Massachusetts Weddings

There’s just something about a Martha’s Vineyard wedding that can’t be replicated elsewhere.  Maybe it has a little something to do with the breathtaking scenery and beautiful traditions steeped into the island’s history… the exact something that drew these two sweeties to Edgartown to host their nautical-inspired soiree.  Styled to perfection by Desiree Spinner Events and featuring beautiful blooms from Sayles Livingston Design, it’s Martha’s Vineyard perfection, all captured in pretty, pretty images by Kristen Leigh Conklin.  See every last one in the full gallery.

Can’t get enough of this beautiful day?  Soak in this film from Zinnia Films.  It’s amazing.

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From the Bride… Brant came out to Martha’s Vineyard for the first time over Labor Day 2011, which is when I normally rent a cottage for myself and whatever friends I can scramble together to stay with me.  Brant came out for a few days and fell in love with the island.  As a native of Montana, he had no exposure to the beauty of New England summers, except for what he had read about in books and seen in films.  The beauty of the island that time of year astonished him, and so the day after we got engaged, when I asked him where he wanted us to get married, his immediate response was “On the Vineyard.”  

So, on September 22, 2012, Brant and I married at St. Elizabeth’s and had an outdoor reception down the street at a private home overlooking the harbor.  After a fun welcome clam bake at Seafood Shanty the night before, we woke up Saturday to overcast weather.   Our first look photos at the harbor had a cloudy backdrop, but at least it wasn’t raining.

As I waited to walk through the church door, the most magical thing happened — the clouds parted and the sun started glowing against a clear blue sky!  When the doors opened, the bright light shined on my back creating an almost halo-type effect as I walked down the aisle with my father.  It was magical.

After the wedding we walked over to our reception.  It was more beautiful than I had ever dreamed.  Not only was I blown away by the amazing styling, but being on the water with the perfection of a New England Indian Summer day put me in a complete state of euphoria. Most of all, it made us so happy to see so many of our friends from different places and times in our lives come together and develop new friendship through the wedding weekend.  Many had never previously met, so it meant so much to us that everyone became such fast friends.  We danced all afternoon into the evening — almost everyone was on the dance floor the ENTIRE time!  What a bizarre scene it must have been for an outsider to see all these people dancing in the middle of the afternoon!  

We ended the night with a sparkler exit — using sparklers, our guests created a tunnel of light as we ran up the driveway and off to our afterparty.  It was truly a magical end to a magical day. Six hours passed in a blink.  I’ll admit I was a bit sad as I got ready for bed that night and I turned to Brant and asked if we could do it all over again.  I remember he smiled, laughed a little bit, and agreed that it was the best day of his life too, and reminded me that what made it so special was that its a once-in-a-lifetime event and that type of magic could never be recreated.  True.  I have come to realize that we don’t need to do it agin to relive that day because months later, whenever I look at our wedding photos or reminisce with friends about that day, I get the joy of revisiting that day in my memory and that dizzying feeling of euphoria quickly returns.  

[dotted]

Wedding Photography: Kristen Leigh Conklin | Ceremony Venue: St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Edgartown, Massachusetts |  Reception Venue: Private Residence in Edgartown, Massachusetts | Event Planning + Design: Desiree Spinner Events | Floral Design: Sayles Livingston Design | Wedding Cinematography: Zinnia Films | Catering: V. Jamie Hamlin & Sons | Desserts: Val Cakes (508.274.0396) | DJ: Nick Ferrington from Beat Train Productions | Band: Brad Tucker and Nashvillians | Rentals: Big Sky  | Wedding Invitations: Wiley Valentine | Wedding Dress: Christos | Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Hair + Makeup: Jen Delmonaco + Cinnamon White

Martha’s Vineyard is nothing short of magical. A pretty little island just a hop, skip and a jump away from Boston, but worlds away in so many ways. Which makes it an oh-so-lovely place to say I do. These two newlyweds said I do alright, and they did so in seriously style. With a color palette perfect for a September wedding on the island, pretty little details everywhere you turn and a Groom that ended the evening with a sweet serenade – this wedding is just everything. See it all here.

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From the Bride… We wanted our wedding to be a celebration of all of the things that we love; namely family, music and the outdoors. We have been fortunate to spend a lot of time on the Vineyard, so having our wedding there was an easy decision. The Captain Flanders House was the first and only venue we visited; we immediately loved the rustic, natural beauty of the property and the simple charm of the house and cottages.

