Elizabeth Wertz Photography

Rosemary and Michael: Battery Wharf Boston wedding

2012-01-13T23:40:00.031-05:00

Rosemary and Mike were married on a Wednesday evening (a first for me), and as a touching tribute, on the 100th anniversary of the marriage of Rosemary's grandparents. The Boston harbor was aglow, romance was in the unexpectedly warm November air, and the evening was enchanting down to every last carefully chosen detail. I don't know if I've ever had a bride so expressive of her joy, and so very radiant; Rosemary was poised and glamorous, and revelled in every moment. When my fabulous assistant Alicia Legare and I arrived, the french doors of Rosemary's suite were open to the temperate November evening, letting in the unseasonablty warm breeze, late afternoon light, and a striking view of the Boston Harbor. Rosemary's amazing stylist Luis was putting the finishing touches on her makeup, and they were rocking out to Beyonce's "Put a ring on it."

Rarely have I seen a bride more exhilariated on her wedding day, more in love, and more dreamy and positive and grateful. And it has not been an easy road for either of them. She and Mike have both triumphed over major health challenges, and as a result are thankful for the chance they have been given, to embrace life, make the most of every day, and to hold each other close.

The room at the Fairmont Battery Wharf hotel was so romantic, aglow with silver and cream, the banquet table adorned with posies of white poppies and roses. It was intimate yet glamorous, every detail considered by Rosemary's talented planner and close friend, Rhonda Flashen. There was much sentiment in the air as Rosemary decended the grand staircase to exchange vows with her tearful groom. And those tears came back later in the evening, with the best man's moving toast. It was obvious to me how much support and love was in the room--it was in Rosemary's radiant smile, and Mike's tear-filled eyes as he watched her revel in it. There is no question that this union was meant to be; theirs is a powerful love story, and I hope the magic of the evening comes through in the photographs that follow. It is for moments like these that I do this job.

Getting a glimpse of her gorgeousness...

Stunning.

The harpist's fluid fingers as she set the mood for the ceremony.

The woman of the hour admiring the result of her vision.

Some of the day's lovely details...

Please take a moment to watch their slideshow. I think the song, "I have and I always will" by Dave Barnes is the perfect fit for their story.

Suzie and Mike: Haddam, CT Wedding

2011-12-24T22:07:00.008-05:00

Suzie and Mike's November wedding day, now well over a month past, is a glittering, golden picture in my mind. In every way, the day sparkled: Suzie's golden hair and sparkling eyes, the clear, crisp November day, the dry, golden grasses Suzie's dress floated over in the open field high on the banks of the CT river, the sunlight through bare branches and roping bittersweet. Even Suzie's rhinestone brooch-dappled bouquet (loved this detail!), and be-sparkled shoes added to the day's glittery quality...But most of all, it was the spark between the bride and groom that lit up the day: the way Suzie (with her Reese Whitherspoon/girl next door/fresh faced smile) sparkled with beauty and joy all day, and the shine in Mike's eyes during their first look and as he watched his veiled bride grace the aisle, such a solemn and significant moment. Both the ceremony and reception took place in Haddam, CT (shout out to to my hometown!) at the Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station overlooking the Connecticut River. After the ceremony, with less than an hour of sunlight left, the Suzie and Mike decided they would brave the cold for some more photos at Goodspeed Station, and our crowning photo destination, the historic East Haddam bridge. It was rush hour on a Friday, and the flow of traffic was constant, but the groom's father braved it, and stopped traffic so the entire wedding party and I could barrel onto the bridge for a full wedding party shot. In less than a minute, the bridal party arranged themselves into a pose, and Mike dipped Suzie, making for one of the crowning shots of the day! Then we hurried back to the warmth of the Riverhouse for a night of dinner, dancing, and revelry. It was a wonderful celebration to end Suzie and Mike's golden wedding day. They are such a natural, kind-spirited, good-natured pair, and it was such a pleasure to document their glistening November day...

Suzie's golden locks...

The boys enjoy some guy time with poker and beer (juice for some participants) in the "guy cave."

Their sweet first look.

Suzie's bridesmaids assume the tedious task of picking off the thousands of little seeds and burs that attached to Suzie's dress during our romp through the field.

Through the bittersweet...

Some photos at Goodspeed Station.

Stopping traffic for the bridge shot!

A very proud dad.

Melissa and Gennaro: Blizzard in October

2011-12-24T04:28:00.041-05:00

When Melissa and Gennaro started planning their October wedding over a year ago, they were imagining was a crisp fall day, vibrant foliage, all the trimmings and charm of New England autumn. What they got instead was a roiling, rampaging blizzard! But despite the cold, and the freezing rain that started just before the wedding party loaded into the limo to head to our chosen photo location of Spot Pond in Medford (a destination we never reached), there could never have been a more "roll with it," positive-spirited pair, who smiled and glowed all day long, as if it was the most perfect day of the year. To them, it was. Our portrait location plans thwarted by the freezing rain, we were very limited for the formals, and stayed in the lobby and under cover just outside the door of the hotel. I was looking for any scrap of color and autumn beauty in that limited location, so I went out into the rain and shot through some vibrant read leaves (we got a few pretty shots out of them!). There was still a bit of daylight and the wind was whipping the rain around when Melissa darted into the church for the ceremony, and one hour later, we emerged to complete darkness and a heavy falling snow, a blanket of white already on the ground. It was a bit of a nail-biting drive to the reception, but once all of the guests were ushered into the Danversport Yacht club , we were warm and cozy in the grand ballroom, with a view of the swirling snow from the balcony windows. And it was a spirited party, guests filled the dance floor all night (there was a lot of energy and talent on that dance floor!). And outside, the snow-laden trees, still full of leaves, were magical to look at (though dangerous, tree branches were falling all around me as I drove home!). I convinced the newlyweds to brave the cold for a few night shots, and it was so beautiful to see the giant snowflakes whirling around them. Melissa looked like some mythic snowqueen, with the tendrils of the feather headpiece blowing around her, and the light in her hair. And it is those unexpected moments that they will remember of the day; though they could never have predicted it, their Snowtober wedding was a memorable, enchanting start to their marriage.

Flawless.

A sweet first look while the rain fell around them.

Making the most of indoor bridal portraits...

I was out in the rain trying to hold a plastic bag over my camera for these.

The rain hadn't turned to snow yet when Melissa ducked into the church.

One of the B&G's co-stars on the dance floor (damn, can he dance!)

Thanks, M & G for braving the cold for these night shots!

And now for their slideshow (be sure to turn up your volume to hear the song):

Ali and Tony: Glen Magna Farms Wedding

2011-12-22T01:37:00.017-05:00

I don't know where to begin in describing the wedding celebration of Ali and Tony. Their autumn wedding day at Glen Magna Farms was just lovely; the soft, glistening low light was abundant (score!), and the grounds and gardens of Glen Magna Farms were the loveliest setting for this celebration. I got to work with a fabulous team: my buddy and talented videographer Kennon Shane of Cupid Video Productions as well as talented floral designer, Theresa Arsenault of Dogwood Floral Design. I have worked with Theresa on a number of occasions and her pieces are so modern and artistically created, each blossom lovingly selected (those deep orchids were stunning against Ali's side-swept dark hair). I absolutely adore Ali and Tony; I can't say it enough. I loved observing the sweet dynamic between the two: Ali is social and lovely and talkative, while Tony is reserved and and observant. While Ali is is cracking jokes and striking fun, sassy poses, Tony is is looking at her in complete adoration. For a man of few words and such a gentle, outwardly quiet demeanor, Tony could not be more expressive of his love. The way he looks at his bride speaks volumes: the look of awe on his face as she decended the grand staircase for their first look, the way he smiled down at her, and kissed her hair just after their ceremony ended, the rich emotion on his face during their first dance...Witnessing such obvious affection and true devotion is one of the reasons I have the absolute best job in the world. And his devotion is not surprising; Ali is such a refreshing woman to get to know. She is funny and smart and open-minded and good-natured, always with a positive, supportive comment to offer.

One of my absolute favorite moments of the night (and a highlight of the whole season) was when the guests surprised the newlyweds with a flash mob dance! It was planned (and choreographed, I wonder?) by Ali's wonderful mother, and it was so awesome to see the dance floor fill with guests, suddenly breaking into dance, and performing "Aint No Mountain High Enough" for the astonished (and delighted) couple. It was so heartwarming! It was such a memorable day, and that tent was filled with such warm energy and revelry (and some very spirited dancers). It was one of those weddings where I felt at home from the moment I stepped onto the grounds--thank you for making my job such a pleasure, A & T. I have so enjoyed getting to know you and your familes. And I am thrilled to finally present this long-awaited blog post (it's about time these two are featured in these pages!).

Sarah and Chris: Renaissance Golf Club, Haverhill

2011-11-24T20:15:00.010-05:00

Sarah and Chris were married on a brilliant, unseasonably warm October day. Sarah got ready in the bridal suite of their lovely reception venue, the Renaissance Golf Club in Haverhill. There was wonderful energy in the room as Sarah, her sister, and her best friends got ready, and helped Sarah into her gorgeous gown. She looked like she was floating down the aisle of the majestic cathedral in downtown Haverhill where they exchanged vows. And Chris is my favorite kind of groom; he is friendly and good-natured, and always has a funny quip. Sarah has a keen eye for photography, and thus made sure we went into the day with ample time for formals (yeeehaw!) and also offered her creative vision to the photos. To achieve a bit of variety, we first stopped at this lovely little street-lamp lined alley in downtown Haverhill, and then it was back to the lovely rolling fields of the Renaissance for some natural beauty shots. Here's to deep grass, autumn colors, and setting sun loveliness! I have to take a moment to say what a champ Chris was. Remiscent of the engagement session, where Sarah and I kept him trudging through knee deep snow until his ungloved hands were raw, red and numb, once again the odds were against him, as the poor fella was fighting pneumonia! He was drugged up on medicine, burning with fever, and still he did not complain as I dragged them to multiple photo locations, and coached him into pose after pose in the hot sun. Unlike the last time when he was frozen to the core, this time the poor guy was burning with fever! Amazingly, he remained composed and smiling, holding his bride tenderly out in the brambly fields against a golden horizon. Despite being so under the weather, he felt better at the reception, and spent most of the night on the dance floor with his radiant bride wrapped in his arms....I loved to see them throwing their heads back in laughter and snuggling close, some of the sweetest shots of the day were in those moments. From the lovely venue, to the exquisite flowers (each piece a work of art!), to the phenomenal band who threw a rockin' party, it was in every way a fulfilling event to document. Thanks for the honor, S & C.

Simply stunning.

I loved the colors of downtown Haverhill.

And I loved these untamed fields just as much...

Ahhh, wisps of dried Queen Anne's lace against a golden horizon...

Bundled branches and orchids, just dreamy.

And now for their slideshow:

Three handsome fellas: Stevens Estate, North Andover

2011-11-22T19:54:00.007-05:00

It was my third year in a row romping around after these dear little fellas: blue-eyed Aiden, brown-eyed Sean and green-eyed Nate. We met up on a warm October evening and were lucky to have use of the amazing grounds of the Stevens Estate in North Andover, one of the loveliest wedding venues north of Boston, and one of my absolute favorite venues to shoot at. Their parents Kerri and Ryan could not be more awesome, and it is not surprising that they have raised such precious, good-natured little treasures...I know I am gushing on and on, but the proof is in the pudding! Look at these photos, frame upon frame of happy SMILING little guys. Getting little ones to even glance toward the camera can be a challenge! Can you even handle those smiles? These lads are going to steal a lot of hearts when they grow up. I just kept wanting to give each one of them a squeeze over and over upon editing this collection. Take a peek at their melt-your-heart adorableness...

Brown, blue, green...

The boys brought along their much loved animal friends (all of whom have been in attendance the previous two years as well).

Look at those smiles!

What a snazzy couple.

Cristin and Brian: Cohasset Wedding

2011-11-15T17:36:00.038-05:00

I had the pleasure of traveling to the South Shore for Cristin and Brian's October wedding day. I had with me a rockin' team: my soul-sista and photographer extraordinaire Tara Lynn Sen, as well as upbeat, friendly videographer-turned-photographer, Greg Gingold. Tara went to hang out with the guys while I joined Cristin at her parents' home. Touching, photographable moments were abundant all day: from Cristin applying her makeup in her sunlit pink wall-papered childhood bedroom, to her adorable grandfather holding the door to usher her into his car and chauffer her to the wedding (like he did for her mother), to seeing Crisitin surrounded by her three brothers and Brian's three brothers (you can tell how much the guys ADORE and protect her, so sweet), to the thumb print sign-in tree and the beautiful cake made by Cristin's own mother, to Brian lifting Cristin up into his arms during the first dance. The reception was at Atlantica in Cohasset, and the sun filtered into the room as it set over the harbor. The room was crowded with happy faces and bangin' dance moves, with Cristin and Brian in the middle, encircled in each other's arms. They have the sweetest story; they met when living in the same building, and were friends for so long, everyone else seemed to know they were meant to be before they did. But it soon became apparent, and it is obvious, from watching Brian beam down at his tiny bride, and watching her snuggle so contentedly into his chest, that everyone was right, and they are where they are supposed to be. As we walked out of the reception hall, Brian's brother serenaded the newlyweds with the Bagpipes (my, the many talents of those Monaco & Shields family members!), sending them off into marriage with a bit of pomp and sweet sentiment. I am happy to finally share some of the day's highlights!

Impressively, Cristin did her own makeup.

I love this portrait of the dashing groom by Tara.

what a batch of cuties (all Tara)!

Cristin's adorbale grandfather chauffered her to the ceremony. So sweet!

This was not the result of my direction. Brian is just that sweet.

I handed Tara a tilt shift lens and said "go." First time she picked one up. Girlfriend's got game :)

Delicious light.

Cristin's brother getting air.

Courtest of Tara.

Another fabulously talented brother, Brian's brother serenading guests at the end of the night.

More tilty fabulousness from Tara....

Perhaps my favorite.

If you want to see more, check out their slideshow:

Melissa and Gennaro: Engagement

2011-11-11T00:33:00.004-05:00

Melissa and Gennaro's October blizzard photos are to come, but I have neglected to post any engagement sessions in months, and wanted to sneak up a few shots from their engagement session a few months ago. It took place on a hot summer night, so the photos are quite a departure from the rain and snow shots to come. For a little glimpse of the summer behind us, take a peek!

Ashley and Chris: The Riverview, Simsbury, CT

2011-10-31T00:14:00.016-04:00

Ashley and Chris were married on a clear September morning, their union ever so charmingly set against a picturesque New England backdrop. When I arrived, Ashely was dancing around the hotel suite, in short-shorts and veil (I loved the juxtaposition of her athletic spunk and wedding day glam), her curls bouncing, smiling from ear to ear. She was radiant, and sporting the quintessential bridal "glow." And it was with her all day, especially when she saw her groom at the end of the aisle. Chris had that "something" about him too--and you couldn't help but be a sucker for true love, watching him wipe away tears as his bride walked toward him. I was fortunate to have the added bonus of photographers Courtney Kerr and my friend Mat Gardella, who added their perspectives and jovial spirits to the day. We went from the charming church atop a hill, to Simbsury's unique Flower Bridge, to the Riverview, with it's grand windows that look out over the Farmington River. I loved the mixture of traditional and modern touches Ashley and Chris worked into the day. I was particularly impressed that Ashley made all of the floral peices for the day herself: the bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, even centerpieces. Her personal touch was everywhere--a fact which always makes for the best weddings. Perhaps it was because it was the perfect Autumn day, perhaps it was because it was morning, and natural light touched every part of the day, perhaps it was the newlyweds' pure joy, or their warm families, or the collection of precious kiddos coloring the dance floor--but I left the wedding that evening, and drove all the way home, daydreaming of Matt and my girls, without even turning any music on. The two hour drive felt like twenty minutes. And because it was a day wedding, I was home in time to fold my little ladies up into my arms, and sing them to sleep, what a gift! It was a joy to be part of your day, Ashley and Chris, and I can't wait to see you, still revelling in your newlywed glow at Suzie and Mike's wedding this coming weekend!

Rhinestones and berries, can't go wrong...

Sexy little bride.

Shades in church...why not?

Love it, Mike (far left, adorable brother of the bride, and groom for my wedding this coming weekend!)

A little class and a little sass...

They were just "begging" for a jumping shot with those parasols!

My favorites of the day, immersed in brush and wildflowers...

The super-adorable paparazzi helped document the event.

Chris has some MOVES up his sleeve.

This can-can line was so much fun to shoot (especially the lass with the blonde curls!)

For more where that came from, check out the slideshow (and be sure to turn up your volume)...

