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Author: Melanie Brooks
Photography by: Joyelle West Photography

A chance meeting in a NYC bar forever changed the lives of Rhonda Rendulich and Mark Silva. Rhonda and a friend were in NYC on a getaway weekend and Mark was out with his friends celebrating the end of his first year of law school. Coincidence or fate?

Rhonda hails from Minnesota and Mark from Staten Island. They didn't want to play geographic favorites to either family, and decided on a destination wedding in their new hometown choice. The couple searched for the perfect reception spot from the South End to South Boston. One look at the oh-so romantic Imperial Ballroom at the Park Plaza sealed the deal. The quick thinking couple hired event planner Pink Orchid Weddings to help plan their perfect day down to the last detail.

Look for Part 2 to learn more about this couple's classy bash!

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Lisa says:

LOVE the shoes!

(05.27.10 @ 12:20 PM)
Melanie says:

The photo of the shoes were one of my favorite photos, too!

(05.27.10 @ 01:30 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Rhonda & Mark Part 1 . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/189
Eric_Limon-0490.jpg
Author: Mellissa A. Knowles
Photography by: Eric Limon Photography

The Groom- a wedding duo's often overlook other half-plays an important role as a support system and planning partner for his bride-to-be. He may be content to just "pitch-in" when asked or manage non-wedding life, the house (my husband-to-be put in a new kitchen floor) or the car. Either way, planning a wedding is a trial run for how you will work together as a married couple.

Remember: A wedding is a massive undertaking, definitely not a one-woman show. Even through your fiance may be aesthetically challenged when choosing centerpieces or favors, he can be involved in so many other ways. So, give him a chance to show you he can handle anything you thrown at him, be it alter flowers or a kitchen floor.

Five helpful tasks for a groom:
  1. Plan budget
  2. Choose groomsmen's attire
  3. Plan rehearsal dinner
  4. Arranging wedding day transportation
  5. Plan honeymoon
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1stDance.jpg
Author: Mellissa Knowles
Photography by:
Lens Cap Productions

You have just found the wedding dress of your dreams but you just cannot swing the price. How does a bride-to-be score the perfect gown without blowing her budget?

Contact other shops carrying the same dress line as the one you want. Inquire about price, shipping time, and special sales. Check the internet for brides offering gently used gowns or bridal outlets selling at a discount. Armed with pricing information, you can negotiate for a lower price based on what others are asking. Bridal boutiques want to keep their brides happy and move merchandise. Chances are they will work with you, especially if you plan to buy a veil, shoes and accessories as well. Word of mouth and internet reviews sites such as Yelp can sometimes be enough incentive to make sure you walk away with dress in hand and a bit of green left in your pocket.

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Chloe Wren says:

One way you get can a budget-friendly dress is to buy a pre-owned or 'used' wedding dress. I got a beautiful gown from an individual seller at SmartBrideBoutique.com.

(04.09.10 @ 12:17 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Dream Dress On A Budget . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/107

Author: Kate Langenberg
Photography by: Emily Sterne Photography


If you're looking for a wedding venue that won't break the bank, why not consider City Hall? It's increasingly popular option for couples on a budget or for those who want a no-fuss ceremony. That doesn't have to mean no frills- you can still add personal style with flowers and capture the moment with a photographer. Here are five tips to help you get a head start on planning your City Hall Wedding.

Get a marriage license. Check with your local City Hall for application requirements. Some towns impose a brief waiting period before issuing the license. The license will expire after a certain number of days.

Pick your officiant. Your City Hall may employ a Justice of the Peace who can perform the ceremony. Make separate arrangements if you plan on being married by a clergy member. Out-of state clergy may need special permission to perform the ceremony in your state.

Verify witnesses. Some states require them, some don't. The same goes for different religions. Check with City Hall and your officiant to make sure you're prepared in case you need witnesses.

Resolve age concerns. Again, this varies by city, but you may need legal paperwork and parental assistance to obtain a marriage license if you're younger than a certain age. Proof of age in the form of a birth certificate or passport may also be necessary. It's likely that this information is posted on your city's web site.

Confirm details regarding the date, time, and guests. Find out whether you need to make an appointment for your City Hall Wedding. Ask whether there are any restrictions on the number of guests who can attend the ceremony.

