May
12
If you are anything like me, you have always wanted to be a part of a TV production- to see what happens backstage, so to speak; to watch as the characters move on and off screen; to observe the camera crews and the director. Well, Dave had just that opportunity when he photographed Christina and Ed’s wedding for WeTV’s My Fair Wedding. He followed the planner and star of the show, David Tutera, as well as capturing the bride and groom and their wedding details. So you feel like you were actually part of the shoot. Since I posted about the book earlier this week, I thought I would share the behind the scenes photos today.
Tutera is not only an amazing planner, he’s a fabulous designer. He created a beautiful Mexican inspired wedding for Christina, whose Riviera Maya destination wedding had to be canceled. His first stop was to check on the decor at the hotel where the reception would be. His team was already doing a great job; he added a few more touches to the look.
Next he visited the bride who was in the process of getting her hair and make-up done.
Never a private moment on a TV show.
This is when he reminded Christina of the 3 dresses she tried on. He is about to tell her which one he chose for her. (This also happens to be one of my fave moments each episode of the show. I can’t help loving that they don’t know which gown he chose. The suspense is super fun. And while most women wouldn’t want someone else to chose this most important of all dresses, I actually would have loved it. I had such a hard time figuring out what to get.)
Before and during the ceremony, there is tons going on both behind the camera and in front of the camera. These portraits show how David is working to make sure that everything goes off without a hitch. Before the ceremony he is checking to see everything is in place. As guests arrive, he greets them and helps them get where they need to be. During the ceremony, he is watching here, there and everywhere.
Being on a public Staten Island beach with lots of cameras, the wedding was sure to draw a crowd.
Still, the crew was pretty inconspicous during the ceremony. One team all the way back and two teams on the side at the front. No guests’ views were interrupted. As photographers, we pride ourselves on putting the wedding first. After all that’s why we are all there. So it is really nice that Tutera’s team also has this in their mind, even when their work is for TV.
After the ceremony, whether for TV or not, David brings his couples into the reception hall before all of the other guests, so that they can actually take a moment to enjoy the space he has created for them. So they can check out the details they have thought about and planned with him. Christina and Ed are clearly enamored with their colorful chocolate cake.
Their first dance in the dreamy tropical space.
One question we get about the show and working with David is: Is he really that nice? The answer is absolutely 100% yes. He is a truly down-to-earth, caring gentleman AND he likes to have a good time. He doesn’t dance at every wedding but when appropriate, he will enjoy the party with the couple and their guests. Enjoying a moment with the bride.
Dancing with a bridesmaid.
Clearly he felt a connection with this group and they with him. They even invited him into their group hug.
The folks who make it a televsion show. Yup, that’s a lot of paparazzi.
What a great day to be a part of! We are so thankful to David Tutera and his team for asking us to photograph this My Fair Wedding episode.
May
09
I am literally doing a little dance; I am so proud of my partner in all things. Dave’s work was recently published in David Tutera‘s My Fair Wedding book!!! We just got our hands on a copy and it is fabulous. Each chapter is devoted to a different episode and has great tips for your wedding- tips ranging from choosing your dress to engaging with your guests to permit needs to thematic choices. Really practical. And of course the photos are amazing!
Here’s a few pages from Dave’s Chapter in the book. Yup, a whole chapter. Did I mention I was proud? He photographed Christina and Ed’s Mexican dream wedding. They had initally planned a destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico, but had to change their plans suddenly. With no time whatsoever, they were at a loss. David Tutera created a stunning Latin inspired wedding in Staten Island. They were even able to wed on the beach. Amazing!
And now a few details that actually aren’t in the book for those who want more.
Christina’s dress was one of the first from the David Tutera by Faviana bridal collection. It’s perfect for both the ceremony and the reception; the skirt below the flowers can be removed for a fun party dress.
If you’ve watched My Fair Wedding, you know that David makes the decisions. The brides can voice their opinions, but in the end, the buck stops with Tutera. Once he decided on the Latin theme, he included it at every turn. The bridesmaids dresses, for instance, were light, airy and supremely colorful.
