Massachusetts Weddings

After a year of wedding planning, this gorgeous Bride and Groom promised each other that on their big day, they wouldn’t let the other out of their sight. From the romantic ceremony in one of Royal Sonesta Boston‘s beautiful ballrooms to dancing the night away to the tunes of Radiance, this Bride and Groom remained attached at the hip, celebrating their big day together. See it all from Zev Fisher Photography and Fade And Focus in The Vault!

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From The Bride…Alex and I met in college at the University of Michigan, where some of our fondest memories to date were formed. We were set up for a date party – in typical fraternity-sorority fashion – and instantly hit it off. Soon after that night, our affinity for each other grew into more and we spent the remainder of college falling in love with each other and the city of Ann Arbor, where three years after graduating, we returned with friends for an alumni weekend and Alex popped the question.

When we got engaged, we knew right away we wanted our wedding to be in Boston (where I grew up) both because we love the city and because we wanted to provide our many friends and family from New York with an easy Labor Day weekend getaway. We looked at eleven (yes, eleven!) venues in one weekend and quickly decided on the Royal Sonesta Boston Hotel in Cambridge. We loved its beautiful views of Boston and its gorgeous setting directly on the Charles River. We also loved its boutique style and the contemporary art collection that permeated the space. Above all else, we cared most about our wedding feeling like us, and we felt the Royal Sonesta’s effortless vibe did exactly that.

The idea of the wedding feeling like us was our number one inspiration in the planning process. We knew it was going to be a big wedding no matter what (a whopping 260) so we focused on making it as personal and intimate as possible. We wanted it to feel warm, romantic, and inviting and accomplished just that by focusing on the details.

We used this concept to inform our choice of a summery color-pallet filled with blush, lavender, and soft grey. My eight bridesmaids wore those three colors in Monique Lhuillier’s tulle collection to achieve the romantic look we were going for. To complement my lace-detailed Pronovias gown, I wore the same veil my sister (and Matron of Honor) wore when she walked down the aisle a few years prior, which felt so special and personal to me. Alex wore a charcoal grey Hugo Boss tux, which was the perfect way for him to just ever-so-subtly stand out next to his groomsmen wearing black.

To continue with our vision of warmth and romance, we wanted the flowers to be loose and whispery and our florist did an incredible job helping us to achieve this look. Our chuppah was constructed of curly willow and lavender limonium for a full yet simple feel. In the ballroom, wooden boxes and delicate vases showcased dreamy floral arrangements filled with stunning flowers like white hydrangeas, faith roses, and seeded eucalyptus. Mercury votives and floating candles complimented the flowers on each table, and a combination of sheer fabric and bee-lighting draped from the ceiling to create an elegant look. We also decided to bring in long, wooden farm tables that lined the dance floor to help create a more intimate feel in the room.

From our wedding invitations, programs, and menus we helped to custom design, to our homemade hotel welcome bags filled with our favorite goodies, to UMichigan paraphernalia incorporated throughout the wedding night, we infused the wedding with personal touches. Our vanilla-mocha wedding cake was topped with a Michigan Wolverine bride and groom, baby pictures of us hung on each bathroom door, and wooden feathers I found from my favorite Cape Cod home-décor shop were used to enhance our cards and gift table.

On the night before the wedding, Alex and I made a pact with each other (thanks to advice from very wise friends!) that we wouldn’t let each other out of our sights on our wedding night. Though we had planned our wedding together all year long, this plan was undoubtedly the best one of them all. When I look back to the wedding, it was everything we could have possibly dreamed of and more—the love in the room, the warm speeches and remarks made throughout the night, and the infectious energy was beyond our wildest imagination. But in the end, being attached at the hip throughout the night proved to be the best possible way we could have celebrated, and was inevitably the most perfect way for the wedding to feel like us. My advice to brides-to-be would be to spend your wedding night side-by-side with your new spouse. It is so easy to get sidetracked by all the love your friends and family will have for you on your wedding night, but experiencing that incredible feeling in tandem with the best friend you just MARRIED is truly what you’ll remember forever.

Photography: Zev Fisher Photography | Cinematography: Fade And Focus | Floral Design: Charlotte Design Flower Boutique | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Invitations: Paula Winicur Design | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Monique Lhuillier | Catering: Catering by Andrew | Lighting: DesignLightCo. | Band: Wilson Stevens | Groom's Attire: Hugo Boss | Officiant: Rabbi Marc Baker | Ceremony Music: Berach Orchestra | Venue: Royal Sonesta New Orleans | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited

This soiree designed by Lauren Wells Events is a wedding that marches to the beat of its own drum. That’s right m’dears, because not only did this Boston duo choose to honor their hospitality connection on their Big Day with a foodie-driven celebration, but they also bucked tradition and married on a Monday. Surrounded by only their nearest and dearest, they enjoyed sabered champagne and s’mores while HENRY + MAC captured it all. Enjoy! 

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From The Bride…My and Andrew’s relationship began and is forever bound by our work together in the hospitality industry. It felt only right to spend the most important day of our lives at one of our favorite neighborhood restaurants. Getting married on a Monday surrounded by the dearest of family, friends, AND great food and beverage, complete with sabered champagne to kick off the cocktail hour and smores roasted over an open fire to finish was our idea of the perfect wedding day.