*Getting Married in Beantown? Visit Boston City Hall weddings. Beantown Bride sponsor Person and Killian photography recently shot a Boston City Hall wedding visit their blog for more inspiring images on local couples eloping here in Boston.

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Sarah says:

Hooray! I think a JOP ceremony can be just as special as a regular wedding. My hubby and I had a quick (and very sweet and emotional) Boston JOP ceremony two weeks before our official GA wedding. There was something so wonderful about that ceremony; it was no frills, for sure, but the fact that it was just me, him, the officiant and no one else was extra special. We went to the Elephant & Castle directly afterward where complete strangers bought us a few rounds in celebration!

(03.25.10 @ 02:02 PM)
Shang says:

This is one of my fav features so far because I love the focus on the intimacy of the couple

(03.26.10 @ 11:42 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: City Hall Weddings Boston . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/124
March 17, 2010



Author: Andrea E. McHugh
Video by: GENERATIONS Cinemastories


Of course you need a killer gown (or two) for the wedding, but ask any experienced bride and they'll tell you about the array of events leading up to the big day: tastings, showers, registries, bridal expos, vendor meetings, beauty prep, shopping, shopping, shopping and more! You'll want to look your best as all eyes are on you. Remember Elle Wood's snarky observation of her nemesis? "He's engaged! She's got the six-carat Harry Winston on her bony, unpolished finger!"

Thankfully, Beantown is chock full of chic boutiques, and today we're gushing about South Boston's Ku De Ta. It's a one stop shop with the hippest fashion and accessory lines, including Justin Timberlake's William Rast, Nicole Richie's House of Harlow, Gwen Stefani's Harajuku Lovers, Gorjana, Joe's Jeans, Free People and Fumblin Foe, to drop just a few names.

Knowing brides and their 'maids can benefit from a little retail therapy, Ku De Ta hosts Girls NIght Out parties, where customers can indulge in an evening of shopping with 20% off store-wide and two hours of complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres! Get a sneek peak at the Ku De Ta's spring/summer collection at their fashion show on May 27th at the Liberty Hotel's Fashionably Late Thursdays series.

*Ku De Ta is generously offering 10% off exclusively to Beantown Bride readers! Happy shopping!

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Boston_Wedding_Photographer_Rob_Brown_31.jpgAuthor: Andrea E. McHugh
Photography by: Brown Photographic

Whether it's the allure of sea-swept bluffs, the perfectly rigged masts bobbing in the harbors or the charm of centuries-old church steeples peeking over multi-hued foliage, New England is unequivocally romantic any time of year. As the less-than-ideal economy has forced many engaged couples to scrap plans for a pricey European or Caribbean honeymoon, rediscovering domestic locales makes for an exciting, all-American adventure.

From historic cities to sleepy coastal communities, these ideological bookends are what make everything from Maine to Mystic an exhilarating road trip for newlyweds to explore together. Here's Beantown Bride's Top 10 Most Romantic New England honeymoon destinations:

1. Nantucket (MA): So close, but so far away, time seems to stand still on Nantucket. Luxurious inns, fine dining, pristine beaches and rich but simple living is what makes "the Gray Lady" so alluring. 

2. Newport (RI): The City-by-the-Sea plays hosts to concerts, festivals, and events all year-round, and keeps things interesting with diverse restaurants and cultural attractions. Take to the water aboard one of many sail or power boats that cruise Newport Harbor and embrace the city-wide tradition of toasting the sunset with a glass of champagne. Check out Marble House, William K. Vanderbilt's birthday gift to his bride, Alva, in 1892.

3. Martha's Vineyard (MA): There's a reason why movie moguls and celebrities escape to the Vineyard to get away from it all. Consider a stay in Edgartown, where Main Street is the heart of town and hospitality is gracious.

4. White Mountains (NH): Perfect for the hiking, backpacking, skiing and/or snowboarding couple - or those who like to perch themselves in the lodge and sip hot chocolate by the fire.

5. Boston (MA): Home sweet home. Rediscover why tens of thousands of visitors from around the world flock to what some consider the jewel of New England's crown. 

