Massachusetts Weddings

This wedding has amazing written all over it.  The kind of amazing you can only see in a sea-inspired shindig with bursts of vibrant poppy hues and one of the most adorable duos you will ever virtually meet. I’m talking a Jim and Pam-esque adorable with smiles for miles and one serious ability to throw a pretty party.  In other words, they are awesome, their wedding is breathtaking and the full gallery of beautiful images captured by Lynette Boyle is simply stunning.  Click here for all of the pretty.

From Lynette Boyle Photography… This wedding and couple is very near and dear to my heart. Kaity, Kevin, and I all met through work several years ago in Boston. I witnessed Kaity and Kevin’s romance blossom over lunch hours and coffee trips, like Pam and Jim’s on The Office. Eventually Kaity and Kevin started dating, and we all moved on to new places, Kaity and Kevin to San Diego, and I to San Francisco. In the Spring of 2012 while visiting San Diego, Kevin told me he bought a ring and was planning to propose. I was absolutely elated for them. A few weeks later he popped the question on a trip to Santa Barbara and the wedding planning and a cross-country move back to Boston began. 

They chose to host their wedding at Latitude 41 at Mystic Seaport in Connecticut. They liked the casual vibe and flexibility of what the venue had to offer. While the forecast threatened torrential downpours and flooding leading up to the day of their wedding, the rain passed through the night before and we had surprisingly abundant sunshine when it was time for the ceremony! The couple chose to expand upon the already present maritime theme at Mystic Seaport. Kaity chose green (her favorite color) and poppy for the wedding palette. Kevin, a designer and creative director by trade, designed a fun and colorful suite of wedding stationery to match the color palette and sea theme. The bridesmaids all chose their own dresses in a shade of green or tan. They made little lime sea-salt containers as an escort card and favor for their guests, and of course brought plenty of polaroid cameras for their guests to have fun with! The signature cocktail of the night was named for Kaity’s sister and Maid of Honor, Holly… it was fittingly called the “Holly-Would.”

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Photography: Lynette Boyle Photography | Floral Design: It’s So Ranunculus | Coordinating: Alyson of Latitude 41 | Ceremony Location: The North Lawn at Mystic Seaport | Reception Location: Latitude 41 at Mystic Seaport | Caterer: Coastal Gourmet | DJ: DJ Salty Snacks | Invitations: DIY, Bride + Groom | Hair + MUA: Sara’s Glam Squad Salon | Wedding Dress: Victoria Nicole (straps customized by the bride) | Shoes: BHLDN | Bridesmaid Dresses + Groomsmen Suits: Lula Kate, J.Crew

This wedding plays out like the prettiest of dreams. A dream we get to see come to life through the oh-so-talented lens of Photography by KLC, and a dream that was made reality by this stunning Bride and her lovely family and friends. It’s picture perfect in every sense of the word, and you can see it all right here.

From Photography by KLC… Shannon & Ken were joined by their family and friends In the Berkshires of Massachusetts at the gorgeous Elm Court Estate. The sprawling estate was once owned by the Vanderbilt family and was their “summer cottage.” The estate was largely abandoned and fell into disrepair before being recently renovated. The antique details of the estate were a perfect compliment to Shannon and Ken’s elegant wedding.

This event was truly a labor or love, with Shannon’s stepfather doing all the cooking, Shannon’s family and friends acting as event planners (and table setters and furniture movers!), Ken designing the programs, door tags, and menus, and Shannon’s artistic vision driving the over-all look of the event.

The wedding was on the smaller side, around 95 guests, and the focus was on the couple, their love, and their wonderful families. Ken’s family is from Belgium and they welcomed their guests with guest bags filled with Belgian treats (yes, waffles were involved) while Shannon’s grandmother kept the all the guests laughing all night.

Shannon’s details were understated and elegant – simple jewelry, a gorgeous form-fitting dress, and a color scheme of blush pink, white, and cream and that perfectly fit in with the natural beauty of the estate and the surrounding countryside. It truly was a beautiful day.

Photography: Photography by KLC | Floral Design: Garden Blossoms Florist | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Bakery: Soma Catering | Invitations: Yours Truly | Entertainment: DJ Jay Free | Wedding Venue: The Elm Court Estate | Bridal Boutique: Bella Sera Bridal | Hair+Makeup: SEVEN salon.spa | Waitstaff: VIP Hospitality

This backyard beauty from Megan Haley is simply as sweet as they come. Intimate and meaningful, every detail dreamt up by this adorable duo is all them. Which I just couldn’t adore more. It’s as stylish as is it is sweet and will surely melt your heart – and it’s all sitting pretty right here.

From Megan Haley… This intimate vintage backyard wedding was created with thought and purpose. It was important to Scarlet and Eric to create a day that was truly them, and that stood for values they held dear. This meant a combination of DIY and sourcing either local or handcrafted goods to furnish their lovely celebration. Everything from Scarlet’s beautiful and unique wedding dress to the Bunting birds cake topper were found from various artists on Etsy. Another important aspect of their celebration was local and organic food. Good local food is something that both Scarlet and Eric cherish and love exploring together. On their wedding website they had a whole page dedicated to the importance and benefits of eating locally and supporting your local farmers. Even including this wonderful quote: “Agriculture is our wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals, and happiness.” -Thomas Jefferson

Their ceremony was simple and beautiful. One of Scarlet’s dearest friends performed the handfasting ceremony, among a circle of about 18 of their closest friends and family. A short cocktail hour followed with their favorite board games and toasts with a signature drink – a spiked Arnold Palmer which was the perfect complement to the hot summer day! Scarlet also surprised Eric with a beautiful serenade! Lunch consisted of amazing gourmet burgers cooked up by the awesome Heirloom Catering, which prides themselves by sourcing local and organic food. The day rounded out with Karaoke inside the beautiful private country home in Colrain, Massachusetts.