As I mentioned, they were able to host their ceremony on the beach. It was quite breezy.
David transformed this corner of the beach into an oasis with tropical plants, orange and yellow roses, green turf and gold chiavari chairs.
The string ensemble enhanced the mood with beautiful music.
Blue skies and puffy white clouds with an oceanview. Oh my!
In the distance, the clouds weren’t quite as playful, but I love the bridge peaking through them. And a chance to see what was going on nearby at the beach.
Everyone went inside the hotel for the reception. The colors and theme were carried through into these spaces as well.
Cocktails with fruit.
A Mariachi band started off the party with Mexican flair.
A very romantic, warm dinner table. Roses dripping from everywhere and amber plates and glassware.
Candlelight always great for ambiance.
Bringing in the tropical flowers and more vibrant colors on a chocolate cake. Mmmmmm…..
To end the day, what could be better than fireworks?
The bride and groom were definitely surprised and happy with this ending!
Congrats to my hubby, Dave Lee; to our friend and fellow photographer, Critsey Rowe, who is also published in the book; and of course, to the man behind it all, the extremely talented, warm, and charming, David Tutera. It is such an honor and pleasure to work with David and his team- consummate professionals and creative geniuses!
Check back soon for a behind the scenes look at the making of this season 2 episode of My Fair Wedding.
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.
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.
Oct
12
Though they grew up on the east coast, Lauren and Ryan definitely have a super laid back and relaxed attitude. It might come from their recent years in California or may be the balance to their intrinsically adventurous spirits. Or perhaps it was because their wedding was also a homecoming, offering all the warmth and joy that went with that. Either way, they weren’t worried about anything. They were all about enjoying the moment.
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.
Oct
01
Last night, I had the pleasure of sharing the photos from Becky and Neil’s wedding with them. It was such fun catching up, hearing about their Hawaii honeymoon adventures, and of course, reminiscing about their day as we looked through the photos. And what a day it was! You know it’s good times when scientists get married at a science museum.
First of all, there is romance. The Washburn Pavilion let in beautiful afternoon light and provided views of the Charles River as Becky and Neil exchanged their vows.
Their parents and friends were alternating between smiles and tears. And sometimes both.
Becky and Neil chose red, black and white for their colors- formal with a splash of fun. They also happen to be the colors of the Museum of Science, a very nice tie-in. The bridesmaids carried bouquets of red roses and wore red sashes.
Loving this moment just before the kiss. Such joy!
Then there is the fun- it’s a museum and a fun one! I mean, really, what could be better than a museum that has stairs that play music?
After the ceremony, we took a quick tour of the museum to capture some portraits of Becky and Neil in and among the exhibits. Our first stop was the dinosaurs, but on the way, I wanted to capture Becky and Neil in the midst of it all.
We just had to play around with this big ole dinosaur. This reminds of the TV show Land of the Lost.
And then of course, there was this super cool physics machine/toy and the sky at dusk.
When we returned, it was time for the reception. Becky and Neil kicked things off with their first dance. They were great. They took lessons and had the dance choreographed; they totally sold the dance with their energy and connection to each other.
Their guests were understandably mesmerized.
Becky’s maid of honor toasted the couple…
And brought tears to Becky’s eyes.
Enjoying a moment with her parents.
At their sweetheart table, they steal a kiss.
As Becky danced with her father, her mom watched on.
Becky had a very special treat for Neil. Becky had actually sung with the band they hired for their wedding a couple times.
So she decided to serenade Neil with a special song. How cool is that!
For us, the evening came to a close after her song. What a treat it was to be able to spend this day with Becky and Neil. To our newlyweds- you guys are fabulous and your friends and family are lovely. What a truly wonderful day it was! We are so grateful we could be there to document it for you.
