At the Charles Hotel, we had a little extra time for portraits. (We had originally planned to take portraits at the pedestrian bridge over the Charles River, but it was covered in scaffolding. So bummed about that, but really glad the hotel has a pretty awesome lobby.) The lighting and the art at the hotel is mysterious and rich, lending to some amazingly unique images. Here, blending reality with a dreamlike quality- kind of like a wedding day, actually.

Meanwhile the guests enjoyed an outdoor cocktail hour. One of my favorite things about the Charles Hotel as a venue is this courtyard.

Inside the romantic scene was being set with candles,

Warm lighting and vibrant colorful floral arrangements,

And this decadent, sparkly wedding cake.

Eleni and Johnnie made their grand entrance.

Right into their first dance.

As is the Greek custom, their family and friends showered them with money.

Ultimately they were joined on the dance floor by everyone. I especially enjoyed their nephews dancing crazily beside them.

And the party begins….

After the DJ got things heated up, the Greek band led the Greek dancing.

A highlight for all… the men’s dance. Hilarious. I am not 100% sure what it is about, but the boys have to get down on their knees,

On their backs,

and drink. Too much fun!

And I’ll drink to that.

Huge congrats to Eleni and Johnnie and their families. What an amazing celebration. We are so glad we could document it for you.

Additional thanks to all of the pro’s who help make it a fantastic day:

Ceremony Officiant and Venue: V. Rev. Dr. Cleopas Strongylis of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Reception venue and planner: Sarah Chatigny of the Charles Hotel

Caterer: Henrietta’s Table at the Charles Hotel

Cake: Danny Angelopolus at the Charles Hotel

Brides wedding gown: Monique Lhullier from L’elite Bridal Salon

Bridesmaids dresses: Melissa at Allegria Bridal with Jim Hjelm and Lazaro gowns

Groom and groomsmens tuxes: Russo’s Tux

Bride’s hair: Maria Iannessa from Bella Capelli

Bride’s make-up: Eddie Fee

Floral and lighting design: Donna Fucaloro of Pepperberry Flowers

DJ: Kostas Flathras of Hellenic Sound Productions

Ceremony Musicians: Lindsey McChord of Longly School of Music

Videographer: Jesse Barack of Mass Videography

Invitations and other printed materials: Lynne Johnson of The Inviting Company

If you still want more, check out their engagement session, Part 1, and their PicFlick.

Then there was their engagement session, which was loads of fun. The North End was Johnnie’s stomping ground, and where they had their first date. We saw more of the neighborhood than we ever had before. And then during our pre-wedding meeting, we asked them what they were most looking forward to and they both reiterated, “We can’t wait to be married!”

So we knew the day would be extraordinarily special, focused on their love and we knew based on how much fun these two are, that their friends and family would surely be a blast as well. We were not disappointed.

We started at Eleni’s parents home for her getting ready photos and family portraits.

Gotta love her dress, but this image is also about the home that she grew up in- the chandelier, the china cabinet and other family heirlooms.

Dave popped outside to get a photo of all the boys in the family. Eleni couldn’t resist sneaking in. Only one little guy noticed. Then Dave headed off to Johnnie’s mom’s house for their family photos.

Meanwhile, Eleni was helped into her beautiful dress by her mom and her sisters.

I took a few portraits of Eleni in her parents bedroom. The window light was gorgeous. But I also love all of the family details. In this image, I was able to capture her mother watching as well as her parents wedding photo on the wall, a layered story.

And the boys helped her make her way down the stairs.

On the way out, she kicked the glass of water down the stairs. Then she hopped into her vintage limo.

Meanwhile, Dave and the boys had made it to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Johnnie can totally pull off the Godfather look; he has the perfect smile.

But his true nature comes out as he waits in the back of the church. He must be thinking, “When can we start already?!”

And then the festivities began in earnest. The boys made their way out to the sanctuary. And as his niece was walking down the aisle, his sister waved her on enthusiastically.

Eleni waited outside the doors with her parents.

From the moment she entered, she and Johnnie were all smiles. And he kept stealing glances at his beautiful bride.

Just before the kiss, Johnnie’s smile grows even bigger.

And what a kiss it was!

Portraits followed… here’s one quick glimpse of what is to come following the ceremony.

