Parker is 4 months old, and his parents are past wedding clients, now great friends.  It was so wonderful to see them all… and I just had to share a few photos.  Complete photos available for purchase at brianwedge.com/photocart (And for all you surf/outrigger/athlete photo obsessed fans: another set of Hawaii shots are coming up next.  Pardon the interruption).

And if you’ve made it this far and you’re thinking “Damn!  I’d like to have some awesome photos of my beautiful baby but a) I didn’t know Brian photographed families or b) I live in Switzerland/LA/Georgia/New York/Antarctica etc.” PLEASE drop us a line.  We travel so often, it’s easy to connect with you in your neck of the woods to make it happen.

There was some conversation by Parker’s delusional parents that Parker looked like me.  Or, better stated, that I looked like him.  Though I take this as a compliment, we really look nothing alike.  I have a full head of hair (obviously) and am the one wearing the shirt and smiling.

The Quicksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau is a historic event.  We were there to photograph the opening ceremonies, and I was honestly surprised by the gravity of the moment.  Within this select group of invited big wave surfers, there were moments of silence for dozens of fellow athletes who had passed away over the past decade.  It was sobering to think that at least one participant from last year’s event had died in the previous 12 months.  There must be an amazing drive for these guys to keep competing in something so dangerous.

Many of the surfers had their children with them.

Kala Alexander with his Wolf Pak tattoo.

Clyde Aikau, with his brother Eddie’s portrait in the foreground.  If you don’t know the story of Eddie Aikau, please follow this link and learn about his sacrifice and legendary feats of skill and compassion.

“Kanaka Solutions” is what his shirt reads.  The word Kanaka means local native Hawaiians… and a dozen of these big boys provided security during the ceremony.

The prayer by Kahu Billy Mitchell.

Some guy named Kelly Slater.

Sticker on Kelly’s board.

Ok… another shoot entirely here.  Morning at Makapu’u.  My poor suffering wife got up at 4am with me to cover a canoe race, and it turns out the race didn’t start until 9am.  Hawaiian time I guess.  Anyway, we got some great shots from land, and of course any excuse I can make to get wet, I will.

Last two shots are just a appetizer for part two of our blog post… heavy surf conditions, and lots of up close and personal time in the water.  Stay tuned!

Lots of new work to share… and it’s going to start coming to you in all sorts of fits and starts.  I’ve had a fantastic few months crisscrossing the globe producing work that I love, but have been too busy to share (or sworn to secrecy by NDAs).  Stay tuned for updates; and notice our great new format of sharing huge photos with you.  Hope you enjoy the difference!  There’s a host of Hawaiian surf; ski; adventure/lifestyle and commercial work that will be posted in the next week!

I’m never going to be able to recap all the shoots in chronological order… so I’m just grabbing some images to share as I can over the next few weeks.  Today’s photos are from a shoot a month ago when I took our photo boat out into Harpswell Sound to capture the story of Bowdoin College students researching eel grass with the Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection.  You’ll see some photos from their research, along with a few from Bowdoin’s Coastal Studies Center as well as a chance encounter with the Bowdoin Sailing Team working out in light breezes.  Enjoy the photos!

**Check out the complete set of photos from this shoot & buy prints at our online store: http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/ or via our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

**Check out the complete set of photos from this shoot & buy prints at our online store: http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/ or via our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

For those who don’t know, my sister Lea was diagnosed with leukemia almost six years ago, and has survived an amazing array of treatments including a bone marrow transplant.  She literally went from a 32 year old carefree triathlete and newlywed, to a tactical survivor at war with her disease.  Over the years I’ve seen the physical and emotional toll that it has taken not only on Lea… but on her amazing husband, my mom and me.  She is now cancer free, but suffers from a variety of incredible medical challenges too personal to mention here, but suffice to say we fight constantly to keep her healthy, though her constant smile is never in jeopardy.

Back to my gratitude: many, many friends stepped up last year and this spring to support my efforts to complete my first The Fireflies West Ride down the coast of California and then The Fireflies Tour from Geneva, Switzerland to Cannes, France.  These rides have been an incredible life experience, and it has been an absolute joy to participate with so many dedicated people committed to raising awareness and money for survivors.  The rides were hard, beautiful and they affirmed my belief that the world is a better place when people do what they can, when they can.  That time is now.  We raised a tremendous amount of money, and as importantly, were able to add HUNDREDS of people to the bone marrow registry!  THANK YOU!

In the event I haven’t made it clear: I live with gratitude for being able to have so many wonderful people in my life; to cherish the health of my sister; and to have the opportunity to be part of a team like the Fireflies.  Thank you to my clients who tolerate my occasional absence, thanks to my donors who donate generously, and to my family who always encourages me to chase after my dreams.

This Friday, I’m leaving for another Fireflies Ride down the coast of California to raise money and awareness for leukemia and lymphoma survivors.  Specifically, we’re raising funds to support the City of Hope Hospital’s Hematology Oncology Center.  Our small group is a fusion of American and European riders from the advertising industry who are all dedicated to the cause.  We ride “for those who suffer” and appreciate all your thoughts and encouragement!

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED!!

1.)  Donate any amount possible directly to The City of Hope via this link (100% of donations go directly to City of Hope): http://www.fireflieswest.com/

2.)  Beginning this Friday, we leave San Francisco for a 6 day ride down the coast of California.  Though I always ride for my big sister Lea and her ongoing battle with this awful disease and the aftermath of her bone marrow transplant, once again, I’ll be dedicating a part of each day’s ride to a cancer survivor that YOU tell me about.  Just email directly HERE or leave a comment & send me their name etc.  You can also contact us via Twitter or Facebook.  We know there are cancer survivors out there, and we want them to know that we’re in the fight with them.  There is power in Unity. It may be a really steep climb, it may be the day when my legs are exhausted from the hundreds of miles I did days before, or the incredible view from Big Sur overlooking the Pacific Ocean… but connecting with survivors will motivate me to keep going, to tell their story, and hopefully to remind them that they’re not alone.

3.)  Follow our progress on Twitter: brianwedge  Want to meet us on the road with hand painted signs?  DO IT.  Want to see us climb the canyons of your home town?  DO IT.  Want to hear hourly updates about what part of my body hurts and what form of food I’m most craving at that moment? DO IT!  In all seriousness, there will be some tough days coming up, and we would love to have some some support along the way.  Twitter is great for real time communication:  Bring your bike to ride along or don’t bring your bike… just get involved!  (Disclaimer: specific ride routes may change and sweaty athletes may not be able to stop for very long, but smiles and appreciation will always be shown).

4.)  The fourth way you could help, is to go find a friend who hasn’t yet registered for the bone marrow registry and get them committed to signing up.  It breaks my heart to see people literally dying without a proper donor match… often because the public just doesn’t realize how EASY and FREE registration and donation is.  You can go HERE for the link to all the information, and the FREE registration process.

A happy, dry Will.

You might see this shot and think we were going for a "hardcore" look... not really; this is Will becoming hypothermic and forgetting to smile.

Oh, and back to the athletes at The Lobsterman Triathlon… a friend of mine sent me the following photo that shows how I managed to get in the way of many swimmers (with permission).  Just look for the bald head amongst the purple swim caps.  Many thanks to Peter Thomas of alpengraphik.com for the photo.

Swimming Upstream...

I was a big Norwegian water hazard that day.  Thanks to all the athletes for allowing me that position, but I think the images were worth the obstruction!

And I even had a few minutes to catch part of the bike.

It’s hard to believe that I first raced The Lobsterman Triathlon NINE years ago… but I might just have to throw my hat back in the ring for the race’s ten year anniversary next September!

It didn’t take long for the first students to begin congregating to watch the televised ceremonies in New York City, and later, to see Bowdoin’s President sitting alone below that flag, collecting his thoughts before addressing the community.

Shortly before noon, students appeared from every corner of the quad, and quietly assembled as the chapel’s bells rang.  Students stood in unified silence next to faculty, staff, alums and community members alike.  I can’t remember ever seeing a group of people gather so effortlessly, so purposefully and without hesitation.

I can’t possibly know what each person was contemplating, but for me, the moment of silence was a bizarre sense of sadness and joy.  Sorrow because of the destruction and loss of life; gratitude for the strength of our Bowdoin community at that very moment.

After a moment of silence, Barry Mills (Bowdoin’s President) made a few brief, but poignant and thoughtful remarks that were incredibly meaningful.  His words resonated with many in the crowd, and my heart went out to those, whose memories of 9/11 obviously were still vivid.

It was an honor to document that ceremony for the Bowdoin community, and as the flowers left beside the campus memorials for alums killed on 9/11, it is clear that the memories of that day have not been forgotten, and the spirit of unity and hope is alive and well on campus.

Go U Bears.

Every year, I’m lucky enough to return to Bowdoin College to photograph Homecoming and Reunion.  Returning to my alma mater is a chance to reconnect with old friends, and share in the beauty of coastal Maine.  I can’t possibly write captions for all these images… but I wanted to share a few for those alums that didn’t get a chance to return.  It’s amazing how time flies, how children grow, how Bowdoin develops… yet everything feels the same.  The good just gets better.

We took all these photos (plus a bunch more) and posted them on our Facebook page here.  Tag and share to your hearts content:  http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

Also, there are literally hundreds of other photos online from Homecoming Weekend, capturing every aspect of the festivities.  You can view, download or request prints here: http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=830

My friend John's kids... charging the climbing wall.

For many students... it's just another weekend.

Reflections of fall foliage.

Sorry Hamilton… Tough loss.  But at least there are free hugs!

Thanks for the smiles!

Kate’s family has been on Peaks Island for generations, and when the time came for Kate & Sam to plan their wedding, they couldn’t imagine a more beautiful location.  The oceanfront family home played host to the wedding ceremony, and the iconic TEIA Clubhouse was the scene for their beautiful reception.

Kate and Sam’s wedding was beautiful, fun, and filled with details.

Sam had no problem tying his tie to get ready.

His groomsman however... came up a little short in that department.

Kate's amazing wedding dress.

Their wedding burgee flying just below the American flag.

Briarbank: the family's Peaks Island home and wedding ceremony location.

Zipping up: Kate was all smiles the entire day.

Kate's first time seeing herself in the dress on her wedding day while her mom looks on.

Watching guests arrive with one of her bridesmaids.

An incredible moment with her dad, as they walk downstairs to the ceremony.

One last look at each other. Their bond is obvious.

Sunset wedding ceremony on Peaks Island.

Kate's dad walks her down the aisle to Sam.

Holding back tears.

A tender moment during one of the readings... Sam instinctively reaches out and takes Kate's hand.

The kiss!

Love Kate's reaction here.

In private, Sam hugs his new wife for the first time.

Through blurry apple tree leaves, kate's eyes are sharp and beautiful. No photoshop here...

As a guest book, Kate & Sam had everyone sign their burgee.

The family's old car was resurrected for the drive to the club.

Kate shows off her ring.

Sunset from the TEIA wedding reception on Peaks Island.

Happy couple.

Even happier couple.

I loved the linear pattern of this planking... had to use this element in one photo.

The T.E.I.A. Peaks Island Burgee.

Relaxing in a hammock just before the reception.

First dance: of course they had something prepared!

Fading light and a beautiful glow from the clubhouse.

Sam's mom gives a beautiful toast.

Who needs wedding cake? They chose lots of bunt cakes instead.

Sam gets dipped.

Kate & her bridesmaid get down.

A fun contrast of light and motion from the band's perspective.

Love this! Grandma wasn't going to let anything stop her from dancing at this wedding!

Kate's mom... not to be outdone, had some moves of her own.

The chair dance went as planned for Kate.

Sam, on the other hand was having fun...

Until the chair broke and these fine lads were stuck holding him up.

All is good.

All is very good with this happy guest.

Kate's dad getting low.

I forget how she wound up on stage... but she owned it once she was there.

Last song of the evening...

Party's over.

Kate & Sam, thank you so much for including us on your wedding day.  We had such a fantastic time meeting all your friends and family!  Your wedding embodies everything we enjoy about photojournalism: the real emotion, the wonderful people, and the thoughtful details and the true story of your celebration. We appreciate you being so open and willing to let us capture your day.  We hope to see you both on a future trip to Maine.  Thank you!

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The COMPLETE collection of photos are available to view here:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=824

**********************************

Photos are already posted to Facebook!  Tag your friends here:

http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

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Wedding Ceremony: Private Residence, Peaks Island, Maine

Wedding Reception: TEIA Clubhouse (Trefethen-Evergreen Improvement Association, Peaks Island, ME)

Caterer: Aurora Provisions, Portland, ME

Band: Sultans of Swing, Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Flowers: Snell Family Farm

Lighting: Moonlighting Productions

Transportation: Custom Coach and Limosine

Hair & Makeup: J. Henry’s Salon

Wedding Planning & Coordination: Cairn Events / Heather Cuzzi (great job Heather!)

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Jenn & Daniel are an amazing couple.  Fun, smart and beautiful are adjectives that come to mind… but also genuine and down to earth as well.  They met at Tufts Veterinary School, and fell in love during games of ultimate frisbee and days of studying together.  Jenn is a Maine girl, and Daniel was raised in England… but when it came time to choose a location for their wedding, there was no other choice than her grandparent’s property in Scarborough, and the Nonantum Inn in Kennebunkport.

Daniel and Jenn’s wedding truly reflected their values: they were married beside the sea, in front of family, friends, and most importantly: their PERFECTLY behaved dogs.

The flower girl and attendant.

Jenn's grandfather walked her down the aisle.

Looking over Jenn's shoulder (foreground), Daniel sees Jenn for the first time in her dress!

Lots of emotion. Tears of joy.

Jenn smiles and holds back tears as her mother sang to them.

Jenn's brother in law sang as well.

Daniel receives his ring.

These two are soulmates. Their bond is so obvious. So beautiful.

Walking back down the aisle.

Finally alone, just after the ceremony.

We should be honest... these were the two most important guests.

Back to The Nonantum for the reception!

The Nonantum Lighthouse.

Hanging out on a lobster boat.

Shoes off.

First Dance.

Beautiful cake by Confection Art with US & England Flags.

Daniel had moves. Many, many moves.

Had to include this. Jenn's face is priceless.

Just another perfect night in Kennebunkport!

Sunset down on the docks.

We love Sperry Tents... so pretty.

Speaking of pretty... this gent came out of the gates ready to dance, and kept going for 4 straight hours.

Come to think of it... ALL the guests came ready to party.

And those that didn't want to dance? Well, they were "encouraged".

This little boy was amazing... breakdancing for hours.

Bon Jovi claims four more victims.

Make that five.

Jenn is like the Energizer Bunny... nonstop dancing. Even Daniel started to get tired.

Last song of the night... surrounded by friends and family. The way life should be!

A sparkler sendoff, led by this little boy.

A happy couple... congratulations!

Jenn & Daniel!  THANK YOU for having us!  We had so much fun with your friends and family!  Good luck with the big move to Colorado and PLEASE let us know when you’re back in Maine!

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The COMPLETE collection of photos are available to view here:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=818#page=1

**********************************

Photos are already posted to Facebook!  Tag your friends here:

http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

****************************************************************

Wedding Ceremony: Private Residence, Scarborough, ME

Wedding Reception: Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport, ME

Cake: Confection Art

Flowers: Minott’s Flowers (Portland, ME)

DJ: Jeff Rockwell

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Stacy and Brian’s Castle Hill inn Wedding in Newport, Rhode Island was gorgeous, meaningful and laid back.  They managed to celebrate not only their love for one another, but create an atmosphere that was welcoming and fun for everyone.  Their wedding was a day filled with surprises and was a joy to document.

Not even a little rain (in the background) could stop this party.

Stacy's engagement ring, during the Maine inspired lobsterbake rehearsal dinner.

Customized wedding dress hanger.

Stacy's wedding dress.

Brian's mom helping prepare a new Mrs. Walsh!

Encouraging the ring bearer down the aisle.

From over Brian's shoulder... this is Stacy's first look at him!

Simultaneously... Brian's reaction to seeing Stacy for the first time.

A few rain sprinkles never hurt anyone... and made for dramatic skies.

Stacy's vows... while two small rain drops fall from the sky.

The Greek tradition of the Stefana. Beautiful.

The kiss!

Recessing back down the aisle.

In a nearby garden, Brian has a moment to appreciate Stacy's dress.

Beautiful.

Group photos... whenever the ring bearer would let me!

Sunset over Newport Harbor.

Reception time... and a table for the new Mr & Mrs. Walsh.

Their cake. (Again, we had to try it... had to... just to say it tasted great!)

First dance.

Sunset and rain clouds... love it.

Gorgeous photo of Castle Hill Inn with the harbor and Newport bridge in the background.

The band got going...

...and so did the dancing.

Not to be out done, Stacy had her own moves.

Though neither Brian nor Stacy could compete with some of their guests.

The band rocked.

Mother of groom.

Father of groom. (I wonder where Brian gets his moves from?)

More moves...

Last song of the night. Tired, happy and in love.

Congratulations Stacy & Brian!

We hope you two are having fun on your honeymoon!  We had a great time with everyone and appreciate the opportunity to document your big day!  Congratulations!

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The COMPLETE collection of photos are available to view here:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=807#page=1

**********************************

Photos are already posted to Facebook!  Tag your friends here:

http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

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Wedding Ceremony: Castle Hill Inn (Relais & Chateaux Property), Newport, RI

Wedding Reception: Castle Hill Inn (Relais & Chateaux Property), Newport, RI

Dress: Lea-Ann Belter

Stationer: East Six (New York, NY)

Cake: Scrumptions (East Greenwich, RI)

Flowers: Flowers By Semia (North Providence, RI)

Planner: Rebecca White (Castle Hill Inn, Newport, RI)

Band: Night Rhythm (Boston, MA)

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Fort William Henry played host to Sarah and Will’s beautiful wedding ceremony.  Located in the village of New Harbor, in the town of Bristol, Maine… the setting was meaningful and idyllic.  Will’s family has had a home in nearby Christmas Cove, and their celebration represented the joy of summer in Maine, and the union of two great families.

Fort William Henry, New Harbor, Maine

Cottage at The Bradley Inn with Sarah's wedding dress.

One last check by Sarah... beautiful.

Sarah's bouquet.

Waiting for guests to arrive.

Every detail was thoughtful and gorgeous.

Will's shoes. To call them shoes may not be completely fair: these velveted slippers of matrimony had an embroidered cutter on them.

I've never seen flower girls take such delight in being part of a wedding.

Sarah, starting down the aisle.

The crowd parted, and Will saw her for the first time.

Elegant lines of her dress and the vibrance of Maine on a summer's evening.

Will's reaction to seeing Sarah for the first time!

One of the EVER attentive flower girls.

There's truth in Sarah's eyes. You can't fake that.

The kiss!

Another view of the ceremony and the gorgeous sky.

They recess back down the aisle... flower girls in tow!

A candid moment caught.

Cooling off in the fort.

Window light.

Walking to The Contented Sole for their wedding reception.

A classic shot... the flower girls staring at the wedding cake.

In a friend's boat.

New Harbor sunset.

Will's toast.

Kids... being kids.

The Contented Sole dock at twilight.

Their neighbor made this personalized guest book for them!

Then the dancing started.

They had moves!

The Contented Sole is a great space for a reception.

Their (amazing) DJ keeping things moving inside during a perfect, cool Maine evening.

She's feeling it!

So was he.

A long, long day when you're a little girl.

Shoes off... ice cold drinks everywhere, the party rages on.

A moment alone on the dock captured.

Sarah & Will!  THANK YOU for having us!  We had so much fun with you, and hope to see you again when you’re back on the coast of Maine!

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The COMPLETE collection of photos are available to view here:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=800

**********************************

Photos are already posted to Facebook!  Tag your friends here:

http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

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Wedding Ceremony: Fort William Henry, New Harbor, Maine (Pemaquid)

Reception: The Contented Sole, New Harbor, Maine

Dress: Arrisale

Shoes: Valentino

Rings: Cartier

Groom’s Tie: Brooks Brothers

Stationer: Lucky Luxe

Calligrapher: Love Jenna

Cake: Sticky Fingers

Flowers: Poppies & Posies

Planner: Kate Martin / Beautiful Days Events

DJ: The Flashdance (Los Angeles)

Jazz Trio: Hot Club of Portland

Flower Girl Dresses: Priscilla of Boston

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Now this was a fun wedding!  I can’t remember the last time we laughed so much before, during and after a wedding… but Katie & Tim’s celebration was a blast.  This Southern California couple did things their own way, and lucky for all of us, we were there to photograph all the fun.

Sebago Lake in Casco, Maine is an incredible location.  Migis Lodge is one of the few venues that will allow you and your family/friends to take over the property for your weekend long celebration… and that’s exactly what Katie and Tim did.

Migis Lodge is as classic as it is stunning.  Built in 1916, the 125 acre property is nestled in a pristine pine forest on the shores of Sebago Lake, and the perfect spot for a weekend long party.

Katie reacts to seeing herself in the mirror for the first time.

At the church, it's Tim's turn for a first look.

Beautiful.

Think Katie's Dad loves his daughter? Yeah... that's a real hug.

This poor girl will never live this down. She was so adorable, constantly looking around, swinging her feet... I just had to take a photo (or 4).

The kiss!

Love the "Just Married" sign on the boat.

Champagne in hand, newly married, on a beautiful boat... life doesn't get much better than that.

A quiet moment after the boat ride.

Tim is an Air Force Academy grad... and having the flag in one of his photos was something he hoped for. I think we got it Tim!

Beneath the ancient pine trees at sunset.

Off to the reception!

First Dance.

Katie's dad giving a toast.

Lots of emotion all day... but here's something special: Katie looking beautiful with tears in her eyes as she dances with her dad.

Tim is such a nice guy.

Then there was some dancing.

Katie & her mom tearing it up.

The bridesman and bridesmaids...

Not exactly sure what was happening here.

Oh!  And we brought our photobooth for guests to use as a visual guestbook, and they LOVED it!  So much fun.  Be sure to check out all the photos at the link below.

Inside the drawn hearts, it reads "K&T".

Tim's mom and dad.

I just love this woman's expression!

I don't understand it either... except for the We Love You Guys part.

The last shot of the night: Surrounded by partying friends & family, Katie & Tim sneak a quick kiss.

Enjoy your well deserved honeymoon and thanks for having us!  We had so much fun with you both, and appreciate how welcoming everyone was!  Congratulations!

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The COMPLETE collection of photos are available to view here:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=786

**********************************

These photos and MORE are already posted to Facebook!  Tag your friends here:

http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

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Ceremony/Reception: Migis Lodge (coordinated by Robyn… thank you!)

Flowers: Marica Davis

Dress:  Amy Kuschel, San Francisco

Cake: Migis Lodge

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Sebasco Harbor Resort is one of our favorite locations on the coast of Maine.  Situated just across the water from our Boathouse Studio in Cundy’s Harbor, Sebasco is our backyard, and returning again to photograph there feels like coming home.  The staff are our friends, the atmosphere is as beautiful as it is laid back, and the property is large enough for us to create unique imagery each and every time we photograph there.

When I first spoke with Melanie and Ben on the phone over a year ago, I felt like I had known them forever.  We had all spent years teaching in the outdoors with Outward Bound… an incredible school that forever shapes the lives of it’s students, as well as it’s instructors.  I had been looking forward to their wedding for months, and the fun was well worth the wait!

Melanie managed to get ready in approximately 3 minutes.

Ben took an entire 30 seconds.

Rock climbing is a near constant in their lives.  Whether in the Pacific Northwest, or on course in Utah or Maine, climbing carabiners are a fitting representation of their bond.  These carabiners were personalized with their wedding date, and were a useful aide for transporting their rings via a very adorable ring bearer.