6. Manchester (VT): Iconic New England nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, Manchester is known for mom-and-pop eateries, antique shops and welcoming inns. Couples in love with the great outdoors can go fly-fishing and canoeing on the Battenkill River, or hiking through Merrick Forest or at Prospect Rock. 

7. Mt. Desert Island (ME): Home to breathtaking Acadia National Park, this island off the coast of Maine is all about living life out loud. Rough it with your newly bethrothed inside the park or pamper yourselves at one of the many bed and breakfasts in nearby Bay Harbor. 

8. Block Island (RI): When not ordering umbrella-festooned drinks at Ballard's beach (and bar), the best way to get acquainted with this 11-square-mile off-shore gem is by moped. Scoot on over to the North Light House (part of the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge) and the Southeast Lighthouse for killer views. There's a few restaurants and nightspots, but not too much to do here, and that's the whole point. 

9. Portland (ME): Maine's largest city seamlessly merges the cozy charm of the revived Old Port District with modern galleries and museums. See the city in a new light via the Casco Bay Island ferry boats and visit the Portland Head Light, which dates back to 1971, the oldest lighthouse still in continuous use in the U.S. 

10. Mystic (CT): Before it was synonymous with pizza (and yes, the same pizza parlor in the movies is there, and yes, the pizza is pretty darn good), Mystic was best known for its maritime history. The heart of this small town is Mystic Seaport, a recreated 19th-century seafaring village, but the shops and eateries on Main Street lend Mystic its charm. Visit the Jonathan Edwards Winery in nearby Stonington, a bucolic 48-acre sprawling estate producing top quality varietals. 

Discover everything from luxury boutique hotels to cozy, weather-beaten cottages; fine dining to the freshest finds at roadside stands and so much in between on a New England road trip or stay an extended stay in one fine place. 

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Sara Sun says:

I LOVE this photo!!!!

(03.16.10 @ 04:41 PM)
Kate says:

Ohhhhh, this is fantastic! My fiancé and I are getting married at the end of July. Rather than head to a beach in the Carribean somewhere, we figured we'd hang around here when the weather's the most beautiful. Among a few you've listed, Nova Scotia is on our list as well!

(03.16.10 @ 11:56 PM)
Meredith Perdue says:

Great list! As someone who is still relatively new to the New England area, I'm so excited to check out some of the places on this list. Thanks for sharing!

(03.17.10 @ 09:20 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: The Essential New England Honeymoon Road Trip . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/111

Author: Andrea E. McHugh
Photography by: Nicole Chaput Photography

Quincy native Maggie McPartlin, 27, in university relations at Boston College, had the luck of the Irish on her side when finding love. She met 29 year-old Terry Connell in his native Ireland when they both were earning their Master's degree at University College Cork. Years later, the two returned to the site of their first date in a seaside town called Cobh, where Terry popped the question. 

Planning an intercontinental wedding was a challenge for the couple that required many trips back and forth during their year and a half engagement; on the other hand, they found it to be a blessing in disguise. "In some ways, it was better because we actually couldn't obsess over tiny details," says Maggie. "We had to make decisions quickly and then stick to them."

One easily made decision was where to wed: St. Ann's Church in Wollaston. "It's my local parish and every big event in my life up to now has been celebrated there with my family," Maggie explains. "I didn't even think about having the ceremony anywhere else."

As the early October afternoon unfolded, Maggie, escorted by both of her parents down the aisle, exchanged vows with Terry in front of friends and family from around the globe. Glowing in an ivory lace gown made with an organza overly by Badgley Mischka with a whimsical Carrie Bradshaw-esqe oversized flower in her hair, Maggie strode hand-in-hand with her new husband through Boston Common for some quieter moments before the electrifying evening ahead. By dusk, the celebration moved to the heart of Boston at the historic Omni Parker House Hotel where the elegant rooftop ballroom was swathed in varying shades of blue, the couple's favorite color. Unveiling their less serious side, the newlyweds whirled around the dance floor to "Happy Together" by the Turtles. "We chose it because we wanted something more upbeat than the usual first dance songs to get the party started early on," laughs Maggie. The international love affair that culminated in a perfect day leaves the couple with lasting memories of loved ones coming from near and far. "For us, having our families and friends all in one place was the most cherished memory of all," Maggie reminisces. "They're living on two different continents, so this was the first time for everyone to meet and spend time together and it was so amazing to have them all with us on our wedding day."