Photography: Meg Haley Photographs | Catering: Heirloom Catering | Cake Artist: 2nd Street Baking Co. | Cake Topper: Tea Olive

There is something so magical about the coastlines of New England, so it’s no surprise that couples flock to its shores year after year to say i do. The gorgeous images snapped up by  Lindsey Rae Photography below paint the perfect picture of exactly why that is the case, and proves that a little rain will never damper a wedding this beautiful. It’s a nautical New England wedding done oh-so-right, and you can see it all right here.

From Lindsey Rae Photography… Jen and Jeremy’s love for each other, their family, and their friends just radiated on their wedding day! Every last detail showcased their personalities and passions perfectly. To witness all the planning, late night DIY projects, and attention to detail come together on their wedding day, was a true honor. From the personal, handwritten message Jen wrote on the bottom of each bridesmaid’s shoe, monogrammed bathrobes, the handmade treasure chest ring box for the ring bearer, Vineyard Vines ties for all the men, a Pinterest inspired beer cake for Jeremy, his and hers scuba diver cake toppers, an American flag pin to honor her Mother’s love of pins, reception tables named after their favorite spots in Gloucester, wooden buoys hung inside the tent, wooden lobster trap for cards, hand-stamped cocktail napkins, and so much more!

Photography: Lindsey Rae Photography | Cinematography: Waves Media | Event Planning: Vineyard Vines | Floral Design: Lady Slipper Designs | Invitations: Hale Koa phineas Estate | Ceremony Venue: St. Anthony's by the Sea | Reception Venue: Eastern Point Yacht Club | Bride's Shoes: Caparros | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Monique Lhuillier | Catering: Eastern Point Yacht Club | Hair + Makeup: Beauty In Motion | Bridal Boutique: Allegria Bridal | DJ/Band: Move It Music | Dress Designer: Essense of Australia

If you’ve read Style Me Pretty for any length of time you may have gotten to know some of our incredible SMP ladies. Erin – our AHHHMAZING Weddings Editor  – is like our It Girl. She’s pure style and her taste is about as spot-on as it comes. But the girl is busy. Like really busy. And her perfect little Boston flat always seemed to take a back burner to her SMP work. That is, until last week. When we decided to give her apartment a teeny tiny facelift. We’re blabbing all about the gorgeous details here today! Starting with the before pics and the fabulous inspiration behind the spruce up.

So. Erin’s apartment is tiny. Like barely fits more than four people tiny. And since SMP is a work from home kind of place, Erin’s desk and office space take up the majority of her living room. Plus, Erin loves to entertain and cook and snuggle up with her cute hubs with a cocktail or three come Friday night. So the goal was to give each “area” – despite it’s mish mashed togetherness – a personality of it’s own. Here are some before pics so you can get a lay of the land. More are right here.

Here’s what we knew going into this super fun project:

1. Erin loves gold. Like loves it. She once tried to gold leaf every last accessory that she could on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

2. She is girly to the core. But happens to house a very manly man.

3. She loves herself a good cocktail. Even better? Sharing them with friends.

4. She’s one part lady, one part total rebel. So her space needed to feel pretty…but with a bit of an edge.

5. She’s vegan. And preggo with TWINS. Neither of which have anything to do with anything other than just how cool Erin is.

So, with a few DIY projects, a handful of gussy-ups and one or two must-have splurges, we collectively transformed Erin’s space into one that felt both inspiring and wildly relaxing. Perfect for Friday night get togethers or Tuesday night movie-fests. And here’s a little peek at what you can expect later this afternoon…

 

Coming up…the DIY project that we all fell so in love with!

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After Photo: Ruth Eileen  | Lamp from Home Depot | Art from Art.com | Blanket from West Elm | Bowl from Lazy Susan | Pipe from Johnathan Adler | Clock from Crate & Barrel | Notebook from Sugar Paper | Pillows from West Elm | Desk Chair from Lamps Plus | Roses from Metro | Mirror from Ikea

One thing I know for certain?  Shane Godfrey is awesome.  He’s super sweet, super talented and sends us some of the prettiest weddings you will ever lay your eyes upon.  Case in point?  This gorgeous little number held at the ever-amazing Four Seasons, aka, a traditional stunner with beautiful blooms from Winston Flowers, a Vera Wang masterpiece and all kinds of amazing moments that will literally make your heart sing. (Seriously.)  See every last one right here in the full gallery.

From Shane Godfrey… I met Olga and Patrick only a few short weeks before their wedding, and I happened to still be available for their wedding date. We immediately clicked at our first consultation. Being a small business owner, Patrick and I started talking web tools and he actually got me interested in both Paypal and a signature service called Hellofax which I still use today! (Thanks Pat!)