Ben's card to Mel just before the wedding.

Watching the guests arrive with anticipation.

Mel and her dad walking down the aisle.

As family looks on, Ben sees Mel for the first time.

I love this image because it's so expressive of Ben and Mel. Their energy and love is absolutely wonderful to be around!

joy.

Bubbles!

A tender moment immediately following their ceremony. With tears in their eyes, this is their first hug as husband and wife.

The simple beauty of Sebasco.

Overlooking Sebasco Harbor.

Vegan cake by SeaFlour

The grand entrance to the reception!

First Dance.

I LOVE the kid who is transfixed by the cutting of the chocolate cake. His intensity is awesome... and I love that Ben's mom knows him well enough to hold him back. Charge!

The fog rolled in and we dashed outside for one last shot. I love the silhouette of the trees.

Party Time!

Flash mob at a wedding? Yup. That was a first for me!

Sing along to Bon Jovi.

Mel's parents getting down.

Last dance of the night.

Melanie and Ben: THANK YOU for having us at your beautiful wedding!  We had so much fun with you, your family and friends!

****************************************************************

The COMPLETE collection of photos are available to view here:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=781

**********************************

Photos are already posted to Facebook!  Tag your friends here:

http://www.facebook.com/brianwedgephoto

****************************************************************

Ceremony/Reception: Sebasco Harbor Resort (coordinated by the wonderful Marianne Vold)

Flowers: Emily Carter

Paper: Invitation Consultants

DJ: Dan Dibiase

Cake: Stacie Blouin / SeaFlour

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2011/06/melanie-ben-sebasco-harbor-resort-wedding-maine/feed/ 2 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2011/05/the-fireflies-ride-geneva-to-cannes-via-the-french-alps/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2011/05/the-fireflies-ride-geneva-to-cannes-via-the-french-alps/#comments Sun, 15 May 2011 14:10:40 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3917 Continue reading →]]> Direct Link to Leuka Fundraising Page HERE.

Last September I was lucky enough to join a small group of courageous cyclists for a 6 day, 600 mile ride down the coast of California from San Francisco to Los Angeles… all in honor of cancer survivors.  Our team, named the Fireflies, is a small group of advertising and film professionals who tackle the hardest climbs of the Alps and the coast of California every year to raise money and awareness for the fight against cancer, and specifically leukemia.

In about 30 days, I’ll be boarding a plane for Switzerland, to join the Fireflies again for a ride from Geneva, Switzerland to Cannes, France.  I’m thrilled, I’m honored… and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a touch nervous.

Yes, I ride my bike a lot… but there’s NOTHING on the coast of Maine or California that could possibly prepare me for the hardest climbs of the Tour de France.  It will be 1000Km of hard roads and 22,000m of elevation climbed by the time we reach Cannes.  The Fireflies motto is “For those who suffer, we ride” and every pedal stroke, every moment of self doubt, every glorious view and grueling ascent will be for those leukemia survivors… like my big sister Lea… who have lived with a disproportionate amount of suffering every day since being diagnosed.

This ride is 100% in aid of Leuka, one of the world’s great leukemia research and support foundations.  Their mission could not be nearer and dearer to my heart… and quite honestly, I hope you will consider making a donation to Leuka today.

So… like everything we do for cancer survivors, there’s an opportunity for YOU to get involved.  Here’s how:

1.)  I won’t belabor the point: we need financial support.  100% of donations go to Leuka in aid of leukemia research, awareness and support.  None of your donations pay for any part of my trip.  I have a goal of raising a minimum of 2,000 £​’s (that’s about $3,000 as $1 = .6£’s) in the next THIRTY (30) days. Please help!

The direct link to my fundraising page is here (or click on the Leuka logo below)

2.)  Beginning June 13th, we leave Geneva, Switzerland for a 9 day ride in search of the hardest climbs of the Alps on our way to Cannes, France.  Though I always ride for my big sister Lea and her ongoing battle with this awful disease and the aftermath of her bone marrow transplant, once again, I’ll be dedicating a part of each day’s ride to a cancer survivor that YOU tell me about.  Just email directly HERE or leave a comment & send me their name etc.  You can also contact us via Twitter or Facebook.  We know there are cancer survivors out there who are suffering, and we want them to know that we’re in the fight with them.  There is power in Unity. It may be a really steep climb, it may be the day when my legs are exhausted from the hundreds of miles I did days before, or the incredible view from the top of the Alps… but connecting with survivors will motivate me to keep going, to tell their story, and hopefully do remind them that they’re not alone.

3.)  The third way you could help, is to go find a friend who hasn’t yet registered for the bone marrow registry and get them committed to signing up.  It breaks my heart to see people literally dying, because the public doesn’t realize how EASY and FREE registration and donation is.  You can go HERE for the link to all the information, and the FREE registration process.

If you live in France or Switzerland, or know someone who does… please come out and cheer us along.  We are a small, but dedicated group of wackos who put ourselves on the line in order to support the fight against cancer.  We love meeting new folks along the way, and can provide detailed times/locations to anyone who might want to connect to ride with us, or just needs a sweaty smile and wave.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!

Nobody does bugs like Costa Rica... and nobody shreds on waves like Andres.

Any professional photographer will tell you that light is everything when it comes to making a creative exposure.  Decisive moments, emotion and storytelling details are all critical components of photojournalism… but without light and the proper lenses to capture that light, well, you’re in trouble.  That being said, I showed up to this rodeo like a kid wielding a knife at a gun fight: I had no flash, no spare camera backs, no telephoto lenses: nothing that I would typically use to cover fast action.  So bear with me here, the following images might not be technically perfect, but they help share a great story.

The "stands" for kids

One aspect that I did have working to my advantage was access.  Logs had been assembled with bailing wire on the village soccer field to form a ring.  Spectators stood or sat on the fence or in the ring to watch the bull riding.

In the action: a rope is tossed to lead a bull out of the cattle car.

I wandered near the cattle truck that held the bulls, and an older man quickly motioned to me to climb up INTO the chute that led the bulls from the truck to the ring.  As an understatement, let’s just say that there were no restrictions, no OSHA, no insurance liability wavers to sign… and as important, no one there to tell me (the blond idiot in flip flops who spoke almost no Spanish) when to get out of the way.

When to get out of the way.

As luck would have it, the first bull came out of the chute so fast that a rider couldn’t get on it’s back in time, which scarcely mattered much as the real entertainment was watching the spectators almost get trampled by the bull.

Costa Ricans: The friendliest, most chill people on Earth.

Is it possible that there is such a thing as calm mayhem?  I would think not, but there was a sense of fun and calm and relaxation amongst the tortured animals and the bleeding, sweating men.  It was incredible to take it all in.

This image was exposed for 1/30th of a second. This guy's ride lasted about as long. He was thrown from the bull almost immediately.

The taunting of the bulls…

The end result of taunting the bulls… an injured teenager is taken to a waiting ambulance.

A rider straps in for his ride. Note the taught rope around the bull’s neck.

As a journalist, I often hear that I’m supposed to suspend my judgement and emotions… just capture a story with integrity, creativity and depict scenes honestly.  It’s with complete honesty then that I’ll say it was sad to see these bulls being zapped with cattle prods, poked with spurs and generally manhandled for entertainment.  I’m not a member of PETA, nor a vegetarian… but I was close enough to touch these bulls separated by only a flimsy wooden board.  I found myself whispering apologies to them as dozens of men attempted to incite them.

There really was no fight in these bulls.  They wanted to get away from the cattle prods, the jeers, punches and spurs… but they were at once powerful and dangerous while simultaneously being timid and scared.  It was a strange feeling to be so terrifying close, yet feeling so much empathy for them.

In a blur of motion... another bull sets off.

I had my fill of bull riding pretty quickly.  Luckily, Costa Rican Rodeo’s lack of security allowed me access to the ambulances and ringside triage centers.

An injured bull rider is attended to.

As seen through the tinted window of an ambulance, this rider was trampled by a bull.

Family members wait anxiously for riders to appear from triage.

As his son looks on, a rider is treated by a local doctor.

A woman holding her infant son can be seen in the window's reflection as her husband is attended to by medics.

Andres.

The rodeo is a family affair. A young boy patiently eats chorros.

Maybe the coolest taxi on the planet?

As I’m taking that photo of the CTITW (Coolest Taxi In The World), this guy runs up on me and starts smiling.  At first I think he’s drunk, so I do the obligatory smile and snap a photo of him.  But then he dashes off into the darkness and returns with his young son.  He’s not drunk, he’s just PSYCHED to have his photo taken.  Next thing I know, I’m following him down some darkened street, prepared to either be mugged or to learn something new about Costa Rica.

The guy leads me into his home and shows me all the amazing food he has prepared for the rodeo.  He is asks for photos of each dish, and then tries to feed me after each picture is made.  He is proud of his kitchen, his cooking and his home.  I’m not fluent in Spanish, but I can understand his pride and appreciate his enthusiasm.  Beyond the dusty dirt streets, beyond the relative poverty here, beyond that bullring that’s filled with machismo, adrenaline and pain… this guy is just thrilled to share with me his food and his home.  It’s a connection that transcends cultures.

Happiness.

It’s another reminder for me that happiness is a state of mind… and this guy has it.  As I leave his house to return to the dark streets, he calls back to me for one last photo with his wife.  Just as I release the shutter button, he turns and plants a kiss on his “amada.”  His beloved.

What a night.

I’ve always been inspired by people who say less but do more.  I’ll use that philosophy as a convenient excuse for my absence from our blog for most of the past month… which is partially true as I’ve been traveling and working a bit more than I should.  I did however have an incredible time surfing down in Costa Rica a few weeks ago, and in the process got to know the owners of The Witch’s Rock Surf Camp.

Believe The Hype.

Witch’s Rock (Roca Bruja) Surf Camp is based out of Tamarindo, Costa Rica; a place that’s also at the heart of a fantastic series of surf breaks.  The surfing was great, and the weather was perfect.  The trip was a wonderful opportunity to unwind after an insanely busy year and just surf until we were completely exhausted, then wake up and do it all again the next day.

Pura Vida

Every night after surfing we would go to the restaurant downstairs for fresh sushi and got to chat with the owners Joe and Holly.  Their story is the stuff of fiction: they left San Diego 9 years ago in a school bus with a bunch of surfboards in search of good waves and the dream of setting up a surf school.  Witch’s Rock Surf Camp is the result of that adventure.

Joe with an old nearly destroyed longboard.

After a few conversations with them, we started to learn more about their self-reliant business and their commitment to the environment.  What they created at Witch’s Rock has been an unequivocal success as a surfing destination, but more importantly… they told us with pride how they built their own sewage treatment plant, ran all their buses off of cooking oil and were in the process of teaching themselves to recycle surfboards.

I had heard of recycling metal and plastic... but surfboards?

So between surf sessions the next day, Joe invited me to his newly built shaping room… where he was literally piecing together old boards to make new ones.

Joe and a freshly trashed longboard.

Major Board Ding.

Recycling surfboards at a remote surf camp in Central America seemed like a perfectly normal thing to do for Holly and Joe.  After all, it was expensive, unreliable and wasteful to bring in surfboard blanks from out of the country.  Besides, broken foam boards were filling up local landfills… and just because they had never shaped boards before didn’t seem to slow them down one bit.

The Witch's Rock Surf Camp Secret Formula.

Step one to any new endeavor is to just begin.  Back in the day, I used to build wooden boats, and the first boatbuilder I worked for told me that “Experience starts when you do.”  Nothing could be more true and Joe has embraced that philosophy completely.

How to shape boards: Read a book, make a shaping table from beach sand cement/duct tape & get to work.

Part of living well (in my estimation anyway) includes living as simply as possible.  Being in Central America was another reminder that most folks in this world can’t (and shouldn’t) walk down to their local big box store to get something new every time it breaks.  There is joy to be found in repairing things, in making do and in thinking deeply before consuming or discarding something.  There is a simple beauty to having to live resourcefully.

Fin Boxes

The first part of recycling a surf board includes stripping the fiberglass and using everything possible for the new board.  Often, longboards get snapped in half: in those cases Joe makes them into shortboards.  In other instances, he repairs the dings, salvages the fin boxes and modifies the board shape to make up for imperfections.

Joe teaching fractions in a metric world.

One aspect of Joe & Holly’s business that we loved was the fact that their employees are like family.  Many of them have been with them from the beginning 9 years ago, and as the surf camp grows to include a restaurant, hotel and now board repair/manufacturing… their employees are learning new skills along the way.

The beginnings of a fractions cheat sheet on the wall. Surfboard measurements are universally referenced to as fractions. As such, all the Costa Rican guys struggled to learn fractions despite living in a metric based country.

Working with a power plane, the blank is shaped.

Just like wooden boatbuilding, boards are measured off a centerline.

Final Step: glassing the board.

The Witch's Rock Surf Camp quiver of boards.

Finished boards are prepped by Maxi... and then they're ready for surf!

Ok, so surfboard “recycling” is a cool concept right?  It gets better: over dinner one night Joe asks me if I’m familiar with Earth Bags… an environmentally sustainable (and simple, and strong) building material/process.  Think sandbags that are then cemented/stuccoed together.  The end result is stronger, more durable, more efficient and sustainable construction.

A beachside bar made from beach sand, palm fronds and Earth Bags.

I’m duly impressed.  I’m stoked to hear that other folks are out there doing their best to make a living while caring for our planet.  Besides being super nice folks, and wonderful hosts… the story of Witch’s Rock Surf Camp is a success story to be shared.  It is possible to do what you love, live simply, pay your bills and protect our environment at the same time.  If you do get a shot to visit Witch’s Rock, please tell Holly and Joe we said hello!

Though she tried hard to avoid this from happening... I had to include a photo of Holly.

It wouldn’t be the New Year without a brief look back on where we were, and a BIG, BIG “Thank You” to all our fantastic clients, thoughtful supporters and wonderful friends and family.  We would be remiss if we didn’t mention a few key partnerships that kept us going in 2010: one with Apple Computers (you know, that little California company), another with Canon Professional Services and last, but not least our friends at Broncolor Imaging and Calumet Photo.  For those that aren’t familiar with Broncolor: simply put, they make the finest lighting equipment in the world and through their New England rep Dave McRitchie (and Calumet’s Wayne Cozzolino)… they also provided incredible 24-7 support to keep us “in the field” doing what we do best.  Thank You!

We’re starting 2011 with a short update on the tail end of 2010:  Thanks very much to our friends at The Wedding Photojournalist Association who again selected one of our images for an award in their international photo contest.  We always feel lucky to be selected… and congratulations to Lyndsay & Josh for having such an amazing winter wedding at The Mount Washington Hotel!

In other (belated news) our friend and fellow Bowdoin alum Coren Moore, featured many of our weddings on her website.  Coren is wildly successful dress designer in Manhattan, and we were honored that she would feature our images in her blog (here, here, here and HERE!).  Thanks Coren!

We have news and updates from California, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Maine… and everywhere between!  Rest assured, we’re back… and have lots to share!

We wandered over to a cyclocross race this past weekend on the way back from another assignment, and snapped a few pics just for the fun of it.  I’ve been hearing all about the Verge New England Championship Cyclo-Cross Series for a few years now, but never managed to get myself over to watch a race.  Cyclocross, is a short (40-60 minute) circuit bike race on dirt/mud/gravel that includes a variety of obstacles (hills/barriers/stone walls) that force a rider off their bike briefly, before they remount to ride again.

Following the circuit.

Honestly, I was hoping for mud… and LOTS of it.  But Mother Nature did not cooperate.

Lots of short, steep, winding hills.

Running past the log sections.

Racing through the leaves on skinny tires.

All the arrows pointed the wrong way.  Must be a ‘cross thing.

Women Elite race begins… with an amazing backdrop and slow shutter speeds.

Stone wall bike handling skills.

Running the barriers.

Farm implements everywhere.  I couldn’t resist a few snaps.

Focus.

A nice excuse to plug my boys at Cannondale… makers of some of the best ‘cross rigs in the world.

Cows and bikes.  You can’t go wrong.

Some more log barriers.

Action.

Sweet Victory (please do NOT mention the giant booger coming out of his nostril).  Dude was working hard.  We get it.

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We have a couple hundred more images in a gallery.  If you want to see them, just click the link below:

http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=771

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/11/cyclocross-maine-or-why-is-that-dude-running-with-his-bike/feed/ 11 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/350-org-aerial-shoot-at-wolfes-neck-farm-freeport-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/350-org-aerial-shoot-at-wolfes-neck-farm-freeport-maine/#comments Mon, 11 Oct 2010 14:35:54 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3744 Continue reading →]]>

Individual pumpkins form the 350.org logo for the 10.10.10 celebration in Freeport, Maine.

The environmental group 350.org asked us to take an aerial photograph of their 10.10.10 celebration at Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine.  Founded by Bill McKibben, 350.org gets it’s name from it’s mission: to lower the amount of carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere to below 350 parts per million.  350.org is a great organization attempting to raise awareness and a sense of urgency about the earth’s climate crisis.  If you have a moment, check out their website here, and consider getting involved:  350.org website.

On the short flight to Wolfe’s Neck Farm, I couldn’t help but look out the window and capture some of Maine’s incredible beauty.

The leaves were bursting with color.

We passed farms with cows…

And boats still moored safely in harbors.

Seeing Maine from the air always reminds me of how precious our environment is, and how we all can do our part to protect our planet.

350.org  is a global movement.  Check out what people are doing worldwide, and how you can help!

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/350-org-aerial-shoot-at-wolfes-neck-farm-freeport-maine/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/fireflies-ride-2010-san-francisco-to-la-in-6-days-by-bike/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/fireflies-ride-2010-san-francisco-to-la-in-6-days-by-bike/#comments Mon, 11 Oct 2010 01:01:41 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3600 Continue reading →]]> It’s been awhile since I’ve been able to post anything non photography related on this blog.  Heck, for all I know, y’all might like it that way… but I recently signed up for a “little” 550 mile / 6 day bike ride down the coast of California.  There’s a pack of maniac cyclists from the film/advertising world called The Fireflies, and every year this small group of about 20 riders tackle the Alps and the coast of California to raise money and awareness for the fight against cancer, and specifically leukemia.

After all we’ve been through with my sister’s leukemia, I couldn’t help but get involved.  The motto of The Fireflies is “For Those Who Suffer, We Ride” and this small group of crazy bike riders have done a tremendous amount in only a short period of time.  Long story short, I leave next week for a 6 day, 550 mile bomb down the coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles on my bike.

So… like everything we do for cancer survivors, there’s an opportunity for YOU to get involved.  Here’s how:

1.)  Beginning next FRIDAY (9/24), we leave San Francisco headed for LA (via Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Cayucos, Solvang, and Ventura).  Come out and look for us as we bang out 6 days of 90 miles (I can send you our exact route).  We want to see you along the way, and though I always ride for my big sister Lea and her ongoing battle with this awful disease and the aftermath of her bone marrow transplant, this time I’ll be dedicating a part of each ride to a cancer survivor that YOU tell me about.  Just email directly HERE or leave a comment & send me their name etc. It may be a really steep climb, it may be the day when my legs are exhausted from the hundreds of miles I did days before… but it will motivate me to keep going, and hopefully do the same for them.

2.)  If you would like to donate some much needed cash to the good people at City of Hope and their amazing cancer center… you can do so through our Fireflies West website at www.fireflieswest.com

3.)  The third way you could help, is to go find a friend who hasn’t yet registered for the bone marrow registry and get them committed to signing up.  It breaks my heart to see people literally dying, because the public doesn’t realize how EASY and FREE registration and donation is.  You can go HERE for the link to all the information, and the FREE registration process.

4.)  If you live in LA, or near the smog of LA… PLEASE get your butt over to our arrival celebration on Wednesday, September 29th.  550 miles in 6 days, all in honor of those who suffer from cancer is a big deal, and we would like to see as many people as possible.  All the information is below, and I hope to see some folks there!!

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/fireflies-ride-2010-san-francisco-to-la-in-6-days-by-bike/feed/ 5 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/kerstyn-dickie-york-harbor-reading-room-wedding-york-harbor-me/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/10/kerstyn-dickie-york-harbor-reading-room-wedding-york-harbor-me/#comments Fri, 08 Oct 2010 19:08:04 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3692 Continue reading →]]>

Kerstyn & Dickie wanted a beautiful, simple wedding by the sea… surrounded by their friends, family and the constant crashing of ocean waves.  When they called, we jumped at the opportunity to support them.

This past Saturday, the wedding of their dreams came to fruition at The York Harbor Reading Room, in York Harbor, Maine.  What made their day so special, was the fact that Kerstyn and Dickie wanted something relaxed but beautiful… and they wanted photos that were creative but unobtrusive.  It was a true joy to document their story, and it was wonderful to be around a group of people who were so happy to celebrate.

Kerstyn’s gorgeous dress hangs from a door at 490 York Street… a beautiful home that sits directly across the street from The York Harbor Reading Room.

Dickie getting ready.

Kerstyn and her family watch anxiously as guests arrive.

Their rings.

Kerstyn’s bouquet.

Kerstyn’s dad begins to walk her down the aisle.

Looking great.

Dickie’s first look at Kerstyn.

An exquisite location for a Maine wedding ceremony.

The sound of the constant surf was wonderful.

Kerstyn going for the big kiss!

Just a few moments alone immediately after the ceremony.

The York Harbor Reading Room.

Love birds cake topper.

First dance.

Then the kids get it into it.

Paper lanterns light the way to the reception.

A detail I’ve NEVER seen before: cat & dog treats as party favors!

The band sounded great.

Sparklers always make the night better!

Kerstyn and Dickie, it was so great to document your big day.  Thank you for letting us join in the fun!  Safe travels during your big move, and we hope to see you in California soon!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Page: just click here to join us and share/tag them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Ceremony/Reception Location: York Harbor Reading Room

Florist: Flower Kiosk (Portsmouth, NH)

Gown: Lea-Ann Belter

Bridesmaids Dresses: Jenny Yoo

Groom/Groomsmen: J. Crew

Paper: Mr. Boddington Studio

Band: Alessi Band

Cake: Popovers (Portsmouth, NH)

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Boothbay Harbor, Maine is an incredibly beautiful location, and we were happy to return to photograph Sheri & Nate’s wedding this past weekend.  Sheri’s family owns a house in Boothbay Harbor, and Maine has become a home away from home for the two of them to relax and explore.

Their wedding was filled with thoughtful details.  A personalized lobster buoy adds a distinctly Maine touch.

Sheri’s emotion is so obvious as she sees herself in the mirror for the first time.

Looking out in the direction of the church, Sheri got ready at her parent’s house, which is perched on the edge of the sea in Boothbay Harbor.

Nate and the boys took a limousine to the wedding after the trolley they hired “became engulfed in flames.”  We weren’t there for the pyrotechnics, but no one was hurt… and a replacement vehicle was provided.  It’s always an adventure!

Sheri, on the other hand hopped aboard the gorgeous lobster yacht LION along with the rest of the bridal party for the short trip from her parent’s house to the church.

Classic Boothbay Harbor in September… lots of sailboats, and beautiful light.

Sheri peeks around the cabin of the lobster yacht.

The bridal party was met at the dock by a bagpiper, who escorted them to the church.

Just before walking down the aisle, her dad gives her one last kiss.  A special moment captured.

Our Lady Queen of Peace.  A beautiful, historic church.

From the balcony, the original 1916 timber frame construction can really be seen.

The big kiss!

A unique overhead view of Sheri & Nate recessing back down the aisle.

Vista from the Spruce Point Inn.

A bridesmaid’s bouquet rests on a rock.

Another unique detail: a sea glass cake!