Although we quickly learned that having a wedding at an informal venue requires a lot of coordination, we were able to pull off a fantastic day with the help of our amazing vendors and the assistance of family and friends. Nick and I created table numbers and signs for the property, a family friend hand-calligraphed our envelopes and seating cards. My mother-in-law made koufeta (traditional Greek favors), and one of my girlfriends helped tie hundreds of twine bows on our programs and the shawls that also served as favors. I also cannot say enough about our vendors; we consider ourselves very fortunate to have worked with such talented and genuinely nice people.

We had 100 guests travel to the Vineyard to take part in our September wedding. The gorgeous weather enabled us to have the ceremony and cocktail hour outside, with the reception held under a beautiful tent. We kept the décor minimal, using mostly natural elements like weathered shingles, moss and twine, accented with bursts of orange in the flowers and bridal party’s attire.

One of the best decisions we made was to take “first-look” photos before the ceremony. Capturing our reactions upon seeing each other for the first time was very special. Since we also had our family photos taken early in the day, we were able to sneak away during the cocktail hour to take some beautiful shots at Menemsha Harbor. I am still amazed at how our photographer, Jocelyn Filley, captured all of these moments precisely as I remember them!

In a nod to Nick’s Greek heritage, we used the stefena (crowns) from his parents wedding ceremony and attempted a couple of traditional Greek dances during the reception. The Irish Wedding Blessing as one of our readings represented my Irish roots.

Although we had a fabulous DJ lined up, we also wanted to incorporate live music into the ceremony and cocktail hour. Our wedding coordinator recommended Ballywhoo, a fantastic bluegrass band. We had them “play their way” in after the guests had been seated. The look of surprise on our guests faces as the musicians came down the hill and over toward the ceremony was incredible.

The highlight of the day was when Nick surprised me by performing a song, which he had written, on his guitar during the reception. I am not one to cry easily, but this thoughtful gesture moved me to tears. The evening ended just as we had hoped; surrounded by friends and family dancing like maniacs… We treasure the beautiful photos and video we have to remind us of this fabulous day!

[dotted]

Photography: Jocelyn Filley | Venue: Captain Flanders House in Chilmark, Massachusetts | Wedding Coordinator: Julie Hatt from Vineyard Weddings | Wedding Cinematography: After Image Productions | Floral Design: Louise Sweet from Flowers on the Vineyard | Caterer: Tea Lane Caterers | Wedding Cake: Val Cakes (508.274.0396) | Favors + Desserts: Green Mountain Chocolate | Rehearsal Dinner + Brunch: Atria | Ceremony+ Cocktail Music: Ballywhoo | Reception Music: DJ Smac (Scot MacMillian) | Rentals: Big Sky Tent | Transportation: Vineyard Transport | Restrooms: Dottie’s Potties (508.693.1135) | Wedding Stationery: Hello Lucky! | Wedding Dress: Paloma Blanca via Bella Sera Bridals | Maid of Honor + Flower Girls Attire: J.Crew | Groom’s Attire: Hugo Boss | Groomsmen Attire: Macy’s | Ties + Bowties: The Tie Bar | Hair + Makeup: Sea Spa Salon

This wedding? It’s a dream. And the images Christina Szczupak sent our way? Absolutely hang on your wall worthy. Each one has the most beautiful feel of how this gorgeous day unfolded, and from the looks of them, it unfolded in a beyond perfect fashion. With the gorgeous Martha’s Vineyard setting the prettiest scene for this new Mr. & Mrs. (who just so happen to be gorgeous themselves), it’s safe to say this gallery is just beyond. See it all here.

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From the Bride… Ricky and I are so blessed to have been married on our seven year anniversary surrounded by our best friends and amazing parents. We have so many favorite memories from our wedding – the highly-anxious first look when Ricky finally saw me in my wedding dress, walking down the aisle with my dad, exchanging our vows and both of us trying not to cry and ending up laughing, our hilariously uncoordinated entrance dance with the wedding party (Gangnam Style!), our parents killing it on the dance floor and making every single person laugh, and celebrating with great music and delicious food with those closest to our hearts. 

Marrying my best friend was the most overwhelmingly joyful experience and I could not ask for anything more. Our day was surrounded by so much love, from the handmade hanger for my dress, to the “love” cake topper for our wedding cake, to our personally designed invitations, all by my beautiful bridesmaids. I wish we could relive our wedding day over and over again and we are so lucky we can because every single moment was perfectly captured by Christina.