And the Charles Hotel reception follows that with some seriously fun and funny Greek dancing!

and tears…

And laughter as Phil wiped away Amy’s tears.

They also took the opportunity to hold each others’ hands during the ceremony.

And sealed it with a kiss.

Lots of smiles and cheers as they exited the church.

After family portraits and a tea ceremony at the church, we continued to the Black Swan Country Club, where they would host their reception. They wanted a few more portraits on the golf course, so we started with those.

The stone wall separating the greens is very New England.

Loving the reaction of the bridal party to this kiss.

Inside, Amy changes so she would have just the right outfit for their first dance, a beautifully choreographed number. Of course, that also meant opportunities for portraits of the couple prior to their entrance.

Practicing alone.

As they were being introduced, the bridesmaids and groomsmen had a special dance of their own for Amy and Phil.

Oh the fun moves in this dance. Spinning…

and lifting.

After the Best Man’s toast which spoke to all of the things that make Phil, Phil; he was in full smile mode.

Taking his mom for a spin.

Finally the cake cutting. Gotta love this little sweet treat which was situated on top.

All around a beautiful day and kudos go to all of the professionals who helped make it such:
Getting ready location: the Liberty Hotel
Ceremony venue: Myca Wherlie from High Rock Arlington Church
Reception site: Caryl Nansel of Black Swan Country Club

Wedding gown: Maggie Sottero
Bride’s hair: Joe from Hair Adventure
Bride’s make-up: Veronica Shin
Groom’s attire: Men’s Warehouse
Cake: Cakes! Bakery
Floral design: Myca Wehrli from Whirly Girl Flowers
Uplights: Paul Therrien from Boston Uplights

Want more? Check out their slideshow.

To kick things off, here’s a ring shot, utilizing the Liberty’s awesome keys.

Up in the bridal suite as Amy was getting ready, I took the opportunity to capture a few of her dress. Loving the view she had. She got to look at the beautiful Boston skyline the whole time she was getting her hair and make-up done.

Before Amy went down to see Phil for the first time on their wedding day, her bridesmaids surrounded her and offered a prayer for her.

On one of the balconies, Phil took a deep breath as he awaited his first look of Amy.

A sweet moment when first they saw each other. The light and shape of the windows in the Liberty offered a beautiful backdrop and opportunity for this silhouette.

We had the bridal party all together so played around with the levels a bit.

In the lobby, a portrait of Amy.

After a few in the hotel, Dave took Amy and Phil out to the streets of Boston, Beacon Hill to be specific.

And along the way they ran into the Bruins‘ celebration. Amy and Phil just happened to be getting married on the day of the Bruins‘ Stanley Cup victory parade, which also happened to be taking place right next to where they were getting ready. It presented some challenges for the day, but also some super fun opportunities.

The streets also offered up a perfectly placed Coke truck.

When they finished with the Boston portraits, everyone headed to the church for the ceremony.

Proud dad with a very happy bride.

More to follow soon from the rest of the ceremony, portraits and the reception at Black Swan Country Club.

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.

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.

We start back at the ceremony. I love this moment when Lindsay’s dad removes her veil.

Alex is Greek, so they chose to have their ceremony at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and celebrate his traditions. The ceremony was all in Greek and on the long side. In the midst of it, Alex stole a peek at Lindsay.

The afternoon light coming in from the windows was lovely and warm.

And have I mentioned how much I love this church?! We’ve been there several times and each time I find something new to photograph and a new way to capture the ceremony. It is just so beautiful.

A fun moment. The ring bearer had walked right in front of them as they were circling the alter. He didn’t really want to move. Loving the smile on the priest’s face as he looks down at the little boy.

Putting on the crowns.

After the ceremony and portraits, Lindsay and Alex made their way out of the church. Dave captured of them on the stairs. Another new vantage point for us.

Dave and our associate Nikki went with Lindsay and Alex to capture a few portraits on Copley Square. They started at the Boston Public Library, a place I love, and Dave created this stunning portrait of Lindsay. During our premiere, she mentioned how much she enjoyed spinning in her dress. It shows!

Another at the BPL. Alex whispering something quite amusing in Lindsay’s ear.

