Jun
04
Working with the team at the Fairmont Copley Plaza is always a pleasure. When Tracey shared that they were going to offer something new and fun to their wedding clients, we couldn’t wait to be a part of it. You see, having a lounge type area during the dancing and dessert part of the evening has become a very popular trend. We’ve seen it at several weddings and always thought how nice it was for the guests to have an area to relax when they aren’t kicking it up on the dance floor. Often this type of space is created by simply bringing in furniture to the reception room. But the Copley Plaza adds another bit to the puzzle.
Allow me start at the beginning of the party so you can really get a sense of what I mean. Many cocktail hours are held in the Venetian Room, adjacent to the Oval Room. It’s a warm bright space, with elegant gold detailing and stunning chandeliers. Very welcoming. And very ornate. And very traditional. Here are a few from Lindsay and Alex‘s wedding last fall.
After the cocktail hour, guests go into the Oval Room for dinner and dancing. They are often also invited back into the Venetian Room for dessert. So Tracey and her team realized they could use the time during dinner to completely transform the Venetian Room into something spectacular.
Something cool, funky, fun, modern. A wow space. The perfect lounge for dessert and hanging out after dinner.
As it turns out, they had the space they needed and they even have the technical staff to create the infinite lighting possibilities.
All purples, all blues, all reds, all pinks….
Or some combination of colors….
And the mirrors reflect the light back in all sorts of vibrant ways.
From traditional elegance to modern chic in the space of a couple hours. Simply awesome!
Jun
01
Late summer/early fall of last year, we had the opportunity to work on a beautiful wedding with Tasha Bracken of SD Events. Tasha and her team planned a weekend that started with a wonderful rehearsal dinner at a family home in Manchester-by-the-Sea. They dealt gracefully with some less than perfect weather.
The next day brought stunning blue skies and joy to the happy couple and their families. The bride prepped at the Seaport Hotel while the groom got ready at a family home in Cambridge. The couple wed at the Harvard Memorial Church and celebrated with a reception at the Boston ICA. I thought it would be fun to share a few images showcasing the fabulous details from this New England and art-inspired wedding.
First the church florals (all by Honey of Lotus Designs). Here, her designs incorporate warm fresh hues of yellow, oranges, bright greens, and whites.
To get the guests from the church to the museum, what could be more Boston than a Duck Tour?
When the guests arrived, they were greeted by the view of the Boston Harbor.
Colors for cocktail hour were deep purples and blues.
The Wolfgang Puck team always ready with a smile!
For the dinner reception, Honey looked to shift the color palette. Here fuschia orchids, reds, greens, and blues made a contemporary statement for the modern space of the Barbara Lee theater.
When you take a step back, you can see how cool the space was with all of the floral sculptures floating from above.
Note the table cards, a tribute to museums around the world.
A special gift for the guest at each table setting.
Dinner music, string trio.
Downstairs to the lobby for dessert and dancing.
One final floral look… all shades of purple. Red linens were brought in to offset these arrangements.
So grateful to be able to capture these images from such a wonderful weekend. A very special thank you to Tasha Bracken of the Simple Details Events and Stephanie Rossi, and our bride and groom and their families.
And to the team who made this event come together beautifully, it was a pleasure to work with you:
Getting ready hotel: The Seaport, Boston
Ceremony site: Harvard Memorial Church, Cambridge
Reception venue: Institue of Contemporary Art, Boston
Caterer: Wolfgang Puck
Florist: Honey from Lotus Designs
Transportation: AA Allstars Rolls Royce, Duck Boat, and Trolley
Reception music: Hip Pocket Orchestra
Apr
28
The W Boston really is an amazing venue, as I mentioned before, and now you can see what I mean. Such inspiration in the spaces, materials, concept. Totally got our juices flowing for this winter wedding shoot last month.
First stop, Studio 3. Floor to ceiling windows make for great views and dynamic photos.
Every girl loves a little time at the spa.
Cocktails at the bar.
Working our way upstairs for the party.
Dave’s view.
My view.
The view from the hallway. If it had been warmer, we totally would have gone outside to the surrounding areas.
Special thanks to our fabulous model Melissa, the extraordinarily talented Jacki Norrie of Wedding Tresses, Winston Flowers, Naomi from Generations CinemaStories (see video here) and all of the wonderful talent at the W.
