wedding dress

Amanda & Ed at the Copley Plaza

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.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception-public gardens portrait on the bridge

Not having too many people also had it’s benefits.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- public gardens portrait on the bridge

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.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- public gardens portraits with a bit of fall color

You may recall we took a cab to the gardens. Amanda carefully gets out.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- bride carefully getting out of the taxi

Back at the Copley Plaza, we took a few more portraits. Love the lines of the staircase.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception-1

Introductions, right into their first dance.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- bride and groom's first dance

Such a sweet moment when Ed dances with his mum (mum because he’s from England).

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- groom dancing with his mom

The toasts were fantastic. Ed’s step-dad and best man went first. He was hilarious.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- groom's step dad and best man gives a toast

Amanda’s dad had his turn as well. Of course, he shared one or two embarassing stories.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- brides dad gives a toast and embarasses her a bit

Loving the autumn colors infused into their cake.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- wedding cake with red, orange, gold roses and gold decorations on the side

Another super special tradition. Amanda’s sorority sisters from Duke, sang her a song and passed around a candle in her honor.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- bride's sorority sisters from Duke sing to her and pass a flame around in her honor

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- during sorority song

Then the party really got underway. This crew knew how to have a good time.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- guests dancing

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- guests dancing

One last treat from their celebration.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-reception- bride and groom dance among their friends

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.

Amanda & Ed: Classic Elegance

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.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- engagement ring shot with wedding gift

And the wedding ringshot on the Globe.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- ring shot on days boston globe newspaper

And now to Ed, during his getting ready at the Copley Plaza. Did I mention his sense of humor?

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- groom spiffying up for bride

The gents took the stairs down to the Oak Room, for a toast before the ceremony.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- groom and groomsmen head off to church from hotel

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- groom and groomsmen drinking a beer in oak room before ceremony

A good opportunity for a portrait of our dashing groom.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- groom in the oak room

Meanwhile, the ladies were still getting ready. Dani Wagener provided her expertise for Amanda’s make-up.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- bride with make-up being put on by dani wagener

Love this photo of Amanda’s wedding dress in her hotel room; mysterious and romantic.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- brides wedding dress in window of hotel room

Such intricate and beautiful detailing.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- back of bride in her wedding gown with glam belt

Amanda is a classic beauty; she chose to keep her personal style natural, simple, elegant. It was perfect for her.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- bride at window sill looking out at copley square

The ladies also enjoyed a toast before the ceremony.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- a toast with the bridesmaids before the ceremony

So pretty.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- beautiful bridal portrait

Her church is across the square and she can see it from the window. Getting ready for her big day, she looks out.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- bride with veil silhouette

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).

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- bride and groom during ceremony

They included readings by friends.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- speaker reading during ceremony

This little gal really wanted to be with the bride.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- little girl guest tries to run away down the aisle

Afterwards we took portraits in and around the church and on the square lawn. A casual bridal party shot.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- fun bridal party shot outside

A classic bride and groom (aka husband and wife) portrait.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church- bride and groom 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.

fairmont-copley-plaza-wedding-old-south-church-1

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.

Fun at the Fairmont Copley with Yelena & Rob

Yelena and Rob’s wedding was definitively all about the fun. And there was a lot of fun to be had. Everyone came ready to celebrate these two fabulous people. There was enthusiasm and vigor aplenty and a whole lot of love and admiration too. We had the perfect recipe for a great evening.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding-1

We started our day with Yelena in her suite at the Fairmont Copley Plaza as she was getting her hair and make-up done. Her closest girlfriends and family were are all around, checking in and getting ready themselves.

And then came the unveiling of the dress. It was a pretty momentous occasion and her dad was super excited for it. He definitely had to be there and wanted to help place it where we needed it so we could get some beautiful pictures. I love when dads get involved. And really, I can’t blame him. Yelena’s dress was stunning. She chose a Vera Wang gown that perfectly accentuated her classic beauty alongside her modern sophistication and style. Gorgeous!

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- vera wang wedding gown in boston ma

Before we ventured downstairs for the Ketubah signing and Bedeken, we wanted to capture a few portraits of Yelena alone.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- bride by window at fairmont in boston

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- bride's reflection in veil and vera wang wedding dress

And then downstairs for Yelena and Rob to see each other for the first time on their wedding day.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- bride before ketubah signing at fairmont copley

He was already in the room where they would meet up. But his groomsmen didn’t want him to catch a glimpse of Yelena before she was ready. No peeking, Rob!

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- grrom before first seeing bride at fairmont copley plaza

Yelena entered. Both their faces lit up. Lots of smiles and laughter followed.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- bride sees grrom for first time at fairmont copley in boston

After the ketubah and bedeken ceremonies, Yelena and Rob met under the chuppah for the traditional Jewish ceremony with all of their guests. They utilized the St. James Room at the Copley- what a great feel.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- jewish wedding ceremony under huppah

A few of my favorite candid moments from the ceremony…

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- guests during wedding ceremony at fairmont copley

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- little girl during ceremony at fairmont copley plaza in boston

Yelena and Rob went off for their yichud. The remaining family members were totally amusing as they exited.

Rob’s brother "connecting" with his friends and family…

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- best man celebrates his brother's wedding

The portraits followed. The boys were philosophical. Or rather, hysterical. Serious fun.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- groom and groomsmen at the fairmont copley plaza in boston mass

And I leave you with just one from our portrait session with Yelena and Rob.

yelena_rob_copley_plaza_wedding- bride and groom portraits on copley square in boston massachusetts

This is clearly just the beginning of Yelena and Rob’s amazing celebration. There was dancing, dancing, and more dancing- along with great food and good times hanging with family and friends.

If you want a few more, you can also check out our Facebook Page where we posted their sneak peak.

