesn’t hurt that he is actually a stand-up comic, but still he had his moments of seriousness.
Lindsay and her dad.
Rob and his mom.
Lindsay and her new step-son.
And Lindsay’s parents enjoying the party. Really, everyone wanted to be on this dancefloor.
And the whole family went up in the chair for the hora. First, Lindsay, then Rob…
Then their daughter and finally their son. He seemed to be enjoying this Jewish tradition.
I love that Lindsay had a chance to dance with her girlfriends too.
The party was wild good times with dancing….
And creative use of the game-inspired table names. (More on this bit of genious in a later blog post.)
Congrats to Lindsay and Rob! A fabulous day to begin a fabulous marriage!
And many thanks to the wedding experts who made the whole day such a success:
Getting ready location: Ruby Meng from Hotel Northampton
Ceremony venue: Jill Larken from Look Park, Pines Theater
Reception site: Jill Larken from Look Park, Garden House
Wedding planner: Caroline Levin from Sweet Caroline Weddings
Dress boutique: Bridal Heirlooms
Gown designer: Demetrios
Bridesmaids dresses: Alfred Angelo
Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen attire: Menswearhouse
Make-up: Karrie Welch
Ceremony musicians: Chari Peno from Con Fuoco Music
Entertainment: Tommy Plante from Hard At Play
Lighting: Jim Powers from CJC Event Lighting
Florist: Heather Sullivan from Durocher Florist
Caterer: Blue Heron Catering
Cake: Susan Forest from Royal Icings
Officiant: Rabbi Rachel Barenblat
Want more from Lindsay and Rob’s wedding? Check out their PicFlick.
Nov
01
When I met Lindsay and Rob about a year ago, I didn’t know them at all. They found us through Lindsay’s wedding gown boutique and came in because they liked what they had heard and saw. But all of that changed when we started to get to know each other. We quickly became friends. And really, if you met them, you would find them irrestibly fun and engaging too. They are easy to love- creative, talented, intelligent, so sweet on each other. I loved all of their stories. When they came over last winter to hang out, we played board games (an occupational hazard for them and a lot of fun for all of us). So when their wedding day arrived, it felt like we were going to the wedding of dear friends, and we wanted everything to be perfect for them. In truth, I think it was. So here’s a few of our favorites from their wedding day….
Dave popped by Rob’s room at the Hotel Northampton to see how things were going there. He and his son (aka ringbearer) were finishing getting ready. Loved the tailored suits and ties.
Meanwhile Lindsay was getting ready with the help of Rob’s little girl (aka flower girl).
Separately they made their way to the Pines Theater in Look Park, where they would enjoy a first look before the ceremony. Lindsay was so excited to see Rob she couldn’t wait, so she peeked out at him (his back was to her) from behind the bushes.
Then she walked out and made her way down to him.
If you want to see a few more from this first look (which was sweet and fun), check out their sneak peek on our facebook page. Following the first look, we had a good bit of time to enjoy the park and create portraits. We started with a few in the theater. These glorious trees rise behind the stage.
Then made our way over to the kiddie train. We only had a quick moment here because there was a long line of visitors waiting for the train, but the bridal party was able to hop on quickly.
There is some absolutely beautiful scenery in Look Park; one of my favorite spots is by this river.
Playtime? Absolutely (and this is only the beginning).
A super sweet family portrait.
Our ringbearer was hilarious.
Quick trip to mini-golf before the ketubah signing.
The guests have started to arrive and the kids couldn’t help but play with the bubbles in the field below the stage.
A strong embrace when Rob’s son arrives at the chuppah.
Rob’s daughter spreading rose petals for Lindsay to walk on.
A grand entrance.
So here’s the part where being a friend to the bride and groom can actually present challenges. Rob and Lindsay prepared beautiful and touching vows for each other. I couldn’t help myself; I was in tears, just like everyone else.
After the vows.
After the kiss and the glass stomp, Lindsay and Rob dashed off! It was like all of the pent up feelings of the day were released in a physical expression of energetic joy. (And Dave nearly got run over- too funny!)
They were soon followed by the kids.
More to come from the second half of the day and all of their amazing details.
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.
