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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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!
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It’s Here – My 2024 Recap!
Wow, what a year 2024 has been! As I sit back and reflect on the incredible experiences I’ve had, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and joy. This year has been nothing short of amazing for my business, and I’m beyond excited to share the highlights with you. Read more about my 2024 Recap!
1. Working with the Most Amazing Couples, Families, & Vendors
First and foremost, I have had the absolute pleasure of working with the most wonderful couples and families. Each one of them was so down-to-earth, kind, and fun to be around. They truly made my job a joy, and I’m beyond grateful for the trust they placed in me to be part of their special moments. From intimate celebrations to larger weddings, each story was unique, and I cherished every second.
What made this year even more special was the incredible vendors I had the privilege of collaborating with. Working alongside such talented and passionate people has been a game changer. We were all on the same page, working together as a team to make sure every couple had the best day possible.
2. Learned My Limit
One of the most valuable lessons I learned in 2024 was understanding my limits. As someone who’s always eager to say “yes” and take on every opportunity that comes my way, I realized this year that balance is key. I’ve always wanted to give my all to my couples and clients, and while it hasn’t been perfect, I can confidently say I did a much better job this year of managing my workload and making time for the things that truly matter.
For the first time, I really committed to blocking off weekends to recharge and give my family the quality time they deserve. I took the entire month of July and September off, which allowed me to truly unplug and catch up on galleries. This not only helped me be a better partner and parent, but it also allowed me to come back to my work with a renewed sense of energy and creativity.
To ensure I could continue this healthier balance, I also capped the number of weddings I take on each year. My ideal number is 15 weddings, but no more than 18. This cap allows me to focus on delivering the best experience for each couple while still having weekends to escape with my family.
It’s not always easy to say no, but it’s something I’m proud to have prioritized in 2024. By honoring my personal limits, I’ve been able to show up fully for the amazing couples I work. Here’s to more balance and boundaries in 2025!
3. Found My Style
2024 was the year I truly found my style, both in terms of editing and my approach to a wedding day. It’s such a huge milestone for me, and I’m so excited to share what I’ve discovered.
When it comes to my editing style, I’ve learned to embrace my love for color. I’ve always been drawn to vibrant, bold hues, and I made it a point this year to let that shine through in my images. My focus is on keeping the colors true and bright, ensuring that the beauty of each moment comes alive in every photo. I want the images to feel vibrant and full of life, exactly like the days they represent.
Beyond editing, I’ve also honed in on how I approach a wedding day. For me, it’s all about capturing those moments that often go unnoticed — the little in-betweens, the quiet smiles, the unspoken glances. These are the moments that tell the true story of a wedding day. While I still capture posed images when needed (because I know some people feel more comfortable with direction), my goal is always to make sure you feel the photos, not just see them. I want the photos to evoke the emotion, the laughter, and the love that were there in that very moment.
Finding this style has made such a difference in my work, and I’m so grateful to have reached this point. It’s about telling a story that’s authentic and full of color, and I can’t wait to continue this journey in 2025, capturing even more beautiful moments in the years ahead.
4. Awesome Venues I Worked at in 2024
One of the most exciting parts of my job is getting to work at some truly stunning venues, and 2024 did not disappoint! I had the privilege of capturing weddings at a diverse range of locations, each with its own unique charm and beauty. Here are some of the amazing venues I had the chance to work at this year:
- Turner Hill in Ipswich – A gorgeous, classic venue with breathtaking views and impeccable service.
- Willowdale Estate – This historic venue with its rustic elegance and stunning grounds is always a favorite!
- Waverly Oaks in Plymouth – A picturesque location, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.
- Saphire Estate in Sharon – A beautiful, all-inclusive venue with a grand ballroom and stunning outdoor ceremony space.
- The Villa in Bridgewater – A timeless venue with classic charm and sophisticated elegance.
- Publick House in Sturbridge – A rustic New England venue with a cozy, intimate feel and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Grand View in Mendon – A venue that lives up to its name, offering sweeping views and a warm, inviting vibe.
- Steele Hill Resort in Sanbornton – A hidden gem with panoramic views of New Hampshire’s lakes and mountains.
- The Margate at Lake Winnipesaukee – A lakeside venue with a relaxed, yet stunning atmosphere.
- Bird Dog Cidery – A charming, rustic venue that provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, nature-filled celebration.
- LaBelle Winery in Derry – A beautiful vineyard setting that combines romance and elegance with a touch of rustic charm.
- Beauport in Gloucester – A scenic venue with incredible coastal views and a truly special ambiance.
- Bedford Village Inn in Bedford – An elegant venue that blends modern luxury with timeless New England charm.
- Eastern Yacht Club in Marblehead – A stunning waterfront venue that offers an elegant, nautical vibe.
Each of these venues provided a unique and unforgettable setting for the weddings I captured, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work at such incredible places. Whether it was an elegant ballroom, a serene lakeside, or a rustic vineyard, these venues made each wedding day feel extraordinary.