As the sun sets, Sheri and Nate prepare to enter the reception.

With all their guests standing and clapping, the wedding couple arrives.

First dance.

Yup, this guy has the worm mastered.  Nice work!

Though The Tony Boffa band isn’t necessarily known for their rapping… trust us, they can throw it down when they need to.  We especially enjoyed the cash money gold chain!

Sunset at The Spruce Point Inn.

Sheri & Nate, thank you so much for having us at your wedding!  We loved meeting all your friends and family!  We genuinely appreciate all the hard work and thought that you all put into your big day… and we hope you enjoy your beautiful photos as well!  Enjoy Italy!!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Page: just click here to join us and share/tag them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Ceremony:  Our Lady Queen of Peace Roman Catholic Church (Boothbay Harbor, ME)

Reception:  Spruce Point Inn (Boothbay Harbor, ME)

Florist:  Sawyer & Company (Portland, ME)

Gown: Priscilla of Boston

Band: Tony Boffa Band

Cake: Sweet Sensations

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

I have a GREAT job.  I’ll be the first to admit it.  Week after week, day after day, I’m lucky enough to meet some of the most interesting and talented people on the planet.  At our most basic level, our work is simply storytelling.  We’re photojournalists, capturing real moments and real emotions creatively and beautifully.  Quite often, it is our job to discover the underlying story… to weave the thread that connects all the different characters.

With Wrenn and Ryan, their story was so beautiful and so elegantly simple, that we connected easily… and our “job” was really all about remaining unobtrusive and just letting their thoughtful plans unfold.  After meeting with them, I expected to have a great time with them… but what I didn’t expect was how much fun I would have not only with them, but their incredible family and friends.

Their rehearsal dinner began with lobsters, steamers, and a slideshow.  Nothing too surprising here right?  Wrong: in the middle of the slideshow, the incredible music of David Berkeley faded out, as David Berkeley walked in to personally serenade the couple.

Wrenn first sees David Berkeley walk in playing.

David… killing it.  So good.

Ryan had secretly plotted and planned this surprise… and based on Wrenn’s expression… I’d say it worked!

David wrote a song just for Ryan and Wrenn based on information that Ryan had shared with him over the past year.  What an amazing, thoughtful gift!  There’s so much that happened at the rehearsal dinner that I couldn’t possibly fit it all in this post, but rest assured it was documented and can be seen with all the photos here (or follow the link at the very end of this posting).

Next day = Wedding Day!  Wrenn’s gown hangs at their family house on Cousin’s Island.

“Soon to be Mrs. Baldwin”

I love the silhouette of Wrenn in this image and her expression as she tries to figure out this “veil thing.”

From the community house next door to the Cousin’s Island Chapel, Wrenn watches the guests arrive.

Beautiful bouquets by Flora Home.  Nice work!

Ryan patiently waiting for the ceremony to begin.

Wrenn’s last yell to her bridesmaids before they walk down the aisle.

Ryan waits for Wrenn & her dad.

A unique perspective from outside, one of the windows was left open for ventilation.  That’s Wrenn and Ryan at the altar in the left hand corner of the image.

With dappled light reflecting off a window… Wrenn looks incredible.

Husband and wife!

Walking back down the aisle.

Just a seconds after stepping outside… a real, timeless moment captured.

Wrenn & Ryan on the top step of the chapel.

With Ryan holding her shoes… they’re off to the reception at Camp Hammond!

Beautiful cake.  (You know I had to try it… two thumbs up)!

First dance.

Wrenn’s brother breaks it down.

This person will remain unidentified… but I believe he’s dancing here.

This is definitely dancing.  I think.

We brought our photobooth again… and these lovely guests decided to document their night.  The sign reads “Before (7:25pm)”

After 10:21pm, it was all over.

Not sure what this is about… I just hope I’m not encouraging him.

Sign reads: “Wrenn & Friends – Imagine you in 2037″

Awww… so sweet.  (You should see the ones they took just before this).

Normally I finish a blog post with a gorgeous image of the wedding couple… but not today.  Nothing says “The End” quite like a passed out guy and an empty bottle of Maker’s Mark.

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In all seriousness though, Malia and I had so much fun at your wedding.  You and your family/friends were all so wonderful to us, we really appreciated the opportunity to document your day.  Thank you for having us!!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Page: just click here to join us and share/tag them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Guest Rockstar:  David Berkeley (available on iTunes)

Ceremony:  Cousin’s Island Chapel, Cousin’s Island, ME

Reception:  Camp Hammond, Yarmouth, ME

Caterer:  The Black Tie Company (nice job Paula)

Florist:  Flora Home

Gown: Amsale (Gabriella New York Bridal Salon)

Bridesmaids Dresses: Thread (Bella Bridesmaids)

DJ: M&M Entertainment

Cake: Black Tie

Paper: Ceci New York (Kate’s Paperie)

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

It is always an honor for us to photograph a wedding… but it was extra special to be there to support our cousin Nikki, as she married the man of her dreams in upstate New York.  And what a wedding it was!  With a church ceremony followed by a spectacular reception on the shores of Lake Delta, we felt lucky to be there!

Getting ready to be married!

Coming down the aisle of the church with her dad… beautiful.

Steve waiting for their arrival.

A beautiful old church.  What a wonderful location for a ceremony.

Nikki’s sister sang beautifully at the ceremony.  What a gift!

The big kiss!

Coming back down to the aisle.  Husband and wife.

Real joy… captured immediately after the ceremony concluded.

A simple, but beautiful detail: Nikki’s veil.  Gorgeous.

We took to the golf cart for about 10 minutes of photos, just as the sun was setting.

Timeless and beautiful.

Fading light… just as the sun sets, and moments before their introductions to the reception.

Hand in hand: their first dance as husband and wife.

There was no trouble getting people out on the dancefloor.

Freshly made donuts during the reception.  They were incredible (we had to try them), and had to wonder why everyone doesn’t do this at their wedding reception!  Great idea!

We also brought our photo booth along so guests could leave photo messages for Steve and Nikki.

Let’s just say folks got creative with their photos.

A+ to the guy in the tux doing John Travolta.  A++ to the guy with the chicken who needed to quench his thirst at the very moment that the flash bulbs went off!

More creativity.

We never cease to be amazed by wedding guests and a photobooth.

The mustaches were a big hit.

Nikki and Steve: THANK YOU for having us at your wedding.  THANK YOU for coordinating your dates with our insane schedule… we were so honored to be there, to celebrate with you, and to support both amazing families.  Have fun on your Croatian honeymoon!!  You deserve it!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Fan Page: just click here to join us and share them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Ceremony:  First Presbyterian Church, Rome, NY

Reception:  Teugega Country Club, Rome, NY

Caterer:  Teugega Country Club, Rome, NY

Florist:  Coriale Flowers

Band: The Billionaires

Cake: Desserts Beyond The Ordinary

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

Hannah & Jason’s wedding was a long time in the making.  Ten years ago, it was love at first sight for the two of them, when they met at Brandeis University.  Their wedding was a celebration of all that they had already accomplished, as well as the union of two wonderful families.

The Newagen Seaside Inn played host to Hannah & Jason’s weekend long festivities.

Southport Island (in Boothbay Harbor) never disappoints for a wedding ceremony.

Hannah’s beautiful dress.

Bridesmaids hard at work, fastening one of about a hundred buttons on her dress.

Finishing touches.

Think she’s happy to see Jason?  YES!

Jason waits as Hannah and her dad come down the aisle.

Their ceremony was on the front lawn of the Inn… overlooking the sea.

Bridesmaids and their bouquets.

Hannah’s mom and dad watch.

The big kiss!

Coming down the aisle as husband and wife, Hannah & Jason had their 1969 GTO waiting for them.

The ultimate getaway car.  Yes, those are the tires burning… and yes, that is Jason at the wheel.

Relaxing alone during the cocktail hour.

Hannah’s bouquet.

Their first dance.

Their cake.  It was GOOD (we had to try it).

A quiet moment caught at the same time from two different perspectives.

Their waterfront tent glowing at sunset.

Some serious dancing.

And serious fun.

After hours bowling in the Pine Room.  (Hannah won by the way).

Throughout the night, amidst all the dancing and laughing… Hannah and Jason were never far from each other.  It was beautiful to see them together, and a joy to document their wedding day.  Thanks so much for having us!  We had a wonderful time!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Fan Page: just click here to join us and share them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Ceremony/Reception:  Newagen Seaside Inn

Caterer:  Newagen Seaside Inn

Florist:  Emily Carter Floral Design

Dress:  Judd Waddell

Paper:  Three Little Words (nice work Emily!)

DJ: Dan Debruin

Ceremony/Cocktail Music: Southern Maine String Quartet

Cake: Sweet Sensations

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

We first met Mollie about 3 years ago at her best friend’s wedding (Carolyn & Drew) on the coast of Maine.  When Mollie and Greg contacted us to photograph their seaside wedding in Gloucester, Massachusetts, we jumped at the chance!

Greg and Mollie both went to Bates College in Maine, so it was no surprise that their ceremony combined their love of the outdoors, with thoughtful, introspective vows that they had written themselves.  On the very first page of their wedding program, were the words of Goethe: “Nothing is worth more than this day.”

Mollie and Greg’s rings.

Mollie’s gorgeous dress.

Mollie’s bridesmaids were amazing.  Through the flurry of activity, Mollie catches a quick glimpse of herself in the mirror.

Mollie and her bridesmaid watch as guests arrive.

Greg and his brother wait for their cue just moments before the ceremony begins.

Mollie and her dad start down the aisle.

Greg’s emotion and love is obvious.

Cape Ann is a beautiful setting for a ceremony.

After the kiss… Mollie is psyched!

Then the world’s smartest ice cream truck man arrives just after the ceremony.

Who could blame them for partaking in the frozen delicious treats of the ice cream truck?  Nice work!

Mollie and Greg took a few minutes alone together following the ceremony.

A Friendship Sloop… much like the one we used to own sailed by.

Greg is 6′ 8″ and Mollie had no problem diving into his arms throughout the day.  They were both so happy!

Walking over to Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester, an adorable little beachgoer inspects Mollie’s dress.

Meanwhile, back at The Ocean View Inn… the reception was just getting underway.

But thanks to Greg’s brother Dave… it didn’t take long before the reception kicked into high gear.

Sunset at The Ocean View Inn and Resort in Gloucester.

Now Greg is from my hometown, AND he went to Bates so I know he’s a smart, talented guy and all… but he almost gave a few of us a heart attack with his cake cutting skills.

In the middle of all the chaos of the reception, Mollie and Greg have one of many more dances together as husband and wife!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Fan Page: just click here to join us and share them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Ceremony/Reception:  Ocean View Inn and Resort, Gloucester, MA

Caterer:  Ocean View Inn and Resort, Gloucester, MA

Florist:  Chapman’s Greenhouse, Beverly Farms, MA

Dress:  Allegria Bridal, Belmont, MA

Band:  Mirage

Justice of The Peace: Marie Watson (Beverly, MA)

Cupcakes:  Cakes for Occassions, Danvers, MA

Videographer:  Artistic Experessions, Somerset, NJ

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/08/mollie-greg-ocean-view-inn-wedding-gloucester-ma/feed/ 0 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/08/samantha-stephen-samoset-resort-wedding-rockland-me/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/08/samantha-stephen-samoset-resort-wedding-rockland-me/#comments Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:59:51 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3370 Continue reading →]]>

Sam and Stephen are wonderful people.  It’s really as simple as that.  They’re emotional folks, who cared deeply about putting together a weekend long celebration that reflected their unique sense of style… and most importantly, the deep connection they have with one another.

Overlooking Penobscot Bay in Rockland, the Samoset Resort is a unique location that gave Sam and Stephen the chance to create a dream weekend of golf, hiking, sailing, relaxing… and oh, yeah… a pretty special wedding just feet from the ocean’s edge.  I connected with these guys right away, because I “got” how much they cared about their day.  They thought of every detail.  They wrote their own vows.  They planned their weekend so carefully.  And they honored me with the job of capturing all that emotion, all those thoughts… every detail.

In the image above, you’ll see the smeared, well worn words of Stephen’s vows.  Just a beautiful detail.

The flower girl checks out Sam’s dress.

Minutes before “game time” Samantha sees herself in her dress.  Gorgeous.

With the Sperry tent in the background, Sam and her dad arrive for the ceremony.

Stephen sees his bride as the mothers look on.

A spectacular, unique location for a ceremony… just feet from the Penobscot Bay.

The ceremony was held right next to the Rockland Breakwater.

The kiss!

All smiles!  The “important” stuff is done!

Bridesmaids bouquet.

Forget the smiles, these guys couldn’t stop laughing all day.  They were so happy!

We took a golf cart down to the Breakwater for a few photos.

I’d say it was well worth the effort!

A picture of contentment.

Yummy cake.

A Sperry Tent at the Samoset Resort is a great way to go.

Slippers were waiting for all the guests.

Their first dance.

Nothing like a nose smush to make your new wife laugh!

The reception was held outdoors overlooking the ocean.  Great location!

Sam and Stephen’s first date was to see Ray Greene and the Innervisions.  Over time, they’ve become friends with Ray, and Stephen couldn’t help but get up on stage and show the master some of his vocal skills.

Some dancing moves.  (I’m thinking Thriller was being played)

Stephen rocks a few of his own dancing moves.

Sam’s uncle (and wedding officiant) tears up the dance floor.

In the middle of all of the laughter, singing, sweaty dancing and chaos of a great party… Sam and Stephen were never far from eachother.  As the fun rages all around them, a beautiful, simple moment is captured forever.

Sam and Stephen: I had a blast with you.  You two are meant for one another, and I respect and appreciate all the thought and hard work that you put into your day!  I expect to see you again soon… maybe on our deck in Maine, maybe over a beer in Boston.  THANK YOU for allowing me to document such an important moment in your lives!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Fan Page: just click here to join us and share them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Ceremony/Reception:  Samoset Resort, Rockland, ME

Wedding Coordinator:  Will Clayton (Samoset Resort)

Caterer:  Samoset Resort

Florist:  Flora•Fauna (Great work Judy!)

Dress:  Simone Carvalli

Band:  Ray Greene and The Innervisions (Ray is a real talent… we always recommend him)

Cake:  Sweet Sensations

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

When Erica & Brian came to our studio last year for a meeting, we could tell that they were great people who were planning one heck of a party.  Brian & Erica are the kind of folks you want on your team: they’re fun, high energy… and they know what they want.  Though their wedding was filled with thoughtful details, they were GREAT clients to work with, because they knew how to let go and enjoy themselves on their big day.

Erica’s great friend and bridesmaid reacts to seeing her in her wedding dress for the first time.

Beautiful bouquet by Minott’s Flowers.

Brian is a classy guy: he sent a dozen roses to Erica before the wedding with a sweet note.

St. Brendan’s Seaside Chapel is one of my favorites.  Historic and gorgeous.

Brian and his mom, give one last smile to each other before walking down the aisle.

St. Brendan’s is a gorgeous old chapel.

The big kiss!

Through the power of Skype, Erica’s grandmother watched the ceremony.  Get well soon Grandma!

Driving off after the ceremony.

A quick glance up as they make their way to the beach.  Timeless and real.

Beautiful.

Just lost in the moment, Erica laughs with Brian.

I have no idea what Brian does to make her light up like this… but they’re great together.

Their rings.

Their cake.

Walking out into the fields at Laudholm Farms.

Absolutely stunning.

At the reception, the ring bearer started with desert.

Kelly at Kitchen Chicks is one of the VERY best in the business.  Gorgeous food and presentation.

First dance while the family looks on.

Sperry Tent at sunset.

Just as the sun was setting, Erica and Brian walked out into the fields at Laudholm Farms, and danced alone together.  It was wonderful to be at their wedding to document all the beauty and fun.

Brian and Erica: Thanks for having me!!

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The complete photos are all available online: just click here to see them!

Also, we’ve posted lots of photos on our Facebook Fan Page: just click here to join us and share them!

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Details/Vendor Links:

Getting Ready Location: The Breakwater Inn & Spa, Kennebunkport, Maine

Ceremony:  St. Brendan’s Chapel, Saco, Maine

Reception:  Laudholm Farms, Wells Reserve, Maine

Caterer:  Kitchen Chicks Catering (great food… great people!)

Florist:  Minotts Flowers

Tent:  Sperry Tents

Band:  Double Vision

Cake:  Let Them Eat Cake

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

The Newagen Seaside Inn is one of our favorite locations.  The property is as timeless as it is beautiful, and the service is top notch.  When Nell and Dan contacted us to photograph their wedding there… we jumped at the chance!

Who knew that you could have a custom hangar made?  Not me!

Their wedding bands.

Pink shoes under a white wedding gown!

Nell’s dad sees her for the first time.

All the groomsmen had personalized bow ties.

Going to the wedding!

Nell’s beautiful bouquet.

Nell’s exquisite veil gets lifted by a gentle breeze.

How’s this for a reaction?  Looking over the shoulders of the groomsmen, Nell meets her groom.

The ceremony!

You may now kiss the bride!

Husband and wife.

Rose petals were tossed as they recessed down the aisle.

A csutomize “Just Married” golf cart was waiting for them.

Their table seating cards also included a personalized leather luggage tag as a gift.

First dance.  These guys had practiced!

The cupcake wedding cake.

There were quite a few dancers.

The worm was represented.

Sperry Tent at The Newagen Inn as the fog rolls in.

The father of the bride tearing it up!

3 hours into the reception… Nell & Dan are still going strong.

4 hours in… and they took over the stage and sat in with the band.

No wedding at The Newagen Inn would be complete without some after hours bowling.

Nell & Dan!  Thanks so much for having us!  We had a wonderful time with you and your guests!

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The complete wedding photos are available here.

Also, you can see select images on our Facebook Page here (tag your friends).

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Vendors:

Ceremony/Reception Location:  Newagen Seaside Inn, Southport Island, Maine

Coordinator:  Beautiful Days Events

Tent:  Sperry Tents

Flowers:  Kate Martin

Band:  As You Like It

Cake:  Mae’s Cafe

Photographer:  Brian Wedge Photography

Charlotte and Carl had a gorgeous farm wedding this past weekend in western New Hampshire, overlooking the Green Mountains of Vermont.  The farm has been in their family for over a century.  It was their love & respect for the history of the property that brought them from Oregon just to celebrate their wedding vows.

Their rings.

The dress.

Who knew they had an instruction manual like this?  Not me.  Pretty funny.

Carl and his dog… waiting for the ceremony to begin.

Charlotte and her dad walking down the aisle.

The expectant groom… and the excited crowd!

Even the dog and kids couldn’t help but stand in the aisle and watch.

The big kiss!

Married at last!

The bouquet.

The dog supervises the first dance.  (If you don’t know German Shepherds… they’re pretty loyal, and they ALWAYS like to know that everything is going well for their owners).

Classic, timeless image… kids playing barefoot at a country home.

Overlooking the back of the property.

Sunset.

The cake was SOLID (in a richly sweet, wonderful way) and required some serious effort to cut.

Charlotte’s dad gives her a big hug after they finish their dance.  Real emotion.

This is real emotion of another kind.

I think we had a professional dancer in our midst.

Sparklers!

Kids LOVE sparklers!

Beautiful light.

Of course Charlotte and Carl couldn’t resist making a heart.  They’ve got skills!

Charlotte and Carl: THANK YOU for having us at your incredible celebration!  We loved spending time with you and your guests!

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The complete photos are all online right here!!  (Click on link)

Also, we’ve posted these photos to our Facebook Page here (tag your friends).

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Vendors:

Ceremony/Reception Location: Family Farm, Claremont, NH

Caterer:  Allechante

Florist: Crystal and Bark

Ceremony Musicians: Indigo Ruth-Davis

DJ:  Aaron Denny

Coordinator: Janet Dunnington

Photographer:  Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/charlotte-carl-new-hampshire-farm-wedding/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/maggie-mike-portland-country-club-wedding-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/maggie-mike-portland-country-club-wedding-maine/#comments Mon, 05 Jul 2010 18:13:55 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3177 Continue reading →]]> In the middle of a January snowstorm last year, a firecracker of a woman pulled into our Maine studio’s parking lot and greeted me with one of the biggest smiles and warmest hugs a complete stranger has ever given me.  The woman was Maggie’s mom Susie; a beautiful little blond woman with enough great energy to motivate and connect with anyone on the planet.

Susie’s first words to me were about the importance of family and friends… and specifically the deep love and respect that not only Maggie and Mike shared; but the bond that already existed between both of their families.  It was a beautiful sentiment, and last weekend I was lucky enough to document what that true connection between friends and families really looked like in person.

Maggie and Mike had a simple, beautiful celebration planned with a ceremony at Holy Martyrs Church and a reception at The Portland Country Club.

When I arrived at Maggie’s family home, I could quickly see that the boundless energy and fierce love was hereditary, as big bear hugs were the norm for everyone.  It was really wonderful to see.

Maggie’s mom sees her for the first time.

Everyone in Maggie’s family was ready hours before they needed to be.  In this “pre-game” shot, Maggie’s dad stares out the window… ready for the ceremony to begin.

The wedding ceremony was held at Holy Martyrs Church.

Mike’s brother Matt held their rings before the ceremony.

Maggie’s bouquet.

Coming down the aisle with her dad… could you tell Maggie was excited?

Mike and Maggie listen intently during the ceremony.

Maggie’s sister sang so beautifully that it moved many to tears.  Beautiful job!

Ceremony over: time for the big kiss.

Their first moments as husband and wife!

Just an adorable shot of Mike’s grandfather telling a great story.

Their beautiful rings.

Sisters.

Mike’s brother gave a beautiful toast to the newly married couple.

Their cake.  (I had to try it… yes, it tasted as good as it looked).

Maggie’s mom Susie could not have been more accurate in describing these two families.  The wedding was not only a celebration of Maggie and Mike’s incredible relationship, but also a reunion of sorts between old friends and two amazing families.

And then the dancing started.

Susie tears up the dance floor.

Maggie’s dad singing with the band.

EVERYONE was on that dance floor… I mean even the little kids were out there.

Maggie, showing the crowd how it’s done.

I’ve never seen a group of people dance so hard.

This kid got the MVP award for hitting the dance floor the hardest.

Sorry buddy… but I had to include this.  What’s amazing about this shot is that he stopped dancing just long enough to notice that he might have been sweating (just a little).  The reaction of the woman in the green dress behind him is priceless.

What a wonderful celebration!  Thanks so much for having me there to capture it all for you!  Your family and friends could not have been more welcoming and inclusive: I really appreciate it.  Congratulations Maggie and Mike!

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Want to see the complete photos?  They’re all online here!!!

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Additionally… we’ve got a bunch of photos already up on our Facebook Page here: tag your friends!

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Vendors:

Ceremony Location:  Holy Martyrs Church, Falmouth, Maine

Reception Location:  Portland Country Club, Falmouth Foreside, Maine

Florist: Flora Home Studio

Band:  Nightshift (one of my VERY favorite bands… I highly recommend them!!)

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/maggie-mike-portland-country-club-wedding-maine/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/carolyn-ryan-belle-mer-wedding-newport-ri/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/carolyn-ryan-belle-mer-wedding-newport-ri/#comments Thu, 01 Jul 2010 16:26:00 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3175 Continue reading →]]>

Newport Rhode Island is a pretty spectacular place any time of the year, but on a recent summer Saturday in June, the stars aligned and Carolyn and Ryan were married on one of the most beautiful days in recent memory.  Newport Harbor was buzzing with boats of all kinds, and we were lucky enough to be in the middle of it all… on Goat Island at the Belle Mer to document their wedding.

The Belle Mer is an amazing location: private, beautiful and easy!