We started the day at the Four Seasons where the girls got ready and Olga got into her amazing Vera Wang dress and Jimmy Choo shoes. The guys got ready at their apartment in Beacon Hill, and walked down to the Boston Gardens where we met up for a first look with the bride and groom in the middle of the garden. We then walked around and finished up all the photos before the ceremony started inside the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel. Patrick’s father was actually the acting officiant for their wedding ceremony. They were such an easy couple to photograph and it was clear to see that they are a couple in love. As a result, the photos of the bride and groom were a breeze, and the party kept on going through the night until we finished out with a sparkler send off. But not just your typical sparkler send off. They ordered three foot long sparklers which put out some serious light for some great end of the evening photographs!

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Photographer: Shane Godfrey Photography | Wedding Venue + Catering: Four Seasons Hotel Boston | Officiant: Bill Cahill (Groom’s Father) | Floral Design: Winston Flowers | Wedding Dress Designer: Vera Wang | DJ: White Label DJs

Nautical weddings hold a special place in my heart. They are so perfectly New England, and their classic style always leaves me weak in the knees. And if I were to dream up such a fête, a wedding like this one from Ned Jackson Photography would pop in my brain. Sweeping views with sailboats a’plenty, a crisp color palette, and timeless style. It’s Nautical perfection, and you can soak it all up right here.

From the Bride…Mike surprised Kate in December 2011 with a romantic proposal at the W Hotel in Boston.  Before Kate was able to get swept away in the wedding planning they discussed what their vision of the wedding would be – classic, comfortable, and with a nod to Marblehead’s nautical surroundings. They also talked about what elements they could not live without – good food, an open bar, and music to get the dance party started.  Both Kate and Mike are from towns north of Boston, so it was a no brainer that they would marry in Kate’s hometown of Marblehead in the same church that her parents married in 31 years earlier.

To keep the day stress free and fun the girls gathered at the bride’s parent’s house for hair and make-up while the guys spent the afternoon hanging out at the Salem Waterfront hotel. The wedding ceremony took place in June 2012 at the beautiful Our Lady Star of the Sea Church. Kate and Mike’s mothers both recited readings and Keros Entertainment played beautiful music throughout the ceremony.  Once Kate and Mike had exchanged their “I Dos”, the bridal party boarded their trolley to Crocker Park, which overlooks Marblehead harbor, to take in the picturesque views – the perfect backdrop to for bridal party and family photos. We made our way back through the historic town to the reception at Tedesco Country Club where the cocktail hour was in fully swing. While listening to the live Jazz music, guest mingled on the outdoor patio overlooking the golf course and enjoyed the numerous passed appetizers, including Kate and Mike’s favorite – tomato soup with a grilled cheese crostini. Soon guests made their way towards dinner, which was held in a sail cloth tent illuminated by a canopy of white, baby blue, and chartreuse paper lanterns of varying sizes.

The bride chose navy has her primary wedding color with pops of green accents to bring in a little nautical feel. The navy table linens made the the lush flower arrangements in the center, really pop. The table numbers were navy and green and held upright by adorable nautical monkey-knots. During the delicious dinner of either filet of beef or locally caught baked haddock, Marblehead is a fishing town after all, Kate’s father, her sister who was also her Maid of Honor, and Mike’s Best Man gave heartfelt speeches. It was apparent how important friends and family are to Kate and Mike especially in light of the difficult year they had faced leading up to their wedding – one which brought on a serious and unexpected cancer diagnosis which Mike was able to courageously overcome with the support of Kate, his family, and friends who help him to always look for the positives in life. Both Kate and Mike felt incredibly lucky to have been able to share their wedding day with seven of their grandparents in attendance in addition to their families and close friends.

Kate and Mike’s warm and upbeat energy made everyone feel welcome all night. Kate was clearly happiest on the dance floor. After cutting the cake, Kate and Mike had their first dance to Ray LaMontagne’s ‘You Are The Best Thing’ followed by the father daughter dance to Frank Sinatra’s ‘Summer Wind’. The music kept the party going and the newlyweds had so much fun dancing the night away. Their wedding day could not have been more perfect and they feel truly blessed and happy to have been able to work with so many great vendors who made their vision come to life. It was a night they will always remember!

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Wedding Photography: Ned Jackson Photography | Ceremony Venue: Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, Marblehead, MA | Reception Venue: Tedesco Country Club, Marblehead, MA  | Wedding Videographer: MapleLoft Studios | Floral Design: Flowers by Darlene | Letterpress Stationery: Goosefish Press | Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Keros Entertainment | Make-up Artist: Cynthia Klocek | Tent and Lighting: Exeter Events & Tents | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Ann Taylor |Groomsmen Ties: Tommy Hilfiger | Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade | Nautical Monkey-Knots and Table Numbers: 2hands studios Etsy |Ceremony Programs and Escort Cards: William Arthur | Trolley: Salem Trolley | Wedding Cake: Cakes for Occasions | Chocolate Party Favors: Harbor Sweets

There is a special spot in my heart reserved for weddings just like this one from Readyluck. The kind of soiree that is so sweet you can’t help but smile right along with every single guest. It’s filled with great little details that you know are just so “them.” And it’s got a special kind of love that just radiates. This is the kind of wedding that makes my heart happy.

