One of my favorite spaces at the Boston Public Library is the Abbey Room, a rich and moody wood-paneled room with murals covering the upper walls. It’s often used as the post-dinner dancing room, and occasionally as a ceremony location. I’ve even photographed a first look there. But not many people realize that it’s possible to host your dinner reception in the Abbey Room. And what a venue for it!

Last weekend, my dream of photographing an intimate wedding reception in the Abbey Room finally came true, and it was a really amazing way to end my 2025 wedding season. Thank you Julie Anne & Doug for having me – it was such a treat working with you both on this!

Julie Anne got ready with her friends and both moms at Raffles. Not only is it absolutely gorgeous, it was also not one of the hotel blocks for guests, so we were able to use the lovely lobby for some portraits before I headed over to meet with Doug.

We held their first look in Louisburg Square in Beacon Hill – close enough to Acorn Street that we could walk over for a few quick portraits, but removed enough that we weren’t fighting tourists for space. We then met up with family and the wedding party in Boston Public Garden for some group photos and more couples portraits. We lucked out with the most gorgeous fall color – a lovely surprise in early November!

Julie Anne and Doug chose to say their personal vows in private, in the Sargent Gallery at the Library. I absolutely loved this! I photographed from a distance so as to preserve the privacy of this moment while also getting some sweet photos of this intimate moment.

The Courtyard ceremony was short and sweet and so beautiful; it’s a gorgeous venue any time, but it’s especially magical when lit up for an evening wedding in the late fall.

Cocktail hour took place in the Boylston Room, with dinner and dancing in the Abbey Room. I loved the moody restaurant-style lighting by SociaLight Boston, and the incredible florals by Table & Tulip. I absolutely LOVE photographing more intimate weddings; they always feel extra special to me. Here’s to more of these in the future. And if you’re planning your own intimate Abbey Room wedding at the Boston Public Library, I would love to hear from you!