Wedding Day Details:
Invitations: Paper Source
Gown: Badgley Mischka
Florist: Ilex Designs
Cake: The Icing on the Cake
Venue: The Omni Parker House
Music: BC & Company Band


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March 12, 2010
sublimeboudoir_event.jpg
*For more information about this unique event, please visit their website.

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Stephanie @ Geezees says:

Sounds like fun!

(03.12.10 @ 08:15 AM)
BEANTOWN BRIDE says:

You are SOOOOO right... SOOOOOOOO MUCH FUN! SUBLIME really makes you comfortable and takes fabulous photos! Ladies... this is a must for your man! HEY, who wouldn't want to feel like a Victoria Secret model for a day??!!

(03.13.10 @ 02:41 PM)
Mia Colonero says:

Sublime Boudoir, what a perfect idea and a great gift for any occasion.
!

(03.16.10 @ 11:09 AM)
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February 26, 2010


Author: Andrea E. McHugh
Photography by: Cordele Photography

Though they met in law school in their native Singapore, civil servant Ching Pin Ang, 29, and lawyer Vincent Leow, 32, returned to Boston for a sentimental wedding day full of cherished memories and a celebration of years to come.

A nod to their days at Harvard, the couple chose to wed at the elite university's Memorial Church. Classically elegant in silk, off-shoulder ivory gown by Monique Lhuillier with buttons down the back, Ching glided down the aisle carrying a delicate bouquet of both pink and green hydrangeas with blush-swept calla lilies; all her favorite flowers. More creations by The Tangled Web Floral Design festooned the church, including pink and green bows on the pews, but little was needed. "We kept the decor simple as the architecture of the church is already resplendent of rich history and detail," says Ching. Upon leaving, guests were given a sweet surprise: bride and groom shaped brownie pop favors. "We had quite a few favors for our guests as we really wanted them to know how much their presence meant to us," says Ching and Vincent.

Following a traditional tea ceremony, the intimate gathering of 40, virtually all from overseas, descended on L'Espalier in the heart of downtown Boston. "We picked L'Espalier as it is the best restaurant in Boston and we wanted to celebrate with our guests at a place with great food, service and atmosphere," says the couple. Heart-shaped luggage tags designed by Pink Orchid Designs doubled as both another favor (most apropos for the well-traveled) and seating place cards.

Inspired by wedding websites and magazines, the couple adorned the restaurant's elegantly appointed dining room with dramatic red carnation pomander balls and red candelabras. Together, the newlyweds surrounded by their nearest and dearest, dined on New England-Fresh cuisine for which L'Espalier is best known.

"Our loved ones flew in from all over the world," remarks the couple, who made this destination wedding one to remember.

Wedding Day Details:
Invitations: Pink Orchid Designs
Gown: Monique Lhuillier
Rings: Tiffany
Florist: The Tangled Web
Venue: L' Espalier
Music: DIY


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Kate says:

Great wedding! Are the rings inscribed? I love that ;)

(02.27.10 @ 09:19 AM)
christine says:

love the ring nest, super sweet idea!

(04.02.10 @ 03:34 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Ching & Vincent . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/84
February 25, 2010
ceremony.jpg
Author: Kate Langenberg
Photography by: BKB Photography


A huge advantage to having an outdoor wedding is being able to play off the natural beauty of your venue. Garden settings give you the chance to incorporate blooming flowers, green grass, and lush landscaping into your wedding day décor. Here are some tips for dressing up the outdoors to create an unforgettable garden ceremony:

Use complimentary colors. For a look that's truly pulled together, coordinate your bridesmaids' dresses, groomsmen's ties, and flowers with the colors that naturally occur in the garden.

Find the best backdrop.
Consider your guests' view of the ceremony and what will appear in the background of your photos. Many venues stick to a tried and true set up when they organize a ceremony, but you might discover a better vantage point by changing things around.

Don't forget the details. Add a splash of color by hanging flowers on the chairs lining the aisle or tie color-coordinated ribbons on the programs.