Carolyn looked incredible in her wedding dress as she got ready in the Belle Mer’s oceanfront Island House.

Ryan gets his boutonniere.

Every detail was gorgeous… from their flowers, to their colors to their invitations.

Not to mention their beautiful rings.

Carolyn and her sister watch as the guests arrive.

From below, Carolyn and her AMAZING bridesmaids sneak a peek at the guests and Ryan as they prepare for the ceremony.  ”Go Team Carolyn!”

Carolyn is escorted down the aisle by her parents.

Ryan sees Carolyn in her wedding dress for the very first time.

A dream location, overlooking Newport Harbor.

The ceremonial breaking of the glass!

The big kiss.

So happy to be together!  Husband and wife for the first time!

A quiet moment immediately following the ceremony.

With the sun setting, Carolyn looks back at Ryan.  Beautiful.

The schooner America sails past Newport Harbor.

A spectacular sunset.

One last photo before the sun went down.

The Belle Mer’s seaside Island House is truly gorgeous overlooking the sea.

The ceremony location just after sunset… as the reception rages on next door in the Island House.

Carolyn and Ryan went with cupcakes instead of wedding cake… which went along perfectly with their beautiful, carefree wedding.

And when I wrote “carefree” I meant “high energy fun” because these guys danced for at least 5 hours straight.  They were so much fun to be around, it was hard to stop laughing and smiling.  What a great night!

You can email Carolyn & Ryan directly about renting out their wedding party as entertainment… they were THAT good.  The guy doing the limbo (while double fisting) had recently delivered one of the most sincere, emotional toasts I’ve ever heard.  One hour later, he’s doing the limbo with the bridesmaids.

What a spectacular wedding!  What incredible, wonderful people!  I felt lucky to be there, and so happy to get to know all your incredible guests!  Thank you!

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The COMPLETE photos are all online for you to view and order!  To see them, just click to go to:

www.brianwedge.com

OR

Click to visit our Facebook site HERE

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Vendors:

Ceremony and Reception Location: Belle Mer Island House, Goat Island, Newport, RI

Florist: Sayles Livingston

Cup Cakes: Sin Desserts

Stationer: Minted.com

Dress: Paloma Blanca

Groomsmen Ties: Vineyard Vines

Band: The Shine Band

Photographer:  Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/07/carolyn-ryan-belle-mer-wedding-newport-ri/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/15-minutes-with-cannondales-frank-hwang/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/15-minutes-with-cannondales-frank-hwang/#comments Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:54:55 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3148 Continue reading →]]> Frank Hwang, an old college buddy of mine is now Cannondale’s Global Marketing Director which, for cycling crazed dorks like myself, means that he has one of the coolest jobs in the world.  When Frank last came to Maine, we went out for a ride together in the rain… before spending a few minutes taking some photos for an upcoming magazine profile.

This is just about as serious as you’ll ever see Frank.

(I dig this shot.. though I know I might be the only one.  Not an accidental inclusion)

Good times Hoon!  Thanks for riding with us and being our supermodel.  Have fun in France bro!

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/15-minutes-with-cannondales-frank-hwang/feed/ 2 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/jane-justin-nonantum-resort-wedding-kennebunkport-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/jane-justin-nonantum-resort-wedding-kennebunkport-maine/#comments Wed, 16 Jun 2010 22:12:55 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3111 Continue reading →]]>

When I woke to the crashing sounds of thunder, and flashes of lightning, I couldn’t help but worry for my wonderful clients Jane and Justin.  Though WE are more than happy to photograph weddings in the middle of blizzards and even torrential rain, it’s a bit different when it is YOUR wedding and YOUR big day.  As the rain fell all morning, we kept our fingers crossed that the weather would clear.

We arrived at the Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport Maine just in time to see the sun tentatively peeking out from behind massive storm clouds, and with bated breath… we hoped that the good weather would hold just long enough for Jane and Justin to be married.

In classic form, our friend Tim “Superstar Coordinator” Ames and his amazing team at the Nonantum had everything perfectly prepared for an outdoor wedding… or if need be, an equally beautiful option inside.

With a little bit of luck, the rain held off, and the ceremony began…

The wedding party carried the chuppah to the oceanfront ceremony site.

Jane walked down the aisle with her dad.

Justin saw Jane for the very first time.  She looked incredible, and his expression shows it!

Jane’s uncles watch intently, as Jane’s father “gives her away” to Justin.

The rainy weather was gone, just in time for an outside wedding at the Nonantum!

A seagull overseeing the ceremony from it’s perch atop the Nonantum Lighthouse (good eye J-bird!!)

Looking through the shoulders of the groomsmen and her groom, Jane looks so happy!

A common occurrence at a Nonantum wedding, President Bush made a brief appearance aboard his boat.

Trailed by the U.S. Secret Service.

The Big Kiss!!

After walking back down the aisle, they couldn’t help themselves for one more.

If you ever wanted to know the secret to keeping kids entertained during the group photos… just do this with them!

The first dance.

You’ll have to see the complete photos… but lets just say that the cake cutting was not as predictable as you would expect.

Tearing up the dance floor.

Ahhh… the chair dance.  Justin wasn’t liking this one so much.

Jane gets a special dance from a friend.

An adorable moment on the dance floor, as Jane’s brother gets a smootch from his wife as their daughter looks on.

Another “adorable” moment…

All in all, we all had incredible luck as the severe weather passed through a few times throughout the day.  The guests stayed dry, the party raged on into the wee hours of the night and we were very lucky to be there and document the beauty of their day.  Thanks to everyone for being so welcoming and having us.  We had a wonderful time!

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View the complete photos online here:  www.brianwedge.com

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VENDORS:

Ceremony / Reception Site: The Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport, ME (Tim Ames coordinating… one of the very best in the business!!)

Flowers: Minott’s Flowers

DJ:  DJ Scott Elias (Mixxed Entertainment)

Cake: Anna Gershenson

Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/jane-justin-nonantum-resort-wedding-kennebunkport-maine/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/2-night-vacation-in-maine-raffle-ends-on-saturday/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/06/2-night-vacation-in-maine-raffle-ends-on-saturday/#comments Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:44:22 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=3102 Continue reading →]]>

A quick reminder for all those who “meant to” join the bone marrow registry, or wanted to donate a little cash to LIVESTRONG, that your opportunity to “do good” while winning fabulous prizes is running out!  All donations and registrations received before 11:59pm on Saturday, June 5th will qualify for entry.  Don’t miss this opportunity to help someone with cancer… or to sneak off to the coast of Maine for a wonderful getaway!

The details are all here: http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/05/05/win-a-weekend-on-the-coast-of-maine-and-help-fight-cancer-with-lance-armstrong/

We flew down to Texas this past weekend to support Jeff and Teal on their wedding day.  We were lucky enough to photograph Jeff’s sister’s wedding about 3 years ago (Carolyn & Drew), and when we heard the news that Jeff was marrying a fun, talented and beautiful girl deep in the heart of Texas, we couldn’t resist packing our bags and documenting the festivities!

Though we’ve photographed all around the world, we know that Texas is a beautiful, distinctly unique place unto itself… so when they told us about their 300 person, black tie wedding at the prestigious River Oaks Country Club, I had to ask if they really wanted a true photojournalist to document their day (as opposed to an old school, super formal, super traditional wedding photographer).  I just wanted to be sure that our style of documenting natural moments while being unobtrusive would “fit” with a big ‘ol formal Texas wedding.  The essence of our work and our success has come from our ability to creatively capture the unscripted, real story of a wedding day, and when they confirmed that that’s exactly what they wanted, we were absolutely thrilled to book our tickets!

The rehearsal dinner was held at Rice University’s Faculty Club.  Teal wore a dress made from her mom’s wedding gown… and looked exquisite!

Two families become one.

Teal serenades Jeff at the rehearsal dinner with a truly original (and hilarious) song.

By the time we woke up (at 7am) Teal was already at yoga class and had posted this as her Facebook status.

Game Day!

While Jeff spent the morning fishing with his dad and groomsmen, Teal and her bridesmaids got ready.

At the church, Teal’s dad sees her for the first time.

Coming down the aisle.  Beautiful!

Jeff sees Teal for the first time.  At least 2 dozen people (including Jeff himself) had warned me about this moment.  They said repeatedly “you know even though Jeff is a West Point grad and you think he’s this tough Army guy… he’s going to cry… he’s a crier!”  He kept it together though!

Working from the balcony, Malia captured this fabulous wide angle shot while I was below.

St. John the Divine in Houston is a beautiful church.

The big kiss!

The first dance.

Though they had a beautiful multi-tiered wedding cake, it paled in comparison to the groom’s cake.

A grooms cake befitting a pair of duck hunters.  Note the camouflage tablecloth and the teal duck decoy.

Father of the bride letting loose on the dance floor.

A quiet, real moment captured in the middle of all the celebrating.

Jeff and Teal could not possibly have had more fun!  This is our kind of “formal” wedding celebration!

The rose petal departure!

As the car speeds away into the night, with rose petals being blown from the roof… Teal leans in and gives Jeff a kiss.  So genuine, so timeless.  One of my favorite shots.

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CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE PHOTOS ONLINE AT BRIANWEDGE.COM

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What an incredible celebration!  We already knew that Jeff’s family were sweet, thoughtful and fun… but to meet Teal’s family, it made it all more wonderful than we ever could have imagined.  THANK YOU so much for having us!  We were truly honored to be there at your wedding, and to capture all those amazing, real moments for you.  Thank you for your hospitality and genuine friendship.  There are fly rods and beers waiting for you in Maine whenever you return from your honeymoon in Fiji and can get a chance to visit.  We look forward to seeing y’all again soon!!

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VENDORS:

Rehearsal Dinner:  Cohen House, Rice University

Church: Saint John the Divine, Houston, TX

Reception: River Oaks Country Club, Houston, TX

Band:  The Tip Tops

Make-Up: Leah Comstock Nygren (Your Beautiful Face)

Florist:  Bergner & Johnson Design

Cakes:  Susie’s Cakes

Dress:  Edgardo Bonilla

Coordinator:  Natalie and Marissa of Belle of The Ball (Great folks to work with!)

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/05/jeff-teal-river-oaks-country-club-wedding-houston-texas/feed/ 3 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/05/win-a-weekend-on-the-coast-of-maine-and-help-fight-cancer-with-lance-armstrong/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2010/05/win-a-weekend-on-the-coast-of-maine-and-help-fight-cancer-with-lance-armstrong/#comments Wed, 05 May 2010 23:29:19 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=2706 Continue reading →]]>

We’re feeling pretty fortunate these days as our business continues to grow through the support of some truly wonderful clients and organizations.  We recently won a photo contest that came with a pretty spectacular prize:  a two night stay at The Newagen Inn in Boothbay Harbor, Maine INCLUDING gourmet breakfast and dinner!!  When we won the contest for the 2008 year, we were pretty psyched… but we never thought we would win AGAIN for 2009 as well.  We’ve been pretty lucky… and we feel like we should give back a little.  We decided that we would donate our prize to help raise money for one of our favorite organizations: The Lance Armstrong Foundation and LIVESTRONG.

If you need any reminders of why we’re so passionate about the fight against cancer, just imagine someone you love… fighting for their lives.

Alternatively, you can just click HERE or HERE and you’ll learn a bit about my amazing sister Lea who was diagnosed with leukemia a little over 4 years ago, and later survived a bone marrow transplant.  Her progress is slow, but steady.  Her attitude and perspective on life in incredible.  She is now cancer free and the mother of a beautiful baby boy… but the impact that the disease has had on our family will never leave us, and LIVESTRONG has been part of our support team for years now, so it would be wonderful to give back to them for all that they have done on behalf of survivors like us.

SO WHAT’S THIS CONTEST YOU KEEP REFERRING TO?

Happy you asked!  We are raffling off a TWO night stay at the beautiful Newagen Seaside Inn with gourmet dinner and breakfast included.

Check out The Newagen Inn’s website HERE, or click on the photo below.

HOW DO I WIN THIS INCREDIBLE TWO NIGHT STAY ON THE COAST OF MAINE?

There are two ways to enter (Yes, you can… and should do both!!):

THE FIRST OPTION (CASH DONATION):

1.)  Go to: fundraising.livestrong.org/grassroots2010/brianwedge and make a tax deductable donation right now.  For every $10 you donate, you will get an entry into our raffle that will be chosen at random on June 5, 2010… the winner will be notified by way of the contact information you provided when you made your donation.  So if you donate $10, you get one raffle ticket.  Donate $50, you get five tickets, donate $500, and you get 50 raffle tickets etc…. as well as a darn good chance that you and your significant other will be spending a weekend relaxing on the coast of Maine!

THE SECOND OPTION (REGISTER TO BE A HERO):

2.)  My sister’s life was saved by a true hero named Tammy who registered to donate bone marrow YEARS before she ever got the call that she was needed.  Donating bone marrow is NOT like donating a kidney or lung… so get that out your mind right off the bat!  It’s EASY, and registering is EFFORTLESS.  Joining the registry is FREE and is literally as simple as swabbing the inside of your cheek with a Q-Tip, then mailing it back.  YOU can do this. YOU need to do this… because the people who need a bone marrow transplant are literally dying without your help.  The act of bone marrow donation can take on one of two different forms, but 70% of all donations are taken in a procedure very similar to the simple act of donating blood. The cold hard truth though is that every year 35,000 people need a donor and only 3800 will find one.

VIDEO: How to register / get tested

Here’s the link with all the detailed information and how to receive a free test kit (donations accepted but NOT required):

Plus, if you register or are already registered… you get ONE FREE RAFFLE ENTRY.

Just tell us that you’re registered via:

A posted comment to this blog below [your email address is never published... promise]

or via TWITTER (@brianwedge)

or via FACEBOOK

Just tell us and when you WIN, we will contact you with the info you provided.  Honor system here.  If you say you went to the website and ordered the registration kit… we believe you and you qualify.  If you say you are already on the registry: we believe you!  If you say you actually donated marrow to someone: we LOVE YOU!!!

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So, to review:  You can win an exquisite two night stay at The Newagen Seaside Inn including dinner/breakfast if you:

a.)  Donate $10 to LIVESTRONG here: http://fundraising.livestrong.org/grassroots2010/brianwedge

OR

b.)  Are registered currently or become registered to donate bone marrow (just contact us through our comments section here, Twitter or Facebook)

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Follow up questions:

Brian, I own/work for an AWESOME company… and I bet we would be psyched to donate something to add to the prize list and therefore raise more cash to fight cancer (while also harnessing the power of social media marketing and your amazing blog followers)… how on earth would I do that?

What a great idea!  Just shoot us an email, or hit us up on Twitter (@brianwedge) or our Facebook Page and we will add it to our prize list while promoting your company as best we can!

(Original Photo Credit: EPA)*

Is it true that the winner gets to go for a ride with Lance Armstrong during their stay in Maine?

Ever since Lance and I ran the Boston Marathon “together”, it is true that he is a huge fan of Brian Wedge Photography (always bugging me for a print of his favorite wedding shot or obsessing about the plight of sea turtles in Mexico).  Knowing Lance as well as I do* he did mention that he had some sort of a cycling tour planned for July that’s taking him overseas I think.  I think he said something about studying cobblestones in France and then training for some little social ride in Colorado, so I can’t promise you that he’ll be there… but you never know!  In the event that Lance doesn’t show up to meet you, we would be happy to show you one of our favorite cycling loops while you’re in town.

Last question now… are there any other rules?

Whatever mumbo-jumbo legal rules apply to your state/country etc. apply.  If you’re under 18, don’t steal your parents credit card and donate without their permission.  In fact, you probably shouldn’t steal anyone’s credit card and donate without their permission.  This is simply us trying to raise money for a good cause in a fun and simple way… if you have any questions, let us know and we’ll do our best to answer them…. but otherwise, be cool and let’s all have some fun with this.

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*aaaaaaand for the record, I’m joking.  I don’t think Lance is coming to ride with you in Maine… but donate some money anyways!  It’s a good cause!!

That being said, while we were traveling and shooting far away from the blogosphere, much occurred, and we will try to recap some of it here:

First up… my sister Lea and her husband Billy adopted an adorable baby boy!  Henry is absolutely beautiful, and has a remarkably calm energy about him that is just amazing.  Though we did miss the cranky-baby 2am diaper changes and feedings, we are quite certain that Henry is either high on baby formula… or just happy to be alive and have parents who adore and appreciate him so much.

Though we only stopped in for a few days during our return from Hawaii, one thing led to another… and of course an impromptu photo shoot occurred that resulted in baby Henry winding up in a salad bowl.  Sorry Henry, but you just don’t know where creativity will lead you!  Anyway, we wanted the whole world to know how proud we are to have him in our family!

And speaking of growing, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that we won a few more awards for our photography and we wanted to thank the sponsors for their encouragement and recognition.  First up, we managed to sneak out a few awards from the prestigious Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA.com) once again.  There are some truly incredible photographers that compete in their contests… so we are honored that we had NINE winning images in the past year.

Here are the two latest winners:

This image is from Matt & Ashley’s Hurricane Wedding at The Newagen Inn in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.  The photo is a fun grab shot of the bridesmaid being “blown away” in the wind.  The great news is that the bridesmaid holding the umbrella (Christine) is engaged to be married & in June we will be in Massachusetts to document their wedding for them!  There is no greater honor than to get the opportunity to support the friends of great clients like Matt & Ashley.  Don’t worry… we PROMISE… the weather will be better!

Next, from Heidi & Ross’ wedding at The Sebasco Harbor Resort, we won 4th place for dancing… but the true story is that the dancing started about 8 hours earlier, and the award should really be for the consistency and longevity of the dancing.  If I remember correctly, this is Heidi’s brother… who started dancing before the ceremony and in my mind is probably dancing wherever he is right now.  Congrats!

Last up, our favorite social media guru / Innkeeper Jason Schlosser (from The Newagen Inn in Boothbay Harbor) held a photography contest and self selected our entry because we were out of the country at the time (thanks Jason!!).  By popular vote, we were lucky enough to win the contest in 2008, and we never expected that we would again in 2009, but as luck would have it, we did!  The prize for winning the contest was a 2 night stay at The Newagen Inn, along with dinner.

In honor of all our good fortune, our great clients, and most of all… our precious new nephew Henry, we’ve decided that we are going to donate our two night stay at The Newagen Inn to raise money for LIVESTRONG and their continued fight on behalf of survivors like my sister in their battle against cancer.  More details about the raffle will be coming tomorrow: we’ve got a donation page all setup with LIVESTRONG, and Jason at The Newagen Inn is psyched to host the prizewinner.

So for now, thanks for all the support, love and emails.  We love hearing from everyone… and rest assured, we are back!!  Spread the word about the contest… more details right here tomorrow!

First off, our sincere apologies to all our blog readers for being offline.  We been away on numerous, truly incredible photoshoots around the globe and are just now settling back in to our routine back in New England.  We’ve got lots to report, and many amazing images to share, but we will save all that for tomorrow; today is all about sharing the wedding story of Lindsay and Josh, who were married on March 20th, at The Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, NH.

Josh and Lindsay were two of the nicest people we’ve ever been lucky enough to work with.  They originally met while skiing together, so it was no surprise that they were drawn back to the mountains for their late winter celebration.

With plenty of snow still in the White Mountains they spent the day before their wedding skiing with family and friends, and then partied together until the wee hours of the morning at The Mount Washington Resort.  With seemingly boundless energy, they were up early the next morning to prepare for the big day!

To say that Lindsay is beautiful, fun and low maintenance might be the understatement of the year.  We met her in the hotel’s spa which is located about 3 stories under ground, and were impressed right away with her energy.  After her hair and makeup were absolutely perfect, the last thing we ever expected was for her to forgo the numerous available elevators and just run up the 6 flights of stairs back to her room (while carrying bags, open champagne bottles and a plate of food).  We’re in great shape and can run with the best of them… but Lindsay’s energy on her wedding day was electric.   I think you can see some of it in the photo above as her bridesmaids look on: she’s radiant!

We later learned that Lindsay and Josh had met while freestyle skiing and quickly fell for each other.  There were numerous thoughtful details that made their destination wedding so wonderful: from handmade “Welcome Gift Bags” for their guests, to Josh’s single rose that he sent to Lindsay’s room just before their ceremony… it was all beautiful to see.

Lindsay’s rings.

Descending the stairs to the ceremony!

Three adorable flower girls carried baskets of rose petals.

I know… what energy, right?  (Don’t worry Lindsay, there are plenty of other more “refined” shots of you coming down the aisle… but I love this one, because this is truly YOU.  So happy, so excited).

The Conservatory at The Mountain Washington Resort.

The big kiss.

So far we haven’t talked much about Josh, but it’s safe to say that if there was ever someone who might possibly keep up with Lindsay’s infectious enthusiasm… it would be Josh.

The bond is real.  Their love is obvious.  Two people made for one another.  It really was beautiful to see.

Remember that infectious enthusiasm?  Yeah, here it is (this is NOT me telling them to do this).  Josh has either just won the Super Bowl or just married the girl of his dreams…

Surrounded by the snowcapped mountains that is their playground and inspiration… this shot is timeless.

Lindsay’s elegant rose bouquet… just exquisite.

Looking down “The Notch” from the Eastern porch of the Mount Washington Resort.

Lindsay, those binoculars are for checking out the White Mountains… not your man!

Josh couldn’t resist a smootch, and I don’t think Lindsay minded!

All laughs, all smiles.

At the reception, the table cards were actually made of birch branches with the guests names.  The tables were all named for Lindsay and Josh’s favorite ski areas.

Their first dance.

A moment of joy between Lindsay and her dad.

Josh’s mom giving him a big hug during their dance together.

Guess who was the life of the party?

Captured only with available light just before the reception ended, this is a tender moment of Josh and Lindsay dancing slowly while the rest of their guests tear up the dance floor.

Lindsay and Josh:  Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful wedding day with us!  We loved capturing your story, documenting all the emotion and meeting your incredible families (and friends).  We can’t wait to hear how your honeymoon in Costa Rica went, and if you hit any of our favorite surf spots!  Congratulations on finding each other, it is so obvious to us that you were meant to be together!!

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Want to see the Lindsay and Josh’s complete wedding photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com!

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Before we jetted off for a shoot in Mexico, I got an enthusiastic email from a wonderful, upbeat woman named Kristen in Massachusetts who wanted us to document her reception at The New York Yacht Club in Newport, Rhode Island.  She sounded wonderful on the phone… and we love shooting at the NYYC, but we were already booked to fly out on the day of her wedding for a shoot  on the Yucatan Peninsula (I know, we have a grueling job, right?)  Anyway, we tried connecting her with a bunch of our other super talented photographer friends, but the dates just weren’t aligning, so we decided to reschedule our flights and support this great couple in Rhode Island ourselves.

What I didn’t know then, was that these two were everything we love in clients: fun, smart, laid back, creative and enthusiastic.  We also seem to draw a disproportionate number of clients who are marathon runners, cyclists, climbers, olympic, pro and in their case: Ironman Triathletes.  I think next year we should start doing group rides with all our clients instead of meetings!!  (Don’t worry: we still love getting burgers and beer with our other, more sane clients as well!!)

Because of time constraints, we didn’t photograph their ceremony, and instead did a brief photo session afterwards on the grounds of the New York Yacht Club before their reception dinner.

White caps on Newport Harbor.

This year’s weather was much better than last year’s blizzard wedding , but it was FREEZING cold, and blowing a full gale.  Kristen and Peter were completely unfazed, and happy to wander and explore the property.  Kristen is an architect and fell in love with the buildings of The New York Yacht Club.  (Please note: because of our respect for the privacy of The New York Yacht Club, we purposefully will NOT be showing any images of the exterior facades of Harbour Court on our blog…. which is too bad because it’s a beautiful property, but we promised!!!)