From the designer… Well this was certainly the most sentimental mStarr wedding as my brother + my new sister-in-law tied the knot! The vineyard was really the only choice for the big weekend given their engagement took place at Kimmy’s parents’ house on the island and they spend a lot of time there. Andy + Kimmy wanted a wedding that reflected both the island’s laid-back, rustic style and desire for a wild party! It was an amazing celebration filled with personalized touches, a ceremony downpour, a rainbow, back door donuts’ famous apple fritters, photobombing doggies, a photobooth from our brother Jesse Starr Photography, and a dance floor that was packed {and I mean packed} during cocktail hour. The energy really carried through the entire night. Tt was a special experience both bringing Kimmy + Andy’s big day to life and serving as bridesmaid! 

From the beautiful bride… Martha’s Vineyard has always been a special place for Andy and I. It was the place he first met my parents, it’s where we got engaged – and almost immediately after – we decided it was where we wanted to get married. Farm Neck was the perfect venue to capture our favorite elements of Martha’s Vineyard’s unique rustic charm. The weekend long celebration was filled with personal touches thanks to my new sister-in-law, the incredibly talented Emily of mStarr. With help from our amazing vendors, we were able to create the idyllic
and truly happy setting I had always envisioned for our special day.

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Event design + styling: mStarr event styling + design | Photographer: Lindsay Hite of Readyluck | Floral design: Krishana Collins | Rentals: Big Sky | Venue: Farm Neck Golf Club | Photobooth: Jesse Starr Photography | Hair + Makeup: Lisa George | Bridal gown + Bridesmaid dresses: Jenny Yoo from Flair Brides & Maids | Bridal shoes: Stuart Weitzman | DJ: Seth Isaacs from Beat Train Productions | Ceremony musicians: Michael Tinus and Rebecca Barca-Tinus | Transportation: MV Sightseeing | Officiant: Rabbi Rachel Saphire of Temple Beth Elohim

I love Summer.  I love boating, hiking and soaking in the rays like it’s no one’s business.  But when it comes right down to it, I spend most of my June through August missing the cooler weather.  Maybe that’s the Montana girl in me, but boy do I love me some hot cocoa and fireplace lounging.  Which is why I happen to be super smitten with this sweet engagement session from Annmarie Swift Photography, a Winter lover’s dream come true with snowy landscapes and one adorable duo just itching to say “I do.”  Click here for even more.

From the Bride-to-Be… I met Greg in college and we’ve been together ever since. After four wonderful years he popped the question on January 22nd in Tortola while we were vacationing in the British Virgin Islands. We spent a week there in warm, tropical newly engaged bliss and then came back home to the bitter cold weather of Massachusetts. We decided to make the best of it and had ourselves a mini engagement shoot to celebrate. We had a fun day out out in the North Shore area of Massachusetts shooting in several locations in Beverly (My fiance’s hometown) and Rockport (where our wedding will be)!

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Photography: Annmarie Swift Photography

Before you even get into this fashion forward farm fête captured by Julie Sterling, do yourself a favor and take some time to sit with this Bride’s description. Because you will not only get a little peek into the prettiness sitting in this post, but you’ll also get an oh-so-sweet look into this couple’s love story…and it is darling. So it’s no surprise really that this gallery is bursting at the seems with sweetness, and you can see it all right here.

From the Bride… As with all love stories, there is usually an interesting tale as to how it all started, and I’d say ours is almost too crazy to be true, but it is!! Thank the Lord for a divine encounter that happened on a crisp night in Boston’s South End…

I’d moved to Boston from Italy 8 months earlier and Phil had been living in Boston for about 10 years when I chose to walk in and change things up a bit. I had just attended a neighborhood block party with my wonderful roommate, who had moved to Boston only two months earlier from the UK. On the way home, she happened to point out a sign in the local firehouse window, advertising Fire Shirts For Sale! Well, it didn’t take us much to hop on that opportunity and we rang the bell! (It was only 9:30pm….what’s the problem?)

So long story short, Phil didn’t answer our bell ringing, but another firefighter did and since it was my roommate’s first proper glimpse at an American fire truck (or so her excuse went) we took some pictures, had some laughs and…down the fire pole comes Phil…literally SLIDING into my life! His timing couldn’t have been more perfect. It did take two more ‘coincidental’ meetings while I passed by the firehouse to go to/from the gym before Phil bit the bullet and asked me for a date, but to his credit, he explained that he simply “didn’t want to be a creep.” And thank goodness he finally did ask me, because I was starting to go nuts trying to plan creative ways for me to somehow get my phone number into his hands! We went on our first date a few days later, and for me, that’s all it took. I was immediately HOOKED on this guy and would’ve said yes to a marriage proposal within our first month of dating!

Our entire wedding event was rustic and vintage-inspired by our collective very deep love for vintage, historic, rustic things and whatever makes us nostalgic for the past, even the past we’re too young to have lived. It was a natural choice to have a vintage/rustic wedding theme and we had so much fun planning our day together. I wore my grandmother’s pink wedding hat from 1947 instead of a veil and a traditional, old-fashioned fresh-flower corsage (my grandmother wore one, too!). My dress was a high-low lace design reminiscent of the first half of the 20th century. It looked great and was easy to walk in on the farm. Top that off with a vintage mink stole for the evening and I really felt like I was living in another era for my wedding day…mission accomplished! Phil wore a vintage tweed suit and the boys wore suspenders and bow ties.