Lighten up. Votive candles and lanterns can add a warm touch to an intimate garden ceremony. They're fun for day and functional for night.

Refresh your guests.
If it's a warm or hot day, arrange for water and lemonade to be available before the ceremony, and pass a signature cocktail immediately afterwards. Again, consider matching the color of the glassware and drink itself to the colors you've used elsewhere.

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Emmanuel@Wedding Program Ideas says:

These ideas perfectly conforms a good wedding program. I like the idea of 'refresh your guests'. The celebrants can incorporate fun programs with it. :D

(05.30.10 @ 03:11 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Great Gardens . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/96
February 19, 2010


Author: Kate Langenberg
Photography by: Shang Chen Photography

When Hingham native Joshua Mitchell, 34, decided to propose to girlfriend Maureen Hogarty, 26, of Stow, MA, he knew he finally found a use for the Lite Brite that had been stashed in the trunk of his car for the last four years. Joshua had always joked about spelling out his proposal on this children's toy, but it was serious business when the moment arrived. After a surprise proposal in the lobby of Maureen's office building, the couple began planning a summer wedding.

On August 15, 2009, the ceremony and reception took place at the Artists for Humanity EpiCenter in Boston, a place Maureen calls "a modern and fun venue." Mango- and cranberry-colored orbs and parasols added a big splash of color that transformed the neutral environment into a festive party space. Maureen wore a strapless dress from Private Label By G while her bridesmaids wore simple black cocktail dresses, perfectly matching the groomsmen's black tuxedos. The newlyweds shared their first dance set to Ray LaMontagne's "You Are The Best Thing" and later cut a square, multi-tiered cake made by Joshua's sister, a pastry chef. Their 150 guests sat at long rectangular tables dotted with an assortment of flowers. As wedding favors, Maureen and Joshua gave each of their guests an original painting.

The bride and groom both agree that being able to share their big day with so many of their friends and family members made for an incredible event. It's a summer evening they'll never forget.

Wedding Day Details:
Invitations: Emerald Invitations
Gown: Private Label By G
Florist: The Flower Market
Caterer:
Fine Catering by Russell Morin
Venue: Artists for Humanity EpiCenter
Music: Atlantic Strings


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Sarah says:

those colors are to die for! nice work, Shang!

(02.19.10 @ 10:51 AM)
BEANTOWN BRIDE says:


I agree Sara, beautiful colors. Shang really captured this event well. The food also looks to die for! This is a fun venue for Beantown Brides to know about - it's a blank canvas and you really can make it represent your style modern, funky or classic.

(02.19.10 @ 11:01 AM)
christina says:

beautiful details and such vibrant colors! This looks like an amazing venue! beautiful work shang!!

(02.19.10 @ 11:09 AM)
Jen says:

Fab photos from Shang, as always! I love hearing a little more about the couple's day too. Ray LaMontagne makes my heart melt and I love the personal touches like Josh's sister's cake and the wedding favor idea!

(02.19.10 @ 11:10 AM)
Tammy says:

Oo I love the use of parasols as decoration! Love the long tables as well. The last shot of the dancing is my fave! Awesome capture.

(02.19.10 @ 11:15 AM)
Emily says:

I love these pictures Shang! These photos are really timeless, and what a gorgeous couple!

(02.19.10 @ 11:27 AM)
Stephanie @ Geezees says:

beautiful photos, lovely colors!

(02.19.10 @ 12:10 PM)
Shang says:

Brittany, I totally agree with you with this venue being a blank canvas. There is just so much you can do with this space. Josh and Maureen totally rocked it!

(02.19.10 @ 02:17 PM)
Emilie says:

i love the bright colors! Shang takes gorgeous photos, and is a total sweetheart!

(02.19.10 @ 02:28 PM)
Jules says:

what a beautiful wedding, and beautiful details captured by Shang!

(02.19.10 @ 03:58 PM)
Nithya Sharma says:

WOW! loving this....I love the details you've managed to capture - im sure the couple will treasure these memories forever!! I especially love the first photo that's on display - you've managed to capture such a tender moment so beautifully. Love it!!

