For starters, my Groom is a huge history buff. So, when this next slice of history landed in my lap I just couldn’t wait to share. Because not only did this darling duo wed on historic land graced with Poppy Floral bouquets, but the Groom also happens to be a direct descendent of an American Founding Father, John Adams himself! Straight from Sweet Monday Photography, it’s a gallery chock-full of history (like the Bride’s heirloom veil!) and you can witness it all here!
(Only direct descendants of the Adams family, through the male line, are allowed to get married at the Adams National Historical Park and it’s especially important to the ladies that run the museum that we mention this fact as they are concerned about fielding phone calls from non-Adams brides wanting to get married there.)
Professional photography is not usually allowed at the Adams House, however since Rett and his family own the property and lease it to the National Parks Services, we had free reign over the property and many of its artifacts (with strict supervision, of course!). The most stunning example is the heirloom veil that Leatha wore for the ceremony which was originally purchased by Charles Francis Adams in 1854 for his daughter Louisa’s marriage to Charles Kuhn. The veil was donated to the park in 1957 from Mary Ogden Abbott, who requested it be available to “descendants of Charles Francis Adams, the Ambassador to England, who might wish to use it at her wedding.” Leatha is only the fifth bride to wear the veil.
Rett & Leatha were married in the courtyard next to the Old House where John & Abigail used to live. Built in 1731, John & Abigail called the home “Peacefield” during their day as it was a refuge from the war & politics for four generations of Adams. Leatha made her entrance walking across the lawn past a white rose bush originally planted by Abigail Adams which she had brought with her from England (Rosa X alba, a simple white, single petal rose that the family called the York rose.)
We also took some portraits at the corner of the property near the black walnut tree which is attributed to John Quincy Adams, 6th President.
The reception took place inside the old Carriage House. Rett & Leatha had planned just a simple meal with family & friends but were surprised with a song and first dance by one of Rett’s groomsmen. Ending the night was another surprise…in honor of Flag Day, a park across the street had fireworks!
To the best of everyone’s recollection, Rett & Leatha are only the third couple to have a wedding at the Old House, the last one being in 1901.
We were so honored to be part of this uniquely historic event!
Photography: Sweet Monday Photography | Floral Design: Poppy Floral | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Cake: Sugar Plum Bakery | Invitations: Minted | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Watters | Makeup Artist: Manda Carco | Hair Stylist: Amy Lynne Poirier | Venue: Adams National Historical Park | Custom Watercolor & Calligraphy (Seating Chart & Table Numbers): Damn Good Calligraphy | Dress Shop: Musette Bridal