Just a hint of the architectural detail that Kristen loves so much.  Beautiful.

The limited available light was spectacular.

But Peter and Kristen are not going to stop for anyone, and we couldn’t keep them still (or inside) for long.  Back into the 5 degree cold they went where we wandered looking for something “interesting” to work with.

As they climbed a small ridge, they discovered an old group of trees, and promptly climbed into them.

When I say “they climbed,” I mean they REALLY had to climb.  It was amazing.  Wedding dress, dress shoes, the whole nine yards… one moment they’re on the ground and the next they’re 11 years old climbing giant ancient trees and in awe of their size.

Kristen and Peter had such great enthusiasm… so happy to be married, so happy to be celebrating with family and friends.  It’s obvious how genuine their love is for one another.  We had so much fun!

Their beautiful rings.

By the time we moved inside, the cakes had been brought out.  Here is their wedding cake (above).

And here is the GROOM’s cake… a 40 pound monstrosity of carrot cake, cream cheese frosting and coconut shaving goodness.  The groom’s cake was handmade by Kristen’s mom.  Needless to say, I think she likes Peter a lot (40 pounds of love), and also… it was pretty easy to see that Kristen’s enthusiasm for life and laughing was hereditary.

Kristen’s mom.  Don’t worry… we have lots more photos of her constant, beautiful smile & infectious laughter!!!

Their first dance as husband and wife…

Flexible!

Following a dance with her dad, he hugs her tight.

The cake cutting was a supervised event.  This little boy just wanted to make sure everything was being done properly (and that he got some of that cake!!)

The traditional New York Yacht Club sparkler exit was wonderful!

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SEE THE COMPLETE WEDDING PHOTOS HERE (or go to www.brianwedge.com)

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Kristen & Peter: Thank you so much for sharing your day with me!  I had so much fun freezing to death out in the cold with you both!!!  Please share my thanks to your family and friends for being so welcoming.  When Peter’s family heard that I used to ski patrol in Utah and that I missed the Wasatch Mountains… I think I received a half dozen invitations to visit within five minutes.  You can’t ask for a nicer group of people, and I’m thankful I was able to meet everyone and document the joy!!

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Ceremony:  Boston Massachusetts Temple, Belmont, Massachusetts

Reception:  New York Yacht Club, Newport, Rhode Island (Julie/Jim: Thanks again for having me!!)

No sleep for the weary here at Brian Wedge Photography, but rest assured, WE ARE BACK!  We’re back from some wonderful commercial and editorial shoots that have led us across the country capturing all sorts of interesting and talented people.  We’re back with reinvigorated creativity and some wonderful experiences under our belt.  Stay tuned as we share more in the coming weeks… but for now, we thought we’d share the fact that a bunch of our wedding images won a few MORE awards while we were away!

We love capturing natural, authentic moments in creative and unobtrusive ways, and once again we were honored by the Pulitzer Prize winning judges for Brides Magazine and the prestigious Wedding Photojournalist Association.  Yahoo!!  It’s always wonderful to have our work recognized by such respected people and organizations!

The photo above was captured at Stacia & Lloyd’s beautiful Bar Harbor Wedding in Maine.  The image encapsulates so much of the emotion and tension that almost every bride feels on her wedding day.  One part excitement, another nerves: so much effort and time planning for the big day and then all of a sudden it’s here!  The final pieces come together seemingly all at once.

Speaking of timeless, there’s a universal appeal to the image above… every body part in motion, from arms and feet to nose and eyes… this guys is GROOVING!  As interesting are the reactions of the people watching him in the background.  One part astonishment, another admiration.  There’s always one at every wedding!

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We’re truly honored to have won awards again from the WPJA and Brides Magazine.  We’re always striving to create unique and meaningful images for our clients… and it’s a bonus when our work is recognized elsewhere, especially alongside such a talented group of international photographers.  Thanks again!

Stacey contacted us by phone last year FULL of excitement and enthusiasm about our photography, her wedding, her fiance and seemingly everything in between.  We quickly setup a time to meet, and when she and Drew arrived at our studio I could see that their energy was boundless.  They simply popped out of their car smiling and laughing even though they had driven just 2 hours from Boston.

I remember noticing a few things right away: the first was Drew’s towering six foot nine inch height and the second was watching how quickly these two reached for each other’s hands, how close they sat on our big couch and finally how effortlessly they finished each other’s sentences.  It was if they had known one another their whole lives.

When we arrived at Stacey’s Newport, Rhode Island hotel room the weather was pretty awful, and I was worried that Stacey may be concerned about it.  There was a full gail blowing, it was raining and there was a raw cold in the air that’s typically reserved for winter.  I knew Stacey was a rough and tumble fellow Bowdoin alum (Go U Bears!), but even so, the weather was pretty nasty and she was allowed to freak out on her wedding day.  But when I opened the door and saw Stacey’s same big smile, and heard her first joke about the weather, I knew we were going to have a great time regardless of the storms outside.

It also didn’t take us long to learn that our very first observations had been correct: Stacey and Drew’s relationship is FILLED with laughter, inside jokes and a connection that’s as obvious as it is strong.  Drew calls Stacey “Ace” and had sent a dozen roses to her room that morning along with the above note written on an Ace of Hearts card.  Creative!

Stacey and Drew also get an award for being the first of our clients to give out personalized beer coozies at their snazzy Newport wedding.  Good to know that they have their priorities straight… hysterical!

Though the rain had stopped, the wind and cold was impressive.  We had arranged to do a few formal shots in front of the (warm) lobby fireplace, but Stacey came down and spotted another bride who was getting ready at the hotel having photos outside.  Not to be outdone she quickly marshaled her family/bridesmaids and charged outside.  It was FREEZING and incredibly windy.  But it was hilarious and she was unstoppable.

Stacey arrives at St. Lucy’s Church in Middletown, RI with her dad beside her.

Stacey’s grandmother spots her for the first time.  I think the enthusiasm is hereditary!

Drew’s eyes fill with tears as he listens to a reading.

Drew leans down to put Stacey’s ring on her finger.

The kiss!

Immediately after their kiss they just looked at each other and began giggling.  Classic Drew & Stacey!

Stacey and Drew had each written a letter to each other and saved them to be read aloud for the first time during the ceremony.  Not a dry eye in the church.

Stacey’s bridesmaids react to Drew’s letter being read.

Finally married, Drew & Stacey pile into the back of their Bentley and are whisked off to the reception.

And what a reception it was!  Despite the wind and cold, they had an amazing, warm, colorful tent setup on the lawn of The Eisenhower House in Fort Adams State Park.

Drew struts his stuff during the first dance.

The bridesmaids surround Stacey’s dad as Drew dips his bride.

One of the most tender moments of the night was Drew leaning down to hug his mom after their dance together.  It’s such a genuine, gentle, loving image.

Ok, enough of the sentimental stuff… these guys know how to party!

Stacey getting low.

Getting lower.

Rocking the beer coozy.  Nothing says “elegant, Newport fancy wedding” like a gold beer coozy.

Then the sunglasses came out.

Then the mustaches came out (of course!?)  Apparently groomsmen ‘staches are a tradition amongst Drew’s friends and they hooked Stacey up with a mustache that would put Tom Selleck’s to shame.

Classic look on Drew’s face as he reacts to his first kiss from his beautiful bride and her new ‘stache.

Then the lifts, spins and hernias!

Amidst all the craziness, all the props, all the dancing, all the horrible weather and the 200+ people… in the center of it all, there were Stacey and Drew lost in each other’s arms.  Never far from each other, they were still laughing and still hugging like they were on the very first day I met them.

What an honor it was to be there to support you both and to document your celebration amongst family and friends!  Thanks for being so welcoming!  We had a blast at your wedding and hope you’re having fun on your honeymoon in Australia!

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Click here to see Stacey & Drew’s complete wedding photos!

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Vendors:

Ceremony:  St. Lucy’s Church

Reception:  Eisenhower House, Fort Adams State Park

Caterer:  Plantation Catering

Limo:  Newport Limousine

Flowers:  Ray’s Flower Shop

Paper:  Unique Simchas

Tent:  Tents for Rent

Band: Flipside

Cake: Mad Hatter

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

I’ve known James’ sister for years, and was lucky enough to photograph her beautiful wedding last summer in Bethel, Maine.  It was at that time that I got to meet James and Tiffany… and got to know the entire LaLiberty family.  When I got the call last year from Tiffany telling me that they were engaged, I was so happy for them… and I’ve been looking forward to photographing their wedding ever since.

James and Tiffany’s wedding was held in the Lorimer Chapel on the incredibly beautiful campus of Colby College in Waterville, Maine.  Though I haven’t lost my Bowdoin alum loyalty, Colby is such a spectacular setting, and getting married there has become something of a LaLiberty family tradition over the years.

James sees Tiffany for the first time.  I just love his understated posture and smile.  Classic James.

As understated as James is… here’s the opposite in Tiffany’s mom & sister.  Tiffany’s sister holds back tears while her mom giggles in delight as they watch James & Tiffany together for the first time.

Tiffany’s beautiful open back dress, as they walk together to visit James’ grandmother before the ceremony.

A crisp, beautiful day at Colby’s Lorimer Chapel.

Beautiful bouquets in fall colors.

Tiffany being walked down the aisle by her dad.

James waiting patiently for her arrival.

The wedding was presided over by James’ uncle.

The Lorimer Chapel is incredibly beautiful.

The kiss!

After the happy couple recesses down the aisle…

…a call comes out from the front of the church.  ”Does anyone hear that sound?”

James’ aunt turns and yells “I do, that’s the sound of a LOVE TRAIN!”

From somewhere in the chapel the song “Love Train” by the O’Jay’s starts blaring, and one of the most creative recessionals begins.

The entire wedding party and family danced down the aisle leaving the church.

After the wedding party theatrics, James and Tiffany took a brief moment together before joining the party at the reception.

Table cards were hung on a string with clothespins… an opportunity to photograph Tiffany’s gorgeous vintage looking rings.

Tiffany listens to a toast by one of the groomsmen…

…and reacts to the toast of another.  Great toast!

The fancy shoes were kicked off… and Tiffany and James began their first dance.

I love James’ expression in this photo, not to mention the fun shadows.  Amazing dancers.

It didn’t take much to get everyone else out on the dance floor.

Holding court.

I’m sure that Colby College’s insurance company will be thrilled when they see this image of these guys doing flips in each other’s arms.

Bon Jovi… again.  No one is immune to their power.

Tiffany dancing the night away.

So beautiful.

Tiffany and James: It was WONDERFUL to support you both on your wedding day.  I just loved hanging out with you and your families… capturing all the fun and creativity that you brought to your wedding day.  What amazing friends and families you both have: I was honored to be there!  Thank you!

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Want to see Tiffany & James’ complete wedding photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Ceremony & Reception Location:  Colby College (Waterville, ME)

Flowers:  Annalisa McAllister, Floral Elements

Stationer:  Wedding Paper Divas

Ceremony Music:  Brian Cullen

DJ:  Mike Violette

Dessert:  Red Velvet Cupcakes (Two Fat Cats Bakery); Pumpkin Whoopie Pies  (Big G’s Deli)

Dress:  Monique Lhuiller

Hair:  Billy Dangler People’s Hair Salon & Knaughty Hair Salon

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

New England fall weddings are spectacular.  The colors of the leaves, the chill in the air and the amazing sunsets are just some of the reasons we enjoy shooting in autumn.  Kate & Steve’s wedding at The Red Barn at Outlook Farms in South Berwick, Maine was wonderful… but the best part of their wedding wasn’t the trees or the weather, it was the people that were there.

Kate & Steve win the award for being some of the funniest, most enthusiastic clients we’ve ever had.  Their energy was infectious, and Kate’s absurdly low maintenance attitude was a joy to be around.  Their wedding party was equally hilarious and welcoming.

Katie and her bridesmaids hold back tears as they see each other for the first time.

A suspicious look from the flower girl during the group photos.  She was not impressed by me!  Adorable.

A cross from Katie’s grandmother’s wedding, carried again years later in Katie’s bouquet.

Her beautiful bouquet.

Waiting (patiently?) for everyone to arrive at the ceremony site.

Katie and her dad coming down the isle… a quick ear to ear grin from Katie.

Steve sees Katie for the first time.

Beneath a multicolored maple tree, beside a red barn… the setting was spectacular.

A knowing look as they exchange rings.

The sun setting on their ceremony.

Finally!  The kiss!

They couldn’t have been happier.

Sunset and a newly married couple.  Life is pretty good.

Their beautiful rings.

They looked great.

Yummy cake… again, for journalistic reasons only, I had to try a piece.

The timberframe construction of the Outlook Farms barn is incredible.

Their first dance.

Wedding bands amongst bottle caps from the reception.

Cutting the cake.

Bon Jovi gets ‘em again.

Defying gravity.

Katie breaks it down on the dance floor.

The newest “Mr. and Mrs.”

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Want to see Katie & Steve’s complete wedding photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com

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Congratulations Katie & Steve!  We had such a great time with you, your family and friends!  What a party!  Thanks again for having us!

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Vendors:

Ceremony / Reception Location: Outlook Farms (Berwick, ME)

Florist: Blooms Flower Shoppe (Wells, ME)

Stationer: PaperSource (Boston, MA)

DJ: Michael O’Neill (Boston, MA)

Cake: Jacques Pastries (Suncook, NH)

Dress: Paloma Blanca

Hair:  Freedom Salon & Day Spa (York, ME)

Makeup:  Andrea Paulo (Boston, MA)

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/kate-steve-outlook-farms-wedding-south-berwick-maine/feed/ 0 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/caroline-stuart-new-york-yacht-club-wedding-newport-ri/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/caroline-stuart-new-york-yacht-club-wedding-newport-ri/#comments Wed, 07 Oct 2009 21:59:12 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=2213 Continue reading →]]>

When Caroline and Stuart contacted me to shoot their New York Yacht Club wedding in Newport, Rhode Island, I was happy to learn that we had a few things in common.  They are competitive sailors in the J/105 fleet in The Bay Area living right near our San Francisco, California studio and I, as a self described boat geek (I hold a 100 ton Captain’s license and went to wooden boatbuilding school in Newport), always love photographing at Harbor Court any chance we get.  I knew pretty quickly that I would thoroughly enjoy them and their wedding celebration at The NYYC!

What I didn’t know then, was that Stuart was an Aussie who had also been a member of The Royal Perth Yacht Club!  To those that haven’t been involved with yacht racing, that may mean nothing… but it’s the equivalent of a New York Yankee getting married in Fenway Park.  You see, the New York Yacht Club dominated the America’s Cup racing scene for 132 years, until 1983, when in Newport, Rhode Island… Australia II sailed into town and stole the Cup from under our nose.  It’s one of the great stories of sport (read more about The America’s Cup here), & a moment in history that I remember like it was yesterday.

Stuart and Caroline’s wedding was everything we could hope for: filled with thoughtful details, beautiful moments and most of all, two people who truly love and enjoy one another.  The one exception was that once again, the weather gods decided to test us (see the NYYC Blizzard Wedding here), but like all great sailors, the wedding party was up to the challenge.

Caroline walking down the aisle with her dad (wearing her mom’s 1968 wedding veil).

Stuart sees Caroline for the first time in her wedding dress.

The ceremony was held at The Emmanuel Church, a beautiful and historic building in Newport.

The details in the church were everywhere and hard to ignore!

Caroline puts Stuart’s wedding band on.

Returning down the aisle as husband and wife.

They were so excited right after their wedding!

Stuart & Caroline have a moment on the way to the reception.

A shot overlooking Newport Harbor illuminated by headlights.

Entering the reception… so happy and beautiful!

Caroline & Stuart’s first dance as husband and wife.

In the mirror, you can see Caroline’s dad leading a toast to the two of them.

Stuart’s toast came with a bit of a surprise… he confessed that he had walked down the aisle carrying the boxing Kangaroo flag… a replica of the one flown by Australia II when they took the America’s Cup in 1983!

Their beautiful rings… on Jack, the boxing kangaroo.

Their reception was beautiful… lots of dancing.

When the band played a song by Michael Jackson, this woman took advantage of the gentlemen’s white gloved formal dress wear , and did her own impersonation!  Nice work!

Leaving the NYYC illuminated by sparklers & surrounded by friends.  An end to an amazing evening.

A touching moment: Caroline’s dad makes eye contact with her and waves goodbye as they drive away.

Before heading into Newport for the after party, Caroline’s sister and boyfriend create slow shutter speed art with their sparklers.

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Want to see the complete wedding photos?  Just click right here to see them all!

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Caroline & Stuart!  Thanks so much for having us at your wedding!  We were honored to support you both… and had a blast seeing how much fun everyone had.  We will be looking for you on the waters of San Francisco Bay… or at the very least the next time we’re at Sam’s in Tiburon!  Thanks again for being so welcoming, it was wonderful to be there to document your day!

Vendors:

Ceremony: Emmanuel Episcopal Church

Reception:  New York Yacht Club (thanks Julie… you’re the best!  We love working with you!)

Florist:  Sayles Livingston

Stationer:  William Arthur

Band:  The Cords

Makeup: Robin McAloon

Hair: Frank Antonio Hair & Makeup

Cake:  Creative Cake Comapny

Dress:  Alvina Valenta

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/caroline-stuart-new-york-yacht-club-wedding-newport-ri/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/life-with-cancer-4-years-later-please-pass-this-on/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/life-with-cancer-4-years-later-please-pass-this-on/#comments Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:09:53 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1409 Continue reading →]]> Today is a day about truth.  Today is also a day about taking action.  Today is the day that, once again… the pain, hurt, fury and frustration has boiled to the surface… and I am fired up enough to write another passage about what it’s like to be a survivor of cancer.

These messages were painted on the roads of the Tour de France before the peleton pedaled through.

Just as Lance Armstrong was pedaling through France this past summer, I was spending two wonderful weeks with my big sister Lea.  Diagnosed with leukemia on January 10, 2005, Lea has survived a barrage of assaults on her body, mind and spirit.  Not surprisingly, for those that know and love her… she is a unyielding fighter… who can reach deep into her soul and produce courage and focus that is truly incredible.  Many would say that Lea has beaten cancer, and by all medically relevant standards she has… but there’s so much more to her story, more that is easily ignored, forgotten or avoided: It’s the aftermath.

There’s a lot of hardship in this world… and my guess is that folks who have endured severe tests of the spirit, know a thing or two about surviving.  But like the person who climbs out the wreckage after a tornado destroys their home, or the soldier who spends months in physical therapy learning to walk again… there are certain challenges that take years and even decades to rebuild from.  Leukemia has been that for our family.  Lea beat hell out of her cancer, but it’s impacts are still felt everyday.

You did it Lea… you really did!!

We first became involved with Doug Ulman and the LIVESTRONG movement in the moments after Lea’s diagnosis.  Through the tears and the nausea of the news, LIVESTRONG was the first organization that really tapped into our fighting spirit.  There was an unapologetic belief that there was strength in unity, and that hope was as powerful as any cancer drug would ever be.  We’re forever grateful and as a result we want to make sure that everyone out there understands how important it is that we unite together against the epidemic of cancer.

So today happens to be LIVESTRONG Day and there are ways YOU can help.  We are donating 10% of our annual profits to Livestrong and like minded charities… so our request isn’t for moola… it’s for involvement.

Here’s how:

1.)  Register your bone marrow:  Swab your cheek with a Q-tip at home for FREE as part of becoming a bone marrow donor.  If you’ve been meaning to do this, do it today.  It’s easy and you’re saving someone’s life!!!  PLEASE do this.  If you already have done it… THANK YOU!  Please write in and tell us what made you do it!

VIDEO: How to register / get tested

Here’s how to sign up for a free test kit (donations accepted but not required):

http://www.dkmsamericas.org/category/marrow-donors/become-donor

You might never be a match, but if you are… wow, you’re in the position to save someone’s life!!  You’re not donating a kidney or a lung now… so get that whole gory, life altering surgery concept out of your head right off the bat.  The act of bone marrow donation can take on one of two different forms, but 70% of all donations are taken in a procedure very similar to the simple act of donating blood.  The cold hard truth though is that every year 35,000 people need a donor and only 3800 will find one.  Bottom line: we need more people involved and you could be that one!

A great video that explains what the actual donation process is here:

2.)  Get healthy and get involved.  Go for a walk today, ride your bike, play with your kids, smoke one less cigarette, eat a salad… whatever.  Do something healthy for you and your family.

3.)  Livestrong: it’s not all about Lance… it’s about uniting against cancer.  Get involved through this link here. While you’re at LIVESTRONG, go buy some of their sweet gear, and wear it with pride knowing that you’re helping a great organization with your cash while raising awareness about cancer.  If you want to understand what LIVESTRONG is to survivors like us, here’s their manifesto:

THE MANIFESTO OF THE LANCE ARMSTRONG FOUNDATION

We believe in life.
Your life.
We believe in living every minute of it with every ounce of your being.
And that you must not let cancer take control of it.
We believe in energy: channeled and fierce.
We believe in focus: getting smart and living strong.
Unity is strength. Knowledge is power. Attitude is everything.
This is the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

We kick in the moment you’re diagnosed.
We help you accept the tears. Acknowledge the rage.
We believe in your right to live without pain.
We believe in information. Not pity.
And in straight, open talk about cancer.
With husbands, wives and partners. With kids, friends and neighbors. And the people you live with, work with, cry and laugh with.
This is no time to pull punches.
You’re in the fight of your life.

We’re about the hard stuff.
Like finding the nerve to ask for a second opinion.
And a third, or a fourth, if that’s what it takes.
We’re about getting smart about clinical trials.
And if it comes to it, being in control of how your life ends.
It’s your life. You will have it your way.

We’re about the practical stuff.
Planning for surviving. Banking your sperm. Preserving your fertility. Organizing your finances. Dealing with hospitals, specialists, insurance companies and employers.
It’s knowing your rights.
It’s your life.
Take no prisoners.

We’re about the fight.
We’re your champion on Capitol Hill. Your advocate with the healthcare system. Your sponsor in the research labs.
And we know the fight never ends.
Cancer may leave your body, but it never leaves your life.
This is the Lance Armstrong Foundation.
Founded and inspired by one of the toughest cancer survivors on the planet.

LIVESTRONG

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Ok… that’s it!  Thanks for hearing us, thanks for being involved, thanks to Tammy for donating her bone marrow to my sister… and most of all, thanks to Lea Morrison who inspires me everyday with her attitude, action and love.

To Lea: I couldn’t be more proud to be your little brother, and I want you to know that I understand how hard you work EVERY day to stay healthy and positive.  You have earned your title of Survivor the hard way.  I hope you will take a moment today, on LIVESTRONG Day to celebrate how far you have come!!

One of our awards came in the category “Emotion.”  We’re thrilled to see that, because the hallmark of our work comes from an ability to capture the natural moments & real emotion in an unobtrusive, creative manner.  There’s an elemental truth in this scene: one of joy, relief and love.  What a wonderful opportunity to capture something like that for a great couple!

JUDGES COMMENTS: There’s pure joy in this photograph. It’s a clean, easy to read shot that has immediate impact, revealed through their body language. It’s a simple, yet, effective image that evokes a higher emotional state than the others for me.

JUDGES COMMENTS: A dreamy, long lens image that makes one think they are in a dream. These two obviously are, and the outstretched arms are like one big smile ready to embrace the groom.

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We also received another award for our image of an engagement ring left beside a note from a groom to his bride.  At our core, we’re storytellers… and it’s important that we always attempt to capture details in a way that contribute to that underlying story.  We usually arrive early at weddings to creatively document these details… often overlooked by folks at first glance, but cherished years later as an important element to their very special day.  Something as simple as a ring and five words from a brief letter says so much.