Wedding Photography: Christina Szczupak / Wedding Venue: Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown, Massachusetts / Floral Design: Fresco Flowers / Wedding Invitation + Signage: Designed by bridemaids / Favors: Babycakes / DJ: Eric Johnson / Wedding Dress: J.Crew “Arabelle” / Bride’s Belt: Twisted Crystals /  Bride’s Veil: Teri Huang / Bride’s Shoes: Guess / Bride’s Necklace: Tiffany & Co “Elsa Peretti Open Heart” / Bridemaids’ Attire: Armani Exchange + ASOS / Groom’s Attire: J.Crew / Groom’s Shoes: Polo Ralph Lauren via Journeys

Kristen Leigh Conklin has place a permanent smile on my face this morning thanks to her beautiful images from this classic Martha’s Vineyard wedding. That pretty little island off the coast of Massachusetts is the perfect host for this perfectly New England affair, and this couple just knew it was the only place for them to say I do. I couldn’t be more thankful they did, because it left us with a gallery that’s perfect parts preppy and stylish. See it all here.

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From the Bride…In July of 2011, Jay proposed to me in front of the Edgartown Lighthouse on Martha’s Vineyard. It was early in the morning and we were sitting in the sand, sipping coffee in our pajamas. We knew that we wanted our wedding to have a similar vibe: intimate and casual, just like us, and preferably, on the same special Island. It was soon decided that the ceremony would take place at East Chop Lighthouse and the reception would be held at Atria in Edgartown. Our goal was to make the wedding a personal reflection of us. But we also knew that our guests were traveling long distances for our wedding, and we wanted them to experience our favorite aspects of the Vineyard. On our wish list: an intimate ceremony, a playful cocktail hour, a twinkly dinner, and touches of vintage Martha’s Vineyard.

Planning a wedding on Martha’s Vineyard was not without it’s challenges. We are based in the DC area, which meant we had some busy weekend trips to the Island, many hours of help from family, and a lot of faith in our vendors. My mother, my aunts, and my maid of honor all took a hand in planning and crafting. They made numerous trips to Michael’s and stayed up late assembling the table numbers that we developed around my dad’s vintage postcard collection. My mother made the wreath from shells that she collected on the Vineyard. My father, brother, and sister-in-law spent the week before our wedding tying bows, attaching homemade tags, and running to the Edgartown Library for last minute print jobs. Paired with our local vendors, most notably Kristen Leigh Conklin Photography, Atria, Mike Benjamin Band, Big Sky, and Boucle, we knew we were in good hands.

The result of everybody’s hard work was a classic Martha’s Vineyard wedding and a perfect reflection of our relationship. The ceremony was officiated by a friend of Jay’s family. The ambiance was set with acoustic guitar and flute, and a few surprises – buoy bells, a ferry whistle, and dragonflies and swallows, which flew through the ceremony overlook. My grandfather’s vintage Mercedes served as our getaway car (which my dad decorated himself and drove to the Island from Pennsylvania). Our signature cocktail was the “rum demon,” a drink crafted and named by my grandfather. The cornhole sets were built by Jay’s groomsman, who personalized them with our monogram and NFL teams. Atria’s garden swing provided a fun place for kids to blow off energy and for adults to mingle. For dinner, we served New England clam chowder and a plated lobster clambake. After dinner and dancing, the party moved to Atria’s Brick Cellar for more music, sliders with truffle fries, and a photobooth.

Everything about our wedding was perfect and we couldn’t stop soaking it in. On the day after our wedding, we drove the Mercedes back to East Chop Lighthouse for sunset, then back to Atria for burgers. We returned to the lighthouse again on Monday, that time on our bikes. It is truly a magical spot that we will visit for years. To us, the magic of Martha’s Vineyard is unmatched. We were lucky to have a beautiful afternoon in a special place, but most important was marrying each other, with our loved ones by our sides, and confirming what we already felt – we are family.

Wedding Photography: Kristen Leigh Conklin / Ceremony Location: East Chop Lighthouse in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts / Reception + Afterparty Location: Atria in Edgartown, Massachusetts / Floral Design: Flowers on the Vineyard / Wedding Cupcakes: Val Cakes (508-274-0396) / Lobster Cookies: Eleni’s New York / Rentals: Big Sky Tent and Party Rentals / Table Numbers: (Frames and Whales/Crabs) from Michaels + Postcards from the Bride’s Father; Painted by the Bride’s Aunt / Music: Mike Benjamin Band / Lobster Trap: B&B Woodworking / Mailbox + Ring Holder: BHLDN / Transportation: MV Sightseeing / Wedding Dress: Robert Bullock / Bridesmaids Attire: Joanna August / Bridesmaid Earrings: DIY by the Bride’s Mother / Groom + Groomsmen Attire: JoS. A. Bank  / Ties: Vineyard Vines / Hair + Makeup: Boucle