(02.19.10 @ 07:34 PM)
Nithya Sharma says:

WOW! THis is fabulous! I love the vibrant details you've captured - truly a timeless memory that the couple will cherish!! I especially love the first picture on display- you've captured such a tender moment so beautifully. GORGEOUS!

(02.19.10 @ 07:36 PM)
ann says:

loved the earings!

(02.22.10 @ 08:52 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Maureen & Joshua . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/94

Author: Andrea E. McHugh
Photography by: Allegro Photography


When Shelley Greenberg noticed Andreas Senai from across the room the first day of her senior year of high school, she made a mental note that this was someone she would like to meet. Days later, a friend introduced the two at a football game, and the couple never looked back.

Shelley and Andreas attended Boston University together and after graduating, settled into professional life. "I caught the 'wedding bug' first, but after talking, we both realized that there was not point in waiting any longer," says Shelley. "We had known for many years that we wanted to get married." Once the decision had been made, waiting for the ring tested Shelley's patience. "He finally proposed on Christmas Eve," she says, describing the much-anticipated moment simple and heartfelt. "He said, I'm not sure of the best way to do this, but I just want you to have this and to be my wife."

The couple, who would be welcoming guests from as far as China, England, Sweden and Kazakhstan, sought a uniquely Boston wedding site with historic value and cultural appeal. Shelley and Andreas also sought a venue that they could host both the ceremony and reception while keeping within their set budget. The Wang Theater, nestled in Beantown's Back Bay, fit the bill with its Versailles-inspired Grand Lobby, classic ambiance and place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Shelley made an unforgettable entrance, flanked by her mother and father, as she descended from the ornate stairs to the lobby where 75 guests waited in awe. Her exquisite, unique bouquet created by Whole Foods of deep purple dahlia, blue/green hydrangea, white roses, yellow billy balls, hanging greens and dramatic pheasant feathers, contrasted against the refined elegance of her ivory Modern Trousseau gown blending French alencon lace and chiffon with duchess silk satin. Easing the butterflies, the couple had seen each other prior to the ceremony, having photos taken at the Rose Kennedy Greenway and on Beacon Hill that made for some of the days most memorable-and private-moments. After exchanging vows they each wrote themselves, the two stole a private moment, called the Yichud in Jewish tradition, and soon after, kicked off the reception with a rousing second line dance. "A second line is a traditional parade-like dance originating from New Orleans, where my mom is from," explains Shelley. "Everyone waves around handkerchiefs as the bride and groom lead the parade waving around umbrellas." Guests' seating assignments paid homage to Boston locales including Beacon Hill, Copley Square and Faneuil Hall, many of which guests visited the day before on a pre-arranged Duck Tour. Together, the international gathering celebrated the union a long time in the making, Andreas, a mechanical engineer, and Shelley, a blogger make their home in Beverly.

*To visit Shelley's blog CLICK HERE.

Wedding Day Details:
Invitations: Inviting Company
Gown: Modern Trousseau
Florist: Whole Foods
Cake: Sweet Tooth
Venue: The Wang Theater
Music:
Four Guys in Tuxes

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Shannon Grant Photography says:

So sweet... and that theater shot! Absolutely beautiful...

(02.17.10 @ 10:16 AM)
BEANTOWN BRIDE says:

Shannon, thanks for stopping by! It is an awesome wedding 4sure! ;-) Amazing how the bride and groom really incorporated everything from attire, decor and venue really making it a unique event! Thanks Shelley & Andreas for sharing your story with us, your wedding was def a one-of-a-kind!

(02.17.10 @ 12:04 PM)
jess says:

Wow! That is an awesome venue, I would love to shoot there. Nice shots :)

(02.17.10 @ 01:32 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Shelley & Andreas . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/80
0108BKBPhotography.jpgAuthor: Andrea E. McHugh
Photography by: BKB Photography

Many brides' wedding days start early in the morning with beauty prep and go late into the night on the dance floor and keeping up with the pace can be exhausting. Here's 10 helpful tips to make sure every Beantown Bride is at her best.

