I recently had the honor of designing a wedding album for a really special couple. I feel very lucky to do what I do and be able to peek into such a personal event of a couple’s life. And I have to say, this one is my favorite so far. You might think I know Hannah and Ryan, but I don’t. The funny thing is, I feel like I do after working on this project.
Just looking at the photos gave me goosebumps and almost had me in tears. From the prep and first look shoot to the ceremony and reception, everything seemed so comfortable and perfect. It wasn’t fancy or over the top, their friends and families played a big part of the event, and the personal touches were endless. It all came together so beautifully. Designing the album was something I will never forget.
While both working in Boston at a nonprofit, Hannah and Ryan seemed to connect instantly. On their first date he told her he could make her happy and it seems as if he was right. After a year, Hannah relocated to Chicago for grad school and Ryan soon followed to be with her. When that chapter ended, they shifted gears to San Francisco where they lived for 3 years together. The proposal was sweet and thoughtful, Ryan popped the question during a visit in Boston and secretly planned a big engagement party so they can celebrate with all their friends and family. Love!
When planning their wedding, they knew they wanted it to be closer to family and in the New England area, where they are originally from, so after some searching they found Twin Lake Village in New London, New Hampshire, which seemed to be the perfect place. Owned by the Kidder family for 5 generations, the camp/resort offered private cabins, a beautiful beach and lake, and plenty of space for all their guests to have fun and party.
The big day was September 12, 2012, and started on a sunny afternoon. Hannah wore a Zac Posen dress with yellow Burberry espadrilles while her bridesmaids showcased a pretty shade of purple in dresses designed by an artist on Etsy. Ryan and his groomsmen wore khaki pants and navy jackets along with flip-flops for that casual beachy vibe. The girls bouquets were filled with fall colors and rustic elements and assembled by Hannah’s aunt, Gail Cray. The whole event was beautifully captured by Thamer Photography in New Hampshire.
The first look shoot was intimate and sentimental but the couple had their family there to capture such a great moment. I love how happy they both look and Ryan’s face is priceless.
For the ceremony held on the beach, the bridal party arrived by boat, which was captained by Hannah’s godfather, and included personal readings by her bridesmaids. The officiant also married Ryan’s sister the year before so he was a familiar face as well. Large pinwheels lined the aisle and allowed the natural setting to really shine. Their wedding bands came from MJ Harrington & Co. Jewelers, which also designed Hannah’s gorgeous engagement ring. Once the I Dos were shared, it was time to celebrate.
The reception was held at the main house of the camp, which featured a dreamy wrap around porch and spacious yard for everyone to gather. Cocktail hour included local fresh d’oeuvres and a variety of cheese and crackers with pairing wine and domestic beers.
Another personal touch was Ryan’s custom beer pong table which was commissioned in 2001. It was a big part of his college days on campus in Boston and captured his love of baseball and its history. The nearby green-monster themed wiffle ball park was designed and painted by Hanna’s mom and assembled by the groomsmen. How cool is that!
The newlyweds arrived to the party in a golf cart decorated with festive garland Ryan and his groomsmen set up earlier. The main event took place under the white tent on the lawn and was adorned with lanterns and elements of fall harvest. The tables had sunflower centerpieces which Hannah’s aunt and uncle grew, and all the meat and vegetables were supplied by Hopewell Farms. There was even a taco bar, how fun! Some of the dishes were prepared by family to add more of that home sweet home feel.
The speeches seemed to be a highlight of the night, as both their parents and members of the bridal party shared their words of happiness for Hannah and Ryan. The band, which included the father of the brides business partner, got everyone up and on the dance floor to get the party started. The day was super special and everything ended up being perfect as can be. You can tell from the photos that everyone really had fun and all the elements were truly from the heart.
It was so awesome working alongside Hannah on the album, which was a surprise gift for Ryan to celebrate their first anniversary. I am so glad they loved how it came out and now have a treasured keepsake for years to come. I wish these two a bright and sunny future together as husband and wife and much luck in their new place they recently bought together.
Vendor List:
Photography – Thamer Photography
Brides Dress – Zac Posen
Brides Shoes – Burberry
Hair – Sarah from 31 Mane Street Salon
Makeup – the bride
Catering – Hopewell Farms
Venue – Twin Lake Village
Wedding Bands – MJ Harrington & Co. Jewelers