There is something so fresh, so beautiful about this Martha’s Vineyard wedding snapped up by Kelly Dillon Photography. It’s overflowing with sweetness and filled to the brim with all the things that make me head over heels in love with summer soirees – but it’s the blushing Bride and the dapper Groom that really pull the hardest at my heart strings. Their sweet kisses and warm embraces are enough to sweep you off your feet this Monday morning, so make sure you are sitting before diving into the full gallery…

From the Bride… David and I met in 2005 at a Santa Monica restaurant known for its lively bar scene.  It was the night the Patriots won the 39th Super Bowl, and as a proud New Englander, I was donning my Boston gear… as was David.  A catcall from me (“Hey, Boston…”), a round of drinks from him, a date the following night, and a long distance relationship sparked.  I soon relocated to Virginia where David, a combat Navy officer, was stationed — and from then on, there was no city we couldn’t conquer! After David returned from a tour in Iraq, we took on Newport, Rhode Island, then Manhattan for graduate school, and then we finally made our way back home to Boston. About a year after we settled into Boston, and on my (gasp!) 30th birthday, one of our weekend hikes became a bit more memorable than all the rest. Alongside Pete, our chocolate lab, and among the birds and trees and nearby a serene lake, David asked me to share forever with him. Not on bended knee — I’ve never understood that tradition — but standing face to face as loving equals. David still laughs that through all my joyful tears and vertical head nodding, I never quite managed to actually say the word yes, which resulted in him having to ask “So is that a yes?” Yes! Yes times a thousand!

And so that started the almost year-long wedding planning process. We always knew that when the day came for us to “make it official,” it would have to be on Martha’s Vineyard. David’s family has had a house in Chilmark for about thirty years, and it’s a special place not just to him, but for me too after years of visits. It doesn’t get any more magical than the view from the Allen Sheep and Wool Farm, so we were ecstatic to learn that they would accommodate our wedding. Once we had the venue, it was time to settle on the feel of the wedding. We really wanted it to be romantic, intimate, and above all else, just downright pretty! So with that in mind, we started pulling together a vintage-glam home concept. We rented farm tables, mismatched china and silverware, lace runners and overlays, crystal chandeliers, vintage furniture and added a few DIY touches to pull it all together. We fashioned and built our escort card display after board-and-batten shutters you’d see on a house, and I hand-stamped (letter by letter!) the escort cards as I would if we were hosting a dinner party. I also wrapped the wood table numbers with yarn to give them a more homey feel (be aware – they take a LONG time to do!). As the finishing touch, our florist worked her magic and used china casserole dishes and teapots, along with vintage silver pieces, to house all the flowers.

We couldn’t be happier with the way things came together – even the weather cooperated! The beautiful, intimate feel we were going for was definitely achieved, and we were so lucky to share such an incredible day with our closest friends and family.

Wedding Photography: Kelly Dillon Photography / Wedding Venue: Allen Sheep and Wool Farm in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts (508-645-9064) / Floral Design: Island Ambiance / Wedding Day Coordination: With Grace / Catering: V. Jaime Hamlin & Sons / Dessert Bar: Cakes by Liz + Chilmark Chocolates (508-645-3013) / Bar: Our Market (508-693-3000) / Wedding Stationery: à deux: bespoke bridal paper / Ceremony Music: Yaeko Miranda Elmaleh / Reception Band: Sultans of Swing / Tent + Rentals: Big Sky Tent and Party Rentals / Vintage Rentals: New England Vintage Rentals / Chandelier Lighting: Revelation Productions / Bathrooms: Dottie’s Potties (508-693-1135) / Guest Book: M-square Press / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier via Madeleine’s Daughter / Bride’s Belt: Martina Liana via Madeleine’s Daughter / Bride’s Shoes: Custom by Giuseppe Zanotti / Bride’s Earrings + Bracelet: Judith Jack via Nordstrom / Hair: Sea Spa Salon / Makeup: Zoe Loves Makeup / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Siri via Flair Boston / Groom’s Suit + Men’s Ties: Brooks Brothers / Rings: Custom by Barmakian Jewelers

What do you get when you marry the sweeping and yet utterly charming backdrop of Martha’s Vineyard with the genius that is photographer, Shawn Connell? Well, my lovelies. You get this next wedding and what just might be the perfect combination of style and substance. And heart-stoppingly gorgeous images. I apologize in advance for teasing you with a venue as crazy beautiful as this one, that just happens to belong to the the bride’s mother. I know, it’s cruel. But there are so many other steal-worthy details, we’re pretty sure you’ll be just fine. Click here for WAY more pics and be sure to stop by SMP Massachusetts for the rehearsal dinner that proceeded this gorgeous day.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

Alice and Ben met on Martha’s Vineyard in August 2001, on the eve of Ben’s 21st birthday, at a concert performed by Alice’s college singing group. Both were undergraduates at Yale (he a senior, she a sophomore), and they began dating the following school year. Martha’s Vineyard carries additional meaning for both of them, as their families have spent time on the island over the years. Alice’s mother’s home is perched on a hill in Chilmark with splendid English gardens throughout, as well a 180-degree view of the lush New England greenery below and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. When Ben proposed almost nine years later, there was no question where the wedding would be held.