Apr
19
With the opening of the Mez, the W offered Boston something new, modern, chic and exciting. Here’s a bit of inspiration designed for you to see how you could transform the Mez for your W wedding.
Stephanie and Tara, two of the W talent, created these fabulous table displays with the help of Be Our Guest and Winston Flowers, showcasing the ways in which the Mez spaces can be transformed.
My favorite table with whites, golds and soft pink calla lilies.
Perfect for a bachelorette party, a 40th birthday party or even a bat mitzvah.
Perfect for a sophisticated, fun adult party.
A few special touches to the lobby at the top of the steps…
And one of the studios.
Oh and then there’s the food at the W. Oh me, oh my, mouthwatering and beautiful.
These fries with truffle oil were out of this world delish!
Food is Art, a specialty at the hotel.
In addition to the event, we photographed a bride throughout the hotel. We wanted to show off how cool the venue is and how many different places there are for portraits. We spent well over 2 hours shooting and didn’t get to do everything we wanted. The possibilities are endless. So check back soon for images for our shoot with Melissa.
Aug
06
On the radar, there was a rain cloud stretching from New Hampshire to Washington, DC and it was moving East at a steady pace. We had been watching the weather reports all week long, dreading what was to come for Maren and Steve’s wedding. They had chosen the most beautiful location for their destination wedding- an estate by the water in Portsmouth, RI- with an outdoor ceremony in the gardens. And they had planned a photo tour prior to the wedding which would take us around Newport‘s stunning coastline. Of course, this required a rain-free day. Dave and I were certain we would be relegated to Plan B. I brought the red umbrella for whatever photos we would be able to take outside.
What we didn’t count on was Maren and Steve’s good fortune. We had no idea they had some kind of extra special karma hanging out in their corner. Because what unfolded was nothing short of a miracle.
Maren got ready at the Pelham Court Hotel- a sweet boutique hotel with a great suite for our bride and her ladies. She didn’t seem at all concerned about the weather, which at that point was all sunshine in Newport.
She and Steve saw each other for the first time in the courtyard of the hotel. I love this moment where they get a good look at each other. And I love that Dave purposely captured the blue sky as part of the image. He wanted to make sure they had at least one photo with blue skies from their wedding day.
We took a couple of portraits in the courtyard. We actually had to have them sit in the shade, because it was still so bright out.
Then we headed off to Ocean Drive, for photos along the rocky coast line. As we drove there, we could see the storm clouds getting closer.
Check it out in this image. Towards the west an ominous sky.
In the same spot, but toward the east, the bridal party got to enjoy a few more moments of beautiful blue.
At this point, the sky was getting dark fast. Steve asked his groomsmen to bring the umbrellas to us, just in case. They were ready for the worst. Strangely the storm seemed to stop and hold it’s position.
We were able to capture a few more at this spot, and even stop at another along the coast.
I was so glad that we had been able to get those photos in. I figured that was all the luck we would have and was prepared for the inevitable indoor ceremony. When I arrived at the Glen Manor House, I was greeted with blue skies again. What?!? I thought. Then I saw that the gardens were set up for the ceremony. I honestly thought the coordinator had made a mistake. She told me she had checked the radar and it looked fine. I was shocked but happy.
Then of course, the skies turned to gray again. Didn’t bother the ring bearer one bit, though.
Maren and Steve took a moment to enjoy the view of the water, gorgeous even with the gray skies.
Then the ceremony began. And unfortunately just as the bridal party made their entrance little drips of water started falling very lightly to the ground. This is it! I thought. Now it’s going to downpour on their ceremony. The pessimist in me came out. I couldn’t help being concerned for all of the guests and our truly fabulous couple. And just as quickly as it had started, Maren walked out, and I kid you not, the drizzle stopped.
Not one more drop fell. Crazy? Maybe. True? Yes. A miracle? Absolutely.
Post script- I suppose all this sounds a bit overdramatic. And I can be prone to that, but just to give you a sense of how bad this storm was, everywhere but at Maren and Steve’s wedding that is, check out this article.
Mar
26
Huge congrats to our friend and colleague David Tutera for being featured in Vogue: Japan. And we are so excited that they chose one of our photos to highlight his amazing work. That’s right, we were recently published in Vogue Japan. International and chic, no?!