Also, special thanks go out to all of the professionals who helped create an amazing day for Becky and Neil:
Getting ready site: Austin Horn from the Royal Sonesta Hotel, Cambridge
Ceremony and reception venue: Leigh-Ann French from the Museum of Science
Caterer: Keith Mahoney from Wolfgang Puck
Floral design: Darlene from Kaleidoscope Florals
Ceremony musicians: Kristine & Steven Kirby of Alla Breve Duo
Band: SirTunes (aka Pete Massa Band)
Definitely check out more from Becky and Neil- their engagement session, sneak preview, and wedding slideshow.
Sep
30
For Emily and Yeung, the traditions and celebrations continued from morning to night. When last I wrote, I left off just as the Western wedding ceremony was beginning.
They included their own personal touches, such as the blending of colored sand.
After the ceremony, we toured around Boston to capture some great portraits of the newlyweds and their bridal party. We started at the Church of Scientology. Loving the trees surrounding the fountains when you first enter.
Then we headed over to Copley Square, just with Emily and Yeung, and took a few by the John Hancock and then the Trinity Church.
We finished up in Chinatown where the banquet would be held. And perhaps my favorite image, on the ramp of the parking lot above the Chinese Restaurant. You never know where you will find something fun and playful.
Soon the party got started. They kicked off the evening with a slideshow. Here the bridal party watches and enjoys.
They worked really hard on the choreography for their first dance. Showing off their moves….
Yeung took on the task of opening the champagne.
One of my favorite Chinese traditions are all the games. This crew put a twist on the evening. Instead of Emily and Yeung having to perform (at least at first), the guests had to complete challenging tasks (such as moving an ice cube from one tray to another with only a pair of chopsticks) in order to get Emily and Yeung to kiss. This lady was successful!
Emily’s maid of honor toasted the newlyweds, making everyone laugh, then cry.
It wouldn’t be a crazy chinese wedding without karaoke. This crew got together to share a song for the bride and groom.
Bouquet and garter tosses? Well they don’t happen quite as often as they used to, but when you get the right crew, they can be a lot of fun.
And then a new custom, perhaps. The gent who caught the garter put on a show for the lady who caught the bouquet. He happens to be a black belt and his moves were amazing.
He wasn’t the only one with great moves. Here’s another guest, putting on a show for our bride (now wearing one of her Chinese dresses). Loving it!
What a great day, full of fun and traditions!
Congrats and thanks go out to all the professionals who helped make Emily and Yeung’s day so special.
Getting ready venue: Home and Marriott Hotel
Ceremony Venue: Marriott Hotel
Reception Venue: Hei La Moon
Cake: Konditor Meister
Wedding Gown designer: Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaids dresses: Maggy London
Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen’s suits: Kenneth Cole
And finally thanks to Emily and Yeung for choosing us to photograph your day. So glad we could be there to capture all of these special moments.
If you want more from Emily and Yeung, definitely check out their engagement session, sneak preview, and slideshow.
Sep
21
For Emily and Yeung, we kicked off the day with a few Chinese traditions. Emily was tucked away in their new house with her close friends and family. Yeung and his boys arrived to "break in" and get to his bride. And they came bearing the flowers. Very nice!
From the inside, I could catch glimpses of the groomsmen as they tried to negotiate their way in.
And I was able to spend a little time with Emily, as she observed the boys’ efforts from above.
And also capture a few details, such as the shoes she wore with her Xi-pao.
Eventually the boys were allowed inside. Yeung wasted no time; he jumped over the barricade on the stairs and rushed towards his bride with flowers in hand.
Emily greeted Yeung with smiles and the two of them joined their guests downstairs for the traditional tea ceremony. It was followed by a few portraits. Here, a silhouette of our bride and groom.
It was then time to head to the hotel where they would host their Western ceremony. Emily had a room where she could change into her white wedding dress.
Her girls helped get her into her ballgown.
Love that smile.
And check out the necklace she chose, such a great match for her gown.
Yeung and his groomsmen also had some touching up to do.