Amy and Bill {Hawthorne Hotel wedding}

2011-10-22T12:54:00.013-04:00

When I stepped into Amy's grandmother's adorable home on the morning of her September wedding, the scene before me set the tone for the rest of the day. The little white cape was a feminine haven, pink decor down to the tiniest detail, the little pink kitchen buzzing with girls in various stages of hair and makeup glam, and Amy's sweet grandmother, standing there smiling while watching her granddaughters getting ready amidst giggles and happy tears. Like the new Dutchess Kate, Amy's beauty is understated and timeless, and she has the sweetest personality and carries herself so elegantly. Looking at her porclain face through my lens as she posed in the doorway of her grandmother's home was like viewing a portrait of a 1940s bride or Old Hollywood headshot. In many ways, the day was like stepping back in time. I don't know if it was her grandmother's home, dappled with trinkets of the past and the smell of homemade muffins baking, or if it was Amy's traditionally elegant gown with lace bollero and the delicate vintage hankerchief she wore on her finger, or Amy and Bill's first dance, where they waltzed with perfect form (way to go, Bill!), but I was in a dreamy romantic cloud all day...It was an honor to be part of, from the throw-back timelessness, to the elegance of the lovely ballroom at the Hawthorne Hotel, to the couple's close-knit, enthusiastic families, to the lively and crowded dance floor, to Amy and Bill's second introduction into the reception, dressed in berets and sequins (Amy) in honor of their impending honeymoon to Paris...In every way, it was such a full, memorable day to capture, and I am so pleased to finally unveil the photos...

Amy's sister has an exhuberant personality and wonderful energy; I couldn't keep my lens off of her.

Amy, you were exquisite.

For formals, we went to Winter Island in Salem (a hidden gem for photos).

Again, timeless.

Love this guy.

Bill "gettin down" with one of his groomsmen.

The France-bound couple make their second grand entrance...I loved this!

And now for the slideshow (turn up your volume so you can hear the song)...

Adena and Matt {Boston Harbor Cruise Wedding}

2011-10-04T09:31:00.025-04:00

Matt and Adena could not have anticipated a hurricane to ring in their marriage when they started planning many months ago, and though Irene threatened to disrupt their cruise ship reception, and kept some guests from making the trip to Boston, the day proved to be perfect nonetheless. Adena and Matt are two warm, genuine souls, two individuals whose smiles are contagious, whose zest for life is obvious, and whose devotion to each other is refreshing to see. I don't know how to explain it except to say that it is just written on their faces, in the warmth and honesty they put forth, in the fun they have together, in their obvious satisfaction in each other. There was never a dull moment, from the girls dashing from limo to the church in the downpouring rain, to the dim-lit romance of the historic First Congregational Church, to standing on Commonwealth Avenue shooting in the rain, to making another wedding party "step aside" to usurp the dome under Rowes wharf for photos, to the limo breaking down and the wet walk to Long Wharf...what a day! After all that, we climbed aboard the Majesty, and sailed off into the dark night. And from there out, thanks to this atmosphere, a jubilant crowd and the musical stylings of M.C./D.J/live band in one, Bruce Jacques, it was a rockin' party. Honestly, you have to be there, seeing this guy perform to believe it. Bruce is a walking, singing, guitar wielding party. A one-man show. A musical extravaganza of epic proportions. He is finger picking folk rock on his acoustic guitar one minute, popping on a wig and kickin' it Gaga-style the next. He is in a hard hat waving his hips to YMCA, and in the next breath, he is rocking a sweet solo on his electric...And he had Matt and Adena rocking out too, mic in hand! Luckily Irene held off until the next day and did nothing to foil the party. The Majesty sailed without a hitch, and we had calm harbor waters the entire time. Though we didn't get sunset over the Boston skyline, there was something so intimate and romantic about being aboard that ship, warm and dancing as the rain poured outside. Instead of spilling out across the ship and onto the decks, the guests stayed close to the dance floor, encircling the newlyweds. It really was an intimate, cozy celebration, with the happiest, warmest, most enthusiastic crowd, giving Matt and Adena the perfect send off into married life. And now for some photos...

Adena was not shy on the shoe front. LOVE them.

The majestic ceiling and deep reds of Boston's historic First Baptist Church was a grand, romantic backdrop for their vows.

Under cover for some formals at Rowes Wharf.

All aboard for the reception on the Majesty.

An emotional toast from Adena's sister.

Okay, so Jacques the one-man extravaganza definitely deserves his very own montage. This guy is a rockstar...

And if any wedding should have a dancing montage, it is this one!

Adena and Matt rock out to Jacques' musical stylings.

To echo Jacques' words, "Best wedding couple ever!"

And now for their slideshow...

Mary Kate and Justin {Candlewood Lake, CT wedding}

2011-09-28T13:13:00.017-04:00

I am happy to feature Mary Kate and Justin here again, this time in honor of their gorgeous wedding day. Justin called me a year ago, after a recommendation from a friend (thanks to the sweet and dashing Eric and Jen Loos, married one year in June) and he was so well-spoken and enthusiastic, I couldn't help but take to him right away. And after a couple phone calls and some plan tweaking (i.e. a wedding date change), he pretty much booked me on the spot. And when I finally met him and Mary Kate for our engagement session in the spring, I felt like we were old friends. And what a terrific couple, I can't say that enough. They are warm, considerate, down to earth (and they just so happen to be very easy on the eyes, Justin poised and totally dashing, MK so elegant and soft-looking--total lens candy, this pair :) For so many reasons, it was so worth the hike to Danbury, CT, and it couldn't have been a nicer day. It was cloudy all morning, and it rained during the ceremony, and throughout our entire drive to the Candlewood Inn. But once we arrived, the sun broke through over the lake, and we had a gorgeous glistening evening from that point on. I had a blast with the wedding party, and MK and Justin brought their A-game to the photos, so we scored intimate close-ups, sexy poses, and lots of fun shots. And this continued all night; MK and Justin were entwined in one another's arms on the dance floor all night long, and busting out all kinds of sassy moves. I couldn't keep my lens off of them! Mary Kate and Justin, couples like you make my job such a pleasure. Thank you for being so welcoming, and so enthusiastic about having me there (Justin kept checking in on how I was holding up--so sweet!). You two are going to have such a happy life together, and I am so pleased I could document the start of your marriage.

Mary Kate strikes a pose. And oh those Irish eyes.

Such lookers.

These two can DANCE. They were so sexy on the dance floor!

On the left, the bride's equally gorgeous twin sister; on the right, Justin's adorable grandmother.

Take a peek at their slideshow:

Megan and Matt {Lake Pearl Wedding}

2011-09-20T12:34:00.012-04:00

In August, I had the pleasure of documenting the marriage of two wonderful people, Megan and Matt. I had the company of awesome photographer Johnny Arguedas, who added his sharp perspective to the day. During the ceremony, the priest kept referring to how wonderful it is when two genuinely good, nice people find one another and choose to marry. It ws such a simple sentiment, but I found it to be so true! Megan and Matt are both such kind, warm, honest people, and it was obvious how overjoyed they were to commit to one another in marriage. Matt's eyes shone with tears as his bride came toward him in the church (I love it when the groom is the one to cry!). Megan's smile is infectious, and I don't think she had a moment without it all day. It was raining when we left the church, and pouring on the way to the reception. But once we pulled into the venue, Lake Pearl Lucianos, the lake was glistening with sunshine, and the grass was drying. From there, it was a brilliant summer evening under the tent, as the sun set over the lake. Congratulations Megan and Matt! I am happy to finally have some photos to show you...

Megan, you are gorgeous.

Johnny captured this shot right before Megan graced the aisle. I love the pure joy on her face.

Johnny composed this shot. On the right is his perspective; the left and below are mine.

LOVED this tunnel. And Megan's miles of legs.

So sweet. How adorable is this Matt fella?

And of course, take a peek at their slideshow, set to their last dance song (I loved it):

Simone and Thibault {Wedding}

2011-09-11T17:07:00.010-04:00

It was a year ago, in the thick of wedding season, when my best college friend and moon-sista Simone called to tell me she was getting married, and it was happening soon, and that I absolutely had to be there. The timing couldn't be worse. I was coming off a crazy stretch of weddings. I was up to my ears in editing. I had never left my kids before. But as she knew all along, of course I was going to be there, so I found myself on a plane to Los Angeles to celebrate (and document) the marriage of Simone and Thibault. To describe the friendship I share with Simone would be telling a well-worn, enchanting, cacophonous tale of twists and turns and tears and frustration and magic....Somehow, our memories are poetic. Ours is a tale of drawings on scraps of paper and letters and guitar strings and trinket-treasures and mermaid hair...To tell it is like putting words to a strictly instrumental song. To me, she is poetry and other worlds and mystery and familiarity...that small, quiet girl in the corner of the room who didn't say a word but who I wanted to know. Someone who has torn and tempted and tested me as an artist. The kind of friend you could lie around with in pajamas all day in a one room apartment in Pasadena and never run out of odd, idle but wonderful conversation. The kind of friend with whom you can communicate for a decade through letters instead of email. The kind of friend with whom you can disagree and fight torridly, but who you know will always be there, honestly and wholly loving you despite.

The wedding and surrounding whirlwind were in every way just what I expected. The few days were a hot California moment, a wild ride, as always. And as soon as I was back in reality in MA, I jumped right back into work as if I had never left, never having a chance to blog it. Tomorrow marks one year, and I want to honor Simone and Thibault's marriage by putting up some of my favorite images from their day. Again, these days I am immersed in wedding splendor, and buried in editing, with no time for personal posts...still, I am pausing for a moment to tell a little story about a sparkling day in an orange grove in California, and a sweet and fulfilling moment I spent there. Happy anniversary, S & T, love you.

The Los Angeles theater is right around the corner from S & T's downtown apartment.

The wedding took place in a historic orange grove.

Oh so pretty.

A French marriage tradition adapted by S & T.

This sexy pair of legs belongs to the officiant, Mihn.

I think Thibault might actually have fallen asleep here.

Behind the lens...Michelle, my partner in crime, crouching in weeds to "get the shot," as well as an attempted self portrait of the two of us.

Back to the city...why not a few street shots after our romp through nature?

Love you two cutie pies. Wish I could be there right now. Happy anniversary.

Carolyn and Ryan {Cruiseport Gloucester wedding}

2011-09-07T11:30:00.013-04:00

Carolyn and Ryan chose what I believe to be the best day of the year for a wedding, August 13th. I may be a little baised, because Matt and I were also married on this date, six years ago. It was a sweet start to the day, with bouquets of flowers from Matt and each of the girls, and I didn't mind heading to work one bit because I think Carolyn and Ryan are so wonderful. The wedding and reception both took place at the Cruiseport Gloucester,which overlooks the harbor in the heart of Gloucester. True to my sappy nature, I found tears actually running down my cheeks during the ceremony. I was touched at their choice of music and readings, perhaps particularly so because Carolyn and I have similar literary tastes--but the fact that it was six years to the day that I made my own marriage vows probably had something to do with it too. After the ceremony, we used the last hour of light to capture formal shots with the marina as our backdrop. We even stole away during the reception to get a few night shots--thanks to the talented Sean of Memories in High Def for providing his video light to help light my shots! Carolyn and Ryan, I hope Hawaii was amazing, and I'm happy to welcome you home with some photos...

Carolyn and Ryan wrote their own wedding vows.

We snuck out for some night shots...

And now for their slideshow, set to the song Carolyn walked down the aisle to...

Mary Kate & Justin {Engagement}

2011-08-23T23:35:00.015-04:00

I wanted to get Mary Kate and Justin's engagement pictures up right away for a couple reasons...1.) they are already married! (The wedding was last weekend and every bit as gorgeous as I knew it would be.) 2.) I absolutely looooved this shoot. Mary Kate and Justin live in Danbury, CT and booked me from afar. So the first time we met was when they walked toward me through the low glistening sunlight in Old Lyme, CT for our engagement session. I just adore this couple; not only are they warm and friendly and up for anything, they are such a striking pair! Justin has this adorable, flirty grin, and Mary Kate, with her long legs, curtain of raven hair and grape green eyes looks like she stepped out of the pages of 1940s fashion spread. We started at this wonderful used book store nestled in the woods in Niantic, CT called the Book Barn. There are all these darling out-buildings brimming with books, each with a clever name, such as Last Page, Haunted Book shop and Hades. Simply enchanting. After exploring all of the sweet literary nooks and crannies, we moved on to the shore where my parents have a beach cottage (or "beach shack" as I lovingly call it). I knew MK and Justin were JUST the pair to try out something I've wanted to do for awhile. My brothers are lovers of any vintage gem, particulary if it has a motor--and they acquired these two old, rusty, yet fabulous dirtbikes--one blue, one a delicious yellow. I just knew they would sizzle in an engagement session. And MK and Justin had just the adventurous spirits to try them out! With the help of my brother Sam, we got the engines to cough to a start, and off MK and Justin went into the sunset! We ended the shoot with a stroll through the beach community, Point O' Woods, and stopped at some of my favorite spots along the way as the sun dropped. Enough explanation, take a peek at this adorable pair and our fun, photographic adventure!

Alicia and Ian {St. Clements Castle Wedding}

2011-08-23T22:15:00.016-04:00

The wedding of Ian and Alicia was particularly special to me as it was my first time back to St. Clements Castle, where Matt and I were married six Augusts ago. And I couldn't have had a more wonderful couple to document in this sentimental location. Ian and Alicia are my "royal" couple; Ian hails from England, and has this lovely British accent and a delightful wit to accompany it, Alicia's fresh-faced, clear blue-eyed, adorable-nosed look just says "Kate" to me, and of course, they were married at a castle, surrounded by an English contingency in ornate hats. Reminiscent of my own wedding day, their nuptials took place on the hottest day of the summer--and they were troopers, and decided to hold their ceremony outside overlooking the roiling bend in the CT river, despite the heat (so worth it for that striking view!). Ian and Alicia did not complain when I kept them outside for some portraits, and to look at the photos, you'd never know charming Ian and radiant Alicia were sweltering! It was an absolute pleasure being back at St. Clements, documenting such a beautiful evening and such a charming couple. With Ian's wit, and Alicia's smile, my job couldn't have been easier, and I'm so happy to finally unveil the photos...

Alicia's eyes are mesmerizing...

Ian's mother's love for her son was so sweet to see.

Could this hat, or the lovely dame wearing it be any more fabulous?

Nicole and John {Blithewold Mansion, RI}

2011-08-14T14:33:00.021-04:00

It was a beautiful July day in Rhode Island for Nicole and John's nuptials. Nicole and John are both graduates of Providence College, though their paths never crossed during the their four years at the school (the same story as me and my beloved!). But it was meant to be, and they met years after graduating at an alumni event--where sparks flew instantly. Because the school was what drew them together, they decided to plan a Rhode Island wedding, with the ceremony at St. Dominic chapel at Providence College, followed by the reception at the grand Blithewold Mansion on the coast. The gardens are so beautifully cared for and extensive, that with our limited time, we covered only a very small piece of the estate's grounds. But we found this ferny wooded path, with low light streaming through the trees, and that was all I needed! I was so pleased when, a bit into the reception, Nicole and John approached me to do a few more photos on the front lawn of the estate, as the sun was setting over the water. It was the perfect summer night, and guests flowed right out of the tent onto the lawn to enjoy the ocean view. Once back in the tent, it was a rowdy party, and what I loved the most about it, was that John and Nicole were in the center of the crowd all night, wrapped in each other's arms. I think the photos of their faces in the last few shots of this post say it all. They are a genuine, gracious pair, and I loved watching them become their natural selves on the dance floor, entangled in each other's arms all night.

Nicole's vivid blue eyes.

An attempt at a niece and nephew shot...

John and his entourage.

One of the dashing groomsmen doubling as my second shooter.

The best man asked all the groomsmen to stand up with him as he delivered his toast.

A teary moment between Nicole and her father.

Lots of love between the flower girls and the ringbearer.

And now for their slideshow...be sure to turn your volume up!

Baby Reed {Newborn}

2011-08-06T22:27:00.008-04:00

I went to Charlestown to meet sweet baby Reed when he was only two weeks old. But you wouldn't guess it; he was so alert and curious, definitely not the average newborn enveloped in a sleepy fog! Despite his initial eagnerness, he soon lost his interest in modeling--but even when crying he had the most perfect, precious little face, so couldn't help but keep in some of the "out-takes." Except for a few adorable minutes spent snoozing all snuggled in a blue knit blanket, little Reed valiently fought off sleep until after I left for the evening. I loved watching his mother Erin looking at him (he looks SO much like her!), and I enjoyed being in their warm, sunny home, as the evening light streamed in to Reed's nautical nursery. Thank you, Erin, for allowing me to come into your home, move furniture around, and jostle your little fella for a couple hours. I hope that having snap shots of these early moments were worth the chaos!

Little Reed was very aware of my presence--such an alert little guy!

I couldn't help myself, I had to plop him down in the bin of rolled blankets.

On the left, an interested onlooker; on the right, the new little family...

Awww look at that face. Even when crying he is adorable!

Britt and James {Sturbridge, MA Wedding}

2011-07-30T16:02:00.012-04:00

Britt and James were married on an evening in late June at the historic Publick House in Sturbridge, MA. The inn is so charming, with it's dark beams, winding hallways, charming nooks around every turn, and of course, the beautiful grounds. Despite the dreary forecast, the rain held off so that we could venture outside for portraits before we were out of light. Britt was absolutely stunning in her antique lace dress that fit her long, lithe body like a glove. My favorite moment was the look on James' face when he saw his bride come through the grand barn doors. He was definitely not at home "romancing on camera," but it was a testament to his love for her that he stuck it out, especially when I had them snuggling on command in front of an audience of his guy friends! (Thanks for being such a great sport, James). Britt and James are both high school teachers, and they chose purple and black as their wedding colors because those are also the school colors--paying homage to the scene of their meeting! They were surrounded by a circle of family, friends, colleagues, and even teammates (Britt is a basket ball player and coach), and it was so obvious from the joy and love in that room (and on that crowded dance floor!) that their marriage is off to an amazing, supportive start. Take a peek at some of the day's highlights...