Our cake was modeled to look like stacked vintage hat boxes and we used mismatched coffee cups, saucers, and flatware for our tables. We had mason jars for our cocktail hour (and two specialty cocktails) and a “Stache Shack” for our DIY photo booth with temporary finger mustache tattoos (Phil has a real mustache tattoo on his finger and we thought it would be fun to work this into our day). We spent less than $200 on all of the flowers including my bouquet and corsage!

One of my very best friends married us and during our ceremony, we put a nice bottle of wine and letters to each other in a box, sealed it — to be opened on our 10th anniversary. For our first dance we waltzed to a song that my close friend Jessie sang (her husband was on the guitar) and they also sang/played throughout the ceremony. We had a four-person musical group (guitar, accordion, mandolin, violin, piano, clarinet all switching in and out depending on the song) and enjoyed contra dancing (New England square/folk dancing). Everyone learned the moves from a caller slowly and then all danced together. We had a fire pit, bean bags, horseshoes, hay bales covered in Phil’s Mother’s home-stitched quilts, and more! We exited in a 1939 burgundy Cadillac limo.

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Photography: Julie Sterling Photography | Wedding Venue: Smolak Farms, North Andover, MA | Wedding Stylist and Florist: Jillian at New England Vintage Rentals | Wedding Dress: Sabella Couture | Shoes, Hat, Jewelry: Vintage | Hair: Tricia Simon (the bride!) | Makeup: Sephora | Videographers: Well Spun Weddings | Caterer: Little Neck Clambake Company | Cake: Donna’s Cakes | Musician: Owen Morrison 

We’re girly girls here at SMP. Kate Spade kind of owns our hearts. So when we heard this wedding, captured beautifully by Ruth Eileen Photography, was inspired by one pair of gorgeous Kate Spade heels, it was the squeal heard ’round the office. The wedding is perfectly preppy, nautical, and of course, it has the signature girly Kate Spade feel.

From the gorgeous bride… When Mike and I first got engaged, we started discussing ideas for where to get married, and we knew one thing: we wanted a distinctive venue. The day we walked in to visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum we both knew instantly “this is it.” Both of us loved the nautical charm and rich history of the museum, and the unique experience it would provide for our guests.

The Whaling Museum’s exhibits provided much of the décor – the ceremony took place in the courtyard of the museum, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour around a half-scale model of a whaling ship, and during dinner the tables were arranged under a ceiling display of blue whale skeletons.

The entire color scheme for the wedding started with a pair of shoes. Kelly green Kate Spade pumps with black and white striped heels served as the inspiration piece for the rest of the bridal party’s look. Bridesmaids wore Alfred Sung kelly green silk taffeta dresses, each in their own style accented with different types of pearl necklaces. Black and white striped accents carried through the rest of the event: striped ribbons wrapped around the bouquets, boutonnieres, napkin rings, and edging the layers of the wedding cake (carrot cake with cream cheese frosting– the groom’s favorite!), drinks were served with striped straws, and our sweetheart table had matching striped linens.

We were very lucky in the planning process to work with amazing vendors who we knew well: the florist and stationery designer were both bridesmaids! For flowers, we went with bright, spring blooms to balance the graphic black and white striped details: peonies, billy buttons, garden roses and chamomile. The design elements of the stationery suite had a nod to our nautical venue – an anchor logo with our initials, and kept with the black, white, and kelly green theme.

One of our favorite details of the day was our ‘guest book’ – we had guests take pictures with a polaroid camera and leave us a snapshot with a note on a large bulletin board. Coming back from our honeymoon and getting to see all of our friends and family at their candid, goofiest moments was such a great way to remember our big day!

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Venue: New Bedford Whaling Museum | Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Florist: Little Flower Cottage | Stationery: Designs By Taz | Hair and Make-up: Jennie Kay Beauty | Catering: Russell Morin Fine Catering | Cake: Russell Morin Fine Catering | Bride’s Dress: Priscilla of Boston from Vows Bridal Salon | Bridesmaid dresses: Alfred Sung from Flair Bridesmaid Boutique | Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade | Rings: Long’s Jewelers | Band: Brick Park

Yes, this wedding is filled to the brim with pretty. Gorgeous Berkshire vistas, lovely florals from Heavenscent Floral Art, and a swoon-worthy dress by Saja Wedding. But beyond all of that, what makes this wedding truly special, is that it is overflowing with heart. The type of emotion that just seems to seep through every gorgeous image snapped up by Shane Godfrey Photography. It’s enough to make your heart swell with happiness, and it’s all waiting for you right here.

From Shane Godfrey Photography… My second shooter and I arrived the night before the wedding for the rehearsal dinner at the Darrow School in the Berkshires. The Darrow school is a private stay away elementary and middle school which seems to be focused on science and the environment as they have a huge greenhouse that processes all the water that comes from the bathrooms and kitchens and turns it back into clean drinking water. Heather and Zach rented out all the dorms so that all of their guests coming from all over the world could stay on site for the weekend. Needless to say, the grounds were beautiful, the couple was madly in love, and all of their guests were an extremely welcoming and close knit group, which all leads to amazing photographs. After staying in the dorms on Friday night, we woke up to non-stop rain and tornado warnings while Heather got ready in the library and Zach got ready in the main hall with his groomsmen.