1. Step away from the planning binder! Let go of all the loose ends the second you arrive at the rehearsal. What's done is done, and what's not can be delegated. Your friends and 'maids can make sure every "i" is dotted and every "t" is crossed; enjoy the fruits of your labor as soon as you take the paper plate bouquet down the day-before aisle.

2. Sip, don't slam. True, it's time for celebration, but going heavy on cocktails and bubbly during the rehearsal dinner can easily sneak up on you with all of the excitement. Moderation is the key.

3. Sweet nothings. After the rehearsal, steal a few minutes away with your fiancé. Just a little time away from your future mother-in-law, the ill-behaved ring bearer and that one bridesmaid who you know is more concerned about what she'll look like coming down the aisle than you, can be all it takes to make sure you don't sweat the small stuff.

4. Beauty sleep. As hard as it is to catch some shut-eye the night before, you have a long day ahead of you. Enlist the help of an iPod, noise-canceling headphones or a rousing pillow fight - whatever it takes to take the edge off and catch some Zzzzzzs.

5. Routine. If you normally squeeze in a daily morning jog and a Great One from Dunkin Donuts to find your sanity, maintain as similar as a routine as you can. Stress-busters like these will help ease the butterflies in your belly.

6. Diet-schmiet. It's done; you've Zumba-ed, treadmill-ed and squatted your way to a svelte bridal silhouette. EAT a smart breakfast (sans the salty bacon) and STAY HYDRATED to make sure you don't look like the loopy bride from 16 Candles.

7. Let the pros handle it. You did your homework and hired the vendors you felt were the best fit for you and your fiancé. Now let them do their job. Remember: this might be your first wedding but it's certainly not theirs. If they don't know how to get there, they probably have GPS (except for maybe the limo drivers - print out a copy of any directions before the big day and entrust a bridal party member - on both sides - with a spare set).

8. In her Shoes. Every bride loves a sale, but make sure you don't scrimp on comfortable footwear. At a recent wedding I was in, the bride asked for help putting on her shoes and to my delight, this rug-cutting bride-to-be chose a gold pair of Capezio (professional dance shoes) brand stilettos so she wouldn't miss a moment of the dance floor. Brilliant!

9. It's a wrap. As determined as you and your hubby may be to savor the lobster tail dinner you're paying out the wazoo for, friends and family can't help but visit the head table for congratulatory hugs. Ask your caterer to prepare two to-go dinners for you both ahead of time that you can take with you and chow down later - they will be happy to do it and usually at no extra charge.

10. Ship 'em out. The good news? Tons of gifts await you. The bad news? You didn't account for how to get them home. This is your day, and maybe your only day, that friends and family are chomping at the bit to help you. Designate your SUV-owning pal or that always-pumping-iron uncle to load up the gifts and take them to a designated locale (home, their home, etc.). Tiara-wearing gals never load boxes (unless their robin-egg blue, of course....).

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Kate says:

These are fantastic! Along the lines of #3 "Sweet Nothings" I would say try to steal away a moment after the ceremony as well if you can. You're about to be surrounded (bombarded) by friends and family for the rest of the evening- spend a moment with your brand new hubby alone.

I'm getting married in July and #8 (shoes) is something I've been debating skimping on. But you're right-I need to be able to rip up the dance floor all night!

(02.16.10 @ 07:28 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Final bow: 10 ways to Prepare for a Long Wedding Day . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/90
February 12, 2010
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Shannon Grant Photography says:

What a generous, exciting offer! So cute... :)

(02.12.10 @ 08:38 AM)
jess says:

Very cool! :)

(02.12.10 @ 10:45 AM)
Kate says:

Love it! Wish I hadn't planned my wedding already ... ;O

(02.12.10 @ 12:38 PM)
BEANTOWN BRIDE says:

Lots of beautiful stories coming in... thank you everyone. PHOTO FUN BOX of Ma has donated a photo booth for the contest wedding! Check out http://www.photofunbox.com

(02.12.10 @ 02:15 PM)
Anne says:

Congrats!! I hope you get an amazing couple! I also just saw a North Shore wedding couple win a completely wedding package yesterday! I can't wait to share the photos from our Boston Green Wedding Giveaway - they were a couple I totally felt good about donating to!

(02.15.10 @ 09:55 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Love is in the air... . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://beantownbride.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/103