Look at this gorgeous girl!

The flower girl "warming up" with twirls before the start of the ceremony...

The classy wedding party...

A sweet, emotional moment between Britt and her dad.

For more, take a peek at the slideshow...

Congratulations Britt and James, and thank you for the honor!

Caroline and Greg {Peabody Essex Museum Wedding}

2011-07-21T09:34:00.014-04:00

Caroline and Greg were married on a perfect day in June on Boston's North Shore. I was lucky to have my favorite partner along side me, friend and fellow photographer Tara of Tara Lynn Sen Photography as well as talented videographer (and friend) Ken of Cupid Video Productions. We walked into the hotel on the morning of the wedding and bumped right into the handsome, tux-clad groom. He was beaming from ear to ear. While Tara did some portraits of him, he talked of the rehearsal the night before, saying "I would have married her right there." Sometimes you just get that "right" feeling about a couple, and a sense that their marriage is going to be built on something very strong--Caroline and Greg are no exception! Their devotion to one another was apparent all day long, during their tearful ceremony, throughout our portraits at Castle Rock Park in Marblehead, in the emotional toasts by family members, and while they danced together all night long, smiling endlessly. It was the first time I had shot a reception at the Peabody Essex Museum, and it was gorgeous, with art and historical artifacts at every turn, and dinner and dancing in the grand East India ballroom. It was a racuous party, the dance floor was filled the entire evening, and the newlyweds were right in the center of the crowd, so obviously in love and blissfully happy.

Portraits of the dashing groom captured by Tara...

Caroline, you are gorgeous!

Love the twining tendrils of hair (she totally has mermaid hair).

Sassy lasses.

Greg's "by the power of Greyskull" moment.

This is the staircase that leads up to the ballroom.

The following two shots were captured by the amazing Tara Lynn Sen.

This fun shot is by Tara as well.

Take a peek at the slideshow...

Natalie and Jordan {Cape Cod Wedding}

2011-07-07T18:07:00.018-04:00

Natalie and Jordan were married along the coast of the Cape on a blustery day in June. Natalie and Jordan hail from Chicago, but chose the rustic romance of Cape Cod, and a sprinkling of charming cedar-shingled cottages for their seaside wedding. I adored Natalie and Jordan at first sight. Natalie is a wedding photographer herself (as well as an actor) and Jordan is a musician; thus, we were a meeting of artists--a fact that made Natalie and Jordan all the more alluring, fun, and interesting to photograph. They couldn't be more smitten with each other, and that was apparent all day long. Natalie was breezy and calm when I arrived, and impressively did her own hair and makeup, her sister's hair and makeup, and her mother's makeup--as she and her also theatrically talented friends sang beautifully along with her ipod. I love this girl! Natalie's only anxious moment came when she was in her dress ready to roll--she just couldn't wait to see her groom. And once she did, in one of the sweetest first looks I've witnessed, she was back to her centered, calm self--yet blissfully happy. I remember her saying more than once, even as the rain fell on her filmly dress and "just curled" locks: "this is the happiest day of my life." They kept exhanging these adorable grins, the sweetest of which were during the ceremony that was officiated by Natalie's father (who took the role of host for the night). There were so many personal, artistic touches throughout the evening: friends performing live during the ceremony, a custom photobooth made by Jordan's father, not one but TWO pairs of hot pink heels, punch in ribboned mason jars, every detail was perfect. And even as the wind pummeled at the tent, it was the place to be: the band was rockin,' the lobster and clams delicous, the tent lit up vibrantly by colorful lanterns, and best of all, Natalie and Jordan on the dance floor, caught up in each other and the moment....one of those couples you just know are going to love each other fully and openly every day.

And now for their slideshow....

Julia Grace Turns One! {Baby portraits}

2011-07-05T15:45:00.014-04:00

One year ago yesterday, on the 4th of July, my cousin Kelly gave birth to her first child, a tiny two pound baby girl, Julia Grace. Kelly was only 26 weeks pregant, so as you can imagine, Julia had a very tremulous start to life. Kelly is like a sister to me, and I immediately rushed to the hospital to be with her. I was lucky to be allowed to see sweet Julia through the glass of her isolette that very first day of her life. She was tinier than I could imagine, her skin so pink, and her little chest rose and fell so fast. Miraculously, Julia has done better than anyone could have expected. Kelly jokes that she graduated the "valedictorian" from the NICU. Julia Grace is a miracle baby, and nothing gives me more pleasure than to present her here, one year after her fragile start, in celebration of her first birthday. She is plump and strong and happy and irresistably adorable. She has changed her mother's life in every way possible. You've come so far, sweet Julia Grace, and inspired so much joy and gratitude in so many people, most of all, your proud mom and dad. A very happy birthday to you, Jules!

Of course I couldn't resist some fluffy tutu shots.

Look at those chubby little toes!

The bonnet belonged to her big cousin Kate.

We put her in our grandmother's hat box....oh how Gram would have loved to see this.

Red, white and blue for the Indepence day baby!

I love this just post-topple tushie shot...

A tender moment with her Mama.

Kelly's hair tickled her in the previous shot--I love this face.

And this one even more!

Take a look at Julia on the day she was born. So delicate and fragile...

Compare that tiny, delicate infant with this chubby, healthy, happy perfect little cherub! We love you so much, sweet baby Jules!

Tracy and Dan {Wedded bliss in the Bahamas}

2011-06-19T13:21:00.009-04:00

It already feels like a dream, our tryst to the tropical haven that is the Bahamas for Tracy and Dan's island nuptials...It was such a sweet pause from the real world, three perfect, carefree days with Matt (only the second time we've ever been away from our kiddos in the five years that we've been parents). Tracy and Dan couldn't have chosen a more beautiful location for their marriage, and about fifty friends and family members attended the celebration. I had the pleasure of shooting alongside Dan's friend and co-worker, Maria Arabbo, who covered Dan's preparation and most of the reception while I stayed with my Tracy, and then covered family and bride and groom formals. Tracy was sizzlin' hot with her lovely updo (styled by her very own mother), her caged veil headpiece crafted by her very own hands, and of course, the finishing touch of her very own custom jewelry designs (check out those pearls!). It was so wonderful to be there in that room with the gals during Tracy's preparation...it reminded me of all our girlie fun during the 1426 years: dancing in the kitchen, wine on the stoop, sunset on the roof...The ceremony was carefully planned by Dan, who Tracy, the self-proclaimed "Anti-bride" lovingly called her "Groomzilla." But all the meticulous planning payed off, and everything, the windy ceremony against an ocean backdrop, our fun photo spots (I even found an old dilapidated ship--score!), and the sunset reception were relaxing and elegant and dreamy and perfect. I hope my photos can capture that mood...To Tracy and Dan, thank you for letting me be there beside you--I wish you so much continued happiness, and sweet memories of your wedding in paradise. Now we have to start planning the five year anniversary reunion trip!

Check out their slideshow below (and be sure to turn up the volume)...

Natalie and Jordan: Engagement

2011-06-07T23:42:00.008-04:00

Natalie and Jordan will be tying the knot on Cape Cod on Saturday, and I thought I would quickly throw up a post from their engagement session a couple months ago. Natalie and I connected instantly, as she is a wedding photographer in Chicago--it is always such an honor to document weddings of my fellow sistas (and brothas) of the lens...and as I found out that day--to my delight, Natalie is not only skilled behind the camera, she is also a natural in front of it! She has flawless skin, a luscious head of hair, and a sense of poise and style. And Jordan, a musician, has it goin' on too--the grin, the confidence, that adorable factor that the camera loves. We tromped around Boston in wonderful low evening light, and Natalie and Jordan were so playful and snuggly and up for anything. It doesn't get better than that! The two hail from Chicago, so the wedding is a destination affair...and I can't wait to arrive at the seaside village of cottages this coming Saturday morning to capture some more magical moments!

Flirting at the Brattle Book Shop on West Street.

I love their choices of books: Try and Stop Me (his) and the Yachtsman's Omnibus (hers).

I LOVED Natalie's fierce gold accessories.

Natalie walked around Boston for two hours in those shoes. That's talent.

Tracy and Dan {Engagement}

2011-06-07T22:14:00.023-04:00

Two weeks ago I was in the Bahamas on a balmy evening watching my close friends Tracy and Dan exchange marriage vows beside the Carribbean. I am halfway through editing the photos, but I realized that I never posted photos from their engagement session....And as it was one of my most fun shoots ever, I have to get some of the images up here before releasing the wedding photos! On the morning of the shoot, I went over to Tracy and Dan's condo, and she let me raid her closet to come up with fun, colorful outfits--despite the fact that it was frigid February, she agreed to all dresses, adorned with pieces from her vibrant wardrobe: vintage coats, fun shoes, and most importantly--her amazing jewerly! Tracy is a talented jewelry designer, and we filled a bag with her lovely pieces so we could change out her jewelry for each look. So, with Dan navigating, Tracy sat in the back and did quick costume changes between locations... In college when I discovered photography, Tracy was my go-to model. She loved the camera and the camera loved her, and she was up for anything: poofy 1950s prom dresses, painting recreations, etc. Tracy-girl and I have been through so much together, and she means the world to me. She met Dan one night at the pub right next to the apartment we shared in Brighton, and she never looked back. Dan is a gem of a guy; he is interesting, clever, energetic--he is a storyteller, and just draws you right in with his wild factoids and wonderful anecdotes. What a fella! Let me get to the goods--check out our session!

We started at Tracy and Dan's beautiful home. On the left are some of pieces from Tracy's jewelry collection.

Of course, the "kids" had to be involved! Below is adorable "Fatty" (fitting eh?)

And on the right, Malcavia snuggles with Tracy.

And then we hopped in the car and made our way into the city--first stop, an East Boston shipyard.

I couldn't resist the vibrant red and blue!

And of course, these wonderful red doors.

No detail was missed...

What session is complete with out a little rule-breaking (or following, I don't quite get it)?

Octa-lady was one of my favorite pieces among the wonderful scupltures surprisingly scattered across the marina.

Love this series...

At dusk we landed in the heart of downtown.

And Tracy was hotstuff in her RED dress in 40 degree weather.

The Brattle Street book shop in the alley on West street...doesn't it look like they are on the set of a play? The coat belonged to Tracy's grandmother.

And of course, the bling...custom designed by Dan himself...

The Velvet Fly {Editorial}

2011-05-27T11:29:00.000-04:00

I am pleased to post some of my favorites from another shoot I did for New England Finery magazine, product of the talents of my good friend and neighbor, Yvonne Blacker of Yvonne Blacker Interiors. This was particulary special because the piece was featuring another creative and talented friend of mine, Lorrinda Cerrutti and her realized dream of opening a clothing boutique in Boston. She and I used to teach together, and we would also daydream together about the visions we had for using our creativity to grow our own businesses. About five years ago, around the time I left teaching to pursue photography full time, Lorrinda and her partner BethAnn Hoyos opened their exquisite boutique the Velvet Fly in Boston's North End. The Velvet Fly features fashion and accessory treasures that range from boldly modern to exquisitely vintage. We were lucky to have some gorgeous models featuring some of the vintage looks: Courtney King, Julie Sterling Williams, and Nicole Carlson (the latter two are photographer friends of mine, and I was impressed that they were able dazzle in front of the lens too!). They were troopers, and toughed it out, striking gorgeous poses despite bare legs and freezing heel-clad toes! It was such a pleasure to document the fabulousness of "the Fly." Every item in the store: the garments, the decor, the jewelry, even the fashions modeled by the lovely owners, are lens-candy for a photographer, and even in that small space, I couldn't keep my shutter still!

My girls were there for part of the shoot--Maeve modeled designer bags, while Viola showed off the outfit and accessories she had picked out herself that morning.

The image on the left ended up being the magazine's cover shot.

On the left, beautiful Lorrinda, co-owner of "the Fly"

Our other two models arrive!

"Fly girls."

Lorrinda refinished this antique sofa--it was the perfect prop for our shoot.

Ashley and Chris {Engagement in Granby, CT}

2011-05-15T23:08:00.002-04:00

Again, I am taking us back to the snowy winter behind us, to a crisp late January evening with Ashley and Chris in rural, charming Granby, CT. A beloved aunt of mine lives in Granby, so I decided to combine a visit with my mother's wonderful sisters with a romp through icy farm grounds with sweet Ashley and Chris. A friend of Chris welcomed us to his farm, and he let us explore his fields and woods, lifted Ashley and Chris up in his tractor, let us climb to the hayloft in his barn, even let us into the horse pasture (with Ashley's heels sticking into the solid ice that covered the field) to visit the horses. After, I convinced them to stop at the town library (which I had scouted on the way there), a lovely historic building with wonderful antique treasures, and a few vintage cars decaying in the back--delicious! I loved the the fading color of the cars, and the texture of rust and peely paint against the low blue winter evening light. We were frozen solid by the end of the session, but I think it was worth it...

Tyler and Ava {Adorable at 11 months}

2011-05-13T13:28:00.007-04:00

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of doing a few more photos of twins Tyler and Ava, who are now 11 months old. They are now crawling up a storm, and keeping their wonderful mother (my dear friend Gretchen) very busy. And they couldn't be cuter! We had some girly fun with Ava, dressing her in a blue tutu and feather headband--she absolutely loved it, which was so adorable because with two brothers, she doesn't get to be all girlied up very often! Tyler was very busy, and not easy to reel in for a photo--but once those round, deep eyes fixed on me, I was smitten! Oh, and I should mention the behind the scenes--or I should say, right up IN the scenes shots, involving my own little ladies, who were "assisting" with the shoot....I was trying to shoot the babies amidst a whirlwind of big kids romping around, and in the case of my little ladies, sometimes busting right into the shot. On the other hand, big brother Cole had lots of interest in playing, and little interest in the camera (which is why you don't see him here). Viola was dressed as first a Native American, and then a tutu'd butterfly...and Maeve's choice of attire was a polka dot bathrobe. On the fashion front, my girls like to keep it interesting.

Take a peek at the pair of adorableness known as Tyler and Ava!

Little Ava, all dolled up!

The proud mama with her babies...

My little butterfly.

Maeve infultrating "the set" during Ava's tutu moment.

Tiny Adam {newborn}

2011-04-29T16:57:00.013-04:00

While visiting my parents in Connecticut over school vacation, I stopped by the home of my childhood friend, and recent blushing bride, Melissa. She and her husband Dean had just welcomed a baby boy, Adam into their family. Big sister Charlotte was a charming little hostess, showing me around, sharing her toys, even photographing ME with her little pink digital camera (it takes actual pictures). She romped around the entire time, before exhaustion got the better of her and she fell asleep in her daddy's arms. Little Adam had less interest in sleep, despite our attempts to lull him for some sleeping portraits. Only when I had my coat on and gear packed up did he drift off--so I grabbed a couple more shots on the way out! It was so nice to spend some time with Melissa, trade "mom stories" and reminisce. I am so happy for you, Melissa and Dean--what a beautiful little family you have!

Baby Collin {newborn}

2011-04-29T15:48:00.015-04:00

This is another outdated post, but I had to include a few of these. I photographed my childhood best friend Kelly's wedding on New Years Eve, 2009. And about nine months later, I found myself documenting another important step in her life, the birth of her beautiful son, Collin. Collin couldn't be more adorable, with his dark shock of hair sticking straight up, and his mother's perfect lips and nose. He was such a well-behaved little fella, while we moved him from spot to spot in Kelly's sunny new home. Seeing Kelly as a mother was so sweet; she is a natural! See for yourself...

Alicia and Ian {Engaged}

2011-04-29T13:32:00.009-04:00

Romance is in the air today, as it is the much-anticipated wedding day of Kate and William. And in honor of the royal nuptials, I decided I must blog today (I've been slacking)...So I am going back a few months to post some snowy engagement shoots! The engagement session of Alicia and Ian is perfect for today since Ian is a dashing British lad, and his fair lass, though all-American, totally reminds me of the new Dutchess Kate (something I kept mentioning during their session, as it was the first time we had met). Ian and Alicia are a kind of nomadic pair: Ian hails from England, they met in Massachusetts, they currently reside in Southern California, though consider themselves offical residents of D.C. (where they are homeowners), and they will be tying the knot this summer in Connecticut--whew!

Alicia and Ian's wedding is going to be particularly significant for me because it will be the first time I have the pleasure of shooting at the location of my own nuptials! Matt and I were married at St. Clements Castle in Portland, CT, and Ian and Alicia's wedding will be the first time I have returned there since our wedding day...I adore Ian and Alicia, and I simply cannot wait to return to St. Clements and document their marriage. We met up on a snowy day just after Christmas, the day after one of the first snowstorms of many this past winter. And at least, here is the result...

No engagement session is complete without some dance moves in an alley.

Look at her eyes. Amazing.