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]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/10/wpja-award-winning-images-again/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/sarah-nick-york-maine-wedding-morning-glory-inn-clay-hill-farm/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/sarah-nick-york-maine-wedding-morning-glory-inn-clay-hill-farm/#comments Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:25:19 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=2156 Continue reading →]]>

I first met Sarah way back in the day (I think it was 1996).  I was taking a year off from college to work and ski the mountains of Utah.  Within days of arriving, I had been quickly “adopted” by Sarah and her incredibly outgoing and gregarious friends.  That winter we skied and climbed all over the Wasatch range, and even made time to leave our precious snow for a few journeys into the Utah desert.  It was the best winter of my life… 100+ days of skiing, laughing and exploring without a care in the world.  Though years had passed, all of our Utah friends had kept in some sort of communication… and when I got the email from Sarah saying she had found the man of her dreams, I was absolutely ecstatic to photograph her big day!

It took Sarah about 4 minutes to get dressed.  No fuss with this girl ever, and she looks THIS great!

Classic Sarah moment: she snuck out the back door so she could see who had arrived and what the ceremony site looked like.

Something old… gifts from her family.

Walking with her dad.  A proud moment.

Nick is peering around a corner eagerly awaiting his first glimpse of Sarah.

Finally, the moment arrives… well worth the wait.  Nick sees her for the first time.

The energy between these two is incredible.  Happy would be an understatement.

Nick’s uncle watches the wedding from a nearby window.

The kiss!

Sarah’s bouquet.

One of a few beautiful toasts offered by her family.

Listening to the toasts.

This is Nick and Sarah as they really are: always snuggling, goofing around and laughing.

Beautiful.

The new wedding bands look great!

Yummy cake!

At the reception, the kids stole the show.  Here, Sarah’s little brother takes the mic and rocks out!

Sarah’s nieces and nephews were everywhere on the dance floor.

I don’t think I can remember a wedding where more folks danced.  There was barely enough room!

She can’t help but respond when Flo Rida’s “Low” is played by the band (no joke).  Absolutely amazing!

This is a serious dip… I didn’t think they were coming up from this one, but they did without a problem.

Sarah & Nick… thanks so much for having me.  Your wedding was beautiful, intimate and a wonderful reflection of you both.  It was fantastic to be able to be there to support you and your families!  I had a wonderful time… thank you!!

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Want to see the COMPLETE photos?  Just click here or go to:  www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Ceremony Location:  Morning Glory Inn

Reception:  Clay Hill Farm

Band: Felix Brown Band

Florist: Lyndsey Loring Design

Paper: Momental Designs

Cake: Let Them Eat Cake

Dress: Judd Waddell

Photographer:  Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/sarah-nick-york-maine-wedding-morning-glory-inn-clay-hill-farm/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/heidi-ross-sebasco-harbor-resort-wedding-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/heidi-ross-sebasco-harbor-resort-wedding-maine/#comments Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:19:49 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=2101 Continue reading →]]>

Sebasco Harbor Resort is one of our favorite New England wedding locations to photograph.  Just across The New Meadows River from The Boathouse Studio (the Maine home of Brian Wedge Photography), The Sebasco Harbor Resort is a idyllic spot that looks out over the islands of Casco Bay.  When Heidi and Ross booked us just over a year ago to photograph their wedding, we were absolutely thrilled to be returning to Sebasco for the big celebration!

The Lobsterbake Rehearsal Dinner

The moment I met with Heidi and Ross I knew I enjoyed them instantly.  They are both intelligent, talented, organized and driven people who have the unique ability to execute complex tasks and then, in an instant, have the versatility to be giggling and laughing until it hurts.  They’re probably two of the most accomplished folks you’ll ever meet… but also two of the most fun as well!

Sunset over Sebasco Harbor Resort.

Heidi & Ross watch the sun go down before their wedding day.

Oh, and what a wedding day!  I’ve never walked in for the very first time and had the entire wedding party dancing and laughing BEFORE the wedding even starts.

A handmade something blue… with Heidi’s initials on it.

Ross waits patiently at the back of the church before the wedding begins.

We loved their enthusiasm coming down the isle.

The Phippsburg Congregational Church is as beautiful as it is old.

Their pastor and family friend came all the way from Virginia to preside over the ceremony.

The final blessing.  A special moment.

The kiss… with the pastor doing a double fist pump in the background!

All smiles on the way out!

Ringing the church bells.

Elegant floral arrangements by Fleur de Lis.

I don’t think they stopped smiling the entire day!

Back at Sebasco, the wind just kept blowing Heidi’s vail every which way… so we decided to just go with it and captured this beautiful moment.

Off to the reception!

Yummy coconut cake (for journalistic reasons only, I had to try a slice).

Their rings on a sundial just outside the reception building.

Then The Bob Charest Band got things going…

And what started off as dancing…

…turned into singing into a spoon as if it were a microphone.

The spoon was quickly replaced by a giant ladle…

…which was then replaced by a porcelain chicken (of course).

Not to be outdone, the wedding party got involved and tore it up.

Then the props came out…

Here, Ross receives instruction on the proper dinosaur dance technique by a master.

Their departure was lit by sparklers… a beautiful send off for two wonderful people!

Ross and Heidi: it was so great to get to know your family and friends!  We were inspired by the love and joy you showed, and truly appreciate how welcoming everyone was!  What a celebration!!  Thank you for having us!

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just click here or visit www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Ceremony Location:  Phippsburg Congregational Church

Reception:  Sebasco Harbor Resort

Band: The Bob Charest Band

Floral: Fleur de Lis Floral Design

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Videography: (trying to find that… will update soon!)

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/heidi-ross-sebasco-harbor-resort-wedding-maine/feed/ 6 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/quinn-chris-the-colony-hotel-wedding-kennebunkport-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/quinn-chris-the-colony-hotel-wedding-kennebunkport-maine/#comments Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:51:52 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=2041 Continue reading →]]>

I wouldn’t wish for it to rain on anyone’s wedding day… but when it does, something truly special happens.  Quinn and Chris had a rainy wedding day, and that something “special” came in the form of family and friends who circled the proverbial wagons and hunkered down for an intimate ceremony in the tiny St. Ann’s Church by the sea, and an energized reception at The Colony Hotel in Kennebunkport, Maine.  As an observer of numerous wedding celebrations, I was amazed once again by how the entire party were galvanized by the adverse weather.  Strangers bonded under umbrellas, friends dodged raindrops together as they ran through puddle filled parking lots and families were linked forever through a day spent laughing and supporting the people they loved the most.

Quinn & Chris couldn’t have been more relaxed about the weather.  They had the right perspective: their wedding day was about more than about the clouds or sun… it was all about their union, in that special church Quinn had always loved beside the sea as witnessed by their family and friends.

Their rings in the mail slot of the room where they would spend their wedding night.

Beautiful details found throughout the day.

Quinn’s grandmother reacts to seeing her for the first time.

On the way to the church, Quinn and her dad hold hands in the back of the car.

It was REALLY raining.  Quinn’s ever present smile never faltered.

Quinn & her dad walking down the aisle.

St. Ann’s is an intimate and beautiful stone church right on the edge of the ocean.

The timber frame construction at St. Ann’s is truly beautiful.

The exchange of rings.

Husband and Wife!!!

At the end of the long isle, Quinn & Chris.

Made entirely of large beams and stone, St. Ann’s was the perfect sanctuary on such a cold and rainy day.

Beautiful design by “Let Them Eat Cake”

A card left open on a table from Quinn to Chris reads “forever and ever.”  A natural background for a photo of their rings.

Back at the Colony Hotel, the floral designs by Blooms & Heirlooms were exquisite.

My favorite moment:  Quinn’s grandfather Moe, shares a hilarious and touching poem he wrote.

The band “The Marsels” got the crowd going quickly.

An impromptu twist contest broke out.

The rain kept pouring… but Quinn & Chris wanted some shots outside.

We went to the beach and Quinn just ditched her shoes, and walked around in the rain barefoot.

Beautiful and timeless.

A little rain wasn’t going to stop these two!

Quinn & Chris: What a wonderful celebration!  Thank you for having us there!  Your wedding was everything we love to photograph: real moments regardless of the wind and rain outside.  Thanks for being so much fun… we loved documenting your big day!

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Want to see the complete set of photos?  Just go to www.brianwedge.com or click here.

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Vendors:

Ceremony:  St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, Kennebunkport, Maine

Reception:  The Colony Hotel, Kennebunkport, Maine

Florist:  Blooms and Heirlooms, Kennebunkport, Maine

Band: The Marsels, Boston, Massachusetts

Cake:  Let Them Eat Cake, Kennebunkport, Maine

Dress:  Monique Lhuillier / Bride’s Mother’s modified creation

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

Kate and Paul’s wedding had everything we could dream of: incredible people, thoughtful details, beautiful weather and an amazing story of love that we were so honored to document.  When Kate contacted me last year about shooting their Newagen Inn wedding, we could tell that she possessed an energy & enthusiasm that was rare.  As the months passed and we continued to exchange ideas, I learned that Kate was a local girl from Boothbay whose family had been there for generations.  Though she now lived in Boston, she wanted her wedding to be a celebration to show her love for Paul, their love for Maine & their deep respect for family.

Paul engulfed by a Kate Hodgdon Bear Hug… just after the ceremony.

As the months went by, I learned that Kate had recently lost her dad, and above all else Paul & Kate wanted their wedding to honor her dad through laughter, joy and a party that no one would soon forget.  Kate’s honesty about her dad’s passing was incredible.  When we finally met in person Kate looked me straight in the eye and with a fierce, unflinching intensity explained to me that her dad was her best friend… and that the color yellow I saw throughout their wedding was in honor of him. I could see the hurt, I could understand the loss… but as importantly I could feel the determination and excitement to celebrate all that is wonderful about life with her dad looking down upon her.

A pocket sewed into Kate’s wedding dress just over her heart held a photo of her & her dad.

There is a passion and enthusiasm for living that some people have when they survive great adversity.  I’ve seen it in over the years as we battled leukemia, but it’s not limited to cancer nor the passing of a loved one.  There’s just some people who manage to get through tough times with their spirit intact and a perspective for life that is inspiring.  Kate and Paul have that twinkle in their eye and a presence about them that just radiates enthusiasm.  Their wedding day was all about being in the moment, being in love and savoring every opportunity to enjoy their friends and family to the fullest.

Paul & Kate created Maine inspired wedding gift bags.  Nothing says “Maine Wedding” like an engagement ring on a can of Moxie!

Paul’s wedding day gift to Kate was a dog crate filled with puppy toys and a card that contained a photo of a litter of Golden-doodles.  The photo reads: “Your choice!  I love you!”

The groomsmen all wore cufflinks with their photos in them.

The ringbearer did SO well!  He walked and smiled… until he stopped.

He spent about 3 minutes figuring out if he should walk towards the crowd or run away.  With the collective prodding of 140 guests, he made it!!

The ceremony held on the front lawn of The Newagen Inn.

Surrounded by yellow flowers in honor of her father, a single tear falls from Kate’s eye.

After the wedding, Kate & Paul took a few moments to look at their rings and stand back and check each other out.  In this shot Paul shows off his fine physique.

“Foolish Choices” just happened to fishing nearby… we HAD to get that shot!

Even the lobsters held hands.

Kate wanted a photo with them standing in the water… which is easier said than done, as Paul slipped just seconds after this shot getting a bit wet.

Bridesmaids bouquet rests on a chair.

Their guestbook was a collaborative painting made by all the guests.  Very creative!

During the first dance… there was evidence of Paul’s impromptu splash in the Atlantic.

Mmmmm…. whoopie pies.  Yum!

Then the dancing started.

All kinds of dancing.

An all candlelight cutting of the cake per the request of Paul & Kate.  Tough shot, but very creative!

Then the party REALLY got started.  This is NOT the band… these are wedding guests on stage.

Kate in the arms of her husband… rocking out!  Pure joy.

Going big (Another victim of Bon Jovi).

Paul sings Livin’ on a Prayer.

Late night bowling at The Newagen Seaside Inn.

Paul’s bowling technique was impeccable.  Look at that follow through!

The stars come out at The Newagen Inn.  That’s not photoshop folks… that’s the Big Dipper!

Kate and Paul: It was an honor to document your day and to be there to celebrate with your family and friends!  Thanks so much for having us.  Your love for each other and for life is inspiring to us!  Have fun in Greece!!

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just go to www.brianwedge.com or click here.

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Vendors:

Location:  The Newagen Seaside Inn, Southport Island, Maine  (the amazing Innkeeper Jason took care of everything there… just a wonderful person and host).

Band:  Sly Chi (Kate emailed me months before the wedding and wrote that she was having “Sly Chi, a sick band from Portland that plays funk.”  Indeed, there is no better description than that.  They rocked!)

Cake:  Sweet Sensations

Florist:  The Greenhouses

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/kate-paul-newagen-seaside-inn-boothbay-harbor-maine/feed/ 4 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/kim-ben-samoset-resort-wedding-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/kim-ben-samoset-resort-wedding-maine/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:22:16 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1902 Continue reading →]]>

When Kim & Ben stopped by our studio well over a year ago, we listened to their wedding plans and liked them instantly.  Ben had Maine roots and was marrying a Boston girl.  They wanted tradition but not too traditional, beauty without pretentiousness and above all… they wanted FUN!  They were quick to smile, quicker to laugh and had an energy that was infectious.  It took us about ten minutes to figure out that we had a half dozen mutual friends, and we were absolutely thrilled to be supporting them both!

Ben’s family has had a large farm on Vinalhaven Island in Penobscot Bay for generations.  The day before the wedding, they gathered on the island with their family and friends for a day long lobsterbake feast.  It was an incredible opportunity for everyone to relax, celebrate and enjoy good food and great people.

“Old School” wood fired lobsterbake steamed in seaweed.  Best lobster I’ve ever had.

The bride “relaxing” on the day before her wedding…  this was full contact Boston style volleyball.  I’m just amazed no one lost an eye.  What a great family they have.

The ceremony and reception were held the next day at The Samoset Resort.  As Kim is walked down the isle by her dad, Ben sees her for the very first time.

Their rings on one of the flower girl’s petals.

Beautiful weather and stunning location overlooking Rockland and Penobscot Bay.

They say it’s good luck if you a bird poops on you… Kim’s family took a double dose from a passing seagull for them.

I love Kim’s enthusiasm!

The big kiss.

These two know how to have a great time.  They practically danced down the isle together.

Their first moments as husband and wife.

Returning to the cocktail hour.

Their candlelit reception was beautiful.

Exquisite floral arrangements by Kate Parker Weddings.

Their entrance to the reception… I believe that Ben is doing a jig.  I might have to confirm that though.

Bouquets at every table.

Attention to detail every step of the way.

Kim’s ever present smile.

Their first dance ends.

The “real” dancing begins…

At any one point there had to be 40 people on the dancefloor…  great to see everyone having so much fun.

Kim raises the roof.

Ben dancing with his mom…

Kim dancing with her dad…

Though everyone put in a great effort dancing, the flower girl crushed the competition.  Here she’s calling out her next challenger.

Kim & Ben, thank you so much for wandering into our studio and sharing your day with us!  We’re thrilled to have been able to support you, meet your families and your friends.  We had a wonderful time and look forward to seeing you when you return from your honeymoon!

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just go to www.brianwedge.com or click here.

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Vendors:

Ceremony & Reception location:  The Samoset Resort (coordinator: Will Clayton)

Lobsterbake: The Narrows (Jeff: 207.832.2210)

Floral, DJ and Reception Design: Kate Parker Weddings (nice job Kate and Ryan!!)

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/kim-ben-samoset-resort-wedding-maine/feed/ 4 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/matt-ashley-newagen-seaside-inn-southport-island-me/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/09/matt-ashley-newagen-seaside-inn-southport-island-me/#comments Wed, 02 Sep 2009 21:46:37 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1808 Continue reading →]]>

Matt & Ashley are one of a kind clients… talented, welcoming, beautiful, creative… the list goes on and on.  We have been looking forward to their wedding for over a year since they first booked us, and though we knew nothing could prevent their celebration from being a complete success, the prospect of a hurricane landing in Maine precisely on the day of their wedding didn’t make things any easier.

Ashley and Matt were married at The Newagen Seaside Inn on Southport Island, in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.  Their wedding had everything one could hope for as photojournalists: a compelling narrative (Alabama boy marries Maine girl as hurricane rages outside their island ceremony) and a hundred or so of the most charming, funny and beautiful guests we’ve ever met.  Maybe it was the Alabama sweet tea, maybe it was collective spirit of the group facing dismal weather conditions… but whatever it was, August 28th 2009, was a special night at The Newagen Inn that we won’t soon forget!

The evening prior to their wedding, as meteorologists issued storm warnings up and down The New England coast… Matt, Ashley and their friends/family gathered for a rehearsal dinner lobsterbake and bonfire.  It was a spectacular night, even as the storm clouds approached.  Not knowing what was to come, we stole away from the dinner for a few moments to photograph them by candlelight before the storm arrived.

Bonfire and S’mores at The Newagen Seaside Inn.

The next day was just as everyone predicted.  Pelting rain and wind… so the ceremony was moved inside.  As Ashley was getting ready, her dad appeared in the doorway and saw her for the first time in her wedding gown.  A special moment.

Ashley and her dad walking down the isle… I think everyone was trying very hard to keep it together.

Finally together, Ashley’s face says it all.

The impromptu ceremony site was in front of the Newagen Inn’s fireplace.

After the wedding, determined to get some photos outside, Ashley strapped on her lobster boots.

Can you tell it’s wet and windy?

How about now?

Ashley used to host an 80′s radio show back when she was a student at Colby College… she and Matt had no problems taking the mic and belting out a few classics.

Rocking out.

Tearing it up.

Their performance inspires others to go for it… complete with air guitar.

The crowd reacts…

Bon Jovi… gets ‘em going again.

After a final song of Sweet Home Alabama, Matt & Ashley shoot the tube as they make their final exit under the hands of their guests.

Can you guess what’s best part of having a wedding at The Newagen Seaside Inn?  The stunning island location?  No.  The amazing staff?  No.  The yummy food?  No… it’s the private bowling alley they give you for your after party!

Camouflage cap, sweat, and the girl of your dreams… over a bowling ball.  Now that says love.

She knows what she’s talking about!

This was a GREAT (not good) wedding despite the horrible weather.  This image was take at our photobooth which we setup for Ashley and Matt to add to the reception fun.  If you haven’t seen a photobooth at a reception yet… scroll down to the post just before this one (or here: Ashley & Matt’s Photobooth).  The photobooth is one part self portrait insanity and one part guest book… it’s a whole lot of entertainment!

Though the weather couldn’t stop the wedding… it did make creating images like the one above impossible.  We returned on Monday morning to photograph Ashley and Matt as the clouds parted and the sun began shining again.

Rough seas won’t stop these two!

Ashley and Matt: we had such a wonderful time getting to know you and all your friends/family.  We feel lucky to have been there to document your laughter and love in the face of some pretty amazing weather.  We look forward to connecting with you guys in Manhattan the next time we’re down… and above all, congratulations on your wedding!  We had a blast!

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Want to see Ashley & Matt’s complete wedding photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com

Want to see the featured Photobooth Photos?  Click here.

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Vendors:

Ceremony and Reception Location:  Newagen Seaside Inn, Southport Island, Maine

Band: Lisa Love Experience (these guys ROCK… we highly recommend them!)

Florist: Blooms of Hope (Belmont, MA)

Cake: Sweet Sensations

Hair: A Cut Above

Paper: Signed Sealed and Delivered (great people, great products)

Makeup: About Face

Wedding Coordination: Beautiful Days Events (nice job Kate!!)

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

We provide the studio lighting, cameras, props and backdrop (in this case our client’s Matt & Ashley provided their own which is fine too)… as well as our super cool wireless remote control that allows guests to have fun and be creative without having to do anything other than press a button and smile.  The wireless remote is great because people won’t trip over cords as they move around the camera… an important safety feature as the creativity gets flowing!

Armed only with chalkboards and chalk… the creativity is amazing.

What you can’t see off camera is the crowd of people laughing, giggling and planning their own signature photo.  We always joke that the photobooth is like bringing the third ring to the three ring circus… your friends, the dancefloor and the photobooth make for an entertaining reception!!

Classic.

Some folks are sweet and appropriate.

Some are… a little more creative.

The chalkboards are great for sharing your deepest thoughts and wishes.

Or so he says…

Maine Moose.  So much better than a signature on a blank guest book page.

Yay!

This guy wanted to know if we had Photoshop.

Yes we do…

Thanks guys.  Not sure if they were talking to me or the bride and groom.  I’ll take it!

Receptions mean: off with the fancy shoes and on with the dancing shoes.

In the words of Kool & The Gang: Cherish your love.

These folks are from Wyoming… one of our favorite places on Earth to photograph (and ski/climb/ride).  They’re all nuts there, which is why we fit in so well.  We’re still trying to to decipher this one…

It’s true… damn it!

So positive!

“Rain sucks… party didn’t!!!”  Too true.

Amen.

We’ve had a great time setting these photobooths up at the weddings we shoot.  It’s a whole new layer of creative entertainment for your guests… and the best part is that everyone gets to see all the photos within a few days after the wedding!  Thanks for the laughs everyone!  We love sorting through these images the next day and discovering what people came up with!

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Want to see the complete version of Matt & Ashley’s photobooth pictures?  They’re all right here.

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The night before last I was asked to spend a few hours with the incoming freshman students at Bowdoin College as arrived for their Pre-Orientation trip.  For those who aren’t familiar with that term, the “Pre-O” trip is an opportunity to spend about 5 days with a small group of fellow students off campus before the on campus orientation begins.  Bowdoin takes full advantage of being located in an incredible state like Maine and as a result, most of the Pre-O trips involve some sort of outdoor sport and service component.

Incoming students get to choose their preferred trip: for some that means sailing or kayaking through Casco Bay, for others it’s community service in downtown Brunswick and many more head north into “The County” to explore the wildlands and immerse themselves in the culture of that “other Maine” we often hear about, but so few get to truly experience.

Seeing the students arrive at Bowdoin brings it all back for me and my days as an incoming freshman.  A night spent sleeping on a field house floor, the excitement and exhaustion of meeting 300 new friends and the anticipation for all that was to come.

Camping next to the indoor triple jump lane.

A Bowdoin Tradition: sleeping in The Farley Field House.

First conversations.

The bonding happens quickly in these small groups.

Impromptu games of kickball were started.

Frisbees were everywhere.

Even a few old school woodsman’s games.

No, I did not ask for this… though I was impressed by the spontaneity of the design & construction.

After dinner there were a few brief instructions about the logistics of getting 300+ people packed and out the door beginning early the next morning.

The singing of Bowdoin’s Alma Mater.

And then there was this…

Which turned into this…

Which created a reaction like this…

And this…

Whatever “that” was I still don’t know, but it resulted in hundreds of smiling faces… and the start to an incredible four year experience at one of the best schools in the country.  On behalf of all the alums that are floating around out there, welcome to our community!

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just click here or visit www.brianwedge.com

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]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/08/bowdoin-college-pre-orientation-trips/feed/ 4 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/08/alli-mike-bowdoin-college-chapel-newagen-inn-wedding/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/08/alli-mike-bowdoin-college-chapel-newagen-inn-wedding/#comments Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:06:22 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1650 Continue reading →]]>

The groundwork for Alli & Mike’s wedding celebration at the Bowdoin College Chapel and The Newagen Inn began a very long time ago.  Their courtship started when they were in SEVENTH grade, and continued straight through high school, college and even grad school.  It would be a safe bet to say that they found love early on… and it would be an even safer bet to say that their wedding plans were meticulous, thoughtful and filled with creativity.