From Lauren Wells Events…Colleen and Andrew’s wedding was the most love filled and beautiful day, taking place in one of the couple’s favorite restaurants in Cambridge. The bride is a sommelier, so we played off the wine theme with florals, merlot brush calligraphy, and of course, plenty of wine! The bride even got the party started by brandishing a machete and sabering a magnum – then serving all her guests. Jenna from Love Jenna Calligraphy (and also the sister of the bride) calligraphed on the mirrors and walls, while Anne Robin calligraphed the rest of the beautiful details. Wild Folk created the amazing florals (including the hanging install over the charcuterie), and Henry + Mac captured all the goodness. It was a delicious and joyful celebration.

Photography: HENRY + MAC | Event Design: Lauren Wells Events | Event Planning: Lauren Wells Events | Floral Design: Wild Folk Studio | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Cake: Eastern Standard | Calligraphy: Anne Robin | Band: ABeez | Ceremony And Reception: Belly Wine Bar | Dinner: Blue Room | Mirror, Chalkboard, Table Number Calligraphy: Love Jenna Calligraphy

Getting engaged is awesome. And then you have to plan a wedding. The entire thing can be totally daunting. And even though I am in the industry, and most of my friends think that it must be easy, I assure you that it is not! Maybe you are a super amazing planner and I admire you for that, but for those of you who are feeling like you need some guidance, I’m going to try and help you out.

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MY VENDOR RULES

ONE | Don’t wait to book your vendors

TWO | Find someone you connect with

THREE | Look at their blog or social media accounts

FOUR | Show a Pinterest board with 15 photos, (max!) to get your vision across.

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DONT WAIT! | When Ross and I got engaged, I emailed our wedding photographers the next morning. Only eight hours after we got engaged! It is never too early to start a conversation, especially if you have a vendor in mind that you love. With that said, I booked our photographers a year and a half before our wedding date. After that, I could relax about it, and I am so very glad I booked when I did. If you don’t know what kind of style you like, I recommend starting your photography research when you start your venue research. And as soon as you book your venue (and consequently have your date), book your photographer!

I met with a bride recently who thought that since her wedding was a year away, she didn’t have to ‘rush’ to find her vendors. This makes me so nervous for her, because there IS a rush. I hate to say it, but it is true. If you have a favorite vendor, I guarantee they are someone else’s favorite too and you don’t want to miss out on booking them. Yes, a year is a long ways away, but not in wedding world! So get to it. Email that photographer or florist you love…right now! And if they are already booked, ask for their recommendations. It is a great way to find a similar style you love, and an added bonus if they are already admired by a fellow wedding vendor!

FIND SOMEONE YOU CONNECT WITH | My absolute favorite client meetings are the ones where we realize hours have passed and we’ve barely discussed photography. Having brides and grooms I connect with is important to me, and I think it’s important to them as well! As the photographer, I am your shadow on your wedding day. You want to find someone that you a. like and b. get along with. And if you become friends, that’s even better! Choosing my vendors was easy, because I am already friends with both Lauren and Krissy. I am thankful to have them- we get along really well and I feel comfortable bouncing ideas off of them. This is pretty important when planning your wedding, because it is you and your fiancées big day! Good communication = happy bride + happy vendors!

LOOK AT THEIR BLOG AND SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS | If you feel like you are totally overwhelmed by websites, I recommend checking out the vendors’ blog or social media accounts, like Facebook and Instagram. Often it will help you a. feel more connected with them/get to know their personality and b. get a sense of what their current work looks like. This can help determine what you really want in a vendor, and should make the decision making process a bit easier.

GETTING YOUR VISION ACROSS | One of the things I did with Lauren was make a Pinterest board with 15 images, MAX! It was really hard, let me tell you. But narrowing it down to some images you love will help get the ultimate vision of your wedding across to your planner and florist. And even if you aren’t working with a planner or stylist, it will help you stick to a certain vision and determine what is important to you and your fiancé. There are so many awesome options out there, so its easy to get distracted and start pinning like a crazy person. I’ve been there. Don’t do it.

BONUS TIP: If you are doing a lot of DIY, make a schedule in the months leading up to the wedding to get it done! You don’t want to be glue-gunning 2 hours before your Rehearsal Dinner. Plan in advance.

Photography: Li Ward | Event Stylist: Lauren Wells Events | Floral Design: Pollen Floral Design | Calligraphy: Li Ward

If you’re anything like I was as a newly engaged bride-to-be, researching venues is a full-time job! But for you lucky New England couples, the search just may be over. Enter the Hyatt Regency Cambridge. Overlooking the Charles River and featuring breathtaking Boston skyline views, this spot is a must see.

If a city wedding is your cup of tea, it just doesn’t get much prettier than the Hyatt Regency Cambridge. Boasting incredible 180-degree panoramic city views from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the 16th floor Charles View Ballroom, there’s nothing not to like. Prefer an outdoor spot to say I do? They’ve got you covered with the Riverside Pavilion which can accommodate up to 150 guests in a gorgeous white tent with French windows, stunning chandeliers and a beautiful garden patio. No matter your style or taste as a couple, the Hyatt Regency Cambridge can make your wedding dreams a reality.