Sarah and Chris {Engaged}

2011-04-23T09:46:00.007-04:00

I know spring has sprung, but I am going to take you back to another wintery afternoon. Two feet of just fallen snow was the perfect backdrop for Sarah and Chris' engagement session, and they were amazing sports to brave the elements...This may have been my coldest engagement session EVER, but it was so beautiful, I was immune to the cold (knit gloves with a finger tip cut off helped). It wasn't until we were done and the heat full-throttle for the entire drive home couldn't thaw me out that I realized how very cold it was...But I absolutely loved our romp through the deep snow. The vibrant red barns of Endicott park were a beautiful contrast against the blanket of white, and the grounds of historic Glen Magna Farms were so quiet and peaceful as we made the first tracks along it's magestic tree-lined path. The sun finally came out at the very end of our shoot, and filtered through the trees, lighting up Sarah's gorgeous mane of dark hair (score!). Oh, and Chris is one of those grooms...I love the guy! He is so funny and sweet--and agreeable to my crazy whims! And you can tell it is because he loves his girl so much, it was all for her. The poor guy was frozen solid, his ungloved hands bright red (and that was before I made them take off their coats!), yet he picked her up, dipped her, and managed to maintain a genuine smile on his frozen face!

New England Finery Magazine {Editorial}

2011-03-23T23:31:00.018-04:00

In February, I had the honor of doing a cover shoot for the very first issue of my friend Yvonne's digital magazine, New England Finery. We spent a day of delicious girliness at one of my favorite wedding venues, The Stevens Estate in North Andover. Playing dress up in a mansion on a winter afternoon--what could be more fun? We had the run of the estate, and with the luxurious interiors of the mansion, buried in feet of freshly fallen snow, we had grandeur and history and romance all wrapped up in the most perfect New England setting. Our breathtaking model Taryn dazzled the camera, and even braved the blustery elements outside at sunset for some of my favorite shots of the day. Now that issue two of the magazine is days away (we just did another shoot last week), I am finally posting some of my favorite images from our first snowy adventure! Taryn's custom fashions and accessories are all courtesy of Harper Della-Piana from Seams Couture in Wenham (brides take note!). I want to congratulate Yvonne and her partner Linda Smith on their exciting venture, and thank her for featuring my work--ahhh, the fortune of discovering that in the lovely white antique house across the street lives another creative soul who has become a fast friend, and a creative confidant. Yvonne, you are the best, and I can't wait to see your magic in the next issue.

Taryn is wearing a dress from the Wrapture collection found at Seams.

Harper fashioned an antique ribbon into a truly unique custom accessory.

Behind the scenes: I made Yvonne pose for this just moments before we ran out of light.

Chelsea and Kevin {Engagement}

2011-03-11T12:10:00.019-05:00

Chelsea and Kevin are completely-absolutely-madly-truly-beautifully in love. The kind of love that reminds you how sweet life can be. The kind of love that makes you almost forget how tough the road can be...

It is with emotion that I write this. I have been looking forward to blogging Chelsea and Kevin's engagement session--it was one of my all-time favorites, and that is because of these two wonderful people and their beautiful, adorable connection. But a few weeks ago, I learned that Kevin has become very ill, and that the wedding plans are now on hold. My heart is heavy to think of what this must like for these two amazing individuals. I love my husband so much, that my heart aches when I think of sweet Chelsea, with whom I connected the very first time I met her.

She works with Matt, so I had met her a few times (she adored my daughters--so naturally I couldn't help but adore her). And when she, Kevin and I at last sat down to chat about the wedding, and I heard their love story, I just knew I was going to "fall" for this couple. How do I describe Kevin? He has these long swirly locks of hair, a wonderful red beard, fair frecky skin...and also these broad shoulders, and big strong, tatooed arms. And he has the most gentle nature...The kind of guy whose shoulder you could cry on, but who would fiercly protect you. Strong. Tender. Devoted. Smart. In fact, he had found out the very day of our shoot that he had passed the bar--so successful too! In the photos that follow, you can see this tenderness and vibrance in him. The simple fact of how much he loves his girl. And you just know how strong he is going to be for her, and how fiercly she is going to love him through this. And how blessed and true their marriage will be.

On the right--actual proposal spot.

Sexy tatoos...

They lived in the North End when they first moved to Boston--so it holds many memories.

My thoughts are with you every day, Kevin.

Julie and Mike {Wedding}

2011-02-21T16:50:00.024-05:00

The very first night I met Julie three years ago, she told me she couldn't wait to find her true love. Her Beloved. She said that's what she would call him, not honey, or babe, but Beloved. She was a friend of my brothers from their Haiti mission group. She was young, just out of college, and brimming with idealism. She made an impression on me. She is a fellow romantic, a literature and Drama enthusiast, and so warm, so positive, so excited about where her life was taking her. Julie is flawlessly lovely, with bright eyes and a constant smile. But her beauty truly exisits in her postive energy, her giving nature, her fierce passion in her beliefs and devotion to her faith. She met Mike on the "Connecticut Catholic scene," and even though he was at the time unsure of the direction of his life, and didn't succomb to her charm immediately, Julie knew right away that he was her "one" and waited patiently for their timing to be right. And it didn't take too long for her to win his heart--how could he resist? Julie and Mike have the sweetest dynamic. Julie is vibrant and talkative and fierce about her convictions. Mike, a talented musician and song-writer, is easy-going, gentle and soft-spoken with a charming quirkiness and quiet confidence. They compliment eachother so well, and you can't help but feel good in their presence.

Julie and Mike were married on the snazzy date of 1-1-11 in Meriden, CT. Julie had to be the most exhuberantly happy bride I have had the pleasure of photographing. It was an unseasonably warm day, but with a blanket of snow for added New England charm.
One of my favorite moments during the ceremony was when Julie's father and Mike's father picked up their guitars and sang and played an original piece written for the new couple. What a gift! After the mass, we headed to the Pavilion on Crystal Lake for some wintery portraits before the reception. One very special aspect for me was that my entire family (including Matt and the girls) were invited to the wedding. My brothers and sister-in-laws were in the wedding party. My mother made the bouquets. And it was so sweet to see my own little ladies, as well as my neice and nephews, romping happily on the dance floor in their finest attire. It was a dance floor that was packed the entire evening with such wonderful energy and joy. I am so happy that sweet Julie found her Beloved, and that their love story came true. And now for some photos...

For being so tiny, angelic and sweet--Julie can be fierce too!

Mike comes from a long line of musicians. Here is his grandfather on the harmonica!

Julie and Mike rock some Polka moves...

My brother and my newphew Caleb (I love this little guy so much!).

Click below for the slideshow (and turn up your volume to hear the song):

Happy Valentines Day {In love in 2010}

2011-02-14T18:16:00.002-05:00

I am a sap. Like the nostalgic, wallowing, acoustic ballads, fields of flowers and love poems kind. That's why I have the perfect job. I celebrate love for a living, and I couldn't be luckier! I have had the honor of capturing so many wonderful people in the last year (the newly-engaged, the newly-wedded, the newly-born, adorable families, my nearest and dearest, and more)...So here is a sampling of sweet, mushy love moments squished into four minutes. So turn up your volume and enjoy. Perhaps it will bring you back, and maybe even make you smile!

Roulliard Family {Three Bright-eyed Boys}

2011-02-09T14:21:00.017-05:00

The Roulliard boys are going to be heartbreakers when they grow up! And it is no wonder, with their dashing father and stunning beauty of a mother. I was so happy to have this crew in front of my lens again; though the chilly morning made for a much less rambunctious bunch, they were snuggly and sweet as can be! I connected with their mother Kerri instantly when we first met; she is a creative soul, and has such a genuine, nurturing sensibility. She also has an impressive motherhood resume: she gave birth to three boys in a little over three years! Despite being surrounded by all things BOY, she definitely has maintained a sense of feminity and fabulousness. Proof: she came to the shoot rocking a pair of shiny red heels! Once again, the boys brought their special stuffed friends--accessories that up the adorableness factor to me big time! See for yourself...

Sweet big brother Aidan...

Sean and his winning smile.

And the little guy, Nate. Can you believe those cherubic curls?

Ava and Tyler: 3 Months

2011-02-08T18:14:00.011-05:00

Here is another glimpse at twins Ava and Tyler, shot on a hot summer evening when they were three months old (another outdated post--they are now eight months!). It was exciting to see plumper, more animated versions of their newborn selves, each still with his/her own adorable personality. Curious and energetic big brother Cole explored our yard with Ann while Gretchen and I hovered over the twins on the front porch (my favorite spot for baby shots here at my house). Tyler wanted no part of the shoot for the first half, while his sister posed contentedly...and as soon as she was tuckered out and fast asleep, he was all about the camera--of course! So despite the fact that I continue to fail to achieve shots of both babies happy and awake, they are so cute, you can't help but smile at the result!

Even when crying, Ava is painfully adorable.

Big brother Cole helps out...

A little sugar and spice...

Had to bust out the pink and blue again--couldn't help myself...

And of course, some snails and puppy dog tails too.

Megan and Matt: Engagement

2011-01-28T14:26:00.005-05:00

Megan and Matt are both tall, smiley, good-looking, have all-American names that start with 'M,' and, best of all, are completely and utterly in love. ...They pretty much had me at hello, and here's why: 1.) Matt reminds me of an adult version of my first childhood crush, Eliot from E.T. (oh that adorable Henry Thomas!), 2.) Since modeling is something they don't do every day, Megan laughed throughout our shoot--which made her all the more beautiful and natural to me (don't you dare go and repress that laughter on the wedding day, Megan!). 3.) As we tromped around Copley, the Public Gardens, and the Back Bay, I was struck by how refleshingly genuine they both are--and to top that, how genuinely they love each other. My favorite moment of the shoot was when we talked about the moment Matt will see his bride at the end of the aisle, and he got a little mushy :) His love for Megan is tangible, a reminder that "good guys" and "true love" really do exist. I guess tall, dark, smiley guys named Matt somehow represent that ideal to me (I might be baised). In any case, I can't WAIT to turn my lens his way next July when Megan walks down the aisle toward him....

Ah, how lucky I am to have a job that oozes romance?

Ten Little Roses

2011-01-22T11:01:00.013-05:00

Meet the ten Rose grandchildren! What an adorable, sweet-natured bunch. One of my friends in town contacted me to do a photoshoot as a gift to her inlaws to celebrate their 40th anniversary last summer. The mission: a photo of all ten cousins! Capturing a photo of ten children, ages ten and under (five boys, five girls) is no small feat, and despite some wiggles and tears and a few runaways, we were able to accomplish the task--as well as achieve some sweet family shots, and individual portraits of each adorable little face! See for yourself, what cuties!

Little Charlotte kept dashing away, so we had to do a take 2--but so worth it, look at this cherubic face!

All five boys!

Portraits of each of the kiddos (in no particular order)...

Naturally I have a partilular affinity for the single ginger of the bunch (could he be cuter?)...

The Aldrich Family

2011-01-16T13:26:00.006-05:00

What a beautiful little family Ro and Brian have. Ro contacted me because she saw photos I did of a newborn grandson of one of her co-workers. Though they live an hour from me, when they stepped out of the car, I realized with surprise that I recognized them because we happen to have mutual friends! Brian works good friends of ours, who went to college with Matt (and also live an hour away), so we have attended kid birthday parties together--small world indeed! Take a peek at Isaac, Ava and Brynn, three little captivating, dark-eyed beauties!

Baby Delia: newborn

2011-01-07T12:19:00.006-05:00

Meet baby Delia, a tiny, fair Irish lass! Delia was born to all-Irish parents Brigid and Brian, and was aptly named Delia Caris her after mother (Delia is the Gaelic form of Brigid) and if I recall correctly, her great-grandmother, who knitted her the beautiful blanket she arrived snuggled inside that afternoon. I saw Brigid and Brian a month before their baby girl's birth when I photographed Brigid's brother Liam's wedding in our mutual hometown of Haddam, CT, and I was so happy when Brigid reached out to me for newborn photos! Baby Delia was quite attached to her pacifier that afternoon, but we managed to pop it out repeatedly to grab some shots of her in all of her two-week old preciousness...

Daddy's little girl...

I love the Dr. Evil trademark pinky here...

Delia is such a feminine, daninty lass, I couldn't resist bringing out some vintage accessories for some girly throw-back shots. That is my grandmother's hatbox!

Julia Elaine: newborn

2010-12-29T12:18:00.003-05:00

Over the summer, my friends Ben and Michele welcomed a baby girl, Julia Elaine. What a little cuddle-bear! She looks so much like her daddy to me, and it is just so sweet to see Ben as a father. He scoops her up, and handles her with such ease and tenderness--like he's done this all his life. It is so sweet to see. Julia is now about six months old, but I wanted to make sure to post a few photos captured when she was brand new!

Baby blue eyes.

Proud Mama...

This is a little out of focus, but one of my favorites!

Of course, I had to have some fun and bundle her all up for a couple shots.

Ava and Tyler: newborn

2010-12-29T11:57:00.005-05:00

Over the summer, my dear friends Gretchen and Ann welcomed twins, a boy and a girl. Of course, I couldn't wait to meet the little dears, so I went over to take some photos when they were just a few weeks old. Of course, since it was the thick of my wedding season, I haven't featured them here yet--and they are now six months old! I will soon post their three month session, but for now, take a peek at Tyler and Ava when they were brand new...

I couldn't resist swaddling them in pink and blue...

Proud (and exhausted) parents.

Big brother Cole.

Cole, a bit shell-shocked by how much life had changed in the last few weeks.

Tyler, a bit exhausted from so much modeling.

Ann and Ava on the left, Gretchen and Tyler on the right.

Very Merry

2010-12-26T23:55:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas, a day late! In the last month and a half, I repeatedly tried and failed to capture a photo of my children for my Christmas card. Though she smiles and poses adorably when Matt takes out his ipone, whenever Maeve sees my giant lens coming at her, she yells, "No!" and runs the other way. So I finally gave up and made a card using individual shots of the girls. Of course, the very next day after dropping my cards in the mail, with the girls dressed for Christmas day, I plopped them down in front of the tree for a quick shot, and Maeve smiled sweetly, saying "cheeeeese" and mugging for the camera. So I figured I'd feature it here, the shot I thought was unattainable, and send out wishes for a very happy holiday season!

Baby Cassandra: newborn

2010-12-22T11:12:00.005-05:00

I have only blogged weddings all season, and now that I am soon to enter my "winter lull" (just one more wedding on New Year's day!), I would like to go back and post some of my portrait sessions from the last few months. I have had the opportunity to photograph some lovely little ones and families, and I will try to get a few of them up here. First is sweet baby Cassie, born to our neighbors in August. As the first girl born into a family with two boys, Cassie was a welcome addition, and she is just adored by her parents and proud big brothers Daniel and Jesse (according to Viola, the cute "neighbor-boys" next door). Cassie was plump and angelic just a week after her birth--and with those round cheeks and beautiful head of fluffy black hair, she couldn't have been more photogenic!

She seemed too alert and curious to be just days old!

Cassie and her two big brothers...

Amanda and Scott: the Stevens Estate, North Andover

2010-11-27T16:09:00.022-05:00

I am so excited to finally post this wedding! Amanda and Scott's day was last in a very long stretch of weddings, so they have had to wait awhile for this unveiling! The wedding was exquisite, and Amanda and Scott such a terrific pair, I knew even a year ago that it was going to be a good one. Amanda is one of those gals who I connected with instantly. Spend five minutes with her, and you know she is a creator. Her artisitic vision came through in every detail of the day: the unique handmade stationary, the classy, not matchy but fabulously coorinated styles worn by the entire wedding party, the just married sign embellished with maps of significant locations in their lives, the necklace her parents had custom-made for her, the inclusion of customs from her mother's native Hawaii, and of course, the flowers. Amanda is a floral designer, so I knew her flowers would be incredible. I loved how her girls each carried a bouquet featuring a different flower, one with orchids, one with dalias, etc. There were spraying branches of berries, sweet calla posies for the mothers, and Amanda's adorable nephew carried a ring artichoke! The ceremony took place at St. Michaels in Noth Andover, and the reception at the elegant Stevens Estate--it was my first time there, and I was enamored with the house and beautiful grounds, the many brick out-buildings, and the intrigue of the beautiful manor with it's grand rooms, amazing archicture, and abundant period detail...We finished up with family and wedding party formals as the sun was just firey embers through the trees. And the reception was full of tears and emotion, laughter, and of course, hot moves on the dance floor! It was a splendid day, and despite a sprained ankle from my wedding the day before, I (and my wonderful assitant shooter Antonette) had an absolute blast. And sweet Amanda even let me take home one of the centerpieces, so I had a bouquet of orchids, dalias, and hygdrangea on my desk for full a week, a fragrant reminder of Amanda and Scott's 10-10-10 union (don't they have the best anniversary ever?). Enough ado, on to some photos...

Amanda's parents sweetly looking on...

Glamorous girl...

We caught the golden evening light, much to my pleasure.

One of Amanda's precious nephews.

"I've had the Time of my Life" from Dirty Dancing: best last dance song EVER.

And of course, the slideshow at last!

