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