After the tisch and bedeken, the men sang their way across the grounds through the rain and Heather and Zach saw each other for the first time that day in front of all their closest friend’s and family. We then went downstairs to sign the ketubah and finally the sun broke through the clouds and the beautiful mountain view appeared as we made it over to the barn where the ceremony was held. The ceremony went off with a lot of laughter as everyone was engaged and smiling for the couple all the way through, we even saw a tear or two.

We did all the photos of the bridal party, family, and bride and groom right around the Barn where the Ceremony was held. The light was perfect as it came over the mountains and onto the main field at the Darrow School. Pictures were a breeze as the couple were clearly very much so in love and were up for having a lot of fun in front of the camera. The night went on to have a friend of theirs DJ the wedding, mostly with vinyl records and it sounded amazing. There were a lot of heartfelt toasts as a few of Zach’s siblings were adopted and they were all very close so they each wanted to say something, as did both of their parents.

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Wedding Photography: Shane Godfrey Photography | Wedding Venue: The Darrow School in New Lebanon, New York | Wedding Planning + Catering: Heather Berardo from Fresh Company | Officiant: Officiant, Corey Friedlander; Cantor, Dorothy Goldberg | Floral Design: Heavenscent Floral Art | Wedding Dress: Saja Wedding | Makeup: Patricia Lucciardi

We’ve seen a lot of fabulous entrances on SMP, but I don’t think we’ve ever seen the Groom and his groomsmen enter the ceremony on a zip line. Actually I know we haven’t. That is until today. And that’s really just the beginning of all the fabulous snapped up by Juan Maclean Photography. We’re talking the amazing setting of Artists for Humanity mixed with the Paris Creperie food truck mixed with one seriously fun couple. Yep. It’s that good. And it’s all waiting for you right here.

From Juan Maclean Photography…This was one of my favorite weddings of this past year. Fun couple, fun wedding party, fun venue, fun all around. The wedding was held at the Artists for Humanity building located in South Boston, MA. Everything from beginning to end reflected both Tim and Wendy’s fun and genuine personalities. I think it’s very cliché to say that love was in the air but the reality is that both Tim and Wendy genuinely loved and served one another on their wedding day. The wedding was great because they were great.

They had family members and friends that traveled from across the country to celebrate with them. The ceremony, service, food and decor were fantastic. One of the highlights of the day was the groom and the groomsmen coming down a zip line at the beginning of the ceremony. That was a first for me, and something I will never forget. I’ve been shooting for years and that has to have been one of the most original and fun wedding entrances that I have even been a part of.

For the reception, the Paris Creperie, a local food truck favorite in Boston, provided food. This added to the already unique and stylish wedding this was.

The most amazing feeling I took from the day was the emphasis in both the ceremony and reception for all guests to feel like one family. As I reflect and look back at the photos I am again reminded of why I love what I do. It was a weekend I will never forget and I am so very thankful to have a been a part of it.

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Photography: Juan Maclean Photography | Flowers: Wendy Stetson Fescoe (Bride) | Ceremony Location: Artists for Humanity | Reception Location: Artists for Humanity | Shoes: J.Crew and Everybody by BZ Moda | Dress: Anjolique from Vows | Grooms Suit: Express | Bridesmaids Dresses: ModCloth, Express, Free People, American Living, Isaac Mizrahi for Target (altered from original design), BCBG | Hair + Make-Up: Sydney Lauren Robinson | Food Truck: Paris Creperie

Hello there lovelies. You know we look out for you here at SMP, so when we hear of an event you simply must check out we have to shout it from our virtual rooftops. It’s out duty. So listen up pretties, this Couture Bridal Event at  The White Dress by the Shore is worthy of clearing your calendars for. Trust me. We’re talking 10% off some of our favorite designers all sitting in one oh-so-pretty shop. And just because we love any excuse to bring a little inspiration to your computer screens, Beth of The White Dress by the Shore and Sarah of True Event are lending their wisdom on how you can bring fashion to fête in a seriously stylish way…

Words of Styling Wisdom from Beth of The White Dress by the Shore…We selected the Chelsea gown from Amsale as the perfect look for the Ocean House. The classic silhouette is ideal for the quintessential New England setting. The silk faille fabric is crisp and clean and possesses a timeless quality, that lends itself beautifully to this venue.

Inspiration from Sarah True of True Event…The dress is one of the most important details for the wedding day and one every bride dreams of. And I would say for most of our brides it is the highlight of the planning process. It captures a moment in time and a feeling for guests that not only will they get when they arrive at the venue but a feeling we hope to carry through all of the details starting with the dress.