The view from the library, looking back at the Copley Plaza, where they hosted their reception. These two look so great, and I am loving the moodiness of the image, as the sun was setting.

When Lindsay and Alex arrived at the hotel, they went up to their suite for a bite to eat and a moment of rest. I joined them and captured this image of Lindsay while her bridesmaids were working on her bustle.

Downstairs in the Oval Room, Dave spent a few moments documenting the amazing decor. Lindsay’s color pallette of burnt orange, creams, yellows, citrus orange and gold was absolutely stunning, especially against the blue and gold backdrop of the room. And Jessica of Jess’ Country Flowers interpretted her vision perfectly. We have tons more to share of this, but I thought I would save it for another post. So this is just a little tease of the beautiful space.

Lindsay and Alex entered to cheers and dancing and fun. The party got started right away.

I have to stop to celebrate their nephew (aka the ring bearer). He was absolutely adorable and was excited by all aspects of the wedding- from the ceremony to the band to the bouquets to Lindsay’s dress.

First dance.

That cake looked delish. Lindsay fed Alex. Alex fed Lindsay. Then Alex helped with a little touch up. So sweet.

Lindsay and her dad.

Alex with his mom.

The Greek dancing got underway. I LOVE Greek dancing. In the air.

Our bride and groom joining in the fun.

Guests danced in honor of Lindsay and Alex. Much merriment all around.

One of the new lead singer from the Flipside playing on the tambourine.

And a couple more of celebration. Lindsay and Alex took a quick break from the dancing to toast with friends in the Venetian Room. That is NOT water in their glasses, by the way.

And then back on the dance floor for more fun!

What a day! What a night! What a wonderful, fabulous, fun, beautiful wedding! Congrats, Lindsay and Alex.

So many outstanding professionals to thank for bringing their wedding together so perfectly. Every single one came through and exceded their expectations and dreams:

First of all, Lyndsay Picciano and her team at the Fairmont Copley Plaza provided exceptional service and the tastiest of meals.

Also, His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Krommydas and Rev. Dr. Cleopas Strongylis for their guidance and for presiding over the ceremony at Boston‘s Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

For Lindsay and Alex’s looks:
Wedding gown: Eli Saab
Bridesmaid’s dresses: Jim Hjelm
Hair: Laura from Jesamondo Salon
Make-up: Lili from Jesamondo Salon
Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire: the Calvin Klein Tuxedo line from Men’s Wearhouse

For the look and feel of the day:
Floral design: Jessica Robinson from Jessica’s Country Flowers
Wedding cake: Ellen Bartlett of Cakes to Remember
Ceremony musicians: Bryan Hilliard and the Occasional Brass Trio
Greek musicians: George Makredes of the Makredes Duo
Reception band: Corin Ashley and the Flipside
Invitations, save the dates, programs, and more: Jillian Sullivan of Fizz Paperie (formerly J. Sullivan Designs)
Rentals: Debbie Hewitt of Festive Occasions
Cinematographers: Lisa Teneriello of Precious Moments Video

Lindsay and Alex, a special note of thanks. We had been looking forward to your wedding for quite a while and we had such an amazing time being a part of your celebration. Thank you so much for including us. We are so excited for you to start the next chapter of your life together.

For all our readers, I know you want more. I don’t blame you. And while there is more to come, in the form of a whole entry all about the details and to provide inspiration. For now, I would recommend checking out Lindsay and Alex’s engagement session, sneak peek, and PicFlick.

I started the day with Lindsay at a fabulous apartment in Brookline. When I arrived the place was bustling. Lindsay was getting her hair done and the florist had just arrived with the personal flowers. Truly Lindsay was blown away. I do believe she had tears in her eyes. Her bouquet was just what she wanted.

That’s her dad. Yup, he’s bringing her dress to the bedroom for me to photograph it. But really I just like seeing him hold the dress.

Putting her gown on.

And her necklace. Love the softness of this one.

Oh my goodness. She takes my breath away.

Checking herself out and a few final touches by one of her bridesmaids.

Then she sees her dad.

On the way out.

Meanwhile, Dave and our associate Nikki met up with Alex and his boys at the Fairmont Copley Plaza (where we would end our evening). They dashed off to the Public Garden (where Alex would see Lindsay for the first time in her wedding dress).