Nicole and Karl: Willowdale Estate

2010-11-21T20:38:00.023-05:00

It was back to one of my absolute favorite venues, the Willowdale Estate on another glistening October day for the wedding celebration of Nicole and Karl. With her rich dark hair and miles-long legs, Nicole was absolutely stunning in her lace gown. There is something so sweet and natural about her--and my lens loves her! But so do I--she and Karl are genuine and down to earth, and such good sports when presented with my crazy ideas (like stopping at random, perhaps slightly unsightly points along route one for their engagement shoot, including an attempt at "Karl's Sausages"). But it was ALL class and elegance on their wedding day. Nicole got ready in Willowdale's beautiful bridal suite, her entourage of gorgeous bridesmaids, her mother, mother-in-law, and both grandmothers by her side. Nicole and Karl first saw each other in the back patio, and then we made use of Willowdale's amazing grounds for family, wedding party and portraits of the two of them (chasing the "good light," I was hunkered low to the ground to avoid the parking lot full of cars, and catch the low streaming light through the trees and Nicole's veil). Then I got to hop in the limo with the bride, her father, and her girls (such an honor!) to head to the Blessed Sacrament Church in Saugus for the ceremony. And then it was back to Willowdale for a rowdy celebration lead by Nicole's charismatic cousin, D.J. Joshua Wiseman, who was absolutely fantastic! He has such energy and magnitism and I recommend him whole-heartedly--brides take note! I loved that Nicole's grandparents were out on the dance floor until the last minute--a sweet testament to the enduring love story that for Nicole and Karl is just beginning.

Being beautified from both sides.

Nicole's maid of honor had these crazy-gorgeous amber eyes.

Haha, if you look close, you can see me in this action shot!

Nicole's bouquet looks the most like my own wedding bouquet of any I have seen--so of course I absolutely loved it!

D.J. Josh lead them in a "newlywed game" (see left) and then held a hilarious dance contest (see right).

Jenny and Kevin: Willowdale Estate

2010-11-10T11:51:00.024-05:00

Jenny and Kevin's wedding was a much anticipated event for me. You may recognize the lovely, full-of-life Jenny. I have photographed her in a bridesmaid dress so many times, it was about time she was the one in flowing white, looking into my lens! I first met Jenny in 2008, when she donned a vibrant green frock in the wedding of one of my wonderful couples, Megan and Paul. She then told her sister Lisa about me, and there she was, gorgeous again in a long, chocolate gown on Lisa and Brendan's wedding day last October. And most recently, she sported a pale green dress at the wedding of one of her best friends, Katie (of the adorable Katie and Andy, whose wedding you'll find a few posts back). But on the first Saturday in October, it was Jenny who was the star of the day, and I loved showing up again, on another sunny October morning, at the Spinosa family home in Melrose. Again, I made use of the bright yellow and red walls, and captured Jenny's wonderful mother, father, and grandmother looking on as this time, their youngest daughter prepared to be married. This time I had the pleasure of meeting tiny Danny, born to Lisa and Brendan in July--an early one-year anniversary gift! When I conjour Jenny in my mind, I see a face that is always smiling...She is tall and lithe, with unbelievable honey eyes and flawless olive skin--and the best thing is, she is unaware of her beauty. She is a teacher, an athlete, most at home in a sweater and jeans, on a soccer field, or romping in the woods with her dogs....Which brings me to her wonderful new husband, Kevin. Kevin is a fireman, and he too is athletic, a lover of nature, of dogs, and most importantly, madly in love with his bride. From hearing their story, it was obvious when they met (playing soccer of course!) that they were going to build a life together. Their day started at the grand St. Mary's parish in Melrose, and then we fought fair traffic to attend the reception at Willowdale Estate in Topsfield (which I consider one of the most exquisite reception locations north of Boston). It was quite the party; Jenny and Kevin were surrounded all night by friends and family, encircled in so much love. Congratulations to the newlyweds, and at last, here are some photos...

Theresa of Dogwood Floral did a stellar job again with her floral creations.

On the left, Jenny and Lisa snuggle baby Danny; on the right, Katie watches as Jenny gets into her gown...I loved photographing these girls again!

I love that the orange, yellow, and blue was even reflected in the church...

Check out Jenny's amazing golden eyes.

I took about a million photos of this lovely, spirited bridesmaid--whose smile I remembered from Megan's wedding two years ago!

On the left, newlyweds, whose wedding was captured by my good pal Will; on the right, Lisa and Brendan, one year married!

I love this shot! I documented the weddings of all of these dashing couples :)

Turn up your volume and check out their slideshow:

Colleen and Mark: Wedding

2010-11-02T22:09:00.014-04:00

Colleen and Mark have the sweetest love story. They are each other's first love, and they have been together since they were thirteen years old. For this reason, their September wedding was a much-anticipated event! I had a blast getting to know Colleen's warm, funny family members as she got ready at her parents beach house in Seabrook, NH. Colleen is the youngest of four siblings, and it is obvious how adored she is by her doting parents, sweet sister, and hilarious brothers. I was especially taken by Riley, Colleen's charming neice, with her to-die-for vibrant red curles and sweet smile (what can I say, red-haired little girls are my weakness). From Seabrook, we traveled to North Andover where Colleen and Mark grew up, for the ceremony at St. Michael's Parish. After the ceremony, with mere moments of light left, we raced to the lawn beside the church, and grabbed a few photos before sunset. It was obvious to me, seeing how Mark holds Colleen, and how she looks up at him, that they are home in each other's arms--I could have shot them snuggled together for hours. However, perhaps lucky for them, we were out of light after a few minutes, and moved on to the reception at The Commons on the town green in Topsfield. At the reception, Colleen's siblings made a slideshow featuring photos of Colleen and Mark over the last decade, and it was so sweet to see them as teenagers, and watch them as they grew up together...And it was even sweeter to watch them see the story unfold too, hand in hand, as a newly married couple. Many congratulations to you both--and now onto some photos!

I was loooving the blue wall against Colleen's fair skin and just-as-blue eyes.

Look at this angel. How could I not be smitten?

Tender moments during the ceremony.

I loved their snazzy entrance.

Lovin' the post-cake smooch!

And now for their slideshow....Be sure to turn your volume up!

Nicole and Karl: Engagement

2010-10-29T01:09:00.002-04:00

Nicole and Karl's beautiful October wedding day has already come and gone, but I wanted to be sure to post some images from their engagement session in August. Nicole was stunning in her vibrant floral dress and sassy black heels. It was apparent she at home in heels--you gotta respect a woman who can clomp around in heels in grassy fields and swampy farm grounds...She has this easy, youthful beauty about her...And it is obvious how much Karl adores her. We explored the gardens of beautiful Endicott Park in Danvers and the charming Alfalfa Farms Winery in Topsfield....And it was back to Topsfield two months later for their gorgeous October wedding--images from their day will follow!

The Patel Family 2010

2010-10-26T22:49:00.005-04:00

Our very dear friends Masumi and Nikesh were visiting from northern California in July, and after a Fourth of July cookout, we held what has become our annual Patel family photoshoot...After many Patel family events over the years, we are close with all of the members of the family: beautiful Sarita, Alan and his wonderful girlfriend Payel (in the snazzy black and white dress below), Masumi's adoring parents....And I was thrilled when Masumi said the ladies were again going to donn saris for the shoot! With her black pearl eyes and melt-your-heart smile, Masumi and Nikesh's beautiful daughter Nalini is enchanting to look at through my lens. You can certainly tell from the photos that she is the star of the show!

Sarita offers her perspective...

These are my favorite little curling feet!

Sunshine and Moonbeam

2010-10-20T09:34:00.008-04:00

I have not posted photos of my little lasses in so long, so here are some shots of our little Sunshine and Moonbeam (as their Daddy calls them) taken this summer in the midst of my wedding mania....First, ladies in red on the Fourth of July, and then the girlies romping in the backyard in end of summer sunlight...The shot of me and the girls in yellow was taken by my good friend and talented photographer Linda Pugliese during our annual trip to Long Island.

Maeve created modern art with her legs as her canvas...And yes, she did "paint" her own toenails...

First pigtails...

Annual "family" weekend on Long Island hosted by my dear friend Jurek.

Sunlight like fire through her hair...

An afternoon in Boston's Seaport district...

Stacy and Chris: Newburyport, MA

2010-10-18T23:10:00.026-04:00

Today marks one month since Stacy and Chris were married in the heart of charming downtown Newburyport. I have to start this post by recognizing what a true honor it was to document Stacy and Chris' day. Stacy is a wedding planner with Kate Parker Weddings, and this girl KNOWS weddings! To say she had vision for her wedding doesn't even begin to describe it--Stacy created MAGIC out of every last detail of her day...She unleashed her artistry on the grand at Mission Oak Room, with it's gothic windows and rich scarlet walls, and what resulted was sleek, modern-romantic, and luxe. Her color, of course, was RED, with bold black accents, like her sash and the brocade fabric draped everywhere. Sexy. Sassy. Oh and not to mention, delicious--berries in cocktails, cupcakes, and a whole spread of sweets. My fabulous friend and former teaching colleague Lorrinda Cerrutti was my second shooter for the day, and though it was her first wedding, she added her unique perspective (as a fellow arist and kindred spirit of mine, I wasn't surprised that it came naturally for her).

Something I loved was Stacy's sweet inability not to "wedding plan" her own wedding (she was quietly and gracefully running the show even when trying not to!). It is obvious that Stacy is passionate about what she does--not to mention excellent at it (future brides take note!). I could see her shoulders relax when her own planner, Shelby O'Connell of So Chic Events arrived on scene before the ceremony, and assured Stacy that every detail was in place, and the day was running according to plan.

And now I have to talk about Chris. With a leading lady so incredibly "in the know," you'd think he'd be one of those "just show up" grooms. But oh no, Chris was so present leading up to and on their wedding day--he was just as thoughtful, just as involved, just as excited for the day to unfold--and most importantly, so sweetly emotionally tuned to the sigificance of their union.

Okay, so I could draft an epic about this wedding, but I am going to limit myself to glimpses that I found particularly touching: the bridesmaids signing Stacy's shoes, the seat left open at the ceremony in honor of Stacy's late father, the tender look on Chris' face when he first saw his bride, Stacy's neices accompanying her walk down the aisle on violin, Stacy's tears during the ceremony making her eyes an even more striking blue, Chris sweeping his niece up into his arms right after the ceremony, the smile (and fabulously RED dress) on Stacy's tiny mother, Chris' father's epic, heartfelt toast, and his obvious pride in his son, Stacy's teeny-tiny hands in her husband's....I know, I am in full-throttle mush-mode, but this is what I took away....Actually, it's what I hope my photographs can say without my having to...

I melt for a pair of red shoes. And look at that bling!

The stars of the day...

Had to have more shoe shots.

Stacy picked out an alley for me ahead of time--see what I love this girl?

Fierce.

One of my favorites...

Stacy's nieces playing the processional.

The bouquets were beautiful against the black and white print. And against one bridesmaid's baby bump!

We were lucky to have live music during the wedding party formals.

I loved the name tags on the seats.

Here are some of the gorgeous details (featuring a mix of mine and lovely Lorrinda's shots):

And now for the slideshow...Make sure your volume is up so you can hear the song...

Jillian and Roger: Gloucester, MA

2010-10-11T10:21:00.010-04:00

With her rich auburn tresses, and glowing personality to match, Jillian had me at hello (in my book, redheads score immediate points, a bias I recognize, but cannot help). Then she told me she was going to wear hot pink shoes on her wedding day, and I all but swooned. Jillian loved planning her wedding, and the photography meant a lot to her and Roger--which is one of the reasons I was extra honored to document their day. And her fella just couldn't be sweeter! Roger is a new attorney, a total smartie, fair of skin and eyes, and just darn adorable (wore a scally cap to our engagement session, again, swoon-territory for me :). Jillian was a ray of sunshine when she answered the door on her wedding morning (I know, a cheesy metapher, but she is just that wonderful). She welcomed me and my amazing pal and fellow photographer Tara Lynn Sen so warmly, and made us feel so at home. Every piece of the wedding took place on the water in Gloucester: the preparation at her mother's home with it's own dock down to the bay, the ceremony at the quaint sea-side Annisquam Village Church, and the reception at Cruiseport which overlooks the harbor in the heart of Gloucester. Every detail of the day was carefully chosen, from the modern navy and hot pink color palate, to the snazzy footwear, to the locket tied to Jillian's bouquet, to the live singer, Katalin Matyus, a multi-talented singer/songwriter/dancer/choreograper who serenaded Jillian and Roger, as a gift from Jillian's mother. Perhaps my favorite moment of the entire night was during their last dance to "The Luckiest" by Ben Folds, when Roger looked down at his bride and tenderly sang every last word of the song to her. Enough said.

Jillian wore a locket tied to her bouquet in remembrance of her father.

Those tiny shoes belong to the Maid of Honor's sweet baby girl, who looked like a miniature bride herself in her white embroidered dress.

The snazzy wedding party, shot by the lovely Tara Lynn...

Of course we had to use the swing hanging from a willow tree beside the bay in a yard behind the church (thanks to the residents who live there and let us use it!)

Evening light streaming through the veil...

Beside the harbor at Cruiseport...

Sweet dancing moment captured by Tara Lynn....

This is one of my favorites of the whole night--the lovely lady on the right is Jillian's grandmother, out on the dance floor, and loving it!

Thanks to gorgeous uplighting and a rowdy crowd, there were so many fun dancing shots (many by Tara who rocked it out!), so I just had to make a montage....

For more, check out the slideshow, set to Roger and Jillian's first dance song, "Heavenly Day" by Patti Griffin, a folk-rock artist I have loved for a long time.

If the slideshow is slow to load, view it at it's own url here.

Michelle and Nick: Boston, MA

2010-10-01T11:39:00.015-04:00

When I first met Michelle and Nick, as they sat across the table from me and told their story, they couldn't help but snuggle and kiss each other. And I knew instantly that I was going to love them, that they were going to be so much fun to photograph, and that their wedding was going to be an absolute blast...Michelle and Nick met at the gym they both worked out at, and instantly felt a spark. They each have a son (interestingly named Jake and Jacob), and like I said, you only have to be in their presence for five minutes to know how passionately in love they are. Their wedding was on a boat on the Boston Harbor--a first for me. Something that made me know Michelle and Nick would be BOMB to shoot was when Michelle requested some "sexy photos." Nick is a body builder and she wanted some steamy shirtless shots--which I was of course happy to make happen! The ceremony was on board the boat, and the sun was blaring, but I found a sweet spot where I could obvserve the sweet expressions on Nick's face as he smiled at his bride. After, we all boarded the Majesty and sailed off into a gorgeous sunset against the Boston skyline. It was a rockin' party, and Michelle and Nick were so warm and enthusiastic (and they treated me like a friend/guest which is so sweet!), that I walked off that boat feeling contentedly exhausted (I had a cold!) but with a huge smile on my face.

We found a perfect alley for some sexy shots...

This was one of the groomsman's ideas--he was totally helping direct the shoot and I loved him!

We were kicked out of this spot just moments later...

On the left, Michelle and her son Jake; on the right, the new family

Little Jake walked his mother down the aisle.

This was our view of our beautiful city as the boat headed back to port.

To see more, check out their slideshow (and be sure to turn up your volume to hear the song):

Katie and Andy: Danvers, MA

2010-09-20T21:56:00.026-04:00

I have been waiting for the opportunity to shoot a wedding at Glen Magna Farms in Danvers, which is in my opinion, one of the most charming reception venues in the Boston area. And I couldn't have asked for a better couple to mark my first visit there! Katie and Andy are the most genuine, down-to-earth pair, and throughout their wedding day, that opinion was affirmed again and again, by the devoted friends and family who gathered around them, and even more, by the way that they looked at each other. Katie is soft-spoken and sweet, with a fresh, natural beauty and an understated elegance that made her such a pleasure to photograph. Andy is handsome in that authentic, all-American, dapper smart-guy way. He is one of those rare fellas, a mix of endearing and wacky and thoughtful and adorable--who isn't too cool for sentiment, who isn't too tough to look down and just adore his girl, no matter who is watching (or pointing a camera). After a sweet first look, some fun bridal party shots in a giant tree with sweeping limbs, and a walk with the bride and groom down the house's original tree-lined, gated driveway, we made our way to the walled gardens and wisteria-laden pergola for the ceremony. Andy's father officiated, which made for such a personal, warm ceremony (he had me shedding a tear to hear about how he felt when he son was born). Though clouds were rolling in, and there would be rain straight for the next week, it held off for Katie and Andy, and the evening stayed clear and dry--making for the perfect summer wedding night. Okay, enough ado, on to some photos!

I didn't notice while I was shooting that I placed the shoes next to Anne of Avonlea, one of my most beloved books from childhood (along with the others in Lucy Maude Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables series).

In the dress and surrounded by the paparazzi...

A sweet moment just after their first look.

This solemn moment is one of my favorites.

I told them to "walk tough." Interesting take on "tough" from Katie's brother...

Ahhh, I can never pass up a field of wild golden rod...

Andy's brother delivered one of the most charming toasts I've heard.

Andy's boyz liked to pick him up a lot.

