wedding journal
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The coziest little spot on the Internet for inspiration, advice, and ideas for weddings in Boston and across New England.
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A perfect summer wedding at Grand View in Mendon MA was exactly what Simone and Joe got. The weather was unreal, the venue was gorgeous, and they were surrounded by the best people. These two have been together since high school, so this next chapter is extra exciting for them!
Getting Ready
The day started at a local hotel, where they got ready with their wedding party. The girls hung out, got their hair and makeup done, and I snapped some flat lays of all the little details. Meanwhile, the guys got ready in one of the suites, keeping things chill. Joe loves Sprite, so naturally, he and his groomsmen took a shot…of Sprite, of course, to kick off the day.
Once they got to Grand View, the girls finished getting ready in the beautiful bridal suite. None of the bridesmaids (except the Maid of Honor) had seen Simone’s dress, so we set up two reveals, one with her bridesmaids and another with the moms. Both were such sweet, emotional moments!
First look
Simone and Joe decided to do a first look because they wanted to spend as much time together as possible on their wedding day. It was such an emotional moment. Joe’s reaction said it all. Right after, they shared private vows, which I think is just so special. It gave them a quiet, intimate moment before the whirlwind of the day really kicked in.
Portraits, Wedding Party & Family Photos
The bonus of doing a first look? We were able to get all their portraits, wedding party, and family photos done before the ceremony! That meant they could head straight to cocktail hour and actually enjoy it with their guests.
Beautiful Ceremony
The ceremony site at Grand View is one of the most beautiful spaces I’ve seen, and I totally get why they picked this venue. Not only is there a grand staircase, but the lake backdrop is absolutely stunning. And like I said, the weather was perfect, just look at that sky!! Simone made the most gorgeous entrance, walking down the staircase with her brother before her dad met her halfway to walk her the rest of the way. Their close friend Erin officiated, making the ceremony even more personal. Even though Simone and Joe had already seen each other during their first look, there’s something different about that moment at the ceremony, it just hits differently.
Reception…party time!
Simone & Joe were definitely ready to celebrate with their family and friends. The reception was an absolute blast! The bridesmaids kicked things off by holding up giant letters spelling out the couple’s last name, and from there, the energy never died down. They even cut their cake with a sword, which was just as epic as it sounds! From nonstop dancing to so many fun, unforgettable moments, they truly had the best night.
Details
And we can’t forget about the details! So much time and effort goes into picking out everything, the invitations, flowers, cake, and colors, and it all came together beautifully. Every piece of their wedding reflected them perfectly, from the carefully chosen décor to the little personal touches scattered throughout the day.
Simone and Joe truly had a perfect summer wedding at Grand View.
Are you having a wedding at Grand View? Let’s chat! I’d love to hear all about your vision and capture every special moment of your day. Reach out, and let’s make it happen!
And Grand View is one of my top wedding venues in MA! Read more about it here.
The Vendors:
Photographer: @daniellelittlesphoto
Venue: @grandviewmendon
Videographer: @redrosevisuals
Dress: @kleinfeldbridal & @randyfenolibride
Hair: @niki.snips
Make-up: @beautybyelysep
Suits: @menswearhouse
Invitations: @zazzle
DJ/Band: @djelsid
Florist: @77blossomshop
Dessert: @gerardositalianbakery
2nd photographer: @elizabethstrokaphotography
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As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing love stories at some of the best wedding venues in Massachusetts. These venues not only offer breathtaking backdrops, but they also provide an incredible experience for couples and their guests. From elegant estates to waterfront gems, each of these venues stands out for its beauty, atmosphere, and top-notch service. One of the biggest reasons I recommend these venues, beyond their stunning locations, is the amazing staff. They go above and beyond to ensure that every wedding runs smoothly, making the day even more special for couples and vendors alike.
Turner Hill in Ipswich
Turner Hill is a breathtaking mansion wedding venue that is full of old-world charm. With its grand estate architecture, intricate details, and beautifully landscaped gardens, this venue feels like a fairytale setting. The stunning staircase inside the mansion is a perfect spot for dramatic bridal portraits, while the gardens and terrace create a romantic outdoor ceremony space.