This dress by Amsale defines timeless elegance. It is classic and sophisticated in a subtle way, as is the Ocean House. It has a warmth about it without being over the top, it is simply gorgeous! Using this dress and the Ocean house as inspiration I’d create a color palette of blues (cool tones)for the linens/bridesmaids dresses etc, that would play on the colors of the ocean and bring in a mix of metallics silver and gold in the candles and china and glassware on the tables, and in the florals bring in soft peach, whites, and greens. Softly weaving into the details accents of the beach. Using capiz shell chandeliers throughout the tent, lined with soft white fabric. I think this coastal wedding would be the perfect blending of coastal timeless elegance. With one of the most gorgeous backdrops on the east coast the Ocean House is the perfect venue to create this sophisticated elegant, coastal affair!

Receive a 10% discount off of gowns priced between $3,500 and $3,999 and 15% off gowns priced at $4,000! (Designers include Amsale, Anne Barge, David Fielden, Modern Trousseau, RIVINI, and Romona Kevez!)

Tuesday, August 13th-Saturday, August 24th
The White Dress by the shore | Clinton, CT 06413
By Appointment 860.669.4596

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Dress: Amsale from The White Dress by the Shore | Event: Couture Bridal Event | Inspiration: Sarah True of True Event | Venue: The Ocean House | Ocean House Photo by: Lelia Brewster 

When I first moved to Boston, I remember seeing a Bride walk out of the Ritz Carlton Boston in a gorgeous gown with a stunning smile – in that second, I had my very first “I love this city” moment. It was the perfect fall day, and the Bride couldn’t have been more breathtaking. This gorgeous wedding from Studio Atticus brought me right back to that very moment. And I am sure some young girl probably thought the same thing as this lovely Bride chasséd through the common. You can just tell the entire day was magical, and all the magic unfolds right here.

From Studio Atticus… Marisa and Adam celebrated their fall wedding at the Boston Ritz Carlton. There were many classic elements involved in their elegant event, but the formality was all counter-balanced nicely by the lighthearted nature of the couple.  Marisa even opted to go barefoot for the larger part of the day, her cute little bare toes hidden stealthily under a billowing and decidedly dreamy Vera Wang gown.

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Wedding Photography: Studio Atticus | Event Planner: Janie Haas Events | Wedding Venue: Ritz Carlton Boston | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Floral Design: Winston Flowers

You lovelies in Massachusetts really know how to throw a classic wedding.  Well, let’s face it… you know how to throw ANY style of wedding, but classic meets traditional?  You own it. Proving my point?  This beautiful Mrs. and her dapper Mr., who with the help of The Perfect Details, threw a jaw-droppingly gorgeous affair at The Crane Estate complete with lush blooms from Dana Markos and stunningly perfect images from Studio Atticus.  See them all right here.

From Studio Atticus… Emily and Dan are both attorneys who live and work in New York. Their friends and family united on a beautiful day in May at the Crane Estate to celebrate their marriage. The day sparkled with everyone’s happiness. During the toasts, Dan spoke of the first time he spotted Emily across a courtroom. Later, Emily mentioned in her speech that because she is a defense attorney, she wasn’t sure if she could date a prosecutor. Clearly, Dan persuaded her otherwise!

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Photography: Connie Miller of Studio Atticus | Wedding Venue: The Crane Estate | Event Planner: Donna Kim of The Perfect Details | Floral Design: Dana Markos | Hair + Makeup: Kathy Macdonald of Beleza Salon | Band: K2 Band | Cinematography: Heirloom Pictures

Boston weddings are always breathtaking. That is a fact. But a Boston wedding at the Boston Public Library? That’s next-level lovely. And when it’s all captured by Shane Godfrey – well that’s when I know it’s time to stop everything I am doing and soak up every .last.image. Because this, ladies and gentlemen, is a Boston wedding done oh-so-right, and it’s all waiting for you right here.

From Shane Godfrey… We did a first look right as I arrived in the main library room at the Boston Public library. The sun streamed through the full floor to ceiling windows as Krista walked up to meet Ben. We then went right into family and bridal party photos followed by a ketubah signing and the main ceremony in the center of the Boston Public Library which has amazing stone work, columns, and a fountain in the center of it. After the ceremony we had cocktail hour during which we did the bride and groom photos in Copley Square right in front of the Boston Public Library right as the sun was setting. Then the reception was held in another section of the library followed by dancing in a separate room upstairs off the main library space where Kahootz did an amazing set for the bride and groom’s first dance, as well as the rest of the night. Towards the end of the evening the bride changed into a lighter dress and some fabulous Louis Vuitton heels.

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Photographer: Shane Godfrey Photography | Officiant: Lev Ba’esh | Wedding Venue: Boston Public Library | Wedding Planner: James Hansen at The Catered Affair | Catering: The Catered Affair | Floral Design: Artistic Blossoms | Band: Kahootz | Videographer:  SV Videography | Wedding Dress: Christos Bridal

I can’t help but smile when I see a playful couple on their wedding day. Tim Correira’s image of the groom whispering something in his beautiful bride’s ear at the chuppah made my day and then some. Elegant Aura planned a wedding for the sweet couple that is unbelievably gorgeous. So gorgeous, you may just favorite every single image.

From the planner… Indie rock meets vintage chic. This romantic garden wedding was in perfect harmony. Debbie and Reuben were married at the Elm Bank Horticultural Society in Wellesley, MA in front of 170 guests.