With the indispensable help of wedding coordinator Julie Hatt, the couple set about organizing a ceremony and reception that combined simple elegance with the natural beauty and intimacy of the property. The bride chose a color palette of vivid purples, magentas, and blues, which went beautifully with the lush greenery and bright colors of the gardens. Stone walls are ubiquitous in Chilmark, and the stone wall that runs parallel to the ocean in the backyard of the house became a motif of the exquisitely designed and elegantly produced paper goods by Bryn Chernoff of Paperfinger. Alice and Ben recognized the risk they took in planning a summer wedding on an island in the Northeast, but as it turned out, the weather was absolutely perfect the entire weekend. The incredible team of photographers, led by Shawn Connell of Christian Oth Studio and supported by second photographer Glen Allsop, captured every detail and moment of the day to perfection.

As guests arrived for the ceremony, they were greeted with lemonade in mason jars and were provided shade under parasols that had been used previously at the weddings of two of Alice’s close friends. The simple ceremony celebrated the warmth and familiarity of the occasion. After the ceremony, guests milled about the grounds for an extended cocktail period before heading to the dinner tent where they were served a delicious meal of summer gazpacho (Alice’s mom’s recipe), local striped bass with island vegetables and corn pudding, and individual servings of mixed berry shortcake. The escort card table displayed wedding photographs of the couple’s parents and grandparents. Instead of a guest book, guests were invited to write personal message on simple cards, which the couple plans to incorporate into a scrapbook. As the sun went down, many guests sat perched along the stone wall chatting and enjoying the striking Vineyard sunset over the Atlantic. Ben and Alice departed through a path lined by sparklers waved by all of their friends and family who were given little boxes of chocolate for the journey home. 

Wedding Photography: Shawn Connell of Christian Oth Studio / Second Photographer: Glen Allsop / Wedding Venue: Home of Bride’s Mother in Chilmark, Massachusetts / Wedding Coordination: Julie Hatt / Wedding Flowers: Lynda Dandeneau / Wedding Officiant: Cantor Theodore Aronson / Wedding Calligraphy, Save-the-Dates, Menus, “Guest Book” Cards, Escort Cards + Programs: Bryn Chernoff of Paperfinger / Wedding Invitations: Dempsey & Carroll / Catering: V. Jaime Hamlin & Sons / Desserts: Val Cakes (508-274-0396) / Entertainment: The Sultans of Swing / Tents: Big Sky Tent & Party Rentals / Event Rentals: Big Sky Tent & Party Rentals + Be Our Guest / Wedding Dress: Carolina Herrera / Wedding Dress Steaming: Elinor Corfield / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Bride’s Jewelry: Jamie Wolf / Bride’s Hair + Makeup: Maysoon Faraj / Bridesmaids’ Hair + Makeup: Mary and Gretchen of Boucle / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo / Men’s Suits: J.Crew / Men’s Ties: Paul Stuart / Transportation: Stagecoach Taxi / Wedding Favors: Chilmark Chocolates (508-645-3013)

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

View Portfolio

Don’t you just love Mondays?!?  Two days away from all of the pretty, pretty inspiration and I simply can.not.wait to jump right in to all of this lovely first thing in the AM.  And today’s darling affair by Briana Moore Photography was definitely worth the wait… with a breathtaking Martha’s Vineyard setting, a fabulous tented reception and one uber-stunning bride and groom, this elegant backyard soiree has completely taken my breath away.  Trust me, you don’t want to miss a moment… Join me in the gallery for even more!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Briana Moore Photography… This was a gorgeous destination wedding on Martha’s Vineyard! Brendan’s family has spent a lot of time on the Vineyard, though he and Laurie currently live in Louisiana. They had guests from all over the country. I loved the bridesmaid dresses, all different styles in pewter, and every lady had some pop of orange on.

There was a lot that was special about this wedding. Laurie’s family is quite musical. Her father & sister sang during the ceremony, and Laurie surprised her new husband during the reception by joining the wedding band and singing Mercy (by Duffy) to Brendan in front of all of their friends & family. The band was AMAZING, I’m a total convert to wedding bands if they could all be this good.