I’ll admit, I’m a little bit jealous of you New England couples right now! And now’s the time to book your big day at the Hyatt Regency Cambridge, because you can enjoy free honeymoon nights at any Hyatt Hotels and Resorts location worldwide! From incredible tropical resorts to exciting city hotels in 45 countries around the globe, you can choose your perfect destination for your first trip as a married couple.  Simply book and hold your wedding at a participating Hyatt hotel by December 31, 2015 and you’ll earn Hyatt Gold Passport® bonus points redeemable for free nights with no blackout dates at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts worldwide.

This is one delicious affair I would’ve loved to attend. Morning vows followed by mimosas is as good as it gets, and for this Cambridge couple their West Bridge brunch was the perfect “I Do”. A sweet beginning snapped by Lucy Cuneo, their day was filled with freshly picked blooms by Celebrated Flower and classic J. Crew apparel. Catch the entire relaxed and refined celebration here.

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From the Bride… As soon as we started talking about what our wedding would look and feel like, we decided we wanted something low-key, unique, casual, and intimate. We selected the first Sunday afternoon in June, which turned out to be a gorgeous early summer day, which was perfect for our wildflower arrangements. The venue we chose was West Bridge Restaurant in Cambridge. It has a fun and funky industrial-like vibe, and we utilized the space to the fullest with a non-traditional chuppah draped over the non-traditional Edison bulb chandelier. The ceremony was brief, officiated by a family friend, with just our siblings sharing readings.

After the ceremony guests had the chance to eat delicious food, have summery drinks, and just hang out and enjoy the day. The meal was served family-style with farm-to-table entrees. Dessert consisted of warm chocolate chip cookies, homemade ice cream, and rhubarb tarts. Part of the planning fun was spending hours on Spotify picking songs that were both meaningful and celebratory. It was the perfect beginning to our happily-ever-after!

Photography: Lucy Cuneo Photography | Floral Design: Celebrated Flower | Attire: J.Crew | Restaurant: West Bridge

The Boston Public Library is one of my very favorite spots in the city that just so happens to play backdrop to this summertime “I do.” Think stately architecture, grand staircases, and one wildly in love couple completely managing to steal the show. Erin McGinn worked her magic behind the lens, and the gallery is nothing but classic wedding bliss.

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From Erin McGinn… A classic and timeless summer affair at the Boston Public Library has to top the list of dream weddings. Amanda and Paul planned a stunning wedding incorporating their favorite things. One of the highlights for me to photograph was Amanda’s dress. Custom made by Daniel Faucher Couture from her family (the Adams)’s heirloom lace, it was incorporated into her gown and veil. So special and so meaningful. With a large wedding party, Amanda let me know she chose the serene colors of the bridesmaids dresses for their calming nature.

From the Bride… We wanted a bit of a ‘blended’ wedding- although we both grew up in the suburbs of Boston, Massachusetts Amanda spent many of her summers on Cape Cod, Massachusetts and Paul spent much of his winters in Warren, Vermont. Because of the importance of our roots, our wedding takes a little bit of the Boston suburban feel, mixes it with Boston urban and then meshes that with Vermont rustic and traditional Cape Cod.

Family is very important to us so we also wanted a venue that could comfortably manage our large families. The Boston Public Library seemed the perfect fit- located in the heart of Boston it has an urban vibe from the outside, but the interior is serene and relaxed. Combine our choice of food (some comfort food, some wine and cheese pairings, some middle eastern fare), a lively band that can play traditional music as well as modern rock and hip hop, and throw in some Cape Cod decor and we think we’ve created the perfect feel for us.

Photography: Erin McGinn | Event Planning: The Catered Affair | Floral Design: Stephanie's Flowers | Cake: Crumbs Bake Shop | Invitations: Papers And Presents | Ceremony Venue: Wellesley Congregational Church | Reception Venue: Boston Public Library | Bridesmaids: Bill Levkoff | Catering: The Catered Affair | Hair And Makeup: Mario Russo | Transportation: Rockstar Limo | Transportation: Le Limo | Accomodations: The Lenox Hotel | Dress Designer: Daniel Faucher Couture | Music: Kahootz

When I lived in Boston, I ran by the gorgeous Hyatt Regency Cambridge almost every single day, and I used to think about the all gorgeous parties that it must host (because, let’s be honest, that is always on my mind). With the sweeping views of the Charles River and the breathtaking Boston skyline and options for your event come rain or shine, it is the definition of the perfect venue – proving all my day dreams true…

About the Hyatt Regency Cambridge Venues:

Charles View Ballroom: The stunning 16th floor Charles View ballroom is the jewel of Boston meeting space. This newly-renovated 2,900 square foot space offers a 180-degree panoramic view of Boston and the Charles River through floor-to-ceiling windows. Four glass-enclosed elevators ensure that guests arrive quickly to the top floors. Accommodate 220 for a formal banquet and 400 for a cocktail reception.

Courtyard: The courtyard adjacent to the President’s Ballroom make a picturesque location for your outdoor wedding ceremony or cocktail reception.

President’s Ballroom: The impressive President’s Ballroom with expansive pre-function space, provides an elegant, formal setting with adjoining outdoor garden courtyard.

Empress Ballroom: Multi-level, the 14th Floor Empress Room with grand 15-foot floor to ceiling windows and two patios, all overlooking the city scape of Boston.

Riverside Pavilion: The Riverside Pavilion accommodates up to 150 guests in a beautiful white tent with French windows, ceiling fans, chandeliers, and an outdoor garden patio. It is located along the scenic Charles River.

