Last Saturday was like a dream… the perfect day really. It was a long drive to Gwynn’s Island and a beautiful one. I arrived to Eleanore’s family home on Chesapeake Bay where she was just finishing up hair and makeup. I got started on Ellie’s details while everything was being setup and prepared all around the grounds. As soon as I was finished it was time to get Ellie in her beautiful gown before her and Breck’s first look. She was absolutely breathtaking! I love Ellie’s style! Her dress was perfectly, simple with just the right amount of detail and her jewelry was AWESOME! As you may know, I am a jewelry girl… I have an addiction to it actually so I was in love. She had really unique pieces, some old and some new. She wore her grandmother’s watch and another grandmother’s ring while her earrings and bracelet were from BHLDN. Anyway, back to the story!! We headed out to the front of the property for their first look. Breck was looking rather dapper and his excitement seeing Ellie for the first time was magical. The two of them embraced and smiled as they gazed into each other’s eyes. It was so special! We continued to shoot as we walked around the yard and onto the beach for a few more. These two were so awesome and so much fun to work with!! First looks are so great because we knocked out almost all of their pictures BEFORE the ceremony. We did majority of their family portraits and all of their bridal party and bride & groom portraits so they could have a chance to enjoy cocktail hour with all of their guests who traveled from all over to celebrate with them. Their waterfront ceremony was so intimate and lovely. The aisle was lined with florals and the rustic arch at the alter was the perfect detail to tie it all together. They giggled and smiled at each other while exchanging vows- it was a beautiful thing to be a part of! During cocktail hour, they served a variety of hors d’oeuvres; from local cheeses to hand shucked oysters. And their reception was nothing short of amazing! Details, details, details… everywhere! I would describe their décor as an eclectic modern rustic look. They had fabulous, rustic farm tables with beautiful floral accents and a collection of mismatched lanterns and vases. I loved every bit of it! After dinner and a little music courtesy of their band and a toast from Ellie’s father, we headed out to the docks for a fun surprise- FIREWORKS!! Being Memorial Day weekend, I found it to be an incredibly appropriate touch to end their fabulous celebration! It was a blast and SUCH an honor working with these two! The day couldn’t have been more special.
Event Planning and Design: LK Events and Design, Linens, China, Farm Tables: Classic Party Rentals of Virginia, Flowers: The Flower Cupboard, Catering: SeaShell Catering, Band: The Blue Tips, Groom suit and Bridesmaid dresses: J.Crew
Hair and Makeup: Catie Starr, Cake: The Cake Man, Strings: Festival Musicians
9 comments