The bride wore a family heirloom bracelet for jewelry, and a tiara (just as her mother did when she got married). This group danced more than any I have ever seen! By the end of the night, my face hurt from smiling. This wedding was so special.

Wedding Photography: Briana Moore Photography / Wedding Cinematography: Lynn of EugeneWorks / Floral Design: Morrice Florist / Catering & Event Coordination: Tea Lane Caterers Inc. / Music: Mike Benjamin Band / Wedding Ceremony + Reception Location: West Chop Club / Wedding Dress: Romona Keveza

It’s only appropriate that when a love story starts as sweetly as the one shared by these two lovebirds that the wedding day should be just as romantic.  The gorgeous Martha’s Vineyard nuptials captured by Dreamlove Photography are the perfect blend of timeless elegance, rustic beauty and a little bit of good ol’ New England flair.  The views are breathtaking, the florals stunning and each and every little detail absolutely lovely. Click here to see them all!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…The way David and I met was really one for the books and in every way he made it feel like a real life fairytale. While I was studying fashion in Florence, Italy, David was in town from Paris representing his family’s menswear company.  I was on my way out one night with some friends from school to celebrate the last weekend before we parted ways for summer break. While crossing a piazza, my friend ran into a man she met at a business appointment earlier that day and while they chatted, I found myself in front of a stunning Frenchman.  From the second we locked eyes, I knew this was going to be something special.  He had the kindest eyes I had ever seen. That night would change my life forever.  David called work and changed his flight to stay a few more days in Florence. For the next year we traveled back and forth, meeting in cities people only dream of visiting over a span of a lifetime.  We spent time in my home town of Miami, New York City, Martha’s Vineyard, Saint Tropez, and finally in Paris where we ended up living for one year. Now we are settled in Miami, surrounded by the most amazing family and friends.  I could not think of a better place to be newlyweds.

When David proposed there was no doubt about where we were going to be married. Being from two very different places we knew Martha’s Vineyard would be the one place everyone would happily jump on a plane, bus, car, or ferry to visit.  The Vineyard has been a place my family has called home for the summer for many generations. My newly retired mother was the perfect person to help me with the planning, and the first thing we booked was the venue, the Vineyard Haven Yacht club.  My great-grandfather was one of the founding members and the childhood memories I have of jumping off that dock don’t get any better.  For most of our friends and family this would be their very first time visiting the island and we wanted to make sure we represented ourselves and the island while setting the tone for the wedding.

The Yacht club does an amazing job of creating a casual elegant feel, and when I came across Dreamlove Photography I knew there was no one better who could capture this day.  When guests arrived on Island David made the design for our custom wedding bags and my parents and I filled them with island favorites. David also made the “Wedding” and “Welcome” signs to greet the guest when they arrived at the yacht club.  Working in fashion I think it comes with the territory to be neurotically obsessed with detail.  When planning our dream wedding I wanted to make sure to delight all the senses.  With the ocean breeze at our backs, the McGees playing a string quartet, there was no other way I wanted my dad to walk me down the aisle. My uncle Jeff performed our ceremony which my mother and I wrote referencing a book of weddings from all religions. After our I do’s, the Phil Darosa Band played an acoustic version of “All You Need is Love” by the Beatles.

I wanted our dinner at the reception to feel like everyone was sitting down for a family meal.  With the guest list under 100, every person in the room had influenced our lives in a positive way.  We had a vintage window seating chart set out to let guests know where they would be sitting for dinner.  We bought white washed wood table numbers and had french lavender seating card with the guests names attached thanking them for coming to our wedding.  April from Everything Little Miss made all of our invites, maps, and the most perfect custom lobster bibs. Jan from the Kitchen Porch provided the guests with a New England Lobster bake dinner.  From the Menemsha lobster to the herbs on the chicken every ingredient came from the island. We used long farm tables with hand stitched burlap my godmother made.  We purchased all of the lanterns, candles, and vases.  The day would not have been the same without the wild organic flowers Island Ambiance filled throughout the venue.  From the second I met Marline I knew she understood exactly what I wanted. There was really only two things I did not want for my wedding, matching bridesmaid dresses and a fondant cake.  Cakes by Val made the most amazing cake I have ever tasted. While bistro lights lined the ceilings and dance floor the Phil Darosa band made sure guests from all ages were having the time of there life.

This was truly the most magical day of my life.  With this team of vendors there was not one detail left untouched. This was the perfect beginning to the next chapter of my real life fairytale with David!

