A Belle Mer wedding is always a beautiful wedding and Lisa and Jim’s was no exception. The day started on lower Thames Street in a gorgeous condo where all of the ladies were getting ready. This was a real girls party! The M’s were there with Lucia assisting, Michelle from Fresh Focus was capturing everything on video, Kim from Greenlion Design brought in the most breathtaking florals all while Lynda from Formal Hair and Makeup Design was beautifying everyone. Champagne was flowing, music was playing and buntings were hung. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful & inviting space to capture the details. The luxurious letterpress invitations by Drolet Paperie set the glamorous tone for the day. Lisa truly wowed everyone in the room when she presented herself in her strapless, lace overlay gown. From her dangly diamond earrings, to the David Yurman pearl bracelet (something borrowed from her lovely sister Diana) down to her Jimmy Choo silver sandals, Lisa was a perfect bride. Her sleek up-do showcased her pretty smile and was the ideal style for her cathedral length veil. As Lisa’s father walked her down the Isle of St. Lucy’s Church it was clear on Jim’s face that he knew he was the luckiest man in the world. Post ceremony we headed over to the Island House at Belle Mer. While the rain made it difficult for portraits outside we had simply the best indoor space for formulas. A huge white space with giant windows overlooking the sea gave us beautiful natural light. As usual, the M’s moved furniture all around to design the space perfectly. The mood was light and fun and just a sampling of what the night was yet to bring. Downstairs, beautifully dressed guests filled the impeccably styled Island House. Rentals Unlimited outdid themselves while Greenlion blossoms in shades of ivory and blush were everywhere to be seen. The attentive staff at Belle Mer served the guests passed hors d’oeuvres including some Colombian favorites. When Lisa and Jim entered for their first dance the room erupted in applause! They shared one of the most fun first dances ever which was followed by Lisa and her loving father. They danced to an upbeat song which caused Melissa to declare that she now wishes she were Colombian! Among many of our #jobperks is getting to know people from varied places and cultures. The joining of Jim’s American family with Lisa’s was a highlight of our year. There was palpable love in the air. The kind of love that brings tears to they eyes. Laughter abounded, especially in the Photo Booth. Things got a little (WAY) crazy in there. Everything that people could get their hands on became a prop. Even the suitcase holding the props became a prop! This was a wedding that will be spoken about for a long time to come and one we will never forget.

XO

Gown: Wedding Atelier

Birdesmaid’s Gowns: New York City Amsale

Tuxes: Viking Tuxedo

Flowers: Greenlion Weddings

Video: Fresh Focus

Hair and Makeup: Formal Hair and Makeup Design by Lynda Williams

Save the Dates/Invitations: Drolet Paperie

Linens: Rentals Unlimited

Band: Those Guys

10 Bull. The location of Lisa and Jim’s rehearsal dinner is simply called 10 Bull. Our gracious host, Byrne, Jim’s father, lives at his family estate in the heart of downtown Newport. He opened his doors for friends and family to celebrate the night before the stunning wedding at Belle Mer. It was such a pleasure to witness the mingling of Lisa’s Colombian family with Jim’s American family. Standing with the true essence of what a rehearsal diner is meant to be everyone became friends. Given the laid back nature of heavy passed hors d’oeuvres provided by Plantation Catering, guests were able to have meaningful conversations while mingling both outdoors and inside the breathtaking home. This night was a perfect kick off to the incredible festivities the next day!

 Melissa and Tom had a beautiful autumn wedding at one of our favorite venues, Bittersweet Farm, in Westport, MA. Each couple brings their own unique personality to this rustic locale and Melissa and Tom certainly made it their own. Beautiful signage was on display, perfect programs welcomed guests to the ceremony and proclamations of love dotted the tables, right down to the home brewed favors that were displayed at the end of the night. Seemingly effortless florals by Arranged Occasions were carried by the ladies and were placed in burlap and lace wrapped wine bottles. Melissa was a glamorous vision in her ruched Essence of Australia gown and sparkly heels. Tom greeted her in his sharp grey suit for their first look out on the lawn and the two could not stop smiling! The gorgeous weather lent for formal portraits on the grounds and even a bit into the woods. A ceremony surrounded by rich fall foliage preceded the indoor reception where guests enjoyed the fabulous food provided by Bittersweet. Dancing commenced with the mixing styles of Music on Wheels while all eyes were on the killer cupcakes made by The Artisan Bake Shop. (The M’s even had a taste!) A very touching moment was when a friend read a toast from Melissa’s brother who is currently serving our country overseas. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room but the overall feeling was one of joy. In a roomful of Toms Melissa clearly found hers and their love is one that will surely withstand the test of time. XO

Gown: Essence of Australia

Hair and Makeup: Ali Lomazzo Beauty

Suits: Joseph A. Banks

Florals: Arranged Occasions

Cupcakes: The Artisan Bake Shop

DJ: Music on Wheels

DJ: