As I envisioned this shoot, I knew I wanted to tell a story where love, happiness, elegance, and glamour are intertwined with local history and craft. I was looking
for recognizable Boston Landmarks and local vendors, known for their refined taste, exceptional quality, and alluring style.
The theme was “Classic and Glamorous with a Touch of Modern”, which should appeal to trendy millennial couples.
The Ritz-Carlton addressed these goals perfectly: its luxurious modern ballroom faces the Boston Commons and offers an incredible view of the State House and other historical buildings.
The cake and cupcakes were custom-made by the famous local bakery Montilios, a multi-generation family business, who baked the wedding cake for JFK and many other illustrious figures.
The jewelry and watches were provided by 100+ year-old local jewelry store, the famous Shreve, Crump and Low. The sublime couture wedding gown was made by Candice Wu Couture – a trendy luxury bridal house in South Boston. And the florals were created for us by Les Fleurs, an exquisite floral boutique, which delivers floral arrangements to the most sought-after events across the area and is known for its elegance and great taste.
All vendors were talented and bright local professionals, representing the best of Boston for a celebration.
A month before the shoot, Pantone released the color of the year – living coral – which defined the color palette and the general mood of the shoot.
Coral tones were complemented by gold, silver-gold and crystal, with some pinkish and peachy notes, and white and off-white flowers and fresh greenery.
We started early in the morning: The Ritz-Carlton generously offered us its Luxury Parkview suite, where our team of hair and makeup professionals, Maricruz and Garineh, was preparing the female models and we had a great opportunity to take the getting-ready pictures. I brought my big steamer and steamed the dress and the cathedral veil.
We were lucky to get Adriana Tacu’s precious boxed invitation suite, also in coral, and it blended nicely with other accessories (Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, diamond jewelry, fresh flowers, and Bella Belle shoes)
While the bride and her bridesmaid were enjoying themselves sipping Champagne in the suite and assessing the gift boxes by Boston Wedding Favors, the groom and his best man were helping each other to some whiskey at the Ritz Club Lounge, sporting precious Vacheron Constantin and Baume & Mercier watches.
Simultaneously, work was in full swing in the Grand Ballroom: tables were set up and decorated with fine china, floral arrangements, candles, and votives. The menus were printed by Adriana and reflected the actual wedding menu offered by the Ritz. The wedding cake, coral cupcakes, and favors were placed on separate tables and covered with glittery sequined linens.
The white glowing dancefloor was positioned in the center of the room. All rentals were provided by Party Rental Ltd and arranged by Robin Legere who came early to assist with deliveries. In addition, the big illuminated “RITZ” and “LOVE” signs by Your Love in Lights were strategically placed next to the window wall facing the park and the dance floor. The smaller illuminated “CAKE” sign was positioned behind the cake and cupcakes tables. A smart lighting system by Retonica was installed to reflect different phases and moods of the day.
Our incredible and tireless photographer, Lynne, kept taking great shots, while the talented video team, Stop Go Love, was filming and capturing our models and behind-the-scenes work by the whole team of professionals
I was coordinating everything and kept running between the suite, the lounge, and the ballroom. Guess how many steps I walked that day?
In addition, we had time to take a few pictures outside, capturing the Ritz’s famous entrance and its warm and inviting Avery bar.
The first look, the romantic walk, the first dance, the toasts, and dreaming together: we were able to capture it all!
Despite the long day, we felt happy and elated. Our beautiful models were genuine and charming and enjoyed the day as well. Together, we created a stunning and almost surreal picture of love and warmth, despite the cold winter.