Wedding Photography: Dreamlove Photography / Venue: Vineyard Haven Yacht Club / Band: The Phil Darosa Band / Wedding Dress: Allure Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Lilly Pulitzer / Groom’s Suit: Arny’s Paris (David’s Family Company) / Wedding Jewelry: TEJANI / Hair + Make-up: Sea Spa / Catering: Kitchen Porch / Wedding Cakes: Cakes by Val / Floral Design: Island Ambiance / Vintage Window Seating Chart: Beyond White / Rustic Table Number: ShabbyWeddingChic / Lavender Sprig Seating Cards: Life Is So Beautiful / Lobster Bibs: Everything Little Miss

Martha’s Vineyard is so beautiful. So, SO beautiful. So holding a wedding on the gorgeous sandy shoreline of this perfect little place is always going to be stunning. But this wedding, captured by David Murray Wedding Photography, blew my expectations out of that sparkly, blue water. I am absolutely swooning over the lighthouse locale, the fabulous blooms, the beyond adorable ring bearer. This affair totally ups the ante on Martha’s Vineyard weddings. You’ll see exactly what I mean when you visit the gallery for more!

My husband and I had a New England coastal wedding last June in Martha’s Vineyard, MA. The colors were lavender and tiffany blue. Simple but elegant was our goal with a touch of New England charm and style. We grew up in the same Connecticut shoreline town. (I actually played his pregnant wife in a high school play.) Despite growing up in the same town, our romantic paths didn’t intertwine until years later in New York City. I’d been traveling to Martha’s Vineyard for the summers since I was a young girl with and my husband proposed in Oak Bluffs a year and a half ago on a family vacation.

My husband and I custom made the escort cards – they were old postcards from our hometown in Madison Connecticut. The table names were all first date places of ours. The guest favors and attendant gifts were from local island vendors. Our favorite parts of the day had to be the authentic New England raw bar featured during the cocktail hour and the disguised touches of New York we brought with us – our fantastic DJ and groom’s college friend and the New York Yankee cookies that we included in the welcome bags. We had to stay true to our second favorite city after all!

Photography: David Murray Wedding Photography / Flowers: Lynda Dandaneau / Event Planning & Design: Bride and Mother of the Bride / Ceremony Location: Edgartown Lighthouse / Catering & Reception Location: Lambert’s Cove Inn / Invitations: Mr. Boddington’s / Bride’s Accessories: Jennifer Behr / Dress: Amsale / Groom’s Attire: Brooks Brothers / Maid of Honor’s Attire: J.Crew / DJ: Chris Sealey / Guest favors: Chillmark Chocolates / Welcome Bags: Dylan’s Candy Bar / Attendant Gifts: Midnight Farm / Linen rentals: Magnolia Linens / Cupcakes: Sweet E’s Cupcakes

Here comes the most adorable, fabulously colorful, detail-filled fête for your Thursday morning! Captured by the oh-so-talented Jen Lynne Photography and styled by could-not-be-lovelier Rhiannon at Hey Gorgeous Events, this party isn’t just pretty…it’s downright GORGEOUS, and guaranteed to put a bit fat grin on your face! Bulldogs in bow ties, ribbon streamers, an escort table worthy of pinning, chandeliers in a barn filled with pie – I could go on and on about all the little details that made my giddy meter go off the charts, but you can see it all for yourself in the full gallery of FABULOUS images!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Hey Gorgeous Events…I first met Kelli, a few months prior to her big day, when she was looking for some last-minute help tying in personal touches and managing some logistical details for her wedding. Right away I became completely smitten with not only her appreciation for all the small details that make an event shine, but her love and admiration for her now husband, Brandon. For those few months prior to their August wedding, we had so much fun bringing together everything that would make their wedding feel romantic, relaxed and memorable.

Kelli and Brandon’s big day started out with a laid back and delicious lunch hosted by the mother of the groom in Lakeview, Michigan. The old-style barn and vintage surroundings on the property set the tone perfectly for the couple as they got ready for their first look. After a few formal portraits with the bridal party, Jen of Jen Lynne Photography used the cloudy skies and on and off again weather to her advantage to capture the most dreamy and romantic photos of the soon to be newlyweds.

The bride picked a fresh color palette of fuchsia and tangerine in an effort to celebrate the final days of summer. The pops of color from the bridesmaids dresses and the ranunculus, garden roses and dahlia bouquets looked stunning against the altar of the sanctuary in Grand Rapids’ Fountain Street church. Close to 180 of their closest friends and family watched the two say their vows before helping me orchestrate a surprise – and very exciting – ribbon wand following the ceremony. The ring bearer proudly carried a handmade sign with the phrase “Here Comes The Carlsons!” as the bridal party paraded downtown for more photos and guests headed over the cocktail hour and reception at St. Cecelia’s music center. Once guests arrived at the venue they were greeted with little vignettes, styled perfectly to reflect not only the couple’s fun personalities and loving nature, but also their professional careers; their escort table blended Kelli’s job as a teacher and Brandon’s gig as a bean farmer into one fun display for guests. Everyone absolutely loved finding their pencil flags that directed them to their seats. A top the mantle of the fireplace, was an elementary school chalkboard with a handwritten quote, and clipped onto pieces of twine across the mantle, were hand stamped clothes pegs displaying photos from the couple’s engagement shoot.