Now when you celebrate your wedding day at Hyatt Regency Cambridge, you can enjoy free honeymoon nights at any Hyatt Hotels & Resorts location worldwide — from authentic resorts that capture the essence of the destination to exciting city hotels in 45 countries around the globe. Whichever honeymoon destination you choose, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime, on us. Simply book and hold your wedding at a participating Hyatt hotel by December 31, 2014 and you will earn Hyatt Gold Passport® bonus points redeemable for free nights with no blackout dates at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts worldwide. For more information please contact the hotel for details or click here.

Photography: Glenn Livermore Photography | Cake: Konditor Meister | Wedding Venue: Hyatt Regency Cambridge

Give me an inspiration shoot with rich gold and pink hues and you’ll see one very happy lady.  But add in one perfect detail after another from D.S.MeeBee Custom Event Design and Planning, an adorable real life duo and an entire gallery of lovely from Sam Haddix and, well… you just made my Wednesday.  See it all right here.

D.S.MeeBee Custom Event Design and Planning is a company that designs and creates custom weddings based on the unique qualities of the bride and groom. This shoot was designed and styled by Danielle from D.S.MeeBee. All of the wedding decor was handmade with love by Danielle. Every detail of this shoot is representative of the bride and groom in the photos. The cameos that are in the design of the shoot throughout are the bride and groom’s profiles. The custom cake toppers are made to look like the bride and groom and the custom base also was made to look like the life size frame that was used as a photo prop. The bouquet was made with fabric petals, vintage buttons, and broaches. The pink petals were made from the hems of the bridesmaids dress and the white petals were made from scraps from the bride’s mother’s wedding dress. The bride’s mother had passed away when she was 12 and it was important to her to have things that reminded her of her mother throughout her wedding. The bride’s mother’s wedding dress had been damaged from not being preserved correctly so Danielle from D.S.MeeBee used parts of the dress as the petals of the bouquet. The use of a hand painted peony in the menus, invitations, escort table, and signage was also in remembrance of the bride’s mother who always loved peonies.

Gown: David's Bridal | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Necklace: Ann Taylor | Favors: D.S.MeeBee Custom Event Design And Planning | Cake & Desserts: D.S.MeeBee Custom Event Design And Planning | Cake & Desserts: Marissa Grace Desmond | Ceremony Site: Catherine T. Morris Of MIT Chapel | Event Design, Floral Design & Planning: D.S.MeeBee Custom Event Design And Planning | Groom & Groomsmen's Formal Wear: Men's Wearhouse | Invitations & Paper Goods: D.S.MeeBee Custom Event Design And Planning | Reception Site: Amanda Of Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center | Sam Haddix Photography: Sam Haddix | Veil: David's Bridal | Wedding Rings: ADCO Diamond

We may be in the middle of summer, but if you live in New England, you know magic happens when the leaves start to change. So if you happen to be planning a fall fête, cozy up close to this Cambridge wedding Geneve Rege Photography, because it’s just as gorgeous as it gets. What makes it even better? It’s as personal as it is pretty, and you can see every last bit of it right here.

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From the Bride… If I had to wrap up our wedding in one word, ‘personal’ would be it. Our generous and amazingly talented group of family and friends had a hand in nearly every part of the process. My husband’s uncle even married us! The weekend’s events all took place in our beloved home of Cambridge, Massachusetts, culminating in the reception– held inside the Cambridge Boat Club, a landmark we’ve come to know through our frequent jogs along the Charles River. The night didn’t go totally smoothly… my groom got a sudden migraine and had to leave our reception… but our guests rallied around us with love and support. He returned and slowly but surely came back to life and we felt humbled by the reminder that all this wedding ‘stuff’ is secondary to the commitment being honored and celebrated. Thanks to Geneve, you’d think it all went off without a hitch!

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Wedding Photography: Geneve Rege Photography | Ceremony Venue: St. Mary of the Annunciation | Reception Venue: Cambridge Boat Club | Floral Design: Sue-Jean Chun of Hillside Flowers | Catering: Season to Taste | Cake: Shira Melen + Heather Adams | Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham | Shoes: Kate Spade | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew | Groom’s Suit: J.Crew | DJ: Matt Costello

Intimate, meaningful and simple – this wedding from Hannah Perrson warms my heart right up. There is something so special to me about a City Hall wedding, where the most important detail is the love of the newly married couple. It reads like a romantic comedy I would watch over and over again, or, in this case, a gallery of gorgeous images of that special day I get to look at over and over again. See it all here.

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From Hannah Perrson… Ok, this is one of my favorite weddings based purely on the smallness and simplicity and intimacy of the day. The bride, Grace, her mother, and her grandmother started the day at a beautiful salon in Boston, walked across the street to pick up the lone bouquet, and then proceeded to hail a cab to Cambridge for the wedding at Cambridge City Hall.  The guests stood around the couple as they said their vows in the ceremony that lasted maybe 5 minutes, and they cheered so loud afterward. The day was effortless and charming and felt like it was right out of a romantic movie.

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Wedding Photography: Hannah Persson Photo | Ceremony Venue: Cambridge City Hall | Bouquet: Winston Flowers | Wedding Dress: Reiss on Newbury Street | Hair + Make-up: Jean Pierre Salon

Although spring is here and the buds are just beginning to bloom, this sweet farm love shoot from Megan Dandeles has me ready for the changing colors of fall! Complete with tractor, fresh-picked wildflowers and most of all, lots of love, the images from this e-session are too good to miss. See the whole thing here!