Sneak Preview: Sara & Michael’s Wedding

Sara and Mike are just about the funniest couple alive. Seriously, they have the best sense of humors (or is it senses of humor?). We couldn’t wait for their wedding, because we knew we would be laughing and smiling all day long.

Here’s my favorite humorous moment from the bedecken. Sara’s checking out Mike to make sure he’s the right guy. Turns out he is.

sara_mike_california_wedding-1

What I didn’t count on, was the tears they would bring to my eyes.

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride and groom hold hands at kennolyn

During their ketubah signing ceremony, the Rabbi allowed for them to share some thoughts with each other. They were so tender and honest with each other.

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride and groom kiss during ketubah ceremony in santa cruz ca

And the way Mike looks at Sara simply melts my heart.

Here Mike is ensuring that Sara is indeed Sara. When I look at this image, I somehow make the same expression that Sara does. I can’t help it. Quivery happiness all over.

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride and groom during bedeken in soquel

Alas, I have gotten ahead of myself. So allow me to take a step back.

I have known Mike for several years; we met while performing in a comedy improv group- Blue Blanket Improv- in California. Mike has since moved on and even started his own- Chicken Scratch Improv. And Dave knew Mike from their swing dancing days. We met Sara (and puppy Oscar) last fall and were instantly enamored. Mike and Sara are absolutely perfect together, and perfect parents for Oscar. When they chose us to photograph their wedding at Kennolyn near Santa Cruz, we started counting down the days.

We started off – me with Sara as she and her bridesmaids were getting ready and Dave with the handsome groom…

sara_mike_california_wedding- groom portrait at kennolyn

and his Entourage,

sara_mike_california_wedding- groomsmen portrait at kennolyn in santa cruz

which included his adorable nephew. Precious missing teeth!

sara_mike_california_wedding- ring bearer at kennolyn in soquel cali

The guys have it a lot easier. Here, the women getting ready…Sara almost in her dress.

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride getting into her wedding dress in northern california

sara_mike_california_wedding- bridesmaids get ready at kennolyn northern california

And a nod to Sara’s fabulous shoulders and back. She is a triathelete and spends tons of time in the pool. The pay-off is clear.


sara_mike_california_wedding- back of bride and wedding gowns

Just before the boys joined the girls for the ketubah signing, Sara and her beautiful little flower girl compared dresses.

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride and flower girl look at each others dresses at kennolyn

Mike arrives. And Sara welcomes him in.

sara_mike_california_wedding- groom prepares to see bride for ketubah ceremony

The Rabbi in the background. Flower girl, apparently, not so interested in that.

sara_mike_california_wedding- flower girl during ketubah ceremony - summer

Then we head over for the ceremony under the huppah.

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride with bouquet before ceremony

And Sara walks down the aisle with her mom…

sara_mike_california_wedding- bride walks down aisle with her mother for Jewish ceremony

I can’t wait to share more and there will definitely be lots, lots more. Of course, more from the reception, but I will also be sharing about the flowers. They were amazing! Bouquets and bouttonieres galore by Laughin’ Gal Floral. Definitely check back soon!

Wintery Wonderland in Killington

We are so excited to share a few more images from our fashion editorial photographed in Killington, Vermont this winter. It has been such a challenge to narrow them down. We had the most perfect conditions- wonderful models (thank you, Mai and Rob) and a stunning wintery scene- a mountain backdrop, snow falling just when we wanted it and sunlight when we needed it (thank you, weather gods). So I did my best to only put a few of our faves up on the blog. If you want to see more, you can definitely check out our flickr photostream. Click here for the Vermont Winter Wedding Portrait set.

killington_vt_winter_bride snow wedding- bride in fur

killington_vt_winter_bride- fur wedding cap

killington_vt_winter_bride- fur wrap

killington_vt_winter_groom with flowers

killington_vt_winter_bride in snow

killington_vt_winter_bride and groom

killington_vt_winter_bride with mountains

killington_vt_winter_bride- fur wrap in new england

killington_vt_winter_bride- at the red barn

 

killington_vt_winter_bride- with pony at red barn

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

Click here to see images from the sneak preview.

Dress Fitting at Vera Wang’s

At long last, we can share the images from our shoot with Emily and her girls at Vera Wang. Emily and Erik tied the knot a week ago, and we didn’t want there to be any chance that he would get a look at her in her dress beforehand, so we held off on sharing these photos. Now that the deed is done; here we go.

emily-and-erik-wedding-Emily checks out her Vera Wang wedding gown during her dress fitting

Vera Wang Dress Fitting

Emily chose an elegant fitted silky Vera Wang gown with a gorgeous ruffled back that fit her style perfectly. It also looked amazing on her. She flew to NYC to have several fittings over the course of a week in Vera Wang’s flagship salon.

Vera Wang Flagship Store- New York City

For her final fitting, Emily was joined by her mom Kelly and her dearest friends Ina, Jessica, Sue, and Kelly. A truly outrageous and fun group of women.

Emily and Crew in Vera Wang Lobby

With Emily looking so amazing and her big day just around the corner, tears were not to be avoided, but neither was the laughter. It was such a big moment- this preview of Emily as she would look on her wedding day- the air was charged. I am so glad we were able to capture these moments.

The Ladies enjoy a good laugh at Emily's Vera Wang dress fitting

Good times are had by all at Vera Wang

This was just a snippet. More images will be posted on Emily and Erik’s site when we return from California.

Wanna re-visit more of Em and Erik’s wedding celebrations?
Engagement Photos
Wedding Sneak Peak

Cassandra Holden Custom Dresses

Local designer Cassandra Holden held a fashion show last week at the Skera Gallery. Dave and I had the pleasure of attending and catching a few images.

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

cassandra-holden-show_01

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

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