And finally, here is Katie and Andy's slideshow (turn up your volume to hear the song!):

Sarah and Tijs: Boston, MA

2010-09-06T10:49:00.025-04:00

The day after celebrating five years since my own nuptials, I reported to Boston for Sarah and Tijs' mid-August wedding. Sarah and Tij met when Sarah was in the Netherlands for work, and in time, Tijs made the big move to Boston to pursue a Masters at MIT (and perhaps more importantly, to pursue his romance with Sarah). With her fair hair, feminine figure, and sweet, gentle demeanor, I couldn't help but think Sarah had a Grace Kelly vibe on her wedding day. You could tell she wasn't quite at home being the center of attention and being fawned over with makeup and hair-spray and general wedding girliness, yet her reticence made her that much more endearing, and made me want to capture her sweet nature through genuine in-between moments. Sarah and Tijs were married at the historic and unique MIT chapel, and the reception was held at the gorgeous (and also historic and unique) Liberty Hotel. One other unique aspect of the wedding was that the M.C.s for the night were two of the groomsmen, who were warm and entertaining--and more importantly, knew how to get a party started! Four things I learned from the wedding of Sarah and Tijs are that 1.) Dutch men are total hotties. 2.) Dutch men know how to rock pinstripes and tails 3.) Dutch men are not afraid to show each other affection and dance together. 4.) Dutch men know how to party. And more importantly, I realized how lucky it is that Sarah and Tij's paths crossed a continent away from here. Hearing toasts to the couple and seeing how much joy could fit into one small room was a testament to two remarkable people, and certainly a wonderful partnership ahead.

The Liberty Hotel retains some of the charm of it's former operation as a prison...

Here they look like they stepped out of another era...

The little flower girl was a bit shy with me at first--but not for long.

This peice in the chapel catches a thousand glints of light from the skylight.

Strappy silver shoes on some sassy ladies.

Meandering through an MIT building, we passed this RED stairwell...and had to stop of course!

It is obvious how loved Tijs is by his mother and brother.

For more photos from the day, check out their slideshow (turn your volume up to hear the song):

Kristen and Paul: Falmouth, MA

2010-09-01T22:43:00.018-04:00

It was back to beautiful Falmouth on the last day of July for the wedding of Kristen and Paul--and what a day, fierce blue sky scattered with tufts of clouds, a perfect evening to be on Cape Cod. Kristen and Paul are a photographer's dream couple; I knew this a year ago when we met for breakfast at a tiny diner in the middle of the Mass Pike. They are so friendly and easy-going and so happy together, and because photography is very important to them, they gave me lots of time, and planned for a stunning location (Nobska Lighthouse) so we could make use of the gorgeous destination they chose for their wedding. And they had the most fun, supportive wedding party, who were up for anything. The reception was such a party, and everyone was so friendly! So many people came up to chat, check on me, and ask if I needed anything (even the groom--how sweet of him to be aware of me when surrounded by so many loved ones). I can't say how much that means! It was an obvious reflection of what an amazing couple they are. Thanks K & P, I wish you the very best and look forward to staying in touch!

Gorgeous girl has such a bright, flirty smile.

This was my second time shooting at the beautiful Nobska lighthouse.

The day wouldn't be complete without a stroll along the docks.

Here I shot from the ground, and totally cut their heads off :) But for some reason, it's one of my favorites.

The reception held lots of laughter...

And rich emotion...

And of course, impressive dance moves!

One of my last shots of the night, but possibly my favorite...

Lastly, check out their slideshow (and be sure to turn up your volume to hear the song):

Theodore Michael: Newborn

2010-08-25T22:19:00.006-04:00

There is nothing better than photographing the babies of my brides and grooms, and last month, I had the honor of meeting tiny sweet Theo, born just one week earlier to one of my wonderful couples, Laura and Mike. Theo is the sweetest little snuggle-muffin! Laura and Mike's condo has a wonderful porch, painted gray, with lots of window light--perfect for portraits. So we wrapped the little guy up in some blankets and put him on pillows--and he was a little star! He snuggled up and slept peacefully for us (though I did get some awake shots too--what a precious little face). I was honored to capture these fleeting early moments for you, Laura and Mike--congratulations on your beautiful little boy!

Tiny fingers. Proud parents.

Gotta have some foot shots...

Laura's mother wove Theo's bassinet--isn't it beautiful?

Julia Grace: Teeny-tiny newborn

2010-08-24T09:57:00.020-04:00

Seven weeks ago, my cousin Kelly gave birth fourteen weeks early to a tiny baby girl, Julia Grace. Obviously, at only twenty-six weeks gestation, sweet Julia had a very fragile start. So though I was there and took photos on the day she was born, I have waited to announce her arrival and feature some photos here. But Julia has done beautifully in these seven weeks; all along, she has made strides quickly, and has done better than expected for such a wee little thing. So I think she is ready for her big reveal! Julia is beautiful, and we are all absolutely smitten. She has this golden-red downy hair that reminds me so much of my Viola when she was born...you don't see that hair color often on a teensy newborn!

Kelly and I are very close (we call each other sister-cousins), and I honestly can't think of someone more deserving of this gift of motherhood. Kelly has waited for this little girl for a long time, and Julia has come into a world that is full of open arms waiting to love her and support her and watch her grow.

On to some photos of the little angel...On this particular day (two weeks ago) Julia had her very first bath, and had only just started wearing real clothes (even the preemie clothes are big on her!). She is now, two weeks later, up to almost five pounds, and out of the isolette (the bed with glass cover that looks like she is in outer space or something) and into a regular bassinett. Of course, more photos will follow as Julia grows even stronger, and is finally able to come home!

The little sweet pea fresh from her first bath.

This is my absolute favorite. While the nurse bathed and changed her, Julia kept craning her neck toward her mother's voice.

The nurse used a TOOTHBRUSH to comb her hair, that's how tiny she is!

Alert, inquisitive (and beautiful!) already...

The proud Mama looks on, with emotion.

Some of Julia's preemie fashions.

You are so loved, sweet baby girl. We can't wait to welcome you home!

Kate and Reza: Boston, MA

2010-08-20T02:09:00.015-04:00

Kate and Reza's wedding was classy and elegant down to every last detail. They were married at the historic Omni Parker House, right there in the heart of downtown Boston. Kate is one classy gal, and she was glamorous in her gown and long veil. It was so sweet to watch her relationship with her mother; it is obvious how much the two women mean to each other, and her mother's toast was one of the most touching I have heard. And then there was Reza, snazzy in his black tie, grinning that adorable youthful-looking grin of his. Reza and I have one common link, and that is my best guy, Suj Sen. He has been close friends with both of since college, yet somehow Reza's and my circles didn't overlap. Or so I thought! At the wedding, I realized Reza and I had multiple pockets of friends in common in college, going all the way back to my freshman year. For this reason, it was the first time I ever attended the after party at a wedding I was working; I didn't arrive home until 2 am that night (it was so much fun, totally worth my exhaustion the next day). It was my Sista of the Lens, Suj's wife Tara who recommended me to Kate and Reza for their wedding, and she shot alongside me for the first half of the day, then donned a sassy frock and heels and hit the dance floor as solely a guest for the rest of the evening. Kate and Reza, it was a pleasure getting to know you two; I am so glad our paths have crossed, and I hope to have the opportunity to spend time with you soon. Congrats to the newlyweds!

Shot by the lovely Tara Lynn Sen. Here Reza gets some online assistance in tying his own bowtie.

Shot on left by Tara.

Glamorous girl.

On the steps of Old City Hall.

A sweet moment between Kate and her dad.

Loving this hot pink dress--this guest wore it with the exhuberance it deserved!

I love this shot of Tara dancing with one of the priests (they had both a Christian and Muslim priest officiate to honor both of their backgrounds). This priest was warm and charismatic, and as you can see, he was the life of the party!

On the balcony at dusk, overlooking the Boston skyline.

And of course, their slideshow. Be sure to turn your volume up to hear the song!

Caitlin and Chris: Danvers, MA

2010-08-18T09:27:00.018-04:00

When Caitlin first called me last year, she mentioned she was at one of the weddings I had photographed in the fall. She said she knew the bride Lisa because they were in the same dance company growing up. I remembered Lisa's "dance friends" well, as they graced the dance floor at the wedding with style and poise and of course, fabulous moves. So when Caitlin mentioned that she is a red-head, I immediately interjected, "I remember you! You were wearing a hot pink dress." Even in a crowd of almost 300 guests, I remember a gorgeous ginger any day! And when Caitlin arrived on my doorstep one afternoon, and we sat down for tea in the messy kitchen of my just-bought "fix-her-upper" house, I knew that it was more than her red hair that had me at hello....Caitlin is warm and sweet, and has the most lovely personality--and her smile is so genuine and uplifting, see below for affirmation...

My girl Tara Lynn Sen joined me for the wedding (as always enhancing the day for me), and when we arrived at Caitlin's mother's house on the morning of the wedding, I walked into such warmth. I absolutely love it when my brides and their families are excited about their photos--and nothing beats walking into a house, and immediately being welcomed excitedly by sisters and cousins and neices (thanks to all of the wonderful ladies in Caitlin's life for being so kind!). Though Caitlin's new husband was not terribly excited about romancing his bride in front of a camera (I got the feeling it was to him a rare form of torture--posing for wedding photos is definitely not everyone's cup of tea!), Chris nonetheless honored his new wife's wishes, and they stood beside the harbor at Danversport Yacht Club while Caitlin's veil blew around him in the blue dusk. And at the reception, I got to see him come alive, beaming at his bride on the dance floor, and thoroughly enjoying their night. And I did manage to even snap a few shots of this (haha, I got you, Chris!!!). And to the lovely bride: nothing beats your smile, Caitlin. It is as vibrant as your hair, and it has been an honor getting to know you.

Could a person be more colorful? The shine of her hair, the pacific blue eyes...

One of Caitlin's flower-girls. As you can see from that grin, she was a cunning little lass!

Another of Caitlin's beautiful neices. She looks like a dancer to me too.

Just a little bit of light left...

A glamorous guest capturing a different perspective.

This is my absolute favorite dancing shot--captured by the amazing Tara Lynn Sen, who always rocks the lens on the dance floor...

And this too...

Caitlin and Chris donned leis in honor of their honeymoon to Hawaii.

Lastly, take a peek at their slideshow (and be sure to turn up the volume):

The Summer Nursery: Yvonne Blacker Interiors

2010-08-17T11:24:00.014-04:00

A few months ago, I was invited to join a book club with a group of women in my neighborhood. Through this book club, I have come to know a fabulous artist and mother living right across the street, just a few houses down....As she said when we started emailing about book club, "I didn't realize I wasn't the only one blogging on this street!" Yvonne is an interior designer, and she is so talented! She is beautiful, stylish, creative...all this and she is a mother to FOUR boys! I don't know how she stays fabulous and maintains her amazing business and blog, but she does. Her company is Yvonne Blacker Interiors, check out her work! I had the pleasure of taking photographs of a design exhibit she recently took part in, "Reflecting on Danvers History Through Interior Design." Check out some of the images from her beautiful space, entitled "The Summer Nursery." It is both sleek and soft, whimsical and elegant....Little Maeve even modeled for me in the space. And check out Yvonne's blog for a beautiful description of the space; she is articulate and poetic in her narration, another of her many talents!

The bassinet is so delicate and soft, my favorite piece in the space.

One major thread throughout the space was that of children's literature; here is a drawing by children's book author and illustrator Eloise Wilkin.

And of course, I can't help but sneak in a shot of my little ladies on the steps of the Danvers Historical society...

Samantha and Elmer: East Boston, MA

2010-08-05T22:37:00.019-04:00

Samantha only booked me only couple months before her wedding, but I am so glad she did! She is such a sweet gal, and I loved getting to know her wonderful family and adorable new husband, Elmer. Samantha had a "Man" of honor, and Bobby was there beside her every second, holding the dress, swooping in with makeup re-touching, and just over all rocking the various roles of Wedding Planner/Task Manager/Fashion Consultant extraordinaire. My Lady of the Lens Tara Lynn Sen joined me, and I was so happy for her assistance, especially when the drama ran high when we found ourselves in flash floods in Everett (remember that day in mid-July when Everett flooded? Yeah, that was it. And yeah, we were there. Right there in it). We had detoured off our route because of traffic, and were following behind the bride's car....So we couldn't lose her, and had to delve right into the road-turned-river, in and out of the flooded sections, for at least a mile. But the car pushed through and we finally made it, nearly an hour later than the ceremony was scheduled to start...But the rain tapered off just as we were arriving at East Boston Piers Park, and by the time we went to the cool shipyard next to it for some wedding party photos (it was a shipyard/art gallery, seriously! What a gem of a spot. There was even an Octupus Lady perched on the roof of one of the buildings) the sun was sparkling through the clouds. I had to stand in a puddle to get the shot, but it was worth it! Thank you, Samantha and Elmer, for letting me and Tara be part of your day. And now, some photos...

Shout out to Samantha's makeup artist, Ryan Carpenter. He did a stunning job (contact me if you want his info.).

Look at this gorgeous girl...

I have to include an image from the flood--shot through my front windshield. The bride and her entourage are in the two cars in front of us.

Our fashionably late arrival at the ceremony site. Rain ceased.

Samantha, her man, and her man-in-waiting.

Sassy ladies in red.

I loved this cool doorway...A little grubby (and fish-smelling) but worth it I hope!

Click below to view Samantha and Elmer's slideshow (be sure your volume is up!).

Viola's Fairy Party

2010-08-03T18:33:00.018-04:00

It amazes me that my little girl turned FOUR a month ago. It seems like yesterday that I held her tiny buddha body in my arms for the first time and stared in amazement at her tiny fingers, spindly limbs and fuzzy golden-red mullet...And now she is tall and smart as a whip, demanding and imaginative and funny, headstrong and difficult and so very loving. She is my side-kick, my little best friend, and she continues to amaze me, like she did that first day, landing in my arms and baffling me with her shock of ginger hair. And more amazing, the shock of how much I could love someone I barely knew. How I would give my life for this six-pound person...my Viola Mary, my Little Tiny, my teeny Baby Beanie....

For her fourth birthday party, Viola requested a fairy party (and I did not put the idea in her head, it was all her own fancy!). We hired amazing face painter, Jayne Tillinghast (you can reach her at jayna2u@hotmail.com), whose mystical whimsy transformed the kiddos into such enchanting creatures (we had animals, super heroes, and of course, lots of pixies and sprites). I couldn't put my camera down--the little faces around me were so vibrant and adorable! So at last, take a peek into Viola's special day, surrounded by her many wonderful friends and cousins.

Viola's dance friend Ava has the most enchanting eyes.

The kids made a wand craft, there were gobs of glitter glue everywhere...

Awww, my littlest fairy, my dark eyed girl.

Jayne is such an artist--her work is magical.

Okay, I have to stop here. Could Julie be any more gorgeous?

None of that fairy thing for Alissa--she had to rock it spider girl-style...

How adorable is Nyomi!

My precious neice and goddaughter Adeline rocking a tutu. Oh my little chub-muffin!

Paige's honey eyes, Ainsley's mass of rich curls...

Miah's sparkly eyes...

Wells was the only boy wearing a fairy-looking outfit (actually he looked like he was out of star wars)...And the little man was so adorable posing for me...

I love this shot of Charlotte with her huge eyes...

Oh my little Caleb in his cap (which he never takes off, sweet lad).

To see a few more photos from the day, take a peek at the slideshow I made. Make sure your volume is up to hear the song, Viola's favorite from the Tinkerbell soundtrack. I made it mostly for the birthday girl, ending it with a brief montage of pictures from the last four years (that made me a little weepy to go through)...

Meredith and Sean: Portsmouth, NH

2010-07-27T01:38:00.010-04:00

Meredith both called and emailed me one morning over a year ago, eager to find out if I was booked for her wedding date--and as soon as I spoke with her, and heard the excitement in her voice, I just knew we were going to hit it off. We met up for coffee soon after, and the meeting was a first for me: within a half hour of chatting, they signed with me, and we went immediately out into the streets of Portsmouth for their engagement session. They are up for anything, and oh my goodness, to see Sean look at Meredith! He smiles with his eyes, and is so funny and genuine, that you can't help but think the world is a wonderful place in his presence. And Meredith is so tiny and lovely, that Sean just sweeps her up in his arms, and it is so sweet to see. Their wedding was so well thought out and meaningful. I was fortunate to have the help of my friend and talented photographer, Mat Gardella, who was an enormous help, as well as being positive and uplifting and keeping me laughing all day (even when one of my cameras kicked it in the middle of the wedding). We started with their adorable first look on the steps of the lovely Wentworth by the Sea Hotel, and then hopped in a trolley to go to the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, located at historic Fort Constitution. We had clearance to enter the fort, and I fell in love with the grounds, and especially the inside of the lighthouse, with its brick walls and swirling staircase that made me feel like we were inside a seashell...This oceanside theme was present in every detail of the day: the ceremony overlooking the harbor, the tables each named after a different lighthouse in New England, the two tiny adirondack chairs on top of the cake, and at the base, their initials drawn in sand....But best of all was just being in their presence, seeing Sean beam at his bride, and seeing their marriage off to such a wonderful start. Congratulations M & S, you two are the best, and I hope you enjoy your first peek at the photos...

