Emily and Alex celebrated their wedding on a cool June day. I arrived in the early afternoon at the home where Emily grew up, as her friend put the finishing touches on her hair. I love when couples have some or all of their wedding celebrations at home, because it adds an extra layer of meaning to the images. Seeing the row of family photos on a picture ledge, and having a young Emily pointed out in one of them, I knew it was just the spot for a photo of her gown.
Once Emily was dressed, she walked out to the lushly landscaped backyard, where Alex was waiting for her. It’s easy for a first look to feel scripted, but Emily’s playfulness prevented anything too cliché. Rather than tapping Alex on the shoulder or telling him to turn around, she made her presence known by squeezing his bum. Their expressions were priceless. After sharing a few moments together, they read letters and private vows aloud to each other.
Tabor Academy was a no-brainer for Emily and Alex when it came to choosing their wedding venue. It’s where they met. And while they had overlapping friend groups when they were there as students, it wasn’t until years later at an alumni event, that they hit it off and started dating. Emily knew Alex was serious when he started asking about NCIS – her favorite TV show.
Emily’s younger sister Marty crafted and led the personalized ceremony. It started with a ring warming ceremony, passing the two wedding bands from guest to guest as Marty shared stories and invited important people in the couple’s lives to give readings and offer blessings. The rings finally came to rest in the hands of Alex’s mother. This was especially poignant, as Alex’s wedding band had been his father’s, who had passed away. After their vows and the exchange of rings, they shared a kiss, broke a glass, and came up the aisle with giant grins.
After that, it was time to party! From their very first inquiry, Emily told me there was going to be a “serious focus on fun,” with a band and plenty of dance floor space. From their first dance with their guests surrounding them, to being lifted up in the chairs for the hora, to their shared kiss after the last dance, I think they squeezed every bit of joy they could from this celebration. And it was a special treat for me to see a one of my past wedding couples (hi Leslie & Rich!) out on the dance floor, too.
Tabor Academy Wedding Vendor Team
Planner: Kelly O’Hara
Second Photographer: Kerri Green
Florist: Sayles Livingston Design
Band: Flipside
Videographer: Latimer Studios
Dress: Pronovias from Flair Boston
Makeup: Salon KG
Hair: Carbon Salon
If you like what you see, and are interested in having me photograph your Tabor Academy wedding, please get in touch.
