Nov
09
And color too.
Last night, Alyssa and Slava came by for their wedding premiere. We had such a great time sharing their photos with them and hearing more of the stories behind their wedding day- stories like how the color palette of blue and yellow reflected Alyssa’s favorite colors and how their friend Tex enjoyed their wedding so much he suggested they have a wedding every week. It also became clear that these two look great from every angle and in every style. And so I am excited to share the photos from their ceremony and reception. Dave and Brian did such a fabulous day capturing the joy and spirit of the day.
The ketubah signing is the Jewish marriage contract and there’s a special ceremony for this that occurs before the chuppah ceremony. Alyssa and Slava were surrounded by their families and a couple of friends.
I am completely enamored with their ceremony. There was so much laughter and joy in it.
Check out the full view. A beautiful chuppah decorated with orchids and a runner with flower petals along the sides.
So sweet the way Slava holds her hand.
These two are so much fun. Honestly we were laughing non-stop last night. And you totally get that in this photo as they leave the ceremony for the reception. It’s play time.
Oh me, oh my. These gentlemen lifted Alyssa way up in the air during the hora. She almost fell off, but amazingly held onto the chair for a bit longer.
The feeling of joy when reaching the ground again, safely.
The Hotpockets (Alyssa and her two girlfriends sang together in high school and that’s the name of their group) dancing and singing their hearts out. Now if only they had taken the stage with Powerhouse….
Everyone took a break for a few toasts. Alyssa’s sister sharing her thoughts.
Which were highly amusing to Alyssa and Slava.
And then more partying. Actually to hear Dave tell it, the dancing was crazy fun. And to see the photos, I have to agree. These people know how to celebrate.
The groomsmen dancing up a storm.
The bridesmaids dancing up a storm.
The guests dancing up a storm.
The bride and groom dancing up a storm.
So much fun and you can absolutely feel all of the joyous energy.
During the slow songs, our associate Brian captured the next two beautiful images. And I love the way they tell a story when I look at them side by side.
The present.
What the future holds.
One last super sweet image. Dave took Alyssa and Slava aside during the reception so he could capture a portrait of them at night, and so they could enjoy a quiet, private moment to take it all in. Here they are amidst their ceremony site.
Special thanks to all of the pros who made their wedding so beautiful:
Wedding gown: Priscilla of Boston
Bridesmaids dresses: L’Elite
Groom’s suit: Saks Fifth Avenue
Hair: Kristy’s Hair Studio
Officiant: Rabbi David Meyer of Temple Emanu-el
Floral design: William Mizuta
Caterer: Toby Karlyn from Celebrations Gourmet
Cake: Ellen Bartlett of Cakes to Remember
DJ/Band: Alan James from Powerhouse
Invitations: Heleene Fink from Special Occassions
And huge thanks to their hosts for sharing this amazing location.
Last, but definitely not least, much gratitude to Alyssa, Slava and your wonderful families for sharing your wedding day with us.
If you would like to see more from Alyssa and Slava’s waterfront wedding, check out their engagement session, sneak peek and their slideshow.
Nov
02
During her speech, Ariel’s sister shared a story about a time when she was in elementary school and she brought someone super special to show and tell, because that someone was so wonderful she wanted to share. Ariel and David’s wedding was one of those things that’s so beautiful, I would bring it to Show and Tell, if I could. So today we have a virtual Show and Tell.
Ariel and David’s wedding day was filled with warmth, overwhelming emotions and so much love. Tears were spilling all over the place amidst huge infectious smiles. Such joy at every turn. The energy and the ease of the day balanced just so, allowing our bride and groom to feel relaxed and excited all at the same time.
I started with Ariel for a few details and getting ready photos.
One of the things I remember strongly from our first meeting was that Ariel had a vision for jewel tones to be incorporated into her wedding design. I had no idea this would play out in such fun ways. For instance, she wore emerald green shoes under her wedding dress. Love it.
Her sister/maid of honor helped her get into her dress.
The rest of the bridesmaids and her mom also assisted.
Meanwhile, my associate Rene was hanging with the boys, capturing their getting ready downstairs.
Apparently this handkerchief took awhile to fold just right, though it looks effortless here.
Ariel and David chose to see each before the ceremony, in part so that they had time for their portraits before the sun went down. I am so glad they did. They had a beautiful, private chance to take each other in. And then they had simply lovely light for their portraits.
On her way to her groom.
David waiting for her to approach.
The Fruitlands Museum, where Ariel and David, celebrated their wedding has absolutely beautiful grounds- gardens, forests, fields and varied historic buildings. We wanted to stay away from the ceremony site, so spent our time amidst the trees and the meadow.
And did I mention the funky tree sculptures? I wasn’t sure I was going to take any photos with them but then Ariel told me that her aunt had a connection to the artist. Honestly, this turns out to be one of my favorite images. It feels like this guy is protecting them or looking out for them in some fashion.
So loving this smile on Ariel’s face as we head to the ceremony. Time to get married!
Just a tease for now. More soon with photos from their beautiful ceremony overlooking the hills at sunset and their wonderfully fun party.
Want more from Ariel and David now? I highly recommend viewing their engagement photos. Beautiful!
