Despite a rainy start, Leah and Jason’s Belle Mer wedding in Newport, RI turned into a beautiful day with gorgeous skies, a perfect backdrop for their emotional ceremony and lively dance party.

I started my day at the hotel where both bride and groom were getting ready; it was great being able to wander between the rooms to capture the getting ready process; hair and makeup for Leah, her mom, and the bridesmaids, and a LEGO building mission for Jason and the guys!

The rain earlier in the day meant an indoor ceremony at Belle Mer, but the front space of this gorgeous venue was just perfect for it; huge floor to ceiling windows on two sides meant that natural light poured into the modern space, and it almost felt like we were outside (but without the cool ocean breeze!)  Some favorite ceremony moments included Leah’s emotional walk down the aisle with both of her parents (I love this); Jason tearing up during the vows; the awesome fist pump from Jason – and, simultaneously, a guest – at the end of the ceremony; and perhaps my favorite: Leah’s tearful/happy hugs right after.

The weather held for portraits outside, and I loved the changing skies for couples photos with the magnificent Newport Bridge in the background.  Inside, my wonderful second shooter Amanda captured cocktail hour.

Some favorite reception moments included the hidden spiders during the toasts, the super sweet parent dances, and Jason’s hilarious performance with the band.  The decor was spectacular; Jason’s mom, Dawn Moniz, is a hugely talented florist, and her creations were beautiful.  Huge thanks to Jaime Nelson of Eventfully Planned who coordinated the event, and was an absolute joy to work with (again!)

Thank you all for a fantastic day; I hope you enjoy the teaser slideshow!