Why I Love It: The venue’s timeless architecture and luxurious details make every photo feel straight out of a classic romance novel. There is also a beautiful spot inside for a ceremony should it rain.
Best for: Couples who want an elegant, historic venue with a touch lots of space and greenery.
The Staff: The team at Turner Hill is incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Saphire Estate in Sharon
Saphire Estate is a picture-perfect venue located on the shores of Lake Massapoag. The venue combines classic elegance with a modern touch, featuring a beautiful ballroom, a private courtyard, and a lakeside backdrop. Whether you’re having an outdoor ceremony by the water or a candlelit reception inside, this venue provides a stunning setting for every moment of your wedding day.
Why I Love It: The lakeside setting at sunset creates a dreamy, romantic atmosphere for portraits.
Best for: Couples who want a classic and sophisticated wedding with a waterfront view.
The Staff: The team at Saphire Estate is known for their exceptional hospitality and attention to detail, ensuring every couple feels special.
Willowdale Estate in Topsfield
Willowdale Estate is a hidden gem nestled in Bradley Palmer State Park, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and natural beauty. The stone mansion, with its ivy-covered walls and warm interior lighting, creates an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The estate’s courtyard is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, and the surrounding woodlands provide endless stunning photo opportunities in every season.
Why I Love It: The warm, golden glow of the estate at sunset makes for some of the most magical wedding portraits. The bathtub and library also make for stunning photos!
Best for: Couples looking for an elegant yet cozy wedding surrounded by nature.
The Staff: The team at Willowdale is exceptional, friendly, detail-oriented, and always ready to make sure everything runs seamlessly.
Waverly Oaks in Plymouth
For couples dreaming of a wedding with lush greenery and wide-open spaces, Waverly Oaks Golf Club is a fantastic choice. The beautifully manicured golf course, rolling hills, and classic New England charm make it an excellent setting for both ceremonies and receptions. The reception space is bright and airy, with large windows that allow for gorgeous natural light throughout the day.
Why I Love It: The scenic golf course provides incredible golden-hour shots with soft, dreamy light. And bonus is you have the entire space to yourself! There is also a great option for an indoor ceremony should it rain.
Best for: Couples who want a timeless and elegant wedding with picturesque outdoor views.
The Staff: The team here is professional, accommodating, and incredibly organized, making sure every event is stress-free and enjoyable.
Eastern Yacht Club in Marblehead
For couples who love the ocean, the Eastern Yacht Club in Marblehead is a spectacular waterfront venue. Overlooking Marblehead Harbor, this venue provides a perfect coastal wedding setting with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Whether you’re saying “I do” with sailboats in the background or dancing the night away in the elegant reception hall, the Eastern Yacht Club is a dream venue for nautical-loving couples.
Why I Love It: The ocean views and the golden light reflecting off the water make for some of the most stunning wedding portraits.
Best for: Couples who want a nautical-inspired wedding with an upscale, seaside feel.
The Staff: The staff here is incredibly accommodating, making sure every wedding is flawless and stress-free.
Grand View in Mendon
True to its name, Grand View in Mendon offers a spectacular lakeside setting with breathtaking scenery. This venue is ideal for couples who want a waterfront wedding without heading to the coast. The elegant ballroom, romantic gazebo, and beautifully landscaped grounds create a stunning backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions.
Why I Love It: The lakeside gazebo is perfect for intimate and emotional ceremony shots, while the sunsets over the water provide a dreamy glow for evening portraits. A bonus – you have the entire place to yourself!
Best for: Couples who want a waterfront wedding with a blend of elegance and natural beauty.
The Staff: The Grand View team is warm, professional, and incredibly helpful, making sure every couple’s vision comes to life effortlessly.
Are you planning a wedding at one of these stunning venues? Let’s connect—I’d love to capture your special day!
