Already good friends of mine, I first professionally worked with Jon and Kristina LaPlante, during their engagement session in Newport. I was thrilled to also be asked to shoot their upcoming nuptials the following August the 3rd, of 2014. I was further pleased to learn they had taken my suggestion of having their wedding at the Branford House in Groton, CT, a favorite of mine. This enormous 19th century home, built in the style of the famous Newport mansions, is ideally located on the Connecticut shoreline, boasting panoramic views of the glistening sea.
Knowing the venue to be 1.5 hours away from Newport, my assistant Ger Sheehan and I started out a bit early on this cloudy but warm day. This turned out to be a very good thing as the traffic was horrible! We started out by photographing the groom and his guys at the couple’s newly purchased home. They all looked dapper in their three-piece suits with a pop of red from their boutonnières. Then it was off to the venue to capture some fun bride and bridesmaid pre-wedding moments. True to the color theme of the day, the girls started off in matching red robes, then traded up to bright red dresses. The bride looked stunning in her strapless form-fitting gown.
The outdoor ceremony was beautiful with its ocean backdrop. A little fun fact: Kristina’s mom was her matron of honor, but honestly you’d think she was her sister! Jon also included some family in his group; his two brothers served at best men. We immediately did some post-ceremony family portraits, and then some bridal party shots around the property. We even enacted a silly “tug-of-war” scenario.
An exquisite reception took place in the impressive interior of the home. There was mingling, dancing, dining, and just an overall great time had by all. I wish these two the best, or shall I say these three; Jon and Kristina are expecting their first child and have flattered me once more by booking me for a maternity shoot!