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From Megan Dandeles… We headed out from the city and into the gorgeous countryside surrounding Concord, Massachusetts for Meaghan and Kris’s farm inspired engagement session. Complete with a tractor, just-changing fall foliage and an just-picked wildflowers.

We had a perfect autumn afternoon, filled with gorgeous late afternoon light, for strolling through the fields and snuggling on farmhouse front porches. And of course being in love! Meaghan and Kris kept each other laughing and smiling all afternoon and it was just a joy to photograph.

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Wedding Photography: Megan Dandeles | Location: Countryside in Corcord, Massachusetts

We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again…. your venue is the foundation for your big day. So when this couple came across Hotel Marlowe in Cambridge they knew it was the perfect stage for their travel-inspired celebration. Brought to us by the talented EFD Creative this romantic New England affair is filled with darling details (hellllooo hot air balloon invites!!!) and warm florals. It’s a journey that is best told by the beautiful images from LifeFusion Studio so join us right here in the gallery to explore even more.

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From EFD Creative…Veronica and Greg are world travelers and wanted to bring those experiences to their wedding. Finding Hotel Marlowe was a perfect pick for the venue. The interior of the hotel and ballroom is designed with a modern eclectic feel with a whimsy of travel in the decor — compasses and world maps are part of the everyday decor… a perfect match.

We wanted to work with the hotel design and bring in Veronica and Greg’s travel elements. Place cards, menus and programs all had the travel theme with luggage, compasses, hot air balloons and more. The table names were of locations they visited world wide that had meaning for them. The cake design picked up on the patterns of the room, diamond shapes and criss crosses. Everything just came together!

From the Bride… Greg loves modern, minimalist styles and I am all about popping colors and antiques. Thank God we found Edna from EFD Creative! She had this incredible spark and managed to help us find a common vision for our special day, while putting together an amazing team of vendors. I am from three different countries and travel often. Moving has been a common pattern throughout my life. In the past three years, Greg and I have lived in 3 different states, and traveled to many new places. The theme of exploration and travel was just a natural one for both of us, and particularly fitting since most of our guests were coming from out of the country. The Marlowe Hotel in Cambridge was the perfect venue for us, as it combined the quirkiness I was looking for, with the more elegant and sophisticated concept that Greg wanted.

Our wedding was a labor of love; it was an incredibly special day, which was really a reflection of who we are. The crowd was quite eclectic with a mix of American, European and South American guests, and Joe Toto from Groove Events threw a fantastic dancing party that had even my grandmother dancing until the end!

What we will cherish forever is remembering how happy our friends and family were that day celebrating with us. Marina and Yi from LifeFusion Photography captured all those special looks, that tenderness and the love that was around. They did such a fantastic job that we want to print all the pictures they took! Melissa and Tom from Long Haul Films were quite incredible – I looked at the trailer of our wedding and it just made me cry. Those are memories that will stay with us forever. Edna is an amazing planner and a true friend. She put together a fantastic team of vendors who were not only super professional, but really great people. That was the best day of our lives!

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Wedding Photography: LifeFusion Studio, Inc. | Wedding Planning + Design: EFD Creative – Event Planning & Design | Wedding Venue: Hotel Marlowe | Floral Design: Tangerine Creations | Wedding Cake: The Icing on the Cake | Cinematography: Long Haul Films | Invitations: Allure Invitations | Hair + Makeup: Wedding Tresses | DJ + Lighting: Groove Events | Rentals: Peterson Party Center | Groom’s Suit: 9tailors

Look up personalized weddings and this right here will be the top result. No doubt about it. A backyard ceremony at the Groom’s magnificent family home, special handwritten notes by the Bride and Groom to every guest on each escort card, and Konditor Meister wedding cakes as numbers for each table that received their own private cake cutting…you’re reading right, lovelies. No detail went overlooked in this wedding from Sweet Monday Photography and not only is it unabashedly personal, it’s astonishingly beautiful to boot. Did I mention the Vera Wang AND Reem Acra wedding gowns? See it all here.

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From Sweet Monday Photography… Nikki and Tamin met at Harvard Business School and currently live in San Francisco. They were super-excited to introduce all their Midwest and California friends and family to the Boston area. Tamin grew up in Cambridge with his three brothers, and their family home was the perfect venue for this classy, elegant wedding. We started with a first look at the Boston Public Library and then went to the Harvard Business School for some portraits before heading to Tamin’s home. We loved all the fountains and statues around the property, and Nikki found so many treasures in the basement that she dragged out to the backyard to add to the decor, including furniture, suitcases, typewriters, candelabras and books. All of the girls wore different white or cream dresses from Rent the Runway, and Nikki herself had two fabulous gowns: a ruffled Vera Wang and a pink Reem Acra for dancing the night away. Nikki’s sister (the maid of honor) and one of Tamin’s brothers (the best man) shared officiating duties, which made for a very special ceremony. The party was held in a gorgeous tent with the chandeliers revealing the shadows of the trees above. The food was delicious farm to fork catering, and we especially loved that the table numbers doubled as the cake. Nikki and Tamin went around and cut the first slice of cake for each of the tables, which was a great way to celebrate with each of their guests. The entire day was brilliantly coordinated by the lovely Adrienne and Elizabeth of Gracie Lou Events.

