May 18th, 2014 will forever be remembered by Meaghan and Mike Castro; this was the day they chose to become Mr. and Mrs. at scenic OceanCliff Hotel and Resort in historic Newport, RI. The weather couldn’t have been more beautiful, perfectly sunny and warm. The whole affair, from getting ready, to vows, to the reception were all slated to take place at the nineteenth century location, and so my assistant Rich Burns and I headed there.
We first went to take pictures of the groom and his entourage, wearing black suit, with red ties and pocket squares. Then off attend to the woman of the hour and her bridesmaids. Meaghan looked gorgeous in her traditional gown topped off by a vintage style birdcage veil. Her parents stopped by to get a sneak peek of their daughter and her mom simply could not hold back her tears. The bridal party carried on the color theme, adorned in black dresses with an exciting pop of red via their shoes.
10 acres of sprawling lawn and ocean views provided the perfect outdoor ceremony spot. A harpist played while the bridal party made its way down the aisle followed by a beaming Meaghan. They all carried beautiful floral bouquets where the color red once more presented itself. Bride and Groomed sealed their love with a sand blending ceremony and the all-important kiss and then it was off for more pictures!
Guests headed off to the cocktail hour while we did bridal party portraits in front of OceanCliff’s castle like walls and stunning archways. A beautiful sunset only served to enhance the photo setting. Onto the ballroom for the reception and more special moments, the first dance, the maid of honor and best man speeches, and of course the cake cutting. Mike might have initiated smashing the cake in his brides face, but Meaghan quickly got revenge by smashing it right back!
The fun continued with tons of dancing, led by a band true to their name, “Guilty Pleasure”. At one point in the evening Mike had a touching spin around the floor with his sister. It was a memorable day that we shall definitely think back on May 18th! Congratulations Mike and Meaghan!