As soon as everyone was ready, they prepared for the ceremony to begin. Yeung waited at the end of the aisle and the guests peered anxiously towards the door for Emily’s entrance.
I leave you with that little cliff hanger. More to come soon from the ceremony, portraits and their Chinese banquet.
Want more now? Check out their e-session story: Prescribed Romance.
Sep
19
When two people fit like a glove, their wedding day is an affirmation of what everyone present knows and trusts- that they belong together and that it couldn’t be any other way. So it was with Becky and Neil. From the very beginning, Becky and Neil found they had so much in common- there was the obvious passion for chemistry, but also less obvious things like their style and approach to the world. Being a part of their wedding day was such a joy. They were truly relaxed on the day and each of them was so excited to get to marry the other.
Becky and Neil started their day at the Royal Sonesta, where they each got ready. Dave spent most of his time with Neil and I got to hang with Becky and the ladies. I started off with a few details. Becky’s color theme was black and white formality with a splash of red to spice things up. She even had a red sash added to her wedding dress.
The white and ivory bouquet of roses and freesia for Becky; the red roses were for the bridesmaids.
Becky helped her dad (who also happened to be her officiant) with the boutonniere.
And as Becky did a few finishing touches, her bridesmaids watched on.
Meanwhile, Neil was getting gussied up himself.
One of my favorite parts of the day was actually the "transportation." As they had chosen to get ready at the Royal Sonesta which was literally around the corner from the Museum of Science, their wedding venue, they elected to walk. So fun.
It was a brilliantly gorgeous day, perfect for a stroll. Along the way, Becky was treated to honks and hollers of congratulations from passers by.
Not a bad view from the pavillion at the Museum of Science.
And we were ready for the ceremony to begin. Neil walked down the aisle with his mom and dad. I love how all three of them look so proud and so happy.
Becky soon followed, escorted by her mom and her brother.
She and her mom exchanged a kiss, with smiles from her brother, before she greeted Neil as her groom.
Want more from Becky and Neil? Check out their engagement session.
Sep
14
But what is a perfect couple? I am sure we may each have our own definition, but here’s mine. They are a couple that laugh and cry together; hold each other; play with each other; enjoy, admire and appreciate each other. They are two people who have their own unique interests, but find other interests in common. They help each other grow. Christina and Vincent are one such couple. I love the way they interact with each other- completely at ease, each so much a part of the other person. Their wedding was filled with smiles, laughter and love. It celebrated who they are as individuals and who they are together.
As Christina and Vincent were both getting ready at the Boston Harbor Hotel, we were able to spend time with both of them. Christina had already had her hair and make-up done at a salon near her mom’s house so the ladies came to the hotel to get into their dresses and complete a few finishing touches. The crew was very relaxed and pretty much just enjoyed the time together. Lots of laughter here.
One of the ways Christina and Vincent chose to share a bit of themselves was in the theme of their wedding- wine and chocolate. Sounds good, no? So they chose to incorporate deep reds and purples- burgundy, merlot, wine- into their color scheme. Check out the bridesmaids bouquets alongside their garnet dresses.
We had a little time before Christina was scheduled to meet Vincent for the first time so we captured a few portraits of Christina and a few details. She looked stunning in this halter style Vera Wang gown. So elegant.
And the veil with ribbon edges was a perfect match.
Dave popped into the room where Vincent was hanging with his boys and captured this portrait of Vincent waiting for his chance to see Christina.
Then it was time. Vincent was waiting in the Rotunda with his back to where Christina would enter. As she left her room, she gave her girls a high-five. Such a perfect moment.
As Christina approached Vincent, her mom and bridesmaids peeked around the corner to watch.
Vincent’s huge smile when he sees Christina.
Christina’s joyful tears when she sees Vincent.
Then they enjoy a few moments together amidst the architectural beauty of the Rotunda.
And that’s just the beginning. More to come soon from their beautiful Boston waterfront wedding.
Want to see more from Christina and Vincent? Check our their stormy engagement session in Beacon Hill.