Thanks for reading my 2024 recap! I can’t wait to see where 2025 will take me, but I’m beyond grateful for the beautiful spaces I got to experience in 2024!
Interested in working together? Let’s chat!
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When it comes to weddings, there are some days that just feel magical from start to finish. Alix and Wiley’s wedding at Turner Hill in Ipswich was one of those rare and unforgettable occasions. From the couple’s radiant smiles to the flawless coordination of every detail, everything came together in a way that made this day simply perfect.
Turner Hill in Ipswich, with its stunning grounds and historic charm, provided the perfect backdrop for Alix and Wiley’s celebration. Nestled in the picturesque town of Ipswich, this venue combines the elegance of a classic New England estate with the warmth of rustic sophistication. The manicured gardens, grand estate, and sweeping views offered an unforgettable atmosphere for both the ceremony and reception.
Side note – if you haven’t been to Turner Hill yet, you’re missing out. It’s one of my favorite venues. With its unique blend of history and natural beauty, it offers something special for every couple.
Engagement Photos
When I first met Alix and Wiley, we instantly clicked. It felt like I had known them for a long time. Their personalities are so easygoing, kind, and filled with a deep respect for one another. And, let’s not forget, they are so cute and undeniably in love, it was a breeze working with them from start to finish. They made every moment effortless and fun, and their love for each other was truly inspiring.
And, to top it all off, Alix and Wiley brought their adorable pup along to both their engagement session and wedding day! She completely stole the show.
I realized I never posted about Alix and Wiley’s engagement photos…yikes! So, I wanted to share a few of those photos now. We also took these at Turner Hill, which provided a stunning, timeless backdrop for their engagement session. The couple was so natural in front of the camera, and we had such a fun time capturing their connection and excitement. Whether they were sharing a laugh, walking hand-in-hand, or simply enjoying each other’s company, their love for one another was clearly evident.
The Wedding Planning Queen
One of the things that truly stood out about this wedding was the planning process and all the credit goes to Alix. I have to give a huge shout-out to her because she deserves all the praise for the flawless execution of this day. Alix planned everything and I really mean everything. From the stunning invitations to custom cufflinks for the groom and matching pajamas for the bridal party, she put so much love and detail into every aspect of the celebration.
Alix truly has an eye for design and a knack for making everything feel personal and meaningful. The first dance, for instance, was beyond beautiful, they took dance lessons to ensure it was a moment that was unforgettable.
I’ve told Alix many times that she should seriously consider a career in wedding planning because she is a total natural. She made it look so effortless, but I know just how much thought and work went into bringing her vision to life.
The Wedding Day: Perfection in Every Moment
First Look with Dad
Alix and her dad share such a special bond, and their first look was one of the most emotional moments of the day. It was so beautiful to witness his pride and love for her as he saw her in her gown for the first time. It was a moment of pure joy and love, and I feel so grateful to have captured it.
First Look with Wiley
Alix’s first look with Wiley was absolutely breathtaking. She looked stunning, and his reaction was priceless. He was completely taken aback by her beauty. It was one of the best first looks I’ve ever seen because you could literally feel the excitement and anticipation for this next chapter of their lives together. And, of course, their pup joined them for this special moment too, adding an extra dose of cuteness to the scene.
A Special Moment at the 10th Hole
Right after the ceremony, we hopped into a golf cart and headed over to the 10th hole, where Wiley had previously asked for Alix’s father’s blessing. It was such a unique and memorable moment! The couple was able to tee off together, and their family and friends were able to watch from the ceremony site. This was particularly special because Alix and Wiley are members at Turner Hill and very involved with the club, so they were able to make this happen. It was such a cool experience, and I’m so glad they were able to incorporate a piece of their lives and memories into their wedding day.
A Day to Remember Forever
As the evening came to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on just how perfect everything turned out. Alix and Wiley’s wedding was a perfect blend of beauty, joy, love, and fun. A celebration that everyone will remember for years to come. From the heartfelt vows to the unforgettable first looks, and of course, the unforgettable moment on the golf course, it was a day to remember forever.
Thank you to Alix and Wiley for letting me be a part of their amazing day. It was truly an honor. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness!
The vendor that made the day seamless:
Photographer – @daniellelittlesphoto
Venue – @themansiononturnerhill
DJ – @begeventgroup
Videographer – @alexcole.photography
Florist- @justbloomdweddings
Caterer – @vinwoodcaterers
Dessert – @mayflour_
Make-up – @makeup.by.marlo
Hair – @faithdoeshair__style
Dress – @flairboston
Suits – @gibleesmenswear
Invitations – designed by bride and art by @ezymba_art
2nd shooter – @heatherlittlefieldphoto
Content creator – @marriedandsocial
If you’re getting married at Turner Hill in Ipswich, we should totally connect!