High-fiving after their first look.

The shot on the right is by awesome second shooter Mat--it is one of my favorites!

The inside of the lighthouse was amazing. Love the angle of the shot on the right by Mat..

Close-up kiss shot by Mat!

A little flower girl drama...Sean's neice was so cute!

On the right, one of the shots from part B of their engagement shoot on Rye Beach.

Sean's brother's best man toast was taped to a skateboard, a momento from their childhood.

There were some killer moves on the dance floor--such as this gem...

And last, their slideshow. Be sure to turn your volume up to get the full effect:

Jen and Eric: Wedding

2010-07-12T23:21:00.009-04:00

Today marks one month since Jen and Eric were married at the beautiful Simsbury Inn in Simsbury, CT. Eric is one of my little brother's best friends, and he is the whole package: brains, handsomeness, kindess, athleticism (he is a renassaince man, and is even into photography! So you know he's gotta be awesome). But honestly, the quality that stood out to me the most on their wedding day was how apparent and tender his love for Jen is. He barely took his eyes off her all day, smiling down at her with his cute broad smile! In fact, I would give Jen and Eric the award for "most ridiculously adorable smiles," Eric with his pearly-straight teeth and Jen with her huge smile and precious dimple...And they are both tall and athletic--the kind of gorgeous that is the best gorgeous because they are both so seemingly unaware and natural...In fact, Jen had us laughing so hard in the bridal suite--no drama, just warmth and laughter. It was a pleasure capturing all of the sweet moments of their day. Jen and Eric, I apologize for the delay--you made my job so easy, and at last, here is the result...

Loved the Inn's blue damask wallpaper and mirrors for shots in every direction...

Jen, gorgeous in b&w...

See what I mean about the adorable dimples!

Jen is my first bride to wear a gardenia in her hair--like I did on my wedding day :)

Flashing those fabulous smiles at each other.

Jen's dad was so smiley and sentimental all day.

No wedding is complete with out a couple guys strumming the classic air guitar

And of course, the slideshow (as always, turn up the volume!):

Alison and Billy: Wedding

2010-07-10T00:36:00.012-04:00

When I met Alison, I knew instantly we were going to be a match. She came to meet me with two of her three wonderful sisters, her wedding planning team--and we laughed and bonded over tea and could have gabbed for hours. Alison is warm and smiley and and sweet, and this of course was particularly true on her wedding day--she was absolutely glowing all day long, with beauty, with happiness...Exactly the way you should feel on your wedding day (I know, I may sound cheesy to say, but I can because I was looking at her through a camera lens all day long :) Alison and Billy both grew up in Roslindale, and started dating when they were only 17. And they found themselves, more than a decade later, standing across from each other on the most perfect evening you could want (the clouds parted for clear blue sky and a gorgeous sunset over the water at the lovely Lakeview Pavilion, in Foxboro) affirming their long-held promise to each other. I loved Alison's asthetic, the super-vibrant colors (hooray for hot PINK), the totally fabulous shoes, the pretty-in-pink programs that doubled as fans, the underwater orchids, (centerpeices), the fluffy peony in her hair...But mostly, I loved watching Alison and Billy honor their enduring partnership. Thanks to the happy couple for that honor!

Did I mention I loved Alison's choice of COLOR? And I couldn't hold myself back from that orange wall (thanks sweet Kelly!)

Red carpet caliber hair. Shockingly blue eyes.

Alison, you gorgeous girl.

FAVORITE shot of the night. I stole the videographer's light on this one (shout out to Gary of Gary Antle Productions)

Last, but not least, the slideshow! Turn your volume up and enjoy...

Rachel and Evan: Wedding

2010-06-27T16:42:00.013-04:00

As I walked into Rachel's suite that Sunday morning of her and Evan's much-awaited wedding day, I was immediately enveloped in the warmth and wonderful energy that mark the women in her life. And I felt so at home there--I swear, I was in my own revelry of memory listening to the songs playing from Rachel's ipod--it could have been my ipod! And that feeling was with me throughout the day, as I cried like a dork behind my lens. I had the help of amazing husband and wife photography duo Tony and Anna Yu, who ROCKED IT OUT along side me (see their amazing work sprinked all over this post and slideshow). I think I can safely say, we left no moment un-captured.

Rachel and Evan met in college at Tufts University, and they decided the beautiful Tufts campus would be a meaningful location for their photos. They chose to have their first look under a brick arch called Bowen Gate. The lore is, if you kiss someone under Bowen Gate, you will end up marrying him/her. Rachel and Evan kissed there in college, and so it was the perfect place for Evan to first behold his bride, in all of her gorgeousness on their wedding day. And oh my was she stunning! Rachel has such poise and presence, and the loveliest features: flawless skin, rosebud lips, high cheekbones--she looks like she stepped out of a 1940s black and white film...The reception was at the coolest location, Springstep Studios in Medford, and the modern architecture and bold colors made for lots of fun for me and Team Yu.

Every touch throughout the day was personal and hand-made, and artfully and carefully chosen. Rachel and Evan are very sentimental, and very in love, and every aspect of the day was thought-out and meaningful: the rituals, the traditions they incorporated to honor their Jewish heritage, the importance of their families, the significance of their public declarations to one another. As I told Rachel, the wedding "had me at hello:" I laughed, cried, and sang along all day. Here's to a couple whose partnership is a reminder that true, enduring love exists. Enjoy the (many) photos below...

Tony captured this shot of their emotional first look...

The lore of Bowen Gate ringing true!

Rachel in all of her glam. You are a model, girl!

Rachel and Evan incorporated many traditions from their Jewish heritage into the day. Lovely Anna captured the shot on the right.

And her hot hubby caught this one looking down through the window of the Atrium one floor above.

On the right, another dazzling perspective from Team Yu!

Rachel's grandparents holding photos from their own wedding days...

Some advice from Rachel's grandmother for her new grandson-in-law. She had spunk. I loved her vibrant rainbow pants suit!

I love the shallow depth of field in this shot by Tony.

One of the most tender moments of the night was when Rachel sang to her new husband. It was a capella, and she stared into his eyes the whole time. So touching.

And of course, the slideshow (be sure to turn up your volume to hear the song!):

Debbie and Dan: wedding

2010-06-23T14:57:00.017-04:00

Debbie and Dan were married at the Waterview in Monroe, CT on Memorial Day weekend, just after the setting sun peeked through the clouds for the first time all day. Debbie is the sister of one of my close college friends, and I was struck by how alike they look. Though I had only met Debbie once before, all day, I felt like I was looking at an old friend though my viewfinder. Like her big sis Marji, Debbie is smart, funny, sincere, and exceptionally lovely and sexy. I was joined by sweet and talented photographer, Liza Erario, who added her warm personality and eye for striking moments. It was a pleasure spending the day with Debbie and Dan and their wonderful families, and I'm happy to present some of my favorite shots from the day...

I couldn't help but grab a few pre-dress portraits against the red sofa.

I couldn't decide which shoe shot I prefered, so here's another.

Debbie and Dan's sweet first look...

A beaming Debbie captured by my awesome second shooter, Liza.

The Clark Eno Band was fabulous, as was gorgeous Marji delivering her clever, charming toast.

And lastly, the slideshow...Be sure to turn your volume up!

Amanda and Scott: Engagement

2010-06-20T10:49:00.007-04:00

I met up with Amanda and Scott in the Seaport district on a hot May evening, and we had so much fun exploring the area. Amanda and Scott were excellent sports as I convinced them to lean against peeling walls next to trash heaps, and sit on fish-smelling piles of ropes....But with Amanda's fabulous bright yellow heels and button nose, and Scott's cute smile (as I told him, he had the adorable-ness of Eliot from ET going on) they were so much fun to photograph. I can't wait for their 10-10-10 wedding!

Amanda brought me a bouquet of calla lilies, which was such a kind gesture--and they bloomed for a full month!

Jenny and Kevin: engagement

2010-06-19T23:21:00.007-04:00

I absolutely adore this couple. So far, I have photographed Jenny as a bridesmaid twice: her friend Megan's wedding, her sister Lisa's wedding, and this summer I will be shooting her friend Katie's wedding. But in October, it will be Jenny's turn to donn the white gown--and I can't wait! Jenny and Kevin are wonderful; they are down-to-earth, nature-loving, athletic--modeling may not be their favorite way to spend an evening, but they were awesome. We were all over the place. We started at their home with a couple "family portraits" with their adorable doggies, then went to the Lynn Woods Reservation, then to the beach in Marblehead, and since Kevin, a fireman, had to work that evening, we finished our shoot with a couple shots at the firehouse, which I LOVED...

I spotted their names in cement in front of the garage...

Kevin's gear--his shift was just about to begin.

We had some onlookers while at the firehouse...

Ruthie and Eric: Wedding

2010-06-12T01:54:00.006-04:00

Ruthie and Eric were married in Hyde Park on a sparkling mid-May evening. I had the pleasure of photographing Ruthie's sister Jammie's wedding three years ago, and I adored getting to know her wonderful three sisters and their families, so I was thrilled when the youngest Pistorino sister contacted me about her wedding. Ruthie is tiny and super-sweet, with the wonderful laugh that warms a room. I had so much fun grabbing shots of everyone squished into Ruthie and Eric's home, amid ruffled socks and strappy shoes, and piles of makeup and hair supplies. Ruthie's flock of neices and nephews, all in the wedding party, in tiny tuxes and dainty white embroidered dresses were particularly sweet--and as you will see, they are all over the slideshow. Eric is super-tall, and towers over his dainty bride. Oh and he has the most wonderful dimple that is always there when he's looking at her.I loved the genuine laughter they shared, and the way Eric smiled down at his tiny bride as he danced with her all night.

Carolyn and Ryan: Engagement

2010-06-10T09:30:00.004-04:00

I met up with Carolyn and Ryan in Gloucester for a genuine engagement session--in that they were very newly engaged, a brand new diamond sparkling on Carolyn's hand. Wingaersheek Beach, where Carolyn spent childhood summers, was beautiful in evening light, and we found some cool coves, and glistening low sun over the sea wall. Carolyn and Ryan chose the most perfect day for their marriage, August 13, which happens to be the day Matt and I were married nearly five years ago. I am excited to be spending our six-year anniversary celebrating Carolyn and Ryan's union (I guess Matt will have to romance me on the 14th next year).

Baby Isaac: newborn

2010-05-20T18:02:00.002-04:00

Introducing precious baby Issac! You may recognize his mom and dad from their maternity session images (a few posts ago), back when they didn't even know they were having a boy! Baby Issac was a little over a month old for this session, but you wouldn't know he was still so new, since he was so alert and had so much fun during our session. He followed me with those giant black-pearl eyes, and gazed up at his mom and dad with such contentment...I loved seeing sweet Aimee as a mother--she is so natural and calm with him, it was so sweet to see how she adores her little son. And what a proud Daddy Issac has! Eric was so excited for the photos, and he was up for any idea I had (laying on the floor for a "foot shot," baby nudes (fuzzy focus of course), "throwing" Issac up into the air (actually that was Eric's request). I can't wait for the moment when Issac squeals and laughs--I just know it will melt Eric's heart. And I have a feeling he'll be laughing soon--what a smart, alert little fella. I thought it would be nice to have some sleeping shots, but nope, Issac is too curious, and there was no way the little man was going to miss a moment. See for yourself below. Congratulations Aimee and Eric, what a wonderful little fella you have!

Ladies in Red

2010-05-17T18:21:00.006-04:00

I can't help but squeeze in this one more post of my lil' girls from last week. After Maeve woke up from her nap, we went to sit on the rocker on the front porch and cuddle. Her hair was all fluffy and curling, and she was in the sweetest, snuggliest, quietest mood. If you know Miss Maeve, moments where she is calm and still are extremely rare, so I grabbed my camera and seized the opportunity...amazingly, for a few minutes, she sat still and let me take her picture! She didn't quite smile, though she has started mugging the camera of late, leaning forward, squeezing her eyes shut and saying, "cheeeese." But she is never still long enough for me to capture those round gray eyes looking at me...So I just had to put a few of these up (including the "outtakes" montage at the end). The limelight was eventually stolen by big Sis in her favorite new red dress (she wore it three times in the last week, finally I had to wash it). These little lasses have stolen our hearts(I can't help but want one more--have to convince Matt he needs one more red-headed girl in the mix...or might we score a brown-head, or even crazier, a boy? Not likely :). But don't worry, my Bs & Gs, no babies during wedding season!

And here comes America's Next Top Model.

And of course...the montage. My particular favorite is the bottom middle. What a lady.

Fancy Viola

2010-05-16T18:06:00.007-04:00

I am so behind in my blogging, but I'm going to quickly throw up some recent photos of my fancy little lady (and her sassy little sidekick). Can't help it; they are my world. We recently discovered Fancy Nancy books, and Viola has since been on a kick of picking out her own clothes in the morning--and often instead of hitting her closet or dresser, she goes for the costume box. So you may see her out and about, in Stop & Shop, or romping around the backyard, all dolled up in tutus, wings, plastic high heels and her great-great grandmother's costume jewelry. And as many of you will attest, I can do nothing to stop it because she is a little lady after her mother's own frilly, sequiny, costumed heart :)

I caught the picture on the right last weekend, when she had been very quiet upstairs and so I went up to check on her. Of course I had to run and get the camera. She had fashioned this multi-layered step-stool so she could get to her desired fancy frock. Yup, this is what I walked into--a little tushie in pink undies reaching with all her might toward something sparkly...Ah my sweet girl.

I too was in a hat and heels for this fancy afternoon tea on the porch last week...

Even a little baby fairy flounced around the backyard...

I had to throw in some sweet shots of my little ladies moments after waking one morning last week...

...in their green polka dot p.j.s that match their room...

And here are some shots of last weekend's visit to Drumlin Farm. Daddy and his "sunshine."

My 'thinks-she's-a-big-girl-but-is-my-tiny-baby' baby.

A rare shot of me on the blog, with my sunny gals (photo credit goes to Matt).

One by one, Viola blew the seeds off every last dandelion in our yard.

V's current preferred hairstyle: "two poofs." Ah, the color of those wispy poofs in evening light...

I have one more quick personal post to publish tomorrow (Maeve actually let me take her picture), and then, on to recent (and past) shoots and my many snazzy couples!!!

Carly and Mike: wedding

2010-04-30T17:54:00.016-04:00

Interestingly, Carly almost didn't have a wedding day. And I don't mean she almost left Mike standing at the altar; rather, Carly almost became a nun. Her faith is extremely important to her; yet, after taking initital steps toward this chosen path, she decided that she yearned for a family, and her life took a different turn. She later met Mike, and soon found herself saying "I do" surrounded by friends and family in her beloved Catholic church. Carly and Mike started their life together with a ton of good luck, because it poured for their entire April wedding day....But it didn't put a damper for a second on their beautiful day. There were so many personal touches: Carly made the vibrant blue flowers the girls wore in their hair, and she and her bridesmaids made their own bouquets (Carly herself was tying ribbon around the stems just an hour before walking down the aisle)...And Mike is quite an amazing fella too. Embarressingly, I left my car lights on during the ceremony and my battery died--a wedding first (thank goodness). I mention it because, despite my protests, guess who came to my aid? Mike did. Yup, the GROOM. He barreled toward my car in his giant truck, hopped out, and in his tux, in the rain, he jumped my car in about two minutes...What a guy! I enjoyed every minute of the day (despite some major lighting challenges!), and I wish the newlyweds so much happiness. It is obvious to me they will have an amazing partnership, and that Carly made the right choice!

Love the flower accessories made by the bride herself.

The flower girl was a REDHEAD! And as you know, I have a thing for gingers...

You may be able to see rain slanting down at them in this shot--what good sports!

I loved the wall of pictures guests drew for the newlyweds.

I always love a good pair of converse on the dance floor.

And of course....the slideshow! Be sure to turn up your volume...

Anya and Chris: wedding

2010-04-21T08:54:00.005-04:00

Anya is one of the most striking women I have had the pleasure of photographing. She looks like Geena Davis, or some bombshell from the 1940s. And what I love is that she is so natural and laid-back and seemingly unaware, that her beauty is so refreshing. She and Chris met when she was interning at his office, and they hit it off instantly. They wanted a small, intimate evening without the usual wedding pomp; Anya said that all that mattered to her were "pictures and flowers," and that they were married in their beloved Boston. And with such a handsome couple, in such a lovely location, my job was easy. They were married alongside the Harbor in front of the Hyatt Harborside, the striking Boston skyline before them. Rough wind provided the drama they were trying to avoid--but I couldn't help but love the romance of Anya's dress billowing and long hair flying...And Anya's wonderful Russian family made sure that it was a party, no matter how simple an evening they wanted. So let me take you back to September again, and Anya and Chris' gorgeous, windswept affair...