The outdoor ceremony took place overlooking an Italianate garden with a jazz trio playing background music. The bride and groom with their parents, stood under a chuppah made of birch trees which were dripping with pastel-colored ribbons and mason jars holding yellow, peach and orange dahlias. It was surely appropriate for the groom to serenade his bride during the ceremony, since they met while his band was playing at a local music club.

The jazz trio continued to play during the cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and sipped on Watermelon Agua Fresca and Cucumber Lime Mint Agua Fresca while meandering throughout whimsical, Weezie’s garden. Other guests played bocci ball on an open lawn.

When it was time for the reception, everyone entered the carriage house through an arbor fence, where guests picked up their place cards. The bride hand wrote the escort cards on vintage style tags, which were tied to packets of specialty tea. Pastel colors of mint, blush, soft blue and peach continue in the carriage house. With the addition of the bridesmaid’s bouquets, mason jars and birdcages create the vintage-shabby chic centerpieces. White sheers drape across the ceiling and a large crystal chandelier hangs in the center of the carriage house.

After dinner, the Mezinka & Horah dances kick-off the party. Throughout the night a DJ plays indie rock between sets of Latin jazz music played by a five-piece band. The band is a favorite of the groom’s parents, so they were flown in from Miami.

It was thrilling working with Debbie and Reuben on their wedding day, and seeing all of their personal and cultural influences come together.

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Photography: Tim Correira Photography | Flowers: Petalena | Event Planning: Elegant Aura | Venue: Elm Bank, Wellesley, MA | Invitations: Kelli Murray Art & Design | Bride’s dress: Mira by Melissa Sweet of Priscilla’s of Boston purchased at Vow’s | Groom’s suit: Dolce & Gabbana | Bride’s makeup: Sarah Shimoff | Bride’s hair: Kristen Graham at Bella Vita Salon & Day Spa

When I first peeked at this wedding, I thought it was in some magical forest far, far away – but when I saw it was in Jamaica Plain, right in our backyard, it made me fall in love with it that much more. Which is saying something, because I was already head over heels in love with every second captured by Shane Godfrey Photography – and you can see all the reasons why right here, in the full gallery of images.

From Shane… Josina and Bongani both live in a house with their friends in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts. Bongani is originally from Swaziland, Africa and many of his friends and relatives made it over for their big day! In the morning they built up the Chuppa in the center of the pond at the Essex Conference Center where both the wedding ceremony and reception was held. The grounds are covered with all kinds of sculptures that the owner of the property has created over the years. Every time I go back, there are new sculptures up and they are always very interesting and add to the aesthetics of the property. They had an interfaith ceremony, as Bongani is Episcopalian and Josina is Jewish. They lit candles that Bongani’s family brought over from Africa and then we broke into family, bridal party, and bride and groom photos. Afterwards, we went up to the reception where the tent was done up in twinkle lights. They skipped on the DJ as Bongani had spent several months working on the playlist (his main duty for planning the wedding) and had a few of his friend’s MC for the night. They danced the night away and ended with a fire outside the reception tent which is surrounded by logs with stumps to sit on. We did a final ring shot as we left for the night and they continued after hours by the fire.

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Wedding Photography: Shane Godfrey Photography | Wedding Venue: Essex Conference Center | Officiant: Rabbi Judy Epstein | Floral Design: Trim Hahn of Posies by Trim | Catering: Essex Conference & Retreat | Dress Designer: J Crew | Makeup: Sephora

Growing up, I didn’t dream of a wedding with ballrooms and big gowns – I dreamt of a wedding that looked exactly like this one. Where the salt air never stops touching your nose, and where beach and chic happily introduce themselves to each other. So when I stumbled on this beauty captured to complete perfection by  First Mate Photo Co, I couldn’t help but be in love with every moment. And you can see why right here.

From the Bride… Planning a wedding on Cape Cod was a year’s worth of hard work, countless weekend trips, and DIY projects. The day came together beautifully thanks to our fantastic vendors and the help of our loving parents, families and friends. When Mike and I were in high school, I took him to the Cape one summer because I wanted him to know the great place I considered my second home. When it came time to pick a venue, we had considered several places on the Cape but Wychmere Harbor stuck out amongst the rest. It was a peaceful setting, the reception room was literally built on a dock and I felt that it encompassed the New England feel I wanted all of our guests to experience. We were not focused on a specific theme but rather the spring season and all of the natural beauty that comes with it.

The wedding day was incredible. We had family members that traveled across the country and from Europe to celebrate with us. The church ceremony, service, food and decor were all great. The most amazing feeling we took from the day was the emphasis in both the ceremony and reception for all of our guests to feel like one family. We have so much to be thankful for. Looking back at the photos gives an appreciation of the simplicity of the day from the peonies, to a barefoot walk on beach. It was a weekend we will never forget and we are so very blessed to have each other to spend our lives with.

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Wedding Photography : First Mate Photo Co | Ceremony Venue: Holy Trinity Church, West Harwich | Reception Venue: Wychmere Beach Club, Harwich Port, Massachusetts | Invitations + Collateral: Michelle Hickey Design | Entertainment: Beantown from Wilson Stevens Productions | Floral Design: Fancy Flowers by Meredith | Wedding Cake: The Casual Gourmet | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Hair: Dawn Mertens and Michael Mazzucca from The Parlour, Montvale, New Jersey | Makeup: Lisa George