It was in the middle of a snow storm almost two years ago that Alli and her mom Debbie arrived at our studio for some brainstorming and a weekend of crisscrossing the state of Maine to find the perfect celebration venue.  Alli was a fellow Bowdoin grad (Go U Bears!) and wanted her wedding in the Bowdoin College Chapel.  Though the ceremony location was easily decided, finding a location that could accommodate all 240 of their guests for the weekend-long festivities proved to be a challenge.  We finally connected her with our amazing friend Jason Schlosser, who is The Inn Keeper at the Newagen Inn.  Once Alli & her mom visited, they knew right away that they had found their spot!

This is Bodhi, AKA “The Greatest Dog in the World.”  Truth be told, I think Alli and Mike would have been quite happy with their wedding photos if we showed up, got this one photo of Bodhi and then left.  Bodhi really is a good boy, and his image was a constant theme at their wedding.  In addition to roaming the reception tent in search of hugs and pats on the head, Bodhi’s portrait appeared on everything from the invitations to the table cards.

Alli getting ready.

Talented florists and friends of Alli’s came all the way from New Jersey to create some incredible bouquets and arrangements.

Pre-game fuel for the ring bearer.  Adorable.

When Mike proposed to Alli, he placed the ring in this mitten and had Bodhi bring it over to her.  It was fitting then that the ring bearer would carry their wedding bands down the isle in that same mitten.

Final preparations… so many people came together and worked hard to make their day perfect.

Alli’s dad walks her down the isle on their personalized runner.

The Bowdoin College Chapel Wedding.  Amazing space.  Incredible history.

Joy!

Back to The Newagen Inn to party!

Every detail had been thought of, from the cupcake tower to dog cookies, their wedding was totally original.

Alli’s sister dancing with Bodhi.

I love the light that comes through Sperry Tents.

The enthusiasm!  Awesome!

Bridesmaids throwing down some moves.

The band plays Bon Jovi and the Jersey folks respond!

Dancing above the crowd on the shoulders of friends!

Alli & Mike’s wedding went off without a hitch.  Careful planning, attention to detail and incredible energy created an amazing experience.  Our thanks to both families for being so welcoming and so thoughtful.  We had a wonderful time supporting everyone, and felt honored to be a part of it all!

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Want to see the complete set of photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Wedding Ceremony:  Bowdoin College Chapel, Brunswick, ME

Reception: Newagen Inn, Southport Island, Maine (Great job Jason!)

Floral:  Bouquets To Remember (Manasquan, NJ)

Dress: Carolina Herrera, (NYC)

Cocktail Hour Band:  Dani Tribesmen (ME)

Reception Band:   Current Affair (NYC)

Dessert:  Sweet Sensations (ME)

Videographer: Michael Simons (NJ)

Tent:  Sperry Tents

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

Petra & Lee created a very special wedding celebration this past weekend.  It was more than beautiful, it was more than fun… it was based in community and enriched with tradition.  In my opinion, it was everything a great wedding should be.  It involved true communion amongst friends and family (they all stayed on the farm for the week leading up to the wedding) and it epitomized a cooperative spirit (those same friends and family members literally designed and built almost every detail of the ceremony and reception).

To say it was beautiful would be an understatement.  To say it was completely effortless… well, that would be a lie!  What I mean is that Lee & Petra’s friends WORKED in near 100 degree heat to get everything built and ready for their ceremony.  With good cheer and great spirit, everyone pitched in and made it happen.

At the helm even when beauty calls:  Petra on the two way radio as her friend does her hair.

“Laborer”:  AKA longtime friend / dishwasher / comedian

There was A LOT of enthusiasm at this wedding!

A beautiful touch, these small wooden bowls filled with blueberries were located at every place setting.  (Rings not included)

Something old… and something blue.

A gorgeous Jewish ceremony: Petra & Lee circle eachother.

Beautiful.

The Chuppah, handmade by Petra’s mom and adorned with crystals.

Just after breaking the glass… “Mazel Tov!”

Just radiant.

The signature drink… yummy!

Another grueling location…

I love this because it’s so real.  We took some photos in the hammock and as soon as we finished, Lee did something to make Petra start giggling.  Note Petra’s red shoes!

Beautiful tent at Fox Fields Farm.

Lee likes sunsets… so I had to indulge him.

Tearing it up…

The Hora and Mitzvah dances lasted a good 25 minutes.  Grueling!!!

Yeah, these guys had no fun!

Petra’s view…

There were quite a few journalists with snazzy cameras at the wedding.  There’s ALWAYS room for others to take photos when I’m there… and after a little while, I started using their flashes to my advantage, shooting directly opposite of them allowing more dramatic lighting of the room.

Lee’s view…

Petra & Lee at sunset.

I would like to say that all this community, hard work, creativity and general enthusiasm was a direct result of Lee’s good sense to graduate from Bowdoin College like my wife and I… but the truth is that Petra & Lee are so detailed oriented, yet inclusive, fun and welcoming that it encourages everyone around them to give their very best.  It isn’t something learned… it’s just who they are.  It was very inspiring to see so many people come together in the heat and yes, even a few bugs to create an incredible celebration that was worthy of these two.

To Lee & Petra: thank you for having me at your wedding!  To their friends and family: thanks for pitching in and being so welcoming!!

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Want to see the complete wedding photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Ceremony/Reception Site:  Fox Fields Farm

Day Laborers:  Too many to mention

Caterers:  Sassafras (we use these guys for weeks on end with the LL Bean shoots… yummy!)

Boston is where I grew up and as a result, we find ourselves there both for work and for play quite often.  Jacy & Steve contacted us through some old friends who were nice enough to pass along the good word about our work and we were happy to head south for Jacy & Steve’s Charlestown church ceremony, and their downtown Boston reception at The State Room.

St. Mary’s Church in Charlestown is a historic neighborhood icon and stunningly beautiful.  The details in the church are incredible.

The rafters of St. Mary’s Church, Charlestown, MA.

Jacy and her dad approach the altar as Steve waits.

From polished floors to the ceiling above… such beautiful care is given to St. Mary’s.

A moment of silence.

For a moment, Jacy looks up at Steve.  Got it!

This shot was taken with our 400mm lens.  Our workshop students have seen us use this often for outdoor weddings, but it’s as indispensable for indoor ceremonies as well.  To be unobtrusive in a large open church, we often need to stay further away.  This lens helped us capture this image from the side as they listened to a reading from a family member.

Ceremony done!

The best part of my job is the fact that I get to support folks in the ways that make them happy even if I don’t fully comprehend their reasoning: it’s THEIR wedding day… and I’m willing to do whatever is creative and beautiful.  That being said, there’s some significance to this little frog, though I was never told exactly what it was.  All I know is that means a lot to the two of them, and we made sure to document it while I was there.

Beautiful bouquet.

Jacy looked gorgeous.

These images were all shot at their small, local neighborhood park minutes from the church and their home.  Often folks see our images and think that we must have been on some remote location in a pristine forest or that we spend an exorbitant amount of time shooting.  My guess is that we shot their entire series of portraits in about 10-15 minutes in a tiny park the size of a very small city block.

The State Room, Boston.

Their wedding cake.

I didn’t want to miss the details on the top of the cake… really exquisite work.

Their first dance.

Steve keeps it together as his brother gives an amazing toast.  The amount of respect that Jacy & Steve’s friends and family have for them could not possibly be overstated.  I can’t remember being at another wedding where people spoke so strongly about their loyalty and friendship.  It says a lot about who they are.

The party raged on until midnight.  My guess is that most folks danced for 3-4 hours!

New Boston band: “The Superband.”  These guys were a lot of fun.

Steve’s dad bustin’ a move.  He was amazing.

Thanks Jacy & Steve for having me at your wedding.  It was truly an honor to be there, to meet all your wonderful friends and family and to support you both.  Congratulations on your beautiful celebration and incredible relationship!

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just click here or go to www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Photos:  Brian Wedge Photography

Ceremony:  St. Mary’s Church, Charlestown, MA

Reception:  The State Room at 60 State Street, Boston MA

Band:  The Superband

Floral:  Fino Fresh Floral (Melrose, MA)

Dress: Domo Adami from L’Elite of Newbury Street

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/08/jacy-steve-state-room-wedding-boston-ma/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/08/sherry-paul-sebasco-harbor-resort-wedding/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/08/sherry-paul-sebasco-harbor-resort-wedding/#comments Sat, 08 Aug 2009 02:42:23 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1559 Continue reading →]]>

A Sebasco Harbor Resort wedding is always a welcomed treat for us.  The beautiful Sebasco Harbor Resort is across the bay from our Boathouse Studio, and is just minutes away from our offices by boat.  It’s in our backyard quite literally, and when Sherry and Paul contacted us last year to photograph their wedding we were thrilled to support them.

Paul is a graphic designer who designed their wedding invitation.  He did a beautiful job.  The two little birds became a theme on all their paper.

Gorgeous floral designs by Minott’s Flowers.

Sherry and Paul live in Brooklyn, NY, but returned to Paul’s home state of Maine to exchange their vows.  Sebasco Harbor Resort was a wonderful location choice for these two, as some of Sherry’s family traveled all the way from Iran to be there for their wedding weekend.  Sebasco is an ideal destination wedding weekend venue, where families can really connect and spend quality time together by the sea.  There’s plenty of rooms, activities, shoreline and opportunities to get away from it all, while really appreciating the coast of Maine.

This ringbearer was focused so intently on doing his job that he kept his head down staring at his precious cargo.  For one instant he looked up and we got that moment.  Adorable.

Paul is one of the most fun and expressive grooms ever.  He’s quick to smile, quicker to laugh and as Sherry walked down the isle with her dad, he was literally bouncing on his toes, grinning ear to ear to see her.  She really did look beautiful.

Sherry, with a flower in her hair that her mom brought all the way from Iran.

Oceanfront Wedding at Sebasco Harbor Resort.  Classic Maine.

The backlit ceremony was beautiful.

I always love that moment when the couple turns to walk down the isle.  Some cry, others look to their families, but Paul & Sherry just turned to eachother and giggled.  It was so genuine and clear that they enjoy one another so much.

These two have a LOT of fun.  Here they’re just cracking up laughing after their wedding.

The Clipper Room is an old shore house that was brought up from the waters edge and beautifully restored.

Stunning, simple, elegant decorations.

Each guest received a gift bag of dragèe (sugar coated almonds) and Iranian coins.  Want to know the significance of dragèe at a wedding?  We had no idea either, so we looked it up… and the answer is: “because the almond is technically a seed, it has long been associated with fertility. And so dragees have come to symbolize fertility, prosperity and good luck – what we all wish for the bride and groom.” See the full article from which we snagged that explanation here.

Their first dance.

Wedding cake with a goldfish… huh?  People always ask us how we find such interesting details at weddings.  The answer is that we ask questions and then pay attention to the answers!  This is Sherry and Paul’s pet goldfish that made the trip all the way from Brooklyn!  They didn’t want to get married without him there!

Rockin’ out.

The Sherry’s dad tearing it up.

Once again, Jon Bon Jovi gets the better of otherwise responsible adults.

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just click HERE or head on over to www.brianwedge.com

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Wedding Venue & Reception: Sebasco Harbor Resort

Florist: Minott’s Flowers

When they arrived in Maine from Manhattan for vacation last week, the weather simply refused to cooperate.  Weather forecasts predicted rain throughout most of the week, and so with only a few hours of notice, we rallied to catch the last moments of sunshine, before the storms rolled in.

I’d say the extra hustle was well worth the effort!  Ryan and Julie were absolutely wonderful to work with, and we literally ran all over Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, making the most of our time there.  I think we were all huffing and puffing at one point or another during the shoot, but laughing and having a blast doing it.

In this shot, the sun had already dropped very low in the sky.  I was setting up a silhouette shot, but then saw how the light reflected in Julie’s eye with the lens flare.  You might just be able to see it in these smaller images… but it’s a beautiful moment… or I thought so anyway!

So this was the original inspiration for having an engagement photo shoot.  Can you imagine receiving an awesome “Save The Date” like this? Hilarious.  That’s their puppy in the center!  Nice job Cooper!!!

I’m a pretty high energy guy, and as a result I’m cautious not to push my clients into doing anything that’s too uncomfortable for them.  Great images are great in large part because people are natural, having fun and showing real emotion.  Great shoots on the other hand, occur when the collective energy is so positive, creative and enjoyable that spontaneous ideas are followed without hesitation.  These shots of them IN the breakers was NOT my idea… but it worked, and is a reflection of a great connection between photographer and client.  Photographers have to be able to “roll with it” as much as the clients/models do!

Julie & Ryan were wonderful, energetic and willing to try new things.  This shoot reveals the simple truth of who they are: vibrant, athletic, fun, beautiful, adventurous and in love.  Who knew that so much could be achieved in about an hour?

If you’ve ever been to a lighthouse, you know that there are dozens of people milling around at all times.  A man with a bright yellow jacket was in the background of this image, so I moved to hide him behind Ryan & Julie.  Looked like it worked!

Julie’s boys: Cooper & Ryan.

That was a great time!  I hope you both enjoy your images! (Don’t worry… there’s LOTS more).

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To view the complete images, just click here or go to: www.brianwedge.com

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For the past six years, we’ve been lucky enough to be involved with the photo shoots for the iconic LL Bean catalog.  Each September, we pack up and find ourselves living for a few weeks at the gorgeous Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina in Bar Harbor, Maine.  It’s the perfect “basecamp” for a large scale commercial photography shoot: plenty of rooms, wonderful location and fantastic service.  We’ve been so busy with those catalog shoots, that we had never even contemplated shooting a wedding there.

When Jessie and Chris contacted us last summer to inquire about weddings at the Bar Harbor Club and the Harborside Hotel, we were thrilled.  As Jessie described to us their vision of a laid back, seaside wedding that was beautiful, elegant but not boring or stuffy, we could relate immediately.  The fact that they were both sailors, fun, and they previously lived in San Francisco right near our West Coast studio made making a real connection with them easy.  It wasn’t going to be difficult for us to get them gorgeous images… without being overbearing or obtrusive.  We “got it” right away.

Their beautiful rings.

The Harborside staff have become like family to us over the years… and it was a joy to return to photograph a wedding there.  The Bar Harbor Club is a gorgeous wedding venue, on the ocean, with beautiful views, easy access to the beach and plenty of rooms available at the Harborside Hotel next door.  For Jessie & Chris, it was a special location as well, as Jessie’s parents owned a home only a few blocks away.

I would describe Chris & Jessie as being smart, creative, fun people that are as easy and as low maintenance as they come.  They wanted their day to be a celebration and a true party… which is exactly what they got.

Chris’ daisy boutonniere.

Daisies created a pathway to the ceremony location.

Jessie and her dad walk down the isle to Chris.

Beautiful Bar Harbor, from the ceremony site.

The ceremony was presided over by their longtime friend, a newly ordained minister.  Nice job Padre.

Beautiful, simple ceremony.

Jessie’s gorgeous bouquet.  Loved it!

Happy to start the party!

On the beach for a few minutes together.

They had a really beautiful wedding cake.

So basic… but they got it all right.  Great color.

Lots of kids made the party fun.

Like everything that day, Jessie & Chris put their own spin on things: a series of buffet bars for everyone.  Gourmet fish tacos and Sliders were a few of the offerings.

Yum!!

Just a wonderful evening to be by the sea.

The Bar Harbor Club at sunset.  Gorgeous.

The first dance dip.

It was hard to limit myself to only two images of this guy in this blog post.  Incredible.

Arguably, the most enthusiastic dancer I’ve ever seen.  Wish I had the video (and I know someone does)!!

Jessie and Chris are independent, creative people… as they demonstrate their original technique for cutting a wedding cake.

Right through the middle!

Sunset on a Bar Harbor Club Wedding.

Chris and Jessie stayed true to themselves and created a special evening: they found a great location, had fantastic food, kept things simple… and brought all their family and friends in to celebrate.  It was a wonderful wedding, it was a reflection of who they are and it was really an honor to support them and their guests.

Though it may be while we’re sailing somewhere in the Caribbean, or while we’re on a photo shoot in Manhattan or at our West Coast studio in San Francisco… but wherever it is, we hope to see you all again soon!  Thanks for being so welcoming and fun!

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To see the complete photos, just click here, or go to www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Ceremony & Reception:  Bar Harbor Club

Host Hotel: Harborside Hotel, Spa & Resort

Photography:  Brian Wedge Photography

Besides the usual excitement of getting married, the near constant bad weather weather that has plagued New England over the past few months continued with renewed vigor.  Meredith & Matt had planned a beautiful outdoor ceremony overlooking Casco Bay on The Eastern Promenade of Portland, but the impending rain forced them inside.

Luckily, Matt & Meredith’s reception site (The Portland Country Club) was willing and able to host their ceremony indoors because of the rain.

The Portland Country Club’s rolling fairways leading to the ocean.  Just before their wedding, the clouds parted leaving them a beautiful day.

Matt sees Meredith for the first time as she’s escorted by her dad.

Exchanging rings.

The rooftop deck at the PCC… a fabulous inclement weather alternative.

Real emotion and joy as Meredith looks over at her parents while walking back down the isle.

Immediately after the ceremony Meredith literally just fell into his arms for a hug.  So sweet.

Their first embrace after the ceremony.  You can feel it.

Beautiful floral arrangements by Stephanie Pilk at Flora Home.  Great people, great designs!

The first dance.

Meredith’s dad presented Matt (an incorrigible Yankee fan) with his very own Red Sox cap.  Nice job dad!!

Meredith & her dad having their dance.  Such an obvious love for one another.  Really beautiful to see.

Busting a move on the dance floor.

Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer” gets them every time.

The impromptu bouquet toss…

I’d say she was more than a little surprised to have caught it!!

Hand in hand, leaving Mackworth Island.

Meredith and Matt, thank you so much for having us at your beautiful wedding!  Despite Matt being a Yankee fan… it was a wonderful experience getting to know you and your families!

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Want to see the complete photos?  Just click on this link here!

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Vendors:

Ceremony/Reception Site: Portland Country Club

Wedding Planners: Mary Maxwell of Blueprint Events and Celia at The PCC

Florist:  FloraHome

DJ: Patrick Hussey

Cake: Katie Made Bakery (yummy)

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/07/meredith-matt-portland-country-club-wedding/feed/ 1 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/07/elizabeth-mike-york-harbor-reading-room-wedding-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/07/elizabeth-mike-york-harbor-reading-room-wedding-maine/#comments Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:28:09 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1353 Continue reading →]]> It’s always great to have a fun, casual shoot with a couple in advance of their wedding day, and it’s one of the reasons we travel the country coordinating with couples to photograph them in their home cities on such a regular basis.  The engagement session not only captures wonderful shots for their announcements and save-the-date cards… but it also lets us get to know one another and helps folks become used to the process of being photographed.  By the time the big day rolls around, it’s just that much easier to get the relaxed, real images we love so much.

When we got the call last year from Elizabeth and Mike in The Netherlands, we secretly hoped that we would be on the next plane to Europe to tell the story of their incredible lives there in The Hague.  But we quickly learned that Mike grew up in York Harbor, Maine and that they would be traveling back to the United States for only a few days and really wanted to connect with us on Mike’s hometown beach for a photo shoot… and then a year later, have a wedding at that same spot.

Lots of gorgeous, thoughtful details.

Beautiful bouquets.  Love the fiddleheads mixed in with the flowers.

Elizabeth walking in, escorted by her father.

The York Harbor Reading Room is perched literally feet from the water’s edge.

The ring bearer was adorable.  So sweet and compliant…but maybe a wedding wasn’t exactly his idea of fun?

Their exquisite wedding bands.

Beautiful.

Immediately following the wedding, the family celebrates!

Their love grew over specially brewed coffee, so it was fitting that their table cards be presented with a recounting of their story & a bag of coffee beans.

And then…the bridesmaids celebrate!

I’m always amazed when little kids can clear a dance floor.  This girl had moves!

The fiddlehead motif of the bouquet continues in the cake decoration.

Everyone danced until the wee hours of the morning.  They just never stopped!

We love these images… there’s an honesty about them that’s impossible to manufacture.  It’s probably right around midnight, the veil and the fancy, uncomfortable shoes are long gone.  The hours of dancing and celebrating have worn away all but the tired joy of marrying the person you truly love.  These images were captured using only available light, and there’s a truth about them that we really loved.

A summer night, a sparkler, and a smile that is so genuine… True joy.

Congratulations on your beautiful wedding, and thanks for having me!  Hope to see you guys in The Netherlands next time!

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Want to see the rest of the photos?  Just go to www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Photography: Brian Wedge Photography

Planning and Coordinating:  Diane York Weddings

Location/Catering: York Harbor Reading Room

Florist: Calluna Fine Flowers

Band:  Big Chief

Cake: Owen Dyer Confection Art

We met Jordanna and Jason last summer in Bar Harbor, and were psyched to hear their story of friendship that began at Harvard, followed by 12 years as a couple and finally returning to Jason’s home state of Maine to tie the knot.  Little did we know that Jason and Jordanna are incredibly talented and accomplished… working on Broadway in various capacities, with Jason most recently working as The Phantom of that little Broadway hit called The Phantom of The Opera.  Yeah, that one.

As I drove in the pouring rain up to Mount Desert Island, I worried that these two amazing, deserving people would be frustrated because of the bad weather.  Though I’m happy to work in any conditions… dust, rain, sleet, riots, fires, whatever… I never know how a couple is going to react to the adversity of weather, especially at a place like the Asticou Inn, which is famous for it’s back lawn overlooking Northeast Harbor.

Within minutes of stepping out of the car, I realized that my worries were completely unfounded and that I had landed smack in the middle of a cast of incredible characters, and a wedding that I’ll never forget.

For starters, on the front porch of The Asticou Inn, I met a mountain of a man, who was wearing a tuxedo and brandishing a large kitchen knife while wearing only one shoe.  I watched as he palpated and examined his shoe, occassionally grumbling something under his breath about how “it had to be done” and “there were no other options.”  His thoughtful contemplation and words reminded me of a surgeon bearing the bad news to one of his patients.  The situation was dire and he would have to “go in” immediately to save the rest of the shoe.

The knife wielding shoe butcher turned out to be Lou, the father of the bride, and I watched incredulously as he shaved off the heel of one of his dress shoes with an ease of hand that reminded me of a Tokyo sushi chef filleting a tuna.  His movements were confident, exacting and without hesitation.  After his first pass, he strapped the mutilated shoe back on and with a satisfied “Ah Huh” proclaimed that “it wasn’t bad” but that “the other shoe was next.”  It seems that Lou’s old Army dress shoes had seen one too many tours of duty and the heels had finally disintegrated to a point of no return.  Lou did what had to be done.

After thoroughly enjoying Lou’s inspiring cutlery demonstration out on the front porch, I ventured inside the Asticou to check in with Jordanna & Jason as the rain continued to fall.  They had explicitly written to me earlier that day that “unless there is horrible weather we would like to have photos out on the rocks near the ocean”.  Obviously “horrible weather” is a relative term, and as an old Outward Bound Captain and Himalayan mountain guide… it’s always best for the bride and groom to define those standards rather than me… otherwise we’re liable to wind up in a hurricane or a blizzard in no time.

To my pleasant surprise, they were both thrilled to go outside, and happy to dodge rain drops in order to get a few photos.  By sheer will, they had convinced their friends and family to venture out as well, and through a lot of laughter and rain showers… we got the images that we hoped for!

Singin’ In The Rain.

Jordanna’s beautiful smile while hiding under an umbrella.

