After several weeks of early spring rains, a week last Saturday the sun came out just in time for Erika & Alex’s first look – what a perfect start to my official season!

This was such a lovely wedding in every way, from the fantastic clients (Alex, Erika, and their families were such a delight to photograph) to the vendors that included many old friends (Bryanne & Schuyler at The Catered Affair, Jim at CJC Lighting, Orly Khon Floral, Nightshift band) and several wonderful new-to-me vendors (including the utterly amazing Liz Pruitt who kept everything running flawlessly all day, and talented live watercolor painter Erin Micozzi). And of course, it is always both a comfort and a treat to be back at my favorite venue in town. 🙂

I started with some detail photos in Erika’s suite, then headed over to Alex for his final touches. Everyone was in high spirits, making it easy to capture huge grins and belly laughs. Alex and his mom share a wonderful joie de vivre that rubs off on everyone surrounding them!

Back in Erika’s suite, I photographed her dressing with the help of her mom, sisters, and friends. This is always one of my very favorite parts of the day … there is often a nervous energy, and it’s always magical witnessing that first moment of the bride full dressed and ready. I always beg my couples not to skip having this part of the day documented!

Erika and Alex wanted their first look to feel very private, so we opted for the lovely arches at the back of Trinity Church. Alex showed me the spot they had picked out, and it was perfect! Private, with gorgeous light, and it didn’t even require too much puddle jumping after all those early spring rain storms.

We then met with the wedding party and families for portraits on the steps both outside and inside the Boston Public Library. I love that these two both had co-ed wedding parties; Erika included her brother, and Alex included his sister and a close friend.

At 7pm, the ceremony was held in the magnificent courtyard of the Boston Public Library. I adore this space! The ceremony was officiated by a close friend of the couple, and they kept it short and sweet, allowing for a little extra time enjoying cocktail hour.

Dinner was held up in Bates Hall, and after a suitably grand entrance, Alex and Erika went straight into their first dance. It can be challenging to photograph a first dance in Bates, but it always makes for such a fun start to dinner. Dinner and toasts were followed by a fun cake cutting, then guests were led by a saxophonist into the Abbey Room for dancing. I loved both parent dances, and I was thrilled that there was a hora – and a VERY lively one, too!

Thank you Erika & Alex for a wonderful day, and I hope you enjoy these highlight photos!