Wedding Photography: Sweet Monday Photography / Wedding Venue: The Groom’s Family Home in Cambridge, Massachusetts / Wedding Design + Planning: Gracie Lou Events / Floral Design: Orchids N’ Blooms / Catering: Fireside Catering / Wedding Cakes: Konditor Meister / Wedding Invitations: Mercurio Brothers Printing / Music: The White Heat Swing Orchestra + AllStar Entertainment / Rentals: New England Country Rentals / Wedding Dress: Vera Wang / Bride’s Pink Dress: Reem Acra / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Rent the Runway / Groom’s Tuxedo: Burberry

Some weddings just have a magic touch, that little something that makes them stand out from the rest and sparkle. And this wedding, my friends, is one of those. We don’t know if it’s the gorgeous bride’s bright smile, those fabulous Kate Spade shoes, or the bold and beautiful tablescapes with chevron runners and gold flower vases. Whatever it is, we’ve got a serious crush on this wedding from Deborah Zoe Photo. See the rest right here. 

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Deborah Zoe Photo… Stephanie and Nick wanted to make sure that Cambridge was an important part of their wedding. It is, after all, where they met and fell in love! Fittingly, they chose the Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center for their ceremony and reception venue. Cambridge and the city of Boston played an important role in Stephanie and Nick’s day. From their wedding location, to where Stephanie got ready with a view of the city skyline to the table names and seating arrangements, Boston was a common theme.

Wedding Photography: Deborah Zoe Photo / Wedding Venue: Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts / Floral Design: DIY by the Bride / Catering: Capers Catering / Wedding Invitations: DIY by the Bride / Entertainment: White Label DJs / Photo Booth: The Danger Booth / Wedding Dress: Judd Waddell via Allegria Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade / Bride’s Jewelry: Nordstrom / Bridesmaids Dress: J.Crew / Groomsmen Attire: Black by Vera Wang

Lisa Rigby just made my day.  Like, filled it with so much LOVE and joy, I can barely find the words to describe all of the pretty.  So, if I appear to be a bumbling mess, I seriously apologize… but once you get lost in the bright pink hues, stop-you-in-your-tracks vintage details and downright happiness flowing from each and every glorious image, trust me, you’ll feel the exact same way.  It’s a Summertime masterpiece with a bundles of beautiful blooms by Petalena, the perfect dose of sweetness and a gallery chock-full of lovely.  Join me there for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… I was going for happy, vintage, American summertime! When I was a teenager, I used to watch Trading Spaces, and I remember one bit of advice from an interior designer on that show. She said something along the lines of you don’t have to try to force everything to match because chances are, if you pick things that you truly like, those things just have a way of looking great together. So, I was never stressed out about trying to match everything. I always liked the idea of a happy-go-lucky, vintage wedding, so that was the inspiration. I didn’t care if “vintage” was overdone — it’s just what we like! We’re not city people, but we happen to live in a city, so the BBQ dinner, cowboy boots and vintage-craziness were a small tip of the hat to the more rural life we’re hoping to have someday.

I hand-stamped the seating cards with gold ink, and tied a skeleton key to each one with burlap string. I got the skeleton key idea from seeing it on lots of Pinterest boards. The keys were collected from Ebay and Etsy. Joe punched out the corners on the all the seating tags once I started to get blisters doing it. What a guy! The favors were hanging glass crystals etched with silver designs, hung on ivory and aqua bakers’ twine. They were Christmas ornaments from Sundance. Joe asked me to marry him at Christmas time, and I thought it would be sort of a cute hint at his proposal. I, with help from my mom, dad and sister, hand-covered each favor box with printed paper, wrapped each box with mismatching but similarly-colored washi tape and tied little thank you tags (hand-stamped) to the boxes with the same twine. I first saw some paper boutonnieres on Martha Stewart’s website and thought it was a cute idea. All of the corsage and boutonniere designs were my own — each one was different depending on the person it were being made for! I also designed and made the invitations. The envelopes and envelope liners were bought at Paper Source. The ivory paper was thick watercolor paper. After making the invitation suite designs on my computer, I sent the files to Anna-Mae of Village Impressions, who converted them into clear cling stamps. I hand-painted the peach and turquoise lantern “glow” on each invitation and reception card, and then stamped each one with clear embossing powder. They were each embossed with ultra-fine black embossing powder using a heat gun, then each was glued with pH-neutral bookmaking glue to the backing paper. The designs had to be stamped and embossed separately from the text. Once they were glued and the paper bands were made, my mom hand-addressed the inner and outer envelopes, we stuffed and sealed them and sent them off! It was a lot more work than I’d anticipated, and if I could go back in time, this is the one thing I’d never want to do again. Between the designing and the actual constructing of the invitations, it took about two months to finish, and it was just as expensive as if I’d had them printed.

The tables, gold chairs, and ivory place settings were rented from Taylor Rental in Haverhill. I designed the tables myself. The ivory linens were from Smarty Had a Party. The burlap runners were custom made by Teresa White of Straightstitch. During the year before the wedding, I collected lots of antique hand-embroidered tablecloths and mismatching tea-saucers from about 100 Etsy and Ebay sellers. The gold, pink, and turquoise mercury glass votive holders were bought all over the place. Some of the milk bottles and glass jars used for the Petalena’s table arrangements were literally found on the sidewalk near our apartment. We placed them back on the sidewalk after the wedding, and they were gone within hours.