Baby Greta: newborn

2010-04-20T19:42:00.008-04:00

Oh what a little snuggle-bug is new arrival, sweet baby Greta! Greta made her appearance two whole weeks late, but she is just perfect, and to her parents, worth every minute of waiting. Greta was born to two of my closest friends, Trish and Jason, and in fact, I feel partly responsible for her existence as I was the initial connection between them (Jason is one of my best college friends, and Trish is a college friend of one of my close friends from high school). I was among the first to have the honor of meeting Greta in the hospital--of course, I brought my camera. The photos speak for themselves; Trish is in awe of her little girl, and so thankful that after a rather harrowing birth, Greta is so healthy and perfect. And it melts my heart to see my Jason as a father; to see how he holds his daughter so tenderly, and looks down at her with such adoration. Greta is now over a week old, but these photos capture her only two days after her birth. So, without further ado, I introduce sweet Greta Frances!

Here she curled her tiny toes around Jason's finger--so sweet.

Jason loving both of his girls.

This one is my absolute favorite.

Aimee and Eric: maternity

2010-04-20T19:38:00.005-04:00

Baby Issac entered the world a few weeks ago, and I can't wait to get him in front of my lens! But while he was still curled up in the womb last month, I had the chance to do photos of his wonderful parents. The energy between Aimee and Eric is just wonderful to witness. Eric is hilarious, and so positive and upbeat and ready to lend a hand--and he's up for anything. And sweet Aimee is just a ray of sunshine, so doing their maternity session was such a pleasure. I think I was able to capture their wonderful dynamic: the spark between them, the fun they have together, and the sweet adoration and tenderness Eric has for Aimee. I can't wait to show you pictures of their sweet little guy, coming soon!

I couldn't help but include this one...

Melissa and Dean: wedding

2010-04-19T22:29:00.004-04:00

Melissa and I were extremely close when we were young girls at the cusp of adolescence, and so documenting her wedding was especially significant for me. At a time when everyone is uncertain and apprehensive, tip-toeing around identity, Melissa was already there: irrevocably herself, fiercly and completely. With Melissa by your side, every day is an adventure, life is colorful, and every minute lived full-throttle. It was so refreshing for me to reconnect with her, and see that she was still my Melissa--that two decades, college, a mortgage and a child hadn't dulled that spark--the big, bold personality, the precision and care for every detail, the energy and light that surround her. And that spark is reflected in her precious little girl, Charlotte. And to see Dean hold her on the dance floor, it is obvious to me that he sees that light more than anyone. Melissa designed and directed every detail of the decor, and the tent, with it's hundred white paper lanterns, and hints of blue everywhere, was so elegant. And once the reception started rolling, it was a celebration in every sense of the world. Below are some of my favorites...

Easter adventures

2010-04-17T14:18:00.006-04:00

On Easter, like most holidays, we managed to celebrate with both families, spending the morning with my family in Connecticut, and returning to Massachusetts in the afternoon to spend the evening with Matt's family. So my girls got the works: two easter egg hunts, two baskets filled with goodies (in fact, like many holidays, it's kind of a treat-overload since my girls have seven uncles and six aunts), and because I couldn't choose, they even had two Easter outfits, polka dot dresses and my favorite, lime green tutus...Here they are, along with my two darling nephews Samuel and Caleb, my snuggle-muffin baby goddaughter Adeline, and our great-neice, sweet Arianna (I know, great-neice sounds funny, but her mother, Matt's neice Kim is six months older than him). My favorite picture is of my girls sleeping in the car in between our Easter gatherings, exhausted from a morning of playing and gathering energy for their next adventure.

My brothers--as always, refusing to smile for me and being goofy...

Bath time for baby Adeline...

Exhausted after a morning of hard playing.

All about the girls

2010-04-13T08:47:00.024-04:00

I started writing a post to go with some recent photos of my little ladies, and when I looked up, it was seven paragraphs long. So I decided I would keep it simple, try not to get carried away doing what I do as a photographer--obsessively trying to preserve moments that are fleeting, days that are over too quickly. Time is flying and my children are growing so fast. They amaze me every day with what they are learning, who they are becoming, quirky and imaginative and thoughtful (Viola), reckless and cunning and strong-willed--just delightful (Maeve). I can't put into words how magical my world is with them in it, how wonderful and ordinary and exhilarating--and how thankful I am for every day with them.

Miah and Rocco

2010-04-08T10:14:00.005-04:00

Lorrinda was a colleage of mine when I taught at Lowell High School, and we always connected on so many levels. We became mothers around the same time, and soon after, we both left teaching to pursue the dream of running our own businesses. Her nine-month old son Rocco is irresistable with his perfect lips and chubby cheeks. Her daughter Miah and Viola get along great, and while they were over for a playdate a couple weeks ago, I couldn't resist but grab my camera to capture her children's huge dark eyes and sweet personalities. Maeve played "little Mommy" with baby Rocco, while Viola and Miah fluttered around as fairies--see below...

In costume

2010-04-01T13:45:00.011-04:00

I have been playing a game of catch-up this winter and spring after a long wedding season that went through the fall and into the winter, and I haven't blogged some of my favorite photos of the last few months. So I tried to narrow them down, and decided I couldn't go without blogging some of the photos from last Halloween. I LOVE Halloween, and since I've had kiddos, I love it even more. My girls had three sets of costumes: they were a witch and a black cat, a butterfly and lady bug, and of course, a pair of little mermaids...We had Halloween activities planned for four weeks straight, including a few costumed playdates. Of course, I had to bust out my camera for these. My favorite is the one of the kiddos in a huge pile of leaves (the contents of our whole yard), with Viola in the center, a look of pure joy on her face.

Meredith and Michael: wedding

2010-03-25T13:14:00.007-04:00

I know, I've been MIA for awhile! I decided to surface from album design this morning to update my blog a bit...My weddings got ahead of me in the early fall, and unfortunately I didn't keep up with blogging. But I promised to catch up during the slow season, which is about to end with my first wedding in two weeks...I've been working on Meredith and Michael's album, so I thought I'd take a few images and post them. I had so much fun getting to know Meredith and Michael. Meredith has a wonderful engergy about her, in addition to being a stunning gal--and it was a pleasure to witness her excitement as she prepared for her big day. She and her new husband were so happy to be married, and their exhuberance showed all day. My favorite moment was when they were dancing at the end of the night, eyes locked, passionately singing "Caught in this Moment" to one another. Seriously. Too sweet for words. So I set their slideshow to that song (below). I love my job!

Kelly and Joe: wedding

2010-01-26T16:28:00.009-05:00

Kelly and Joe's wedding took place on New Year's Eve during a blustery snow storm, and the happy couple was surrounded by abundant joy and celebration as they rung in 2010 as newlyweds. Kelly and Joe's wedding was extra-special for me because Kelly is one of my dearest childhood friends. She is thoughtful, smart, reliable, loving, and warm-hearted. When we were young we'd say we were two halves of a perfect person; she was left-brained: organized, quiet, studious, patient, and responsible, and I was right-brained: forgetful, day-dreamy, wildly emotional, artistic, and restless. I rocked writing and literature, she rocked physics and quadratic equasions....Yet we could complete each other's thoughts, and spent countless hours talking and giggling, sharing every last detail of our lives. She was there during the chaos of the teenage years, and she was a shoulder when my heart was broken, my trusted confidant, and a constant smile (she even looks like sunshine with her golden hair and bright eyes). So here we are all grown up, she a scientist and I a photographer--so naturally, shooting her wedding was an absolute pleasure! Joe, her lucky guy, comes from a huge Portugese-American family, and their Big Fat Portugese wedding took place in the small fishing town of Pawcatuck, CT, where he grew up and most of his family lives. And the reception was in Haddam, CT where Kelly and I grew up! The snow storm lent so much charm and romance to the day; Kelly and Joe were surrounded by puffs of white and black tree bows laden with fresh snow--it was a post card New England winter wedding, and in every way a pleasure to photograph--see below!

The snow swirled all over (so beautifully) for the first half of the day.

Despite bare shoulders and frozen toes, Kelly toughed it out in the snow!

I love this shot of Kelly's little sister Ashley anticipating the stroke of midnight...

And a few other images of the crowd ringing in the new year...

Check out Kelly and Joe's slideshow for more (be sure to turn up your volume!).

Erin and Chris: wedding

2009-12-20T21:35:00.006-05:00

Below is the slideshow AND a collection of some of my favorite images from Erin and Chris' Thanksgiving weekend wedding. At last, a complete post! I intend to backtrack and post my favorites from the many weddings I shot this fall--but for now, here is a taste of Erin and Chris' beautiful day. They are such a warm, sweet couple who have a beautiful love story...I adore Erin's vibrant red hair so much (I'm a bit biased) that I couldn't narrow down the photos, and plastered her lovely face all over this post! The wedding was a blast to shoot because I had the best company--my fierce and talented pal Erica Ferrone, whose amazing photos are all over the post and slideshow. Without further ado, the snazzy Mr. and Mrs. Kelly...

Some loveliness by Erica...

I love the composition of this shot by Erica.

The shot on the right is all Erica!

And be sure to view this adorable couple's slideshow...

Jennifer and Phil: slideshow

2009-12-01T22:56:00.003-05:00

Last summer, I shot Phil's sister Catie's wedding, so Phil had some insight into what it's like to be in the path of my camera...In fact, in this endearing, caustic way he has, he muttered "if she wasn't pregnant, I'd toss her out the window." Luckily for me, I was sporting a huge baby bump then. But when his bride and mother Lauren (who was a colleage of mine when I taught at Lowell High School) booked me to shoot his wedding, I didn't have that excuse...Thankfully, he spared me :) In fact, he was downright adorable, looking at me suspiciously, but humoring me when I dragged them out in the freezing November night and layed on the ground to get the shot...I think his willingness was a testament to how much he loves his beautiful bride. Jennifer was stunning, the life of the party all night, even after she sprained her foot trying to break someone's fall (things got a little rowdy on the dance floor). Joking aside, it was a gorgeous evening, in a unique, lovely setting, and Jennifer and Phil were surrounded by a huge circle of support. It was a pleasure to document! See their slideshow below...

Don't forget to turn your volume up so you can hear the song...

p.s. Shout out to sweet Kelly Warren for joining me-- your smile is uplifting!

Erin and Chris: Sneak Peek

2009-11-29T22:40:00.008-05:00

I can't help it, I have to post a few images from Chris and Erin's late fall wedding yesterday...I am aware that my blog is dreadfully boring right now. I have only had time to post slideshows, and this blog is BEGGING for some photos! A photography blog without any photos, how wrong....Please know I am absolutely aware of this, and that I will soon be posting all kinds of gorgeousness from the last few months....So for now, a taste from my most recent wedding. I was so lucky to have the pleasure of my friend Erica Ferrone shooting beside me--she rocked it out as always. Also, I got to work with the fabulous Kennon Shaine of Cupid Video Productions again (brides, you have to check him out--a wonderful mix of talent and personality!). I adore Erin and Chris, and I was super-excited because Erin happens to be my first red-headed bride (and as most of you know, I have a thing for red hair :) Erin and Chris were troopers and braved the very cold, very blustery evening yesterday for some photos as the sun dropped behind the trees...How adorable are these two? More to come soon!

Stephanie and Brendan: slideshow

2009-11-10T12:11:00.009-05:00

Stephanie and Brendan's wedding was on a golden October Sunday evening at one of the most beautiful venues I've shot at, Willowdale Estate in Topsfield (it reminded me of our wedding venue, St. Clements Castlein Portland, CT, a fact that made me extra dreamy and excited to be there). Despite the fact that it was on the last day of the Topsfield Fair , and I got stuck in horrible traffic (I waited for over an hour to go two miles, and eventually ditched the car on the side of the road and RAN the last half-mile, three cameras and a big bag on my body. My mother-in-law, who was at the fair, drove me to Willowdale from there), I still made it with over an hour until the start of the ceremony! The wedding was gorgeous. Stephanie and Brendan are a terrific couple with a great story; when they met, neither was one to stay in the same place; however, their relationship survived their wanderlust, and despite many moves, travels, and adventures (I remember him saying he loves the mountains and she the ocean), I think they realized that home was where the other was--so many years later, they found themselves standing before friends and family saying their vows on this gorgeous autumn evening. They are not "pose in front of the camera" people, but damn they are a gorgeous couple, and I'm so glad they let me capture them in the last minutes of sunlight in that amazing setting...I know, this has been a long introduction, so on to their long-awaited slideshow...

Be sure to turn your volume up so you can hear the song!

Lisa and Brendan: slideshow

2009-11-07T11:14:00.004-05:00

I know, my blog is just slideshow after slideshow right now...I am still trying to recover from nine weekends straight of weddings this fall--so I apologize that I am so behind in posting my favorites from each wedding. I will get to all of them--it just might take me all winter :)

But for now, I am so excited to present Lisa and Brendan's slideshow! Their October wedding day was crisp and windy, but brilliantly sunny. Luckily, Lisa and Brendan planned time for photos before the ceremony, because the sun set while they said their vows at St. Mary's in Lisa's hometown of Melrose (what a beautiful church!). The reception, at the Danversport Yacht Club in Danvers, was so much fun; I loved watching Lisa (she is a dancer, and her poise and agility are apparent in all of the photos) and Brendan (check out his crazy green eyes!) experience their wedding and their first day as husband and wife. Without further delay...enjoy!

(As always, make sure the volume is up so you can hear the song!)

Laura and Mike: slideshow

2009-10-29T16:29:00.004-04:00

Laura and Mike have been very patient waiting for this slideshow--so I am super excited to post it! I felt like I knew Laura and Mike as soon as I met them--there just is a warmth and kindness about them. They both have a gentle, respectful, intelligent nature--oh, and they are quite the talented couple! At their engagement session, I had them bust out their instruments (they met when they both played in an orchestra, he the cello, she the viola) and play a little duet for me....And at the wedding, they had the opportunity to exhibit another fine art: dancing! Mike just has this classy presence about him on the dance floor (just look at his posture in the dancing photos), and Laura moves with softness and agility, even in layers of dress. The wedding was lovely in every way, and I'm happy to finally give you a taste of it...

Maggie and John: slideshow

2009-10-22T11:08:00.008-04:00

I am so excited to finally post Maggie and John's slideshow! You may remember this swank, sweet-as-pie couple from their colorful engagement session this spring. I absolutely loved getting to know them and observing their connection. Oh boy are they in love! Maggie just glows with energy and glam and spunk, and John has got to be the sweetest fella around. He adores his gal, and is just so kind and warm, it reminds you how wonderful and genuine some men can be (like my very own perfect amazing man :)...I will elaborate more when I post some of my favorite images from their Museum of Science wedding (hopefully it will be in the next decade--I am so behind!), but all you have to do is see their slideshow to get a sense of how creative and spunky they are (i.e. Converse, moustaches, the hair flowers Maggie MADE, etc.). I have to admit, I am totally smitten with this couple and their engergy, zest, passion for life and eachother...Make sure your volume is up so you can get the full effect. Oh and my girl Tara was with me, so these are a mix of shots by both of us...Enjoy!

Melissa and Dean: slideshow

2009-10-12T23:01:00.003-04:00

Melissa and Dean have already built a life together; they have a beautiful home, and an even more beautiful baby daughter, Charlotte. The final piece was their wedding, which they chose to have at their home in Durham, CT. They did it all themselves, and worked so hard to make every detail perfect. Every touch was evidence of Melissa's vision and creativity--and it was all so gorgeous! Melissa is a very special childhood friend of mine, and it meant the world to me to be there beside her as she celebrated her marriage and beautiful family.

Baby Layla: newborn

2009-09-30T03:26:00.008-04:00

Just days after baby Layla's birth, I got an e-mail from her mother Megan, a former colleague of mine from Lowell High School. Megan had planned on waiting to do portraits of Layla and her older brother next spring, but sweet Layla arrived early, and though perfectly healthy, weighed in at a wee four pounds! Megan knew that she would never be able to remember how very small Layla was, and how fleeting her newborn state would be, so she wrote to see if I could do a quick newborn session to capture Layla in all of her teeny-tininess...Becuase I adore wee little babies, and Megan happens to be one of my favorite women to photograph (she has a sparkling personality and she is stunning), I squeezed in a quick session--and I'm so glad we did! What a beautiful little angel (yup, I had to bust out angel wings for this one). Less than two weeks after giving birth (with no drugs by the way, amazing!), Megan was as stunning as ever, and watching her joy and tenderness as she cradled her tiny little daughter was so touching to observe. See for yourself...

Skinny, but strong little legs!

A Red Sox fan already.

Megan said Layla was like a little doll so with Viola's help, I ran with it:)

What's more precious than a little naked sleeping baby?

Laura and Joe: wedding

2009-09-29T00:15:00.007-04:00

Laura and Joe are such a fantastic couple! The ceremony and reception took place at the Pine Hills Golf Club in Plymouth. Tara and I were instantly smitten with Laura's warm, genial nature and Joe's charming grin and delicious pile of curls. Laura and Joe expressed that they are not into being photographed--but you would never know that. Once I had them in front of my camera, they were so natural and genuine with each other, that my job was just so easy. I want to give another shout-out to Laura's cousin and talented photographer, Erica Ferrone, to whom I owed the pleasure. And thanks once again to my lovely assistant, Tara Lynn Sen for being so upbeat, creative, and helpful--and of course, for the rockin' second perspective. Congratulations Laura and Joe; I wish you all the best, and look forward to keeping in touch!

Joe has lots of nephews--such cuties.

This next one is compliments of lovely Tara--how adorable!

I saw this delicious golden light coming through the grasses and had to have it...