Oct
29
When last I wrote about Jess and Dan’s wedding day, I shared the getting ready, a few portraits, and a teaser for the ceremony. If you haven’t checked those out, here’s a teaser from the portraits. A quick note about this image. This was Jess’ inspired idea. We loved it and so we all made the walk to Harvard Square from the Charles River. So glad we did.
And now for the rest of the good stuff. The ceremony and reception. Dan gazing at Jess.
And what a kiss! Check out how all the guests are cheering them on.
Right into their first dance. Literally. I mean they walked 2 steps and started dancing. How sweet is that.
A moment in time from the dance.
Observing it all.
Since it was an intimate wedding, every single person had a special connection to our couple. This made for some wonderful moments. Jess and a friend admiring each other’s fashion choices.
The guests also knew each other, for the most part, so they all really enjoyed catching up as well.
Oh, and we were told that Dan would only be on the dance floor once, during his first dance. "Dan doesn’t dance," we were informed. Well, you can imagine how surprised everyone was when they were able to drag him onto the dance floor. And I would venture to say he enjoyed himself. Loving how he is surrounded by the ladies.
And another one, just to prove it wasn’t short lived, our groom kicking up his heels with his bride. Nice moves, you two!
What a night! Huge thanks to Jess and Dan for including us in your intimate wedding. It was such a joy celebrating with you and your guests.
Many thanks to all of the professionals who helped make their wedding amazing:
Getting ready venue: the staff of The Charles Hotel
Ceremony and reception site: Annie Sarkis from the Rialto Restaurant
Planner, caterer and cake: Annie Sarkis from Rialto
Floral design: Hiroko Takeshita of Hanaya Floral Design
Invitations and save the dates: Paper Source
Hair: Jessica Diop from Aquinn Hair Studio
Gown designer: Amsale
Bridesmaids dresses: Amsale
Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss
Groomsman suit: Joseph Abboud
Can’t get enough? Me neither. Check out more from Jess and Dan’s engagement session, sneak peek, and slideshow.
Oct
28
For Alyssa and Slava’s wedding by the water, Dave teamed up with associate photographer, Brian Lee, to capture their wedding day. They were treated to stunning weather and beautiful views, not to mention a gorgeous couple, who are also truly kind, warm individuals.
They arrived in time to capture the groom getting ready in the billiard room.
Looking debonair.
Meanwhile, it took a bit longer for our bride. She started in curlers. So cute.
Checking out how the styling is going.
I adore Alyssa’s ring- here on their ketubah.
Her wedding gown.
And her shoes. Somehow this just works.
Once both our bride and groom were ready. Dave took them outside to see each other for the first time. Slava awaits his bride.
Each time I look at this photo of Alyssa and Slava seeing each other for the first time, I get a wee bit giddy. It is so rich with emotion.
In the scene. Stunning.
Then time for the ceremony. A beautiful silhouette by the water.
Their tented ceremony and reception followed, and with it are more amazing photos. But you will have to wait just a little longer to see those.
Oct
24
An intimate wedding with their closest family and friends, amazing food and wine, and works of art surrounding them…. These were the elements that Jess and Dan sought when celebrating their wedding. When they discovered that one of their favorite restaurants Rialto had a private event space, they knew they had found their location. The space offered the intimacy they wanted as well as the good eats.
Because the restaurant is located in the Charles Hotel, it was only natural for Jess and Dan to get ready there as well.
Jess had the help of a few close friends as she prepped.
Loving this image Dave captured of Dan getting ready. A completely different take on it.
I took a little liberty and included this image of Dan’s niece and nephew with his getting ready photos, even though it happened during his 2nd getting ready. Aren’t they adorable?!
After both Jess and Dan were ready, we brought them outside to a secluded walkway near the hotel so they could see each other for the first time in private.
Dan awaiting Jess’ arrival.
Jess is full of spunk, and this photo totally captures her personality. She did, indeed, boogie down the path to go meet her groom. I’m surprised we were able to keep our camera’s straight as we were laughing pretty hard.
When they saw each other, it was all tenderness; the mood changed to one of joy and peace.
Of course, the benefits of seeing each other beforehand are many. One of the reasons Jess and Dan chose to do so was so they would have enough time for their portraits, and be able to attend cocktail hour. We definitely love having the time to play around with our couples before their ceremony. Relaxed, fun, beautiful portraits come out of that time. A few of my faves.
Classic beauty.
Smoky sensuality.
Fun.
Oh, and here’s a good time to talk about the structural art surrounding them. First of all, Jess chose this phenomenal couture wedding dress by Amsale. And she worked with her florist to create floral arrangements that had depth and dimension. You can see it here in her bouquet and later in the table arrangments.
We worked our way back to the hotel for a few touch ups and to hide Jess away in the restaurant so none of the guests would see her. While we waited for the ceremony, we captured a few of Jess alone.
The guests gathered in the ceremony room, and then the music changed. It was Jess’ entry music. The curtains were drawn. And ….
You will have to check back for the rest from Jess and Dan’s wedding day. They are not quite ready. But if you need another fix now, you can see a few from their engagement session.
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.