Photography: Lisa Rigby Photography / Ceremony: MIT Chapel in Cambridge, Massachusetts / Reception: Commander’s Mansion in Watertown, Massachusetts /  Floral Design: Petalena / Boutonnieres: DIY / Boutonniere Supplies: 32NorthSupplies + FreshlyFallenDesigns / Wedding Invitations: DIY / Envelopes + Liners: Paper Source / Custom Invitation Stamp for Embossing: Village Impressions / Christmas Ornament Favors: Sundance / Favor Boxes: DIY / Tables, Chairs + Place Settings: Taylor Rental / Linens: Smarty Had a Party / Table Runners: StraightStitch / Lanterns: Paper Lantern Store + Luna Bazaar / Lantern Set-Up: Sandy + Len of DesignLight / Wedding Dress: Christos “Julianna” / Bride’s Boots: Frye “Carson” via Amazon / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew “Evie” / Bridesmaids’ Necklaces: Ballandchain / Bride’s + Bridesmaids’ Clutches: MlleBagatelles / Groom’s Suit: Banana Republic / Groom’s Shirt: Calvin Klein / Groom’s Shoes: Bostonian via Macy’s / Engagement Ring + Groom’s Wedding Ring: DeScenza Diamonds / Bride’s Wedding Ring: Vintage via eBay

When you’ve got an architectural firm all your own, you know a thing or two about good design…and in this case, the proof is in all the pretty, yellow details. The sweet lemon inspired decor, along with all the cute craft paper goodness was all DIY and we are loving each and every inch. Blonde Cow Photography captured the day perfectly and there is so much more to see right here in the full gallery!

From Blonde Cow Photography… This wedding was located at the Cambridge Boat Club, right on the Charles River. The spring flowers were puffing with prettiness as the rowers were zig-zagging down the quiet peaceful river. My heart skipped a beat when I arrived at this beautiful location. Every little detail was made with love — so many little details went into this wedding that has been dreamed of since the couple met many years ago. I’m in love with the bay window setup and all the shades of yellow, as well as the “cheese” cake made of local cheeses near the couple’s farm in New Hampshire! 

We photographed their small wedding with family down in Florida. This sweet couple became our friends, and we flew up to Boston to photograph their magical day! They have been together for many years and have a fine residential architectural firm in Cambridge, which is where they live. It was our first time in Boston/Cambridge area, and my gosh, was it ever a dream come true!

Wedding Photography: Blonde Cow Photography / Wedding Venue: Cambridge Boat Club in Cambridge, Massachusetts / Floral Design: Derby Farm Flowers & Gardens / Event Design + Planning: Sonia Lackey / Decor + Paper Goods: DIY / Catering: Becky Rodgers / Wedding Cake: Alberto Cabre of Casa B / Wedding Dress: Ann Taylor “Georgina”

There’s nothing quite like a sweet, sweet engagement session to fill your day with happy – and this charming e-shoot is most definitely of the smile-inducing kind.  I’m talking Harvard square, one VERY gorgeous bride and groom-to-be and style for miles… and miles.  Thankfully, Deborah Zoe Photo was on hand to capture all of the magic, including a bundle of uber-heartwarming moments and a sweet stop at the very place this darling duo first met.  See it all here.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From Deborah of Deborah Zoe Photo… Nick and Stephanie met in Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Nick was bar tending at Red Line, a local bar, and Stephanie was out with friends. Nick immediately noticed the cute redhead in his bar. It took him all night, but he finally mustered the courage to go up and speak to her. They’ve been together ever since. When it came to picking the location for their engagement session, they knew it had to be the campus of Harvard University and the surrounding Harvard Square. It’s where their love began and where they spent much of their time together when they first started dating. The area has a lot of meaning for the pair! They will be getting married this coming August at the Cambridge Multicultural Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Photography: Deborah Zoe Photo / Location: Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts / Blue Dress: Shoshanna

I think my heart has a special place reserved for bow ties – because the minute I see their dapper little selves, I get a little too giddy for my own good. So when you pair bright yellow bow ties with one of my all time favorite color palettes in one of my all time favorite cities, you can only imagine what kind of happy dance I am doing over here. Lucky for all of us, Suzanna March Photography was there to capture all the chic details and fill the gallery full of fab so we can all do a little happy dance today!

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From Suzanna March Photography…As a wedding photographer, I’ll admit I typically tear up once at every wedding.  What can I say?  I’m a sucker for a good love story!  Pam and James, on the other hand, had me tearing up just about on the half hour.  They have a great loves story.  One of the unconventional ones.  One of the ones with history, passion, and fight.  One of the ones that has earned it’s enduring quality.  And because of that, even though I’ve never known them separately, they seem like they must have always been together.  They are that couple that you just want to put in your bag and take them home with you!  They are instant friends and loving parents!

Pam & James got married at the Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center in Cambridge, MA. The bride and groom chose a yellow and grey color palette, which fit their personalities to a tee.  Bright yellow shoes and bow ties and vibrant bouquets and boutonnieres from Bow Street Flowers popped on the grey dresses and suits.  And the bride had yellow parasols for her bridesmaids which made for a great prop for the girls AND the guys!  It was a beautiful day, not a dry eye in the house.  A good friend of the couple married them and they put just as much care into each song played and each vow read as they did the adorable details.