I’ll be honest I can’t tell you all about the article our work is part of, because, as you would expect, it’s in Japanese, but what I can gather is that they were highlighting several vendors celebrated in the international wedding industry. They focused on florists and event planners, in particular. And David Tutera, whom we have worked with on several occassions, was number one on their list. It’s no surprise as his work is astounding- it completely captivates all of my senses.
Our image was taken during a wedding at The Fairmont’s Plaza Hotel in New York City. The whole concept was based around crystals and they were everywhere. The ballroom sparkled.
If you want to see more of David‘s work, definitely check out:
David Tutera’s Metropolitan Club Wedding
Tutera’s Gotham Hall Wedding
Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer Inspiration
More of David’s designs still to come from a fall episode of My Fair Wedding.
Jan
27
So very excited to share the news that we have been published in the Spring/Summer 2010 issue of grace ormonde WeddingStyle. Absolutely love this wedding magazine- chic, elegant, fashion forward designs and style aplenty. If you are planning a wedding, you should definitely check out their current national and New England issues. Tons of great stories, real weddings and inspiring ideas.
We submitted images from this fabulous Plaza Hotel wedding in New York City. It was designed by the trend-setter David Tutera and his talented team. With his table decor, he not only defines the space around a table, but creates a feeling like you have been transported to whole other world. All of your senses are enticed. It’s an amazing experience. We are thrilled that we could share one of his signature designs with Grace Ormonde readers.
If you would like to see more from this wedding, definitely check out our story from the wedding.
And if you would like to see other David Tutera wedding designs and ideas, check out these posts- NY Metropolitan Club Wedding, NY Gotham Hall Wedding, Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer Inspiration. More of David’s designs still to come from an episode of My Fair Wedding.
Cover image by Jade Studio Productions.
Dec
28
Dave and I had the opportunity to visit Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich and all I can say is WOW!!! One of my friends had gotten married there a few years ago and was telling me about the venue, I was so excited to see it as he had nothing but positive reviews. But honestly it is even better than he described.
First of all there are multiple fabulous options for an outdoor wedding. I know it is hard to think about that right now with the first serious snow just melting and more on the way, but that was always the way I pictured my wedding. I am pretty sure I am not alone on that one. So if you are like me and felt an outdoor wedding was your first choice, you have 3 great options: on the lawn facing the beach, on the lawn facing down the hill towards ocean views, and in the Italian Garden.
A few photos of option 2:
A few from option 3 (I think this is what I would do- I love the feeling of this secluded garden space- feels like ancient ruins)
Laura Daly and her team are great. They will also have a perfect back up plan, in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. We got a peek at the indoor option and it truly is lovely.
The best spot for cocktail hour, in my opinion, is on the back patio. I love this location because you get to enjoy the sweeping views of the water and have the gorgeous architecture as a back drop. Plus if you wanted to do a group photo it’s an excellent location for that.
Side note, awesome story, these two griffin statues were given to the Crane family as a gift from their servants. They had the sculptures custom made to protect the house. All I have to say is that the Crane’s must have been amazing employers to generate that kind of love from their staff.
Then you have two options for your reception as well. You can host the party indoors- the spaces are grand and elegant. Or outdoors on another patio. You could even tent the outdoor space.
And I just had to share a few of my favorite details from the site.
Dave and I enjoying the view.
I almost missed these bas relief sculptures of the cranes. Very cool and very appropriate.
All in all, I was amazed by the beauty of this wedding venue and the thoughtful consideration of their events team. I also really appreciate that they are making efforts to be green and provide environmentally beneficial resources, plus when you have a wedding at a historic site like this, your rental fee contributes to the greater good. Not a bad way to celebrate, in my opinion.
Oct
10
When last I wrote about Jess and Ivan’s wedding, I spoke all about how chill they were and how they most looked forward to socializing with their friends and family. So when we shared the photos with them for their premiere, it was no suprise that they were most interested in seeing the faces of all their loved ones. They would point out, "Oh, there’s so and so" or "that’s my cousin…" or "that’s your neighbor from the time you were two…" Or "he was there when Ivan proposed in Ireland." Well you get the point. Their special day was all about the people.
Of course, the wedding day planning all started with the two of them and their desire to share their lives together. So I will pick up with the ceremony…
They pretty much kept all of the traditional events of the day short and sweet. And the ceremony was also very streamlined. They did, however, include the kiss.
Because they elected to see each other before the tea ceremony and the western ceremony, we also took their formal portraits before the ceremony and they were able to attend cocktail hour.
Ivan found a way to chat with the friends right next to him and the ones across the room. 
Jess hadn’t seen many of her childhood friends in a long time. She enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with her crew.
One of the best parts of the Downtown Harvard Club is the view. Check out the sunset.
I love it when a bride and groom are surrounded by their friends and family as they take the dance floor for the first dance. Though it seems for this moment, Jess and Ivan were in a world all to themselves…
Jess’ dad gave the one toast, and he too kept it brief. That didn’t keep him from getting in a few good laughs.
I plan to share more details from their day later, but I couldn’t resist sharing this cake. It’s AMAZING!!! They wanted to honor Ivan’s chinese heritage so they had Konditor Meister decorate it with the double happiness. The swirls are like the clasps, frogs, that are the "buttons" on a Chinese dress.
And then it’s party time. Jess’ grandfather on the dance floor…
I am not sure if it was a special request or if the DJ just knew our boy Ivan. But Ivan is a HUGE Red Sox fan so when the DJ played Papelbon’s special song, Ivan and his friends thoroughly enjoyed themselves doing the Riverdance.
And one last image from the night…
And their slideshow….
Special thanks to:
Tania and all of the folks at the Downtown Harvard Club- Tania is an amazing coordinator; she helped with Jess getting ready, provided the forgotten hairspray, and was always in the background guiding the day.
Also for taking care of all the special details:
Wedding cake: Konditor Meister
Floral: Nellie’s Wildflowers
Entertainment: Entertainment Specialists
Officiant: Justice of the Peace Helen Kerivan
Many, many thanks to Ivan and Jess. I am so, so glad you asked us to photograph your wedding. It was so much fun and such a special way to celebrate with you two.
Oct
07
Me oh my- I am so excited to share more from Lauren and David’s amazing day at the Castle Hill Inn.
With the rain far behind us, we captured a few images of our happy couple with the beautiful scenery whenever we could steal them away.
And then we spent the rest of the evening photographing all the joy- and there was lots.
Lauren and David definitely like to have fun. They are so playful together. And Lauren must have had about a thousand different facial expressions to show her happiness.
After the first dance, the hora.
Each couple went up in turn, Lauren and David first, followed by Lauren’s parents, and then David’s. His mom was a little nervous I think.
David’s cousin gave one of the toasts and he rewarded her with a huge thank you hug.
Dancing got underway in full force. Lauren’s parents, so fun.
I loved this moment. Just before they fed each other the cake, there was definitely some teasing going on. And Lauren, all with her eyes, says, "Please."
Then more dancing. Lauren made sure to have a little time with each of her grandfathers.
And with her girlfriends.
Lauren’s sister was a great help throughout the day, and also enjoyed a little time on the dance floor once the party got underway.
Maybe the best thing about a destination wedding, like this one in Newport, is that everyone has more time together, because all of the guests stay for the weekend.
Lauren enjoys another chance to connect with friends.
I have to close with one of my favorite images from the day. We had this amazing sunset over the water. Such a beautiful place to spend a couple of moments as newlyweds.
Many thanks to the professionals who helped make Lauren and David’s day so special.
A big shout out to Nancy and her team at Castle Hill. Nancy was truly amazing, top notch all the way.
Also special thanks to Rocco Michaluk of Video & Vision. It was really great to work with you.
And for helping to complete Lauren and David’s vision:
Floral Design (more on this in a later post because WOW! gorgeous work): Laurel Lane of Laurel Lane Floral Design
Wedding cake and groom’s cake: Scrumptions
Invitations: Ruth at The Party People
Other printed materials: Judith Carroll at Papers
For creating Lauren and David’s personal looks:
Hair and Make-up: Jen Murphy and Frank Antonio from Frank Antonio Hair & Makeup
Lauren’s wedding dress: Romona Keveza from Bridal Reflections
Bridesmaid dress: Lazaro from Fontana’s
David’s attire: Georgio Armani
Groomsmen’s attire: Calvin Klein from Century 21
Plus a huge thank you to Lauren and David and your families. It was such a joy to be a part of your day and to celebrate with you.
Make sure to check out their slideshow as well.