Their wedding bands.

Because of the rain, the ceremony was held in a cozy room overlooking the water.  As a team of actors, Jordanna & Jason had decided that their intimate ceremony should not NOT be a performance, but a quiet, meaningful ceremony.  They were committed to having no distractions from their photographer… and therefore required that I not use flash and not move (even a little) during the entire ceremony even if it impacted the final images.  I always love a challenge, and the bank of windows behind the ceremony silhouetted everyone dramatically… making details difficult, but not impossible.  I switched to a 1.2 aperture lens, that captured more mid-tones than could normally be picked up in a situation like that.  So far, so good… we had successfully managed the rain, and the harsh lighting… all that was left was the reception!

When I grow up, I want to be like Jordanna’s grandmother: beautiful, smart, motivating and eloquent.  Here, she whips up the crowd during her speech.

Oh, if I only had audio running that day.  So many talented friends.  It was a joy to listen to.

Breaking the glass.

The kiss!

Their cake was a mountain with the two of them embracing on the summit.

I was warned by the guests repeatedly during the cocktail hour that I would be “in for a show” during the dancing.  The first dance hinted at what was to come.  I don’t think I’ve ever seen two people so effortlessly and joyfully dance so beautifully.  I could tell that they had done this before.

Jordanna being dipped (again).

And then the crowd got involved… everyone was AMAZING.  They should have charged admission for their performance (my guess is that most of them do usually).  One moment everyone was swing dancing, then dramatic reenactments of musicals, then some latin dancing, then hip hop… just incredible.

Oh yeah… I forgot about the Russian dancing.  Check.

Time for the Hora… tall guys and short ceilings… bad mix.  Nice reminder Jordanna.

Jason knows no fear.

Yup, and just drop a split in the middle of the dance floor whenever you’re ready.

Then Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” comes on, and the music theater / interpretive dance gloves come off.

Not sure if this is part of the Madonna song or an impromptu decision to fly… regardless, it was incredible and hilarious.

When I emailed Jason and Jordanna to ask what their ideal image would be at the end of the night, they said “something that captures us ‘being us’ probably amidst a series of sweaty lifts, dips or spins while dancing together”.  Got it!

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So, the next time one of my editors or commercial clients ask why the heck I’m going off to shoot another wedding, I’m going to send them this blog link.  Because it’s fun.  Because weddings are filled with wonderful, meaningful, hilarious and original moments, that could never be duplicated.  It’s an honor to be there to document a dad sawing off their shoe soles, a grandmother’s dispensing wisdom and enthusiasm… and most all, to capture the joy of two people who love each other so completely, like Jordanna and Jason.

Thank you for having me at your wedding!  Thanks for bringing your amazing friends to Maine, for “going for it” despite the rain and for sharing your spinning, whirling, dipping sweaty selves with all of us.  What a joy!

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Want to see the complete wedding photos?  Just go to: www.brianwedge.com

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Vendors:

Ceremony/Reception:  The Asticou Inn

Band: The Coronados

Flowers:  Still working on that… email if you need it.

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/06/jordanna-jason-asticou-inn-wedding-northeast-harbor-me/feed/ 2 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/06/elizabeth-jack-clarks-cove-farm-wedding-walpole-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/06/elizabeth-jack-clarks-cove-farm-wedding-walpole-maine/#comments Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:31:21 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1238 Continue reading →]]> Last year, when Liz called to tell me she was engaged to this smart, athletic, wonderful guy named Jack and she wanted us to photograph her wedding, I was overjoyed!  Liz and I have been friends since we went to Bowdoin College together, and I knew that she appreciated the rugged coast of Maine as much as I did.  I knew that Liz had skied, climbed, sailed and hiked most of Maine… so she and Jack would undoubtedly have found some hidden gem of a location that I had never photographed before.

The Apple Orchards of Clark’s Cove Farm.

Elizabeth’s wedding and engagement rings.

Jack and Elizabeth did not disappoint!  Near her family’s home on The Pemaquid Penninsula, she had found Clark’s Cove Farm and Inn… a truly incredible spot that was both large enough to accommodate all their guests, and intimate enough for a tented celebration that was elegant and beautiful.  Though I’ve photographed around the world and all over New England, Clark’s Cove Farm was a welcomed discovery.

A trail of lanterns led guests from the cocktail reception to the tent.

Back in March, Liz and Jack met me for dinner down in Washington, DC to discuss their plans.  Their objectives were simple: they wanted a great celebration with all their friends and family… but they didn’t want something that was overly formal or uncomfortable.  Jack was a fellow Bowdoin grad as well, and between the two of them they were bringing over 200 guests to their celebration!

As inspiration, they showed me their save the date card (above) which was a photo of the two of them on top of Maine’s highest peak with the sign Photoshopped to read their wedding date.  Very creative!  They told me that night that they wanted their wedding to be natural, beautiful and fun.

What a great reaction by her bridesmaids!

Liz is a no fuss kind of girl.  Beautiful, smart and organized?  YES.  High maintenance, no…  not at all.  As such, I wasn’t surprised at all when she went from “hanging out with friends in jeans” to “gorgeous bride” in about 15 minutes.  I don’t think I’ve seen someone get ready that quickly in my life.

When we arrived at Liz’s family home, we found taped to the door a note to the deliverer of some lost luggage who “saved a wedding” by delivering the ties for the groom and groomsman.  Rest assured, the ties arrived in time…

“You saved a wedding.”

Elizabeth’s engagement ring.

Liz’s sister Heather doing the heavy lifting.

At St. Patrick’s Church, Jack sees Elizabeth for the very first time.

The fir planked ceiling of St. Patrick’s church.  Beautiful detail.

The embrace.

Elizabeth and Jack exited the church to the sound of a bagpiper… a family tradition.

They drove away in their parent’s antique MG.  Beautiful car… but the emergency brake was stuck!!

Off to the farm!

Liz runs right out of her shoes…

Beautiful.  Timeless.

Arm in arm, they jump a soggy spot to return to the reception.

Our old friend and guest Thomas… teaching his new son what it’s like to catch air.  Must be in the genes.

Bouquet on the seat of the MG.

The sisters rocking out.

The Worm: You knew someone would have to drop it into their routine.  Nice work.

It was just wonderful to be able to witness such happiness and obvious love between Jack and Liz.  It was an honor to be there to document the story of their day, and to share in the celebration.  Thanks for having us!!!

Want to see the complete wedding photos?  They’re all right here: www.brianwedge.com

Details:

Ceremony Site:  St. Patrick’s Church, Newcastle, ME

Reception:  Clark’s Cove Farm, Walpole, ME

Caterer: Red Plate Catering

Band:  Soho (This is the second group we have LOVED who is being represented by Nightshift… keep it up!)

Florist:  Alda Stich

Stationer: William Arthur

Dress: Paloma Blanca

Pies: Chase Farms

Sharon had heard that I used to be a photojournalist and guide in India, Nepal and Tibet… and wanted someone with the range to comfortably photograph their quintessential New England wedding on Saturday, and all the details and nuances of their traditional Indian wedding on Sunday.  The key was that they needed creativity and quality… but they really wanted all of that achieved as unobtrusively as possible.  I absolutely love traditional Indian weddings, and have been lucky enough to photograph dozens of them over the years, so I was thrilled to be there!

Stonover Farm duck pond… before the rain.

Saturday’s Jewish wedding took place in front of Stonover Farm’s 110 year old barn.  A gorgeous, classic setting in the shadow of the Berkshires.  As luck would have it, the rain held off just long enough for the ceremony to end, and the cocktail hour was held inside the beautiful barn.  The reception was held in a tent in a field across from the B&B, and the party went on for hours as it rained outside.

Flower girl’s basket of fresh flowers.

Check out the reflection of the bride’s sister jumping for joy after seeing her sister.  Sisters are the best!

The ducks of Stonover Farm

The Hora… reluctantly.

Yeah, I just wish she were a little cuter too…

This facial distortion was actually part of a solo dance routine that lasted 20 minutes.

This is classic:  Sharon is rocking out and towing Siva around by the neck.

The next morning began early with the dressing of the bride… and the traditional Indian wedding ceremony held facing East.  I think the families were a little astounded that a 6’4″ blond haired, blue eyed kid like me understood the intricacies of the Indian ceremony.  I don’t blame them at all for being surprised… but after spending so much time in India and having photographed lots of Indian weddings, I really enjoy learning all the subtleties of the ceremony that mean so much to the couple and their families.

Day Two: Traditional Indian Ceremony preparations.

The Mangalasutra… gorgeous.  Want to know more about the mangalasutra?  Wikipedia explains it here.

One of Sharon’s seven helpers… Siva’s mom adding necessary details.

Delicious fruity beverages know no cultural boundaries.

The layers and layers of details were amazing.

I think that there are 20 bangles on this arm alone.

Siva’s mom during the Ganesha Puja

Sharon’s Mangalasutra is tied around her neck as rice is thrown on them by the families.

Sira puts the methi on Sharon’s feet.  The granite symbolizes the strength of their relationship.

Details, details, details….

Lajja Homan: Sharon offers puffed rice to the fire signifying her acceptance of her inlaws.

The mangalasutra finally on Sharon’s neck.

What a wonderful weekend!  I felt lucky to get to know Sharon, Siva and their families/friends.  I enjoyed both ceremonies so much, and the Indian ceremony and foods took me back to my days in India.  I miss it so much, and loved documenting all the thoughtful details that made both days so fantastic.

Want to see the complete set of photos??  Just click here:  Brian Wedge Photography: Siva & Sharon Wedding

Vendors who did such a great job:

Location: Stonover Farm (Tom and Suki Werner… two of the nicest people… go visit them, they’ll take good care of you!)

Caterer (Saturday): Mezze Catering (Linda Stripp and Nancy Thomas)

Caterer (Sunday): Dosa Temple

Mandap & Priest: Still working on getting their info… email me directly if you need it.

Florist: Mount Williams Greenhouses (North Adams, MA)

DJ:  JTD Productions

Tent: Classical Tents and Party Goods

]]> http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/06/sharon-siva-traditional-indian-wedding-in-lenox-massachusetts/feed/ 9 http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/06/nicole-pj-migis-lodge-wedding-casco-maine/ http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/2009/06/nicole-pj-migis-lodge-wedding-casco-maine/#comments Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:48:24 +0000 brianwedge http://www.brianwedge.com/blog/?p=1144 Continue reading →]]> I know what you’re thinking: Brian and Malia have a horrible life.  Another grueling assignment in Nepal covering riots?  No.  Saving Sea Turtles in Baja, Mexico?  No.  Running out of food while climbing in Tibet?  Nope, not this week.

We’re back (again) in Maine at Migis Lodge.  It seems that the now famous “Julie and Jim” of last year (link to their blog posting) had prompted more requests for wedding coverage at Migis than we could accommodate in our schedule.  Lucky for us, Nicole and PJ contacted us early enough last year when we still had room in our calendar, and we were so happy to return to Migis!

Immediately upon arriving I found this incredibly contemplative scene: the hair stylist pondering the back of Nicole’s head.  I loved the limited light and how serious everyone looked.

The seriousness of the moment was interrupted by Nicole grabbing a mirror, and running to the bathroom to look at the back of her hair.  What followed were an explosion of fist pumps, smiles, jumping and dancing (yes Nicole, it was dancing).  I’ve never seen someone so PSYCHED with their hair.  I knew that if she was going to be so happy with that moment… that there would be plenty more to come.

Next up: Dad sees Nicole in her wedding dress.  Bring on the tears, the tissues and an expert ability to remain beautiful even when crying.  I still don’t know how they managed to do it all so well, but they did.

Another Marcia Davis Flower arrangement.  So talented!

Nicole’s dad, waiting to board the boat.

Nicole was the first bride aboard the completely restored antique Migis boat.  Beautiful, beautiful work.

Nicole and her dad making their grand entrance: the mountains in the background.

Nicole and her Dad walking down the isle.  That’s joy!

With a reader reading in the foreground, Nicole listens attentively with tears in her eyes.

You may notice that everyone is turned in a direction opposite of the groom as they listen to a song being sung by a friend.  I thought it was so sweet that PJ’s focus stayed with Nicole, as she wiped away a few tears.

Holding on. Two hands.

The kiss.

I love capturing small details like these.  Just moments after being declared husband and wife, a blessing is offered for them in the background.  Nicole and PJ each turn to their respective families, and their eyes fill once more with tears.

No tears… just happiness!

Sunset with your new husband/wife aboard an antique boat.  Life doesn’t get much better than this moment.

Classic in every sense of the word.  This image is timeless.

Stuck holding a bridesmaid’s bouquet.  Nice work PJ.

So beautiful!

During the mother-son dance, PJ and his mom embrace.

PJ, going big.

Groomsman, going bigger.  Migis Lodge will never be the same after this split on the dance floor.

What a wonderful celebration, and an honor to document the story of their special day for them!  Great people, great stories and wonderful details.  Thanks for having us!

Want to see the complete set of photos?  Just go here: www.brianwedge.com

Ceremony / Reception Location: Migis Lodge

Flowers: Marcia Davis

Band:  Jim Ciampi Band

The Artist’s Covered Bridge over the Sunday River.

Lots of laughter, lots of tears… our kind of people!

On The Sunday River…

The emotions started early, and everyone did an amazing job of keeping it together!  Amy and Chad really wanted beautiful photos, captured in an unobtrusive manner.  They wanted the day to be about their celebration and their stories… nothing contrived or manufactured.  We were happy to oblige!

Their beautiful rings, hers inscribed with “Always” and his inscribed with “Forever.”

Lots of small, thoughtful details… the wedding party all received embroidered handkerchiefs.

Exquisite Bouquets.

The ceremony begins!

Dad walking Amy down the isle.  I don’t think there was a dry eye there.

Chad wipes a tear as he sees Amy for the first time in her wedding dress.

We always shoot unobtrusively, but photographing in the covered bridge without a flash presented many very real challenges.  We arrived a few hours before the ceremony to obsessively meter the light, and make a great plan for how we would capture the emotion and detail… without being noticed.  In this shot, we’re shooting with a very large (400mm) lens from a nearby roadway through the side of the bridge and into the scene.  Working with the natural light (instead of against it) revealed beautiful highlights & details.  In this image, a tear falls on Chad’s cheek.

Amy putting Chad’s ring on his finger, again from a distance with a long lens.

The kiss and applause!

The emotion after the kiss.  Love that filtered, natural light!

They’ve been together NINE years!!!  They’re so happy!

Their first moments as husband and wife.

Even the most organized brides can have something go wrong!  Here, Amy’s “after-wedding” slippers were taken back to the reception site ahead of schedule… leaving her with only her stiletto heels to hike down to the river bed in.  Conveniently, my amazing second shooter (and wife, Malia) was there and offered up her black shoes for the walk, and then proceeded to keep photographing in bare feet.  Nice work sweetie!

How do you have a relaxing wedding at The Covered Bridge with a reception at Sunday River? Hire shuttle buses!  Here, Amy and Chad return to the reception alone in an empty bus.

Beautiful.  Real.  Natural.

Great location for a wedding.  Mountains in the background.

Amy’s dad has his dance with his daughter.  So emotional.

The father and mother of the groom… wonderful people on their Harley!

Amy and Chad hired us explicitly because they wanted their very real story of love and family to come through with emotion, quality and creativity while having fun.  Their families and friends mean the world to them, & they rented a house at Sunday River for the week prior to the wedding for everyone to relax and bond.  I think it worked!!!

It was a beautiful wedding.  Simple, genuine and so thoughtful.  Congratulations Amy and Chad!!!  We loved getting to know you and your families!  Thank you for the opportunity to support you all!

The complete set of wedding photos can be viewed by clicking on this link:  http://www.brianwedge.com/photocart/index.php?do=photocart&viewGallery=537

Location:  Artist’s Covered Bridge, Newry Maine (Sunday River Ski Resort)

Catering:  The Good Food Store (amazing, wholesome food.  Thanks Heather & Dave!)

Andrea and Adam are friends with a large number of our past clients/friends who are all connected through Middlebury College, Dartmouth Medical School and Tuck Business School.  They, like our past clients are all these incredibly talented, down to earth, over achievers who value family, natural beauty and a wonderful combination of elegance and simplicity in their wedding weekends.

Andrea grew up going to Sebago Lake, and they both had a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty of the area.  When trying to find a location that could host a weekend long celebration complete with lobster bake and bonfire… Migis Lodge was the right fit.

After a week straight of cold rain, the skies parted and we had wonderful weather for the wedding!  We were so happy for them, and from the rehearsal dinner through Sunday the weather was perfect.

The bridesmaids react to seeing Andrea dressed for the first time in her Vera Wang dress.

Her bouquet by Marcia Davis… beautiful as usual!

Off to the ceremony!

Andrea’s amazing sister and niece carrying the back of her dress.

Bridesmaids marching to the wedding.

As is traditional at Migis, the bride arrives by boat.  Here she sits with her dad.  The anticipation building…

One of the most beautiful entrances possible… stunning!

Adam sees her for the first time!

With parents behind each of them, the ceremony begins.

In a BEAUTIFUL interfaith ceremony… the couple joins hands.

This was my favorite part of the ceremony.  Wrapped together, the Rabbi offers a blessing.  Just beautiful!

Their first kiss!

The Chuppah made from birch logs.

After recessing back down the isle, Andrea turns to face her husband for the very first time.  Special moment.

Classic.  Timeless. Beautiful.

Such genuine joy.  It was wonderful to see!

Then I just turned around and this is what I saw… still don’t know what was happening here!

Does it look like she’s a little apprehensive?  Despite the ever present potential of a head injury from a collision with the ceiling… they escaped unharmed!

Then the real party begins…

It was a great weekend!  Thank you Adam and Andrea for having us!  It was an honor to support you, your friends and your families!  We plan on seeing you at our annual Boathouse Studio BBQ this fall if not sooner!

Want to see the complete set of photos??  Just go to www.brianwedge.com and click on View Proofs.

Vendor Information:

Location, Catering & Cake:  Migis Lodge

Florist:  Marcia Davis

DJ:  Brian Sparhawk

Dress: Vera Wang

My sister’s improved health has been the result of tenacious determination, an indefatigable spirit, a talented team of caregivers… and most importantly, the selfless, incredible gift from her anonymous bone marrow donor.

Recently, I had the amazing opportunity to actually meet my sister’s bone marrow donor.  Her donor’s name is Tammy, she’s about my sister’s age, and we had dinner together along with her fabulous husband Chris just before I flew out for another photo shoot.  Meeting Tammy and Chris was one of the most surreal moments of my life.  I was giddy with excitement, bubbling over with emotion (READ: tears)… and challenged to fully express my sense of gratitude for her sacrifice, and for the lifetime of pain she had spared Lea and everyone in our family.  As much as I wanted to know all about her and Chris, she wanted to know all about Lea and the process from the patient’s side.  We talked for hours sharing our experiences.

With The Heroes: Chris and Tammy on the left (and me)

I spent most of the night thanking them both for their efforts, for their selfless gifts, and for THEIR determination to see this process through.  Tammy and Chris had a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to help someone that they didn’t even know… and they took it.

Some call it Providence, some call it karma… others call it dumb luck.  Whatever it was, we were very fortunate to find a donor at all… never mind someone like Tammy who was a perfect match, and who was so willing to give so much.

As we left the restaurant that night, I told (yelled at) every person we saw that “This woman saved my sister’s life.”  I know it embarrassed Tammy, but it is the absolute truth… and it’s something not only to celebrate, but also aspire to.  What if we ALL stepped up to the plate for someone we didn’t know?  What if we were all willing to give of ourselves so that someone else may live?  If you had the opportunity, would you?

VIDEO: How to register / get tested

Getting tested for bone marrow is easy… it literally just involves swabbing your cheek with a Q-Tip and it’s FREE (optional donation to cover costs accepted but not required).  Here’s how to sign up:

http://www.dkmsamericas.org/category/marrow-donors/become-donor

You might never be a match, but if you are… wow, you’re in the position to save someone’s life!!  You’re not donating a kidney or a lung now… so get that whole gory, life altering concept out of your head right off the bat.  The act of bone marrow donation can take on one of two different forms, but 70% of all donations are taken in a procedure very similar to the simple act of donating blood.  The cold hard truth though is that every year 35,000 people need a donor and only 3800 will find one.  Bottom line: we need more people involved and you could be that one!

A great video that explains what the actual donation process is here:

Our lives are forever changed by Tammy’s gift.  Her generosity has inspired so many… and I hope it inspires YOU and those around you.  Thank you Tammy!!!

If you would like to thank Tammy for her donation in the comments section below, have at it!

If she inspires you to register, or get friends/family registered let us know… and by all means pass this blog post on!

I’ve been a part of hundreds of races, but Boston has been my favorite… the best fans and best organization ever.  Last year at this time, I was running to raise money for LIVESTRONG and The Lance Armstrong Foundation in honor of my sister Lea… and if you haven’t read that post from last year (or need a good excuse to cry) the link is here.

(Me… doing my very best impression of a Kenyan winning it all!)

The Lance Armstrong Foundation has had an incredibly productive year since we raised $20,000+ dollars for them, and months after the Marathon, I received a great email from Lance Armstrong and Doug Ulman who shared this fabulous video with me.  The Boston Marathon is always a source of inspiration… and it’s a reminder that we need to stay focused on being part of something that contributes to the greater good.  For us, we hope that there will be a cure for cancer in our lifetime.

There’s only 364 days left before the next running of The Boston Marathon.  Maybe this is your year?  Click on the logo below for some motivation!

BOSTON MARATHON VIDEO

Let’s call a spade a spade… March was NOT my finest blogging month.  I’ve been away for much of the past 6 weeks as many folks have noticed.  I’ve been away shooting some wonderful commercial campaigns and photographing editorial assignments.  I’ve also been teaching a few classes and even managed to sit in on a workshop taught by some incredibly talented colleagues.  In addition to earning more frequent flier miles than I care to admit, March was a time to learn, explore, share and do a whole lot of photography both for work and for pleasure.

I have a pretty simple rule that I follow when I travel and/or shoot: I try very hard not to miss out on opportunities to be creative.  If I’m feeling tired or lazy, that’s just not an excuse not to get up and chase that next creative image.

This series of Golden Gate Bridge photos occurred at about 4:30am the day after a crazy week long commercial shoot and traveling (1600 miles by car, 4,000 miles by plane in addition to shooting everyday).  Though I can’t say that I’ll suddenly become an architecture photographer, I always try to make time to shoot just for myself.  No paid advertising campaigns, no stock images, no one is paying me to be out there… I’m there just for the love of the art form.

 iPhone Photo of the day (March 5, 2009): “Cow in a field”  Somewhere along Route 101, California.

Likewise, I’ve started a daily habit of taking shots with my iPhone.  Capturing images with a cell phone camera is so convenient because the iPhone is always on me.  The photos are always captured just with a basic iPhone lens and there’s no editing outside of the basic iPhone photo apps (no Photoshop).  It makes shooting more difficult in some ways… but it pushes me to be constantly thinking of interesting images while I’m traveling.  (A quick disclaimer: I did pull these images into my watermarking software to tag on that watermark… that’s the only non native iPhone tinkering that was done).

I share all these “iPhone photos of the day” images through Twitter and Facebook with the hope that it encourages folks to do something truly creative everyday… even if the end result isn’t perfect or even something you “love”… just like getting up at 4:30 in the morning on your first day of vacation, you may just find something out there that you like!  Furthermore it gets you in the habit of trying things that don’t always work… and creating something new every day!

Hit me up with YOUR iPhone creations anytime… I can always use the inspiration, and love to see the images!

Spring has arrived in Maine, and it feels wonderful to be home!