Wedding Photography: Suzanna March Photography / Floral Design: Bow Street Flowers / Event Design, Planning + Invitations: Fandangle Events / Ceremony + Reception Location: Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center / Wedding Dress: Emerald Bridal via Cristina’s Bridal

I do believe this lovely bride is my new fashion icon.  Yes, indeed.  Any bride that can rock the coolest of hats from BHLDN (and one that I have been obsessing over for quite some time now), the most beautiful of wedding gowns from Mikaella Bridal and an all caps GORGEOUS bracelet via Rent The Runway is most definitely my new hero.  And to top it all off, she married her very own Prince Charming in an oh-so-lovely Cambridge soiree, complete with beautiful blue and white blooms crafted by Lauren Keene, bridesmaids wearing fascinators and billy ball boutonnieres.  Seriously.  Awesome.  And with stunning image after stunning image by Jo Cush Photography, this amazing wedding just made my day (and week).  Don’t miss a moment of pretty.  Join me in the gallery for even more!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride… Nick and I got engaged on Christmas morning- he surprised me in our living room with a sparkly star-shaped box inside was a blue plastic ring that said XOXO… long story short he picked up the real sparkly ring a week later and gave it to me in the same spot. We decided on a long engagement so that Nick’s family and friends could make the trip from England and so we could save money in order to help pay for the occasion.  During the year and a half leading up to June 11, 2011 I had the misfortune of my grandfather passing away.  I always pictured my wedding day with him there smiling at me being his charming and warm self.  To say I was heartbroken would be an understatement, but it put wedding planning into perspective and on the day I absolutely felt his spirit and warmth in the room.  Also, it gave my Mum and I a chance to be more creative and figure out a way to still include the past and people who had passed without being morbid.  We put a meaningful note about Papa and Nick’s Father Jim on the back of our wedding programs and surrounded our wedding cake with our parents and grandparents wedding pictures.  I love how my photographer Jo Cush captured pictures of our wedding cake but also incorporated  the framed photographs in the background.

During the planning process we decided the key parts would be a unique venue (The Charles Hotel), restaurant quality food (they didn’t disappoint) and open bar- once that was all decided Nick bowed out and I took over planning all details to create a personal and meaningful wedding day for us.  Since the majority of our budget was spent on food and booze I had to improvise the rest.  Etsy became my best friend and with a little luck, some amazing vendors and family support it came together without a hitch.  It was the most special and sweet day of our lives. Since both Nick and I are not religious we opted to have our best friend marry us- he did such a remarkable job and everyone said the ceremony was “so us”.  I was so happy that we didn’t conform to what a traditional wedding is and instead made it our own because at the end of the day a wedding is about the couple who is getting married.  I really wanted to incorporate hats and fascinators for me and my bridesmaids because Nick is from England and that is a popular style of wedding attire.  I loved being a bride and had such a fun time dressing up and marrying the love of my life.  My favorite part of the evening was during dinner, I was able to take a moment and take it all in- all our favorite people from far and wide in one room celebrating us as a newly married couple.

Wedding Photography + Photo Booth: Jo Cush Photography / Flowers: Lauren Keane Floral Design / DJ: Beat Train Productions / Location + Event Planning: The Charles Hotel / Wedding Invitations: Sandskirpts / Wedding Dress: Mikaella Bridal / Bracelet: Rent The Runway / Bride’s Hat: BHLDN / Bridesmaid Dresses: Bari Jay / Bridesmaids Fascinator: Custom via Owllamode / Hair: Shag Boston / Makeup: Danielle King Nordstrom Burlington / Photo Booth Props: ThePaperStache + MaroDesigns + LindenLovebirds / Escort Cards, Menu, Table Numbers + Programs: Lamaworks / Petal Cones: Cami’s Paperie Customized Paper Goods / Vintage Inspired Handkerchiefs: Gift Wagon / Stickers on Favors: Timelesspaperco / Favor Bags: Bellaterra / Guest Book Tree: Tkd4673 / Flower Girl Dresses + Headband: J.Crew / Groom’s + Groomsmen Tie: The Tie Bar

We have been chomping at the bit in anticipation of the premiere of this local blog. That being Massachusetts, our very own stomping grounds at Style Me Pretty. And what better way to get the party started than with a completely adorable engagement session captured by Ria MacKenzie Photography? It is set in our beloved home of Boston, Cambridge to be exact, and it is exuding lots of New England love . So welcome to our brand spankin new Massachusetts blog! Grab a comfy seat because not only do we have more images from this pretty e-session in the full gallery but we also have some fabulous weddings on the way direct from the Bay State.

click here to see the full gallery of images!

Vicky and JO wanted their engagement photos to take place in their Cambridge, MA neighborhood, where they fell in love and where they will soon be married. We walked around Inman Square and Harvard Square and found some unique locations on our way to some places that were meaningful to them. I really loved the fact that their photos really depict what everyday life looks like for them. Walking, dining and perusing Cambridge as a couple. The best compliment for the photographer was, “these pictures are so us”. Nothing more, nothing less. Just a regular couple. Happy, in love and in Cambridge.

Photography: Ria MacKenzie Photography / Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts