* Beth and Brian

Beth and Brian met in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where Brian was the chef at a resort and Beth worked in the spa. He used to send her treats from the kitchen to get her attention. ;) They now live in Maine and planned a beautiful seaside wedding for their guests in York.

Here are a few images from the busy day:

Getting coiffed.
Beth adjusting the rings on the ring bearer's pillow at the Harbor Crest Inn.
You don't often see children as readers at weddings. I loved this line-up of readers during the ceremony, and how the microphone goes over the little girl's head at the podium. Too cute!
Married!
The wave on the trolley.
Mr. and Mrs.
Surrounded by friends and family on the dance floor, having a blast!
The girls lined up these chairs for a booty-shaking routine to Outkast's "Hey Ya."
The reception site, The York Harbor Reading Room, at night. Brian is a chef at the club.
This is Beth with Kelly, a friend of mine who I met at 6th grade camp! Beth and Kelly became friends during graduate school. It was such fun to have a familiar face among all the guests!Thank you so much for having me, Beth and Brian!! Your wedding was such fun and I appreciated all the thoughtful details of your special day. Have a great honeymoon!!

* Alisa and Coley

Alisa and I have become friends over the course of the year planning her wedding. Phone calls, emails... I've even eaten breakfast at her parent's house. And toasted over a beer in San Francisco together! I feel very lucky to have met Alisa and Coley and I am somewhat sad their big weekend is over.

And what a weekend it was! The festivities took place at the Spruce Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor- a favorite spot. J and I photographed the rehearsal dinner on Friday night. The next morning I had the privilege of joining the bridesmaids for a sail. The weather was somewhat chilly and windy at times, but the rain held off for their most lovely of nuptials on the lawn later that afternoon.

As you can imagine, there are a TON of images (2200!), so treat yourself to a few minutes of this abbreviated, albeit lengthy, slideshow of the weekend (set to a tune featured on their wedding weekend CD). Notice how thorough the coverage is because there were two of us photographing! J is available to photograph with me at any wedding, so if you are interested just ask!

Guests were treated to a fabulous LL Bean tote bag filled with goodies and a hand-written note. Virginia peanuts (Coley is from VA), Stonewall Kitchen's Maine blueberry jam, personalized m&m's and salt water taffy in the wedding colors. Yum!
If you haven't been to the Spruce Point Inn, this is what it looks like after sunset (rehearsal dinner night).
Getting ready!
Alisa's father was very emotional all weekend, especially the moment when he had to give away his daughter (click the image to enlarge).
Just after they walked up the aisle.
The beautiful bridal party. Check out those stunning flowers!
The dock is a favorite spot for portraits. Anyone know what happened to the owl statue that used to perch on the frame?
This is definitely my favorite image of the day. Timeless.
Florist: Alda Stitch
Band: Tony Boffa Band
Stationer: Laura Grant, Peach Designs
Cake: Steve Watts

Thanks again for having us share in your special weekend, Alisa and Coley! Both of your families are so lovely and made us feel so welcome. We definitely enjoyed capturing all the special details of your big day!!! We hope your honeymoon to the Bahamas and your extended honeymoon (let's see if I can get this right) to Italy, Croatia and Africa this summer are amazing! Take lots of pictures!

* Kara and Eli

Wow! A beautiful sunny, breezy and bug-free day was the perfect combination for Kara and Eli's Kennebunkport ceremony and Biddeford backyard reception (at Eli's mother's home).

There are too many pictures from the day to post here, so be sure to check out the slideshow (the music is Patty Griffin's "Heavenly Day," Kara and Eli's first dance).

I was so surprised when I showed up 2.5 hours before the ceremony and Kara was already dressed and ready to go! This was a sweet moment when Eli slipped her a note, without peeking at her (she's giggling because he wrote it on the inn stationery).
The guys getting ready.
Kara, an art teacher, made their program out of a vintage postcard of the church she found on eBay and a love letter Eli's grandfather wrote to his grandmother in the 40's.
Kara and Eli rode from the church to their reception in a '57 Bel Air from Classic Convertibles in Freeport.
The wedding party in one of the beautiful gardens at Eli's mother's home. The bridesmaids wore the neatest wrap dresses from Calypso.
Guests walk to the field for the reception in the gorgeous Sperry Tent. Sperry just opened an office in Portsmouth (hooray!) so be sure to check them out if you are hosting a backyard reception.
A sweet moment as Kara enters her reception.
There are many fun dancing pictures in the slideshow, but I had to post this silly one of the best man playing air guitar. Glad I didn't get kicked. ;)Kara and Eli's beautiful hand-painted save-the-date and invitations, seen on the slideshow, were made by ILEE in Seattle.

Thank you SO much for having me, Kara and Eli. I loved spending the day with you and your family. You all made me feel so welcome and I had a blast! Can't wait to hear all about your honeymoon to Italy (Kara and Eli registered for their honeymoon online at thehoneymoon.com. What a great idea!)!

* Rosie and Andrew

School teachers Rosie and Andrew were married at Deephaven Camp on Squam Lake (where Rosie worked during her summer breaks in college) in Holderness, NH. It was a hot, sticky day, and we managed to avoid all but a few forecasted raindrops!

Thanks to fantastic wedding planner extraordinaire Kate Parker and her team for her impeccable organization, fabulous flowers and reception lighting, too!

Below are a few images from the day, but be sure to click here to view the slideshow for more.

Getting ready in one of the cottages.
Rosie wore her great-grandmother's dress (center) and it was also worn by her mother (right). Her great-grandmother got the idea from the cover of Bride's Magazine (left).
The ceremony setting.
There was a funny moment just before the ceremony started where a few raindrops came down. Click to view this series of images where one guest's umbrella was turned inside-out. Oops!Rosie makes her way down the path w/ her parents.Both Rosie and Andrew's fathers married them- a very special touch!
Many congrats, Rosie and Andrew! Looking forward to seeing you again in Portland, and perhaps J will join you surfing soon, Andrew!

* Trish and Jason

The theme of the day was music for Trish and Jason's wedding. Their Portland wedding ceremony at the State Street Church featured soloists and a choir and even a sing-a-long at their Portland Club reception. It was a pleasure to witness such a thoughtfully planned day and the obvious affection Trish and Jason have for each other.

Getting ready at the Eastland Park Hotel. Trish's sister made her wedding dress!
Checking her eye make-up... my favorite preparation image of the day!
Trish gets a sweet kiss from her dad in the limo on their way to the church. Too cute!
Looking down on the ceremony.
Trish and Jason wanted to go for a quick stroll on the Eastern Prom before the reception.
Sweet emotion at the reception.The best man, left, and groomsman gave one of the more interesting toasts I have ever seen. Here they are pretending to be Care Bears. Really.
Glow sticks livened up the dancing at the reception!
Thank you, Trish and Jason! I hope you both had a fantastic getaway to Canada!

* Erin and Craig, online

Awwww... Erin and Craig are featured on theknot.com Real Weddings section online. Exciting! I am not a member, so I can't tell if the vertical images are cropped into squares? Hope not!

(Their September wedding is featured on my new website, too, the mountaintop slideshow).

* Rosemary and Adam

Bostonians Rosemary and Adam are so in love and their wedding day reflected every ounce of their affection and adoration for one another. I had a warm fuzzy feeling inside being around these two all day long.

It was a busy day, starting with shaves at a barber shop for the guys and hair & make-up at a hotel for the ladies. The ceremony and reception were at the State Room in the financial district, with gorgeous panoramic views of Boston Harbor at sunset. Many thanks to Rachel, Eliza and Vanessa from WedBoston for their hard work on organizing this beautiful event.

If you can believe it, these two don't think they are photogenic! Funny, because I think they are one of the most expressive couples I have ever photographed! They certainly aren't camera shy! They didn't want any portraits, per say, but luckily I was able to convince them to go outside into the courtyard for a few!

Below are just a few images from many fun pictures of the day. So be sure to view the slideshow.

This was definitely a party crew, so it seemed appropriate to shoot their rings on shot glasses.
The guys were sluggish to start on the wedding day at the barber after a late night. Technically, this isn't the best photo, but I couldn't resist capturing the moment.
The guys get prepped for their shaves.Beautiful Rosemary is ready to go!The kiss!
The pretty cake. Green was the accent color of the day.
Stealing a kiss in the photo booth (they used the pictures for their guest book).
Tired toes!
The fabulous vendors (an all-female crew!):
Florist: Roses & Thistle, Tracey Scott
Lighting: High Output, Kate Henry (very cool, dramatic up-lighting for the reception. Looks great in the photos)
Photo Booth rental: Sutton Entertainment
Ceremony trio: Anima, Vanessa Holroyd
DJ: Denise LaCarubba aka DJ Deja

* Shandi and Justin

I met Shandi a few years ago when I photographed an event she organized for the Breast Cancer Coalition in DC. Then I photographed her friends' wedding, Bonnie and Eric, in 2005. So it was like seeing an old friend when I traveled to DC for Shandi's wedding to Justin last weekend.

The beautiful Shandi with her new husband.
Everything is lush and in blooming in DC!I have seen these countdown clocks before, but never seen one on the actual wedding day. Too cute!
The beautiful St. Veronica Catholic Church in Chantilly, VA.The theme of the day was pink! Check out these fabulous shoes!There was a very large bridal party and all the ladies were in pink and orange.
The reception room was lit in pink and the beautiful flowers were shades of pink and orange.


This was a first! Shandi and Justin decorated Bonnie and Eric's wedding night suite during their wedding reception and I took a picture of Justin laying across the bed surrounded in rose petals. Bonnie and Eric wanted to return the favor and kick it up a notch for Shandi and Justin's wedding night suite for their picture. Um, I think they did!
Thanks again for everything, Shandi and Justin. I loved spending your special day with you. I hope your honeymoon to the Dominican Republic was just as beautiful as your wedding day!

* Stephanie and Craig

Last year when Bostonians Stephanie and Craig booked me, they had just come from visiting their reception site in the rain and said it was still beautiful. Good thing! It rained on their wedding day, too, but only when everyone was celebrating inside at their reception. And yes, it was still beautiful.

As you may have noticed, I've been trying to keep my blog picture posting to the unique images from the day. In my fourth year of shooting weddings, I am constantly looking for things that make each wedding different. Here are a few from Stephanie and Craig's day.

The bridal party stayed at the rustic Dockside Guest Quarters in York.

Stephanie wrote a card for her soon-to-be husband.Craig reading her card on the front porch.
At the salon, Stephanie's bridesmaid Kristen tried to stay out of my way while she was taking pictures.
No, this isn't Stephanie. It's prom time... this high school student came in to show off her dress to the stylists. She made it herself- out of duct tape! You go, girl!Now this isn't technically the best photograph, but I had to giggle when it looked like the bridesmaids were naked seated in their strapless dresses.
Finally! Here's the newlyweds on their way out of the church (St. Theresa's in Rye Beach, NH)!
In between raindrops on the porch, a view of the reception and band indoors.
The first page of their program featured a sweet quote I thought was worth sharing:
"I thank God you came along. You are the one I've been waiting for today... You looked right through me, there was no one else. I sat beside you and became myself." - J. Radin

Thanks for a great day, Stephanie and Craig! I hope you had a great honeymoon (and didn't spend too much time online looking at your pictures!)!!

* Laura and Eric

When I met with doctors Laura and Eric last year to talk about their wedding, I knew their wedding would be unique. Laura said no black & white photos, just color. They said there would be no dancing at their reception, just dinner. And they said they are uncomfortable being affectionate in public. Okeydoke...

Their wedding ceremony and reception- both at the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport- was lovely. The ceremony featured two love songs that Laura professionally recorded for her new husband. And their reception, an elegant social dinner, was equally as touching. Photographing in color-only was a breeze, as Laura and Eric's decorations were combinations of bright, bold purples. And the bit about them not being affectionate in public? So not true! They were adorably smiley and sweet on each other all day long.

The clasp of Laura's cool purse!
Laura getting ready w/ her fabulous hair & make-up stylist, Christy.Have you seen this before? A new branding for double-sided tape. Love it!
Laura's dress was custom-made by Portland couture designer Amy Curtis. This is her detailed train.
Laura and Eric met on a blind date. Their first meeting was in the parking lot across the street from the Inn. Can you guess where?
The beautiful programs by Greetings in Yarmouth.
Laura's ring, from Brown's in Freeport, and her beautiful purple and red bouquet.
The happy couple!
The reception featured a thick blueberry drink. Not really sure what was in it, but everyone liked it! And, it was in the purple theme. ;)Keeping colors in mind, I watched the cake table transform into a work of art as the sun set. The cake was from the wonderful Let Them Eat Cake in Kennebunk.


Laura and Eric are honeymooning in DisneyWorld and have emailed pictures from their new digital camera of their fun week (Eric's first time there!) and mentioned they have been checking the blog for their pictures! Enjoy! And give Mickey a hug for me!
>>
"We are having an absolute BLAST at Disney. They gave us "Just Married"
buttons to wear which has gotten us LOTS of congratulations and well wishes
everywhere on Disney property. We have had napkins in the shape of hearts, a
congratulatory dessert at Todd English's Bluezoo restaurant, and an
invitation to dance in front of everyone at a dinner show (which we did!).
We are enjoying being kids.

Thanks so much for your sweet spirit and presence at our wedding. You were
very calming during the "beautification period" prior to the wedding, and
the gals enjoyed you. I did not even notice you at the ceremony, though I
know you must have been there with your unobtrusive style! And thanks for
making the most of picture opportunities at the reception which I know was
more of a challenge with no dancing, bouquet toss, etc."

* Carolyn and Todd

I love Carolyn and Todd. I adored Carolyn immediately when I met with her last year, and I adored Todd when we did their engagement session earlier this year. So I was very excited for their wedding. And by the end of the day, I felt like part of the family.

The ceremony was at the bride's childhood church in Pelham, NH, and the reception was at The Barn at Gibbet Hill in Groton, MA. Carolyn put a LOT of time and thought into weaving amazing details throughout the day, just a few of which are highlited below.

I was so excited to see that they used one of their engagement photos on the back of their program (and even credited my name!). What a great gift idea for your guests- they can peel it off the program and have a 4x6 image ready to frame!
This says it all. ;)
Bridal shoes.
Carolyn wore hair extensions. Fun!
Reading a card from Todd before heading to the church. ;)
Todd is trying really hard not to cry here. Awwww.Notice anything strange about these church doors? The florist (who shall remain nameless, seeing as she was late delivering the flowers and caused the entire ceremony to be pushed back) must not have hung the wreaths too well in her rush. I knew these were important to Carolyn, so I closed the doors to get a shot. And, well, the left wreath crashed to the ground! I was mortified!
The newly married couple at the Barn.
They have very cool grounds- including cows!- and it was pretty even tho the leaves aren't on the trees just yet.
A nook of tables in the barn. I love this space- rustic elegance.
The sweetheart table.
The yummy cake.
In lieu of a traditional guest book, guests were invited to write a message and drop it into a glass 'wishing well.' Blank cards were in this basket.
Love the breast cancer pink ribbon pens!
And here's a funny wish/advice!
Framed pictures from our engagement session were all around the reception. It was a really special touch, and I was so proud that they loved their images that much!
Thank you, Carolyn and Todd! Have a great honeymoon in the Dominican Republic!

An email from Carolyn:
"I think we spent the majority of Sunday and Monday saying how much we loved having you and J at the wedding. You are such a pleasure to work with....it sounds corny, but I really feel like I won the lottery. You and J are so genuine, and I think that's one of the best parts. Never mind all of your amazing work."

* Abra and Matt

Abra and Matt's wedding was my first wedding of the 2007 season! Their wedding was at Top of the Town, a premiere venue overlooking Washington, DC, from Virginia. I have photographed several weddings there and never tire of the spectactular view. I know Abra because her father was the editor of the Washington Post Magazine when I worked there. I photographed her sister's wedding in 2004 and her colleague's wedding in 2005.

A few pics:
The beautiful Abra
The handsome Matt

I spotted the symmetry of the three flower stems when trying to find a creative way to photograph their three rings.
Abra did a very good job tying in the same hue of her dress, jewelry and flowers.

Some dreamy glare while Abra waits to leaveHeading out. Notice the fun decorations on the windows congratulating the soon to be Mr and Mrs.
Waiting for the elevator to take us to the top of the building where the ceremony and reception were held.
The view! This was taken through the protection glass on the deck with the reflection of some Christmas lights on the deck.
The bridesmaids chose their own black dresses, tied together with the same lavender roses.
The best best man toast I have ever seen- an Irish-type sing-a-long on piano!
Fun with slow shutter speed! Weeeeeee!
Congratulations! I had a great time, Abra and Matt! I loved catching up with you and your whole family. Thanks for having me be a part of your special day! I hope your honeymoon was fantastic, and I look forward to seeing your pictures when you get back!!

* Karen and Matt

Happy New Year!

A fresh dusting of snow in Jackson, New Hampshire, was the perfect mountain setting for Karen and Matt's intimate New Year's Eve destination wedding and weekend. I photographed Matt's triplet Ehren's wedding last June.

View the slideshow (FYI: at midnight, guests ate 12 grapes to bring them good luck for the next 12 months, according to a New Year's tradition Karen and Matt learned while in Barcelona a few years ago).

The wedding reception was at the Inn at Thorn Hill, pictured on this postcard.
It was all about the bubbly this weekend! Mini bottles of champagne were included in the overnight gift bags for the guests.
Chocolate brown and champagne were the colors of the wedding, as seen on the envelope of their wedding invitations. They were gorgeous!
The gown
The preparation
Such beautiful blue eyes!
The ring bearer Sidney was mesmerized during the ceremony...
... by this hilarious minister, Rev. Pojen Lee, of the Jackson Community Church.
Mr and Mrs!
Happy New Year! Smooches all around!
Earlier in the day, J and I checked out Nestlenook Farm, an ice skating and sleigh riding park. Unfortunately, the ice wasn't thick enough to skate but the horses were out.
Brrrr! It was cold out there!

* Jada and Kris

Elementary school friend Jada and Kris were married in South Carolina last weekend. After Kris proposed last May, they chose their date based on my availability. Wow!

The ceremony was at the Myrtle Beach Community Church chapel (adorable!) with a reception at Pawleys Plantation in Pawleys Island.

A few pics:
Jada's calendar.
Final adjustments at the back of the church.
The adorable chapel!
Celebration!
Flare!
Garter toss pictures aren't easy. I loved the expressions in this one.
Congratulations, Jada and Kris. I loved being a part of your wedding weekend! Please come visit Maine soon!

* Shannon and Nate

I really enjoyed meeting Shannon and Nate at Portland Head Light over the weekend for their engagement session. They are an adorable couple, and quite photogenic, too (word is Shannon used to model. She reminds me a bit of Carrie Underwood, no?)! I'm already looking forward to their wedding next October!

* Cara and Bobby

Cara and Bobby traveled from San Francisco to be married on the coast of Maine at the Reading Room in York Harbor, with a reception following at the York Harbor Inn. It was a beautiful, albeit windy, day. A GREAT bridal party and group of guests made the day extra fun.

A few pics:

Bobby had flowers delivered to Cara's room... so sweet! Grooms, take note!

Cara's friend designed the beautiful stationery for the event (and she sang during the ceremony, too!).
Exchanging vows (the ceremony was inside due to wind).
Jubilation!
Look at that gorgeous sunlight!
Walking to the beach.
Brrr!
First dance.
Heart-shaped toasting flutes.

Thank you so much for having me! I hope your honeymoon to Hawaii was free of earthquake debris!

The reaction:
"Oh my, there are not words to express how happy I am with the photos.
Really. I am ADDICTED to pictage and just look at them over and over.
And I'm sending them to everyone I have ever met. :) Thank you thank
you. They are incredible, as I knew they would be. What an amazing job
you did capturing the day. Honestly, we are sooo grateful. I can't wait
to get started on the album!"

* Jill and Ben

Ok. Finally! Seems as tho the blog is working correctly now!

Longtime sweethearts Jill and Ben were married during an outdoor ceremony at On the Marsh in Kennebunk with a dinner reception indoors. Jill got ready at her aunt & uncle's beach cottage in Biddeford Pool.

A few pics from their glorious fall day!
Jill and her sister, being silly, in Biddeford Pool.

The pretty ceremony setting at On the Marsh (chairs and arch in background).
Mr and Mrs!
Some great details:
Yankee Candles with leaf nametags served as place cards, meal indicators and favors!
I caught the reflection of the red linen napkin on this tag of candy.
The pretty cake- such an elegant presentation in front of the mirror.

Congrats again! Your wedding was so beautiful! I'll be seeing you soon when I visit PetSmart (Jill is the GM of the new store in Biddeford Pool! Say hi if you're in).

The reaction:
"Life post-wedding/honeymoon has been in overdrive for me, and I haven't had much time for emailing. I have, however, had time to obsess over our wedding photos!!! I look at them every day, and they still bring me to tears. You managed to not only capture the beauty of the wedding itself, but also all of the emotions (my many tears...yikes! I forgot that I cried so much that day!!). Our friends and family are equally blown away...we couldn't be happier that you were there for us. These photos will become family heirlooms.

Thank you, thank you, thank you...you completed our perfect day for us!"

* Erin and Craig

Stonehill College sweethearts Erin and Craig were married overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee at Castle in the Clouds (a place I used to visit as a child)!

This was a very special day, not only because I have loved getting to know Erin & Craig over the last year but also because it was my 100th wedding (thank you for the sweet card!)! Yay!!

The wedding ceremony was on a mountaintop on the castle lawn and incorporated many personal elements. The parents planted a tree together, which the couple will transplant at their new home. The bride's uncle, an accomplished opera singer, sang 'Climb Every Mountain'- quite appropriate. And guests were given a penny in their program to toss into the fountain for love and happiness. So sweet!

View the slideshow.

A few pics:
Out-of-town guest bags and ceremony programs.

Erin has a bit of Cameron Diaz & Nicolette Sheridan in her, don't you think?
a cute text message from Craig while Erin was getting ready w/ her girls.
I'm always looking for new, creative details!
Bright fall colors accented the groomsmen's suits.
The setting!
Such a beautiful bride!
Mr. and Mrs.
Erin's parents cutting a rug on the dance floor. They cracked me up!

Erin and Craig's vendors were particularly fantastic.
All the paper goods were made by two of Erin's girlfriends. I told them they definitely need to get into the business. And when they do, I'll definitely be posting their information here.
Hair: Nikki Lee Moccia Manchester, NH
Make-up: Kriss Soterion Manchester, NH (a hoot!)
Catering: Hampshires Culinary Planning & Event Design Northfield, NH
Cake: Jacques Pastries Suncook, NH
Ceremony musician and DJ: Aaron Topfer New England

The reaction:
"Hi Emilie!

I'm in AWE of your pictures. I've watched the
slideshow at least a billion times and I cannot make
myself log out of pictage. I'm putting together a
formal letter for you but i can't wait to extol your
virtures so take this as an ADVANCED thank you. You
exceeded and smashed my expectations....

our honeymoon was a disaster! I became infected with
ecoli so bad we had to have a doctor come to our
hotel.  We didn't leave our room for 5 days and we
took 6 pictures.hahahaha...BUT the wedding was perfect
and its the marriage that counts so we're taking a
mulligan on the honeymoon.

I'm still home sick...but using every minute to be on
pictage!!!!

best,

E"

* Jess and Justin

Childhood friend Justin and longtime gal Jess were married off the coast of California on Catalina Island! It was an honor to attend their intimate wedding weekend- especially to photograph their wedding day!

They were married at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church, with an outdoor (something we don't know about in New England!) reception at the Catalina Country Club.

Event planner Cathy Machado did a fantastic job sorting out all the details!

A few pics:
the bling (can't get enough of that macro lens!).
Jess' hand-made gown.
Jess' jewelry bag made a colorful back-drop for her pearls.
The church roof: loved the angles of the cross and the tile wall.
Blushing bride!
Avalon is mostly golf-cart only. The newlyweds left the church in a decorated one, of course!
Downtown Avalon.
To get there: take the ferry from Long Beach (bring Dramamine!).
Where we stayed: Hotel Metropole (gorgeous!).
Rehearsal dinner location: Descanso Beach Club.
Where to hang with the fun locals: The Marlin Club (oldest bar in town).

The reaction:
"Em, I'm like obsessed with them! I can't stop looking. They are
fantastic - not that I'm surprised - but I am really, really thrilled.
Thank you so much; they're wonderful..."

* Sara and Tom

Sara and Tom were married in a beautiful garden ceremony at the Bedford Village Inn in Bedford, NH- one of my favorite venues!

A few pics:
all about the shoes these days!
Sara leaving her room at the inn, while her mother watches from the room next door.
hand-made ceremony programs
leaf stamps- great for fall!
Tom and his groomsmen

Mr. and Mrs.

Sara and Tom had a great DJ and the flowers were beautiful. I would definitely recommend contacting them both!
DJ: Greg Plowman, Entertainment Concepts 978.352.4448
Florist: The Flower Cart Bedford, NH

Congrats, Sara and Tom! It truly has been a pleasure getting to know you both over the past year! Stay in touch!

The reaction:
"We were so so thrilled to get the email tonight -- so thrilled that I actually stopped watching the season premiere of Grey's Anatomy that I had on the DVR. hehe. The pics were amazing. You did a wonderful job!! I cannot believe how cute they were and how well done all of them were."

* Maggie and Ross

Maggie and Ross had a great wedding last weekend in Wells. I started the day with the bride and her maids at her parent's summer cottage on Drakes Island (loved it!). We all took a trolley to the ceremony at the South Congregational Church in Kennebunkport. And afterwards we went to the beach for pictures before heading to Laudholm Farm for the tented reception. After the reception officially ended, guests moved into the barn, rocking late into the night w/ a dj, pizza and beer. Fun!

A few pics:
Maggie's VERY detailed schedule for the wedding weekend. My favorite detail? Sunset at 6:52 pm.
Maggie's dad escorts her up to the aisle to meet Ross.
The bridesmaids wore navy J Crew dresses (and the guys, suits accented w/ ties by Vineyard Vines).
Mr. and Mrs. on the beach
We took the group pictures at a friend's house on the water. This was what greeted us when we got there- glasses and buckets of champagne and beer. So nice!
The reception landscape.

Late night fun in the co-ed bathroom. Who knew you could have so much fun w/ a hand dryer?

band: Floyd Patterson Band, Springfield MA
caterer: Kitchen Chicks, Kennebunk

* Michelle and Jeremy

Super sweet Michelle and Jeremy were married outdoors at the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport.

If you're looking for a limo company, I definitely recommend Ron at Maine Limousine Service. He was adorable!

A few pics:
Waiting as her mother buttons her dress.

Fuzzy slippers for her wedding night- a gift from her mother-in-law!
The garden ceremony
I do!
Sweet moment in the garden
Placecards by Invitations and Calligraphy
Fab cake by Let Them Eat Cake
First dance

Thanks again, Michelle and Jeremy! Can't wait to hear about your honeymoon in Hawaii! Wags to Simon from Dakota! Remember, if you ever need a house-sitter...

* Erica and Matt

Erica and Matt were married in Boothbay Harbor at the Boothbay Congregational Church with a reception following at the lovely Spruce Point Inn.

Tho they are currently living in Boston, Erica grew up near Boothbay and Matt is from Juno, Alaska!

Guests enjoyed ceremony musicians Diamond Cove Trio from Portland, and the stylings of The Moonlighters, who came all the way from Cape Cod to perform at the reception. During the night, four bridal party members performed with the band. This was no karaoke, they were all exceptionally talented!

Take a peek at a few pics:

Erica's gown had a green sash and she wore green pearls. Even the bottom of her shoes were green!
Matt, far left, watching people arrive at the church.
At Spruce Point after the ceremony, just before the thunder arrived!
the entire bridal party on the pool patio
the first dance
fisheye view of the reception
just a funny moment!

Thanks again for having me, Erica & Matt! You were both so easy-going and fun to work with! Have a fantastic honeymoon in Hawaii and Napa!

The reaction:
"The pictures are BEAUTIFUL! You are so talented-- thank you for taking
pictures at our wedding."

* Heather and Dave

Wow! Heather and Dave's wedding was so much fun! It was unusually cold and windy for Labor Day, but there wasn't any rain!

They decided to see one another before the ceremony at Two Lights State Park. It was a truly special moment to witness as they spotted each other in their formal attire for the first time. I wish all couples would/could take the time to spend some alone-time like this before the busy day's events begin. While taking some snaps, Heather's cathedral veil took flight (look for this image in the slideshow), but Dave came to rescue and snatched it as it was hanging from the rocky ocean edge. Phew!

The ceremony, performed by a hilarious family relative and minister, was at Portland Head Light (supposedly the most photographed lighthouse in Maine) in a picnic shelter. Afterwards, the guests headed into town to catch a chartered boat over to Peak's Island for the reception at Jones Landing. Dave's brother-in-law played DJ for the evening.

Here are a few pictures, but be sure and check out the slideshow to get a better feel of the fun day.


Details of Heather's bling and dress (love my new macro lens!).


First sight, at Two Lights


Walking through the Old Port to board the boat.

Looking back toward Portland from Peak's Island.

The slideshow music is "Breathe Me," by Sia, a song I heard on the radio driving home from the wedding.

The reaction:
"Thank you so much! These are absolutely beautiful and captured the day in such a great way. We have already gotten so many wonderful compliments that I want to pass on to you. You're genius :) "

* Katie and Mike

Katie and Mike were married at the lovely Atkinson Resort & County Club in Atkinson, NH, Labor Day weekend. Their outside ceremony was moved inside the ballroom due to weather (Grr... Hurricane Ernesto!), but their guests still had a blast regardless.

Katie's beautiful gown.

Our bride (wow! false eyelashes add such drama!).

Mr. and Mrs. (Katie hoisted her dress and we dodged some rain drops for a few snaps where their ceremony would have been outside).

The accent color was pink, and it was everywhere- down to the pins in Katie's bouquet.

Katie's gift to Mike, Sox cufflinks. Nice.

Katie changed into a short white dress for the reception, a la Britney. ;)


The dj was on the mic a lot, but this crowd loved it and was dancing right from the start. If that's your style, definitely check him out: Peter Accolla: 877.683.9991 nuimage entertainment.

The two videographers were fantastic to work with. I haven't seen their finished product, but I like them and that counts for a lot! Matt and Ryan: 978.273.1815 Fade and Focus Digital Media Productions.

A personal note about Katie and Mike... they hired me 16 months ago to photograph their wedding. In between then and now we have definitely bonded over our love for our Dakotas (they have a boxer named Dakota who came to their engagement session). Thanks again for having me! Very happy for you both!

The reaction:
"The pictures are gorgeous....we love them...everyone loves them
They are perfect...they really capture the true emotion of the day
We loved working with you...you are the best!!"

* Brianna and Sam

The day started out foggy and dark. But literally 15 minutes before Brianna and Sam's morning seaside ceremony at Sebasco Harbor Resort (yup, I was there last week, too), the sun came out just in time!

I had a really fun time with Brianna and Sam, and enjoyed the challenge of taking different pictures than the wedding there the weekend before.

Their reception room was flooded in natural light- a dream! I didn't use my flash once!

A few snaps:
Brianna did not take a bad picture all day!

The groom waiting for his bride.

The ceremony scene.
Mr. and Mrs! (I love the way she's looking at her toes)
Guests enjoyed the sea breezes from the reception room's deck.
A clever way to serve fruit during cocktail hour!
A classic Maine blueberry wedding cake (I didn't try it, but it looked like it was lemon poppyseed! Yum!)!
First dance.
A tender moment as Brianna danced with her father.

Thanks so much for having me, Brianna and Sam! And I can't wait to hear about your honeymoon to Thailand and Cambodia!

The reaction:
"Emilie - thank you so much for sending some pictures already -- they are so fabulous and I can't wait to see the rest -- I don't even know what to say! We had so much fun with you -- you are simply amazing and are so talented -- we feel so lucky to have had you photograph our wedding."

* Katy and Spencer

Katy and Spencer tied the knot during a garden ceremony at the Sebasco Harbor Estates.

Have you ever seen such cool shoes? Katy had these custom-painted and wore them during the reception.

A sweet walk in the woods after the I Do's.

This is the face of grace under pressure, despite her band being late after they went to the wrong reception venue! Yikes!

Thanks to J Sandifer for shooting this wedding with me. He took a few pictures of me taking pictures!


The reaction:
"Wow, what a real pleasure it has been to have you photograph our wedding! You are so awesome :o) Thank you for everything. We just love love love the photos. We got home from Hawaii last night and spent time together looking at all the wonderful photos. You really captured our day perfectly! Thanks to J too! It was great fun to have him there too. Those pictures of Spencer getting ready are priceless. We are so happy that he captured those special moments. Some of our favorite pics were the ones on the little dock on the backside of Sebasco. Thanks to you both for scoping out some great photo spots.

Again, I just can't tell you how grateful we are to you both. You captured our day spectacularly. Our favorite photos are the ones that captured personal moments. We were happily surprised to see so many of these special moments between us and also our guests. It was great to see our guests enjoying themselves, which is reflected through your photography perfectly. Thanks for capturing my shoes so perfectly too!!! I love those pictures. Gosh, I just love them all!!!

Thank you so very much!

Cheers!"

* Jenifer and Jim

Jenifer & Jim closed their Nebraska office and flew to Maine with their friends and family for a mid-week wedding (Wednesday nuptials!! I hope this is a trend that catches on!) at the Lucerne Inn in Dedham, Maine.

They were married in a gazebo overlooking Phillips Lake and a mountain backdrop.

Check out these photos at 'magic hour:'


a nice detail after Jenifer's walk to the gazebo (Jim was a little camera shy):

their first dance:

Jenifer found a little toy truck in the grass and gave it to the ring bearer. This is an image I would normally edit out, but for some reason I keep coming back to it. The lighting? 70's flare? Semi-eerie swimming pool? I don't know. Click on it to see it bigger and see if you get caught up in the odd moment too.

The reaction:

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! Our pictures are SO WONDERFUL!! You did such an amazing job! What can I say...they are so beautiful!! It's like it is our wedding day all over again. You captured the whole day, every memorable moment!! I can't stop smiling, just like that day!

Everyone has told me you take the greatest pictures, which I knew all along!! I can' t tell you how happy I am about my decision to have you photograph our wedding. It was everything I expected and more! You were so great to work with...you're so sweet and were nice to me from the very beginning! It was like talking to an old friend! But you are also very professional and exceptionally talented. You really are!

You caught some great pictures of Jim (and he didn't even know it!!), which I really treasure, because I can't get him to take any for me! Thank you so much. The pictures of all the kids are precious, just perfect. And thank you for all the lovely pictures of me. You captured how happy I was that day (and still am ;-) ) so I will always be able to look back and see it. Now that is priceless!

I could go on and on and on, so I'll stop gushing! If you ever need a referral, please use me! I really do hope to work with you again someday. You are simply the best! :-)

* Ali and Nate

Ali and Nate hired me for 5 hours to photograph their wedding at the bride's aunt's house in New London, NH. Wow!

View the slideshow!

Just married!

The tent overlooking Lake Sunapee:

The super cute ring bearer, sporting a lovely mustache:

The first dance:

Ali's sister gave a great toast:

And, a very spirited cake cutting!


Catering by Jack's of New London.

* Leah and Thom

What a fun wedding!!

The day started at Leah's house for hair and make-up with stylist and friend, hilarious Becky Wilson (info below).

The ceremony was at the Bates College Chapel in Lewiston, a gorgeous church modeled after the chapel of King's College at Cambridge University (I've been there!). Leah's uncle officiated the ceremony.

At the reception, DJ Jeff Rockwell had everyone on their feet (Thom surprised his bride with a costumed lip sync to Bon Jovi).

Jeff used some great colored lights on the dance floor that really added some life to the reception images and eliminated the usual battle with the banquet manager to keep on some house lights to focus w/ some ambient lighting. So if you're in the market for a DJ, request lights!

View the slideshow.

Some images from the day:

Anticipation...

Dramatic afternoon light flooded the chapel.

Walking around campus (the oldest college in New England).

A country first dance.

Yummy cake.


hair:
Becky Wilson, Generations Beauty Salon
Winthrop, ME
207.377.2500

* Michelle and Jonathan

Following a week's vacation, I had the pleasure of photographing Bostonians' Michelle and Jonathan's wedding in adorable Snowville, NH, last weekend. A group of 50 attended the celebration at Snowvillage Inn overlooking the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. The food was fantastic and all the guests enjoyed the beautiful landscape (despite the humid weather!).

View the slideshow.

And here are a few snaps from the day:







The reaction:
"Thanks so much for getting the photos up so quickly! We were so happy to have you as our photographer and love the pics--and the slideshow--very cool. I know our family and friends will love them also!"

* Clair and Matt

Everything came together perfectly for Clair and Matt's wedding last weekend. Truly. Visually, that doesn't happen often!

The Bostonians were married in Clair's hometown church, Our Lady of Good Hope, in Camden. Their bridal party included 9 nieces and nephews- so cute! Afterwards, guests made the one-hour drive to Boothbay Harbor for a beautiful reception at the Spruce Point Inn.

Here are a few images from the day:

The groom and his father before the ceremony.

Just after the "I Do's."

The receiving line.


Party-time!



Congratulations, Clair and Matt! I hope your escape to Bar Harbor for a few days this week was fun and relaxing!

The reaction:
"We got the proofs!! Yea. Thank you so much and thank
you again for taking such amazing pictures we love
them! Now the hard part is chosing which ones to use!!"

* Katherine and Sam

Washingtonians Katherine and Sam had a Persian/American wedding ceremony outside at the Samoset Resort in Rockport, Maine. The ceremony included a traditional sofreh (the Persian wedding spread).

A native of Maine, it was important to Katherine to include some "beachy" details.

During the cocktail hour, I escaped with the bride & groom (via golfcart- I was on the back!) for some lifestyle formals. Katherine asked if she could hoist her massive bouquet in the air for a few shots, something I have always avoided on purpose. But, it turned out cute, so I posted it here for you to see.


I worked with some great vendors at this wedding, and thought I would pass along their information to help with your planning:

Videography: Mark Rowe (Yes! I actually found a videographer I like working with! I have also worked w/ his associate Ned).
Florist: Alda Stich 207.342.5796
Band: Tony Boffa Band
Jewelry: custom-made bridesmaid jewelry by Queen Bee Designs, Alexandria VA

* Escape to Blue Hill

Ella and Dicky treated their friends and family to a weekend getaway at the Oakland House Seaside Resort. Guests stayed on site in cabins and engaged in planned activities including an early morning polar dip and an afternoon talent show.

Ella's twin sister and matchmaker Zoya, below left (love their blue eyes!!), is married to Dicky's brother! The two dated long distance from Alaska, where Ella used to live, until she made the move to Maine.


The folks at the Oakland House were very pleasant and the food was fantastic, especially the yummy cake! And the reception band, Tarbox Ramblers, was fantastic and had everyone on their feet.

Congrats, Ella and Dicky!!

The reaction:
"I have died and gone to heaven, seeing all the pictures. I am in awe. You are amazing. Having you photograph my wedding was the best thing I could have done. If you EVER need a reference, PLEEEASSE use me, ok?? I'll give rave, rave, rave reviews. Thanks so much!!!"

* Leslie and RJ

Dodging major thunderstorms and flooding, it was fun to return to the DC area again last weekend to photograph the wedding of musicians Leslie and RJ. A few years ago, I had photographed a wedding they attended. So when they started planning their wedding 18 months ago, they remembered me (the ultimate compliment!).

Their wedding was on the lawn of the State House in the adorable historic St. Mary's City in Southern Maryland, the bride's hometown. Ominous skies held off just long enough for a beautiful riverside ceremony and a tented reception on the grounds.

Some of you might recall a story of a garden wedding a few years back where a LARGE unwelcome snake interrupted the ceremony and caused the onlooking guests to flee (myself included!)? Same place. Luckily, the snake did not make an appearance.

Thanks again, Leslie & RJ! I loved being a part of your special day and really enjoyed your families and guests. Stay in touch!

View the slideshow.



The reaction:
"We are THRILLED with our photos! I thank my lucky stars that we were able to have you as our photographer... I can't imagine having wedding photos more stunningly beautiful than the ones that you have taken. You are truly an amazing and gifted artist - RJ and I have been through our album several times now and are hard pressed to choose a favorite shot. Each and every one of them has a unique artistic perspective and perfectly captures that split second in time... add them all up and we have the most breathtaking narrative of our day. You blended in perfectly with our friends and family and really became part of our event. We're so thankful that you took the time out to travel all the way down here to be with us on the journey! If ever you need a recommendation - you know who to call for a glowing one!!!"

* At the beach

Surrounded by 80 close friends and family, Joseph's By the Sea in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, was the ideal setting for Laura and Jeremy's seaside nuptials.

The groom's father administered the "I Do's." After the ceremony, we briefly went down by the water for pictures. And later, to the nearby amusement park. Fun!


The reception was intended to be casual, with no formal traditions aside from cutting the wedding cake. After a colorful cake feeding, Jeremy surprised Laura with a first dance in the restaurant's hallway.

View the slideshow.

Congratulations, Laura and Jeremy!

The reaction:
"Hi Emilie! The slide show is beautiful! The song is perfect and it was actually one of my favorites from the Seredipity soundtrack...I love it! We are so glad you had such a great time as our photographer. You did an amazing job."

* Rain and candles

Until today, I had a perfect no-rain outdoor ceremony record (it has rained at only two other weddings I have photographed, but the ceremonies were in a church).

Lisa and Ehren's wedding was still fantastic, despite the fact that we had to move the ceremony indoors. They were married at Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake, an amazingly serene, upscale "campy" retreat in South Casco, Maine.

As if on cue, the rain stopped after the ceremony to allow us time to take the formal portraits on the dock, and a quick boat ride with the newlyweds.


Things got interesting after dinner (which was the most amazing buffet I have ever seen, by the way) when the power went out. But the Lodge staff- friends of the family- put everyone at ease with their professionalism and kindness, rushing to get an impressive display of candles lit. The band, a 10-piece swing band from Boston called Daddio's, played by an oil lantern. And, yes, the cake cutting was done by candlelight as well.


Congrats, Lisa and Ehren! Have a fantastic time on your sailing honeymoon!

On New Year's Eve, I will be photographing Ehren's brother's wedding in Jackson, NH. Can't wait!

* All Greek to me!

Every wedding is different from the next, and this one was certainly different than any other I have photographed- it was my first Greek wedding!! And it proved to be very similar to the movie (which the bride watched twice her wedding morning because she couldn't sleep!).

High school sweethearts Sheila and George were married Memorial Day weekend in Rindge, NH, at Hidden Hills, a beautifully landscaped banquet facility. It happened to be a very hot day for May in New England, but the outside ceremony was beautiful and rich with tradition.

The reception featured both a DJ ("for the American music") and a Greek band, who made the trip from Washington, DC. The dinner was divine (those rolls were heaven!) and the cake was truly the tallest one I have ever seen. I learned a lot from watching the various Greek dances, especially from the many relatives who made the trip to the States (and who didn't speak any English!). Even the Greek Mayor attended.

It truly was a treat, and I am so grateful to have been a part of it. Thank you, Sheila and George! Best wishes in your new home!

View the slideshow.



The reaction:
"The pictures are absolutely amazing. I look at them at least 5 times a day! They make me laugh, they make me cry, they make me want to go back and do it all over again. We truly can't thank you enough."

* Debbie and Sebastian

Debbie and Sebastian were blessed with a beautiful holiday weekend to be married outside at The Barn at Gibbet Hill in Groton, Massachusetts. Debbie and Seb are a fun couple and their love for one another made my job easy!

There were many thoughtful details of the day including an elaborately decorated seating chart, a trendy light blue and brown wedding cake, table number signs incorporating their cat in different scenes, a mid-reception change to traditional ethnic dress, and the mother of the bride singing "Sunrise, Sunset."

Click here for a peek at some images!

Congrats, Debbie and Seb! And good luck with the move to your new place in Providence!

* Season opener!

Bostonians Joanna and Jeff were hoping to host the quintessential New England wedding when they chose their site in Princeton, Massachusetts, atop Wachusett Mountain. They were married in a classic white Congregational Church (ceremony complete w/ a celebratory ringing of the church bell on their way out) and the reception was nearby at Harrington Farm.

Take a peek at some images on a slideshow, set to "I Will Love You" by Fisher, their gorgeous first dance song. There's a lot of images on there, so I hope you don't get too dizzy watching!

Congrats, Joanna and Jeff! I had a blast! And I can't wait to hear about your honeymoon to the French Polynesia!



The reaction:
"Hi! I don't think there are enough ways we can say how happy we are with your work. It's exactly what we wanted."

Season finale

My last wedding of 2005 was certainly a memorable one! Bostonians Kate and Chris got married at Gedney Farm in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. If you haven't been to this area, you must visit. It's the scene that inspired Norman Rockwell's paintings and it so cute, I squealed around every road bend.

Their wedding took place at a rustic, yet elegant peaceful barn/inn setting among rolling hills and wide open fields. Their 90 minute ceremony, a Quaker meeting w/ Jewish traditions, took place outdoors (they were blessed with a 70-degree day in November!). As customary, guests were invited to stand at will and share their thoughts with the new couple. Sometimes serious, often humorous, it was a touching beginning to a wonderful celebration. Among the friendly guests was the cast of This Old House (the groom is a producer for The New This Old House)! It was quite cool to see the crew I grew up watching on television. And also in attendance, the bride's relative and a notable producer of Broadway's newest show, The Odd Couple (with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. Or as I said when I found out the name of the show, "Wow! That's the show with famous people!" So smooth).

Dinner and dancing took place inside the multi-level open concept barn. Beautiful tree branches and hanging lanterns broke up the vast space and created a cozy ambiance. After eating, a 14-piece 70's funk band, Booty Vortex (the best man plays keyboard), got everyone on their feet and shook that old barn floor! Beautiful day, beautiful wedding. And as I was driving back to my B&B I saw a shooting star in the clear night overhead. Congrats, Chris and Kate!

www.gedneyfarm.com
www.thisoldhouse.com
www.bootyvortex.com

And a big thanks to all my '05 couples for a fantastic season! You make me feel so lucky to do what I do! xo

tough act to follow

My long-time childhood friends, Chad and Cora, were married in my New Hampshire hometown over the weekend. They started dating 10 years ago when we were in high school and their wedding was quite an event. Nearly 200 people packed the town church in an evening ceremony with beautiful selections on guitar and a huge bridal party in autumnal colors (one of the flower girls, Anna, 2, announced her processional at the back of the church by saying 'Here comes Anna!' before darting up the aisle to much laughter). The reception was spotted with thoughtful fall details... hot apple cider, hurricane lamps, candied apple favors, and pumpkins lining the walk outside carved with their names and other appropriate words and images- love, a heart, etc. But the highlight of the evening was when the newlyweds approached the dance floor for their first dance. The groom surprised his bride with a live performance of their selected song by Livingston Taylor- James Taylor's brother (they look like twins!). She was shocked, and everyone in the room seemed to be sniffling by song's end. I heard one table talking about how sorry they felt for other grooms-to-be in attendance because that would be tough to match. Livingston stayed for dinner and graciously obliged his fans by posing for snapshots throughout the evening. Congrats, Chad and Cora!