Upstairs where dinner was served, sat centerpieces filled with brightly hued, textured blooms that sat within wood boxes the bride white washed herself. The head table’s box was actually constructed out of old barn wood that bride had found at the farm. Tables were named after different types of beans to honor the groom’s work, and in lieu of a traditional guest book, guests were asked to fill out Mad Libs that the couple could reflect back on for years to come. At each place setting was a pack of beans from the family farm, with a label on the back detailing an Italian soup recipe and a label on the front that read “Love Is Souper.” Hanging from the bride and groom’s chairs were their initials, covered in a patterned favored by the bride. Their delicious cake, which was made for them as a gift from a family friend, sat behind them on a cocktail table, adorned with the most perfect sugar flowers created to mimic the flowers in the bridesmaid’s bouquets. Instead of a champagne toast, guests were able to enjoy sparkling cider straight from the town where Kelli and Brandon first said I love you. At the end of the night after hours of dancing, lots of photo booth fun and a late night snack bar comprised of Auntie Anne’s pretzels and dipping sauces, the bride and groom departed with a sparkler send off late into the August night, marking the end of a completely perfect day for two very special people. These photos by Jen truly capture how incredible Kelli and Brandon’s wedding day was.

Wedding Photography: Jen Lynne Photography / Styling, Planning + Coordination: Rhiannon of Hey Gorgeous Events / Reception Location: St. Cecelia’s Music Center / Ceremony Location: Fountain Street Church / Catering: The Gilmore Collection / Beverage Service: Martha’s Vineyard / Florist: Gail Vander Laan Florist / Wedding Cake: Family Friend / Photobooth: Shutterbooth / Entertainment: Moments in Time Disc Jockeys / Chair Covers: Special Occasions West / Stationery: A Pinch of Spice / Wedding Gown: Bridal Elegance / Limo Service: Dadds Limo / Veil: David’s Bridal

According to the superstition, a little rain on your wedding day is supposedly good luck.  Well, I don’t know about rain but sometimes a few clouds can make an already stunning wedding that much more gorgeous.  The pretty pinks and bold blues throughout this wedding by Callaway Gable just pop and the green of the Martha’s Vineyard countryside glistens under those gray skies.  No matter the weather, this wedding glows with so much sweetness and style it lights up the whole island!  Check out the full gallery for even more inspiration!

Click here for more inspiration in the full wedding gallery!

These two New Yorkers chose Martha’s Vineyard as the perfect place to be married. It’s no wonder – Lindsay’s family has a summer home where they have been vacationing her entire life. It is also where Russ proposed.

The wedding took place up island on the Allen Farm, a working sheep farm founded in 1762. The 100-acre property is located next to the ocean, overlooking a lagoon and Lucy Vincent beach. The bridal party stayed in the main house at the farm during the entire weekend. The wedding took place outside, overlooking the lagoon, and the reception was held under a big tent. At the bottom of the hill, at the lagoon, there stands a little cabin with a wood burning stove. This is where they signed their ketubah with family, and this is where they spent their first night together as husband and wife.  The ceremony took place under a chuppah handmade by Lindsay’s aunt. As you can see from the photos, the view was breathtaking.

Wedding Photography: Brian and Allison Callaway of Callaway Gable / Wedding Planner: Patrie Grace of With Grace / Caterer: V. Jaime Hamlin and Sons / Florals: Island Ambiance / Venue: Allen Farm in Chilmark / Wedding Dress: Melissa Sweet / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Priscilla’s of Boston / Groom’s Suit: Jos A. Bank / Hair: Pure Touch Salon / Makeup: Makeup Artistry by Tamika Patrice / Band: Jerry Bennett Entertainment / Cake: Cakes by Liz

I am totally head over heals for this next set of pink inspired fashions, sent to me by the beautiful Tulle on Martha’s Vineyard…

The first dress is from Martha Stewart Weddings of a Suzanne Ermann gown. The next set of images is one of the most gorgeous Monique Lhuillier gowns that I have ever seen. The bride, Amye, completely glows in the blush pink creation. The photographer is Lisa Pyden. Thanks Tulle for sending!! LOVE!