While they were waiting for us, they popped into Cheers and Dave captured this portrait. Very masculine.

Not too long after, the ladies arrived.

Nikki captured Alex with his back to Lindsay so he wouldn’t see her before he was supposed to.

And then, he sees his bride.

And she sees him.

Sweetness.

We photographed several family portraits in the park and a few details. Dave really liked the softness of Lindsay’s dress next to the hard polished look of the stones.

Alex and the crew hopped into their limos. But Lindsay and her dad had a special vintage car and driver. No windows, just a clear view of the city.

Time for the ceremony. This little one was more than ready. He even walked down the aisle before it was actually his turn.

Did I mention that I love their families?

Alex getting ready to see Lindsay for the second first time.

The Greek Orthodox Cathedral is one of my favorite ceremony sites in Boston. It is simply gorgeous. Nikki captured this image from the balcony. You can totally get a sense of the beauty of the space.

But you can’t beat this moment. She looks so happy to be walking down the aisle.

I hope you enjoyed part one as much as I did. There are so many more great photos to come, from the ceremony, from Lindsay and Alex’s portraits, from the reception and all of their amazing details. In the meantime, you should definitely check out their engagement session along the Charles River.

It started with a ceremony at Boston’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Lovin’ the look in Massimo’s eyes.

You have to check out the beauty of this place- so vibrant and colorful- with stunning crystal chandeliers, an amazing space for a wedding.

And the lights are kept pretty low, so there is a romantic ambiance and warmth as well.

The ceremony was presided over by his and hers officiants, aka a representative from both Loula’s and Massimo’s faiths, making the service doubly official.

The newlyweds….

We dashed off to the State Room for their reception. Loula and Massimo added beautiful touches, such as custom designed menus and table numbers, as well as elegant floral arrangements, making the already elegant venue truly shine.

Their first dance, surrounded by their guests, with the city lights in the background.

As is customary in the Greek tradition, this dance becomes a money dance. This young man is helping the couple start their lives with good fortune.

And sharing a different kind of fortune.

Some guests watched (and cheered) from the upper gallery as the party got started.

Dancing got underway quickly, first with modern music.

Then with Greek tunes. Loula’s dad with a few great moves.

During the evening, toasts and merriment prevailed. Our bride…

and our groom definitely had a good time.

Oh, and did I mention that Loula changed into a party dress later in the evening? So cute and fun, complete with the perfect shoes.

Lovin’ this look on Loula. Beautiful!

What a crazy night! Really. Everyone knew how to have a good time.

Congrats to the professionals who helped make their day so special:
Getting ready venue: Boston Harbor Hotel
Ceremony site: Father Cleopas from the Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Officiant: Father Tom
Reception site: Venessa Hoyle from the State Room
Cake: Claudio of Modern Pastry
Floral design: Kerranne of Les Fleurs
Ice Sculptures: Brookline Ice & Coal
Cinematographers: Naomi, Jack and Lauren from Generations Cinemastories

For ladies’ looks:
Hair: Shelly of Dellaria
Make-up: Luiz Filho of Luz Beauty
Wedding gown designer: Claire Pettibone; and Shelly from Sewly Yours
Party dress designer: Lazaro; and Maria from Cristina’s
Bridesmaid dresses: Jim Hjelm at Cristina’s

Want more from Loula and Massimo? Check out their engagement session, their sneak peek and their slideshow.

The rings were with the boys. And Massimo wanted an image documenting the ring alongside the day’s newspaper.

Meanwhile, I was capturing details of Loula’s wedding dress, shoes and veil.

And of course, documenting the process of the preparation.

As I mentioned, the boys don’t take much time to get gussied up. So Dave had time for some fun portraits of the boys.

Loula getting into her dress.

Her koumbara put on her shoes, a special Greek tradition.

Loula takes a moment by herself, almost, to put on her jewelry. I love how her pup watches her captivated.

I have time for a quick portrait before we head out.

Dave and the boys are already at the church. This little sweetheart is so intent.

As the boys arrive at the church, we are heading out. Loula hired a beautiful vintage car to carry her and her parents to the ceremony. Just a moment before we leave.

More from Loula and Massimo’s wedding- ceremony at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral and reception at The State Room- to follow soon. In the meantime, check out their engagement session in Nahant.