Last weekend, I had the pleasure of heading down to Newport with my friend and second shooter, Sharon Reiley, to photograph April and Mike’s wedding! Although at our final meeting we had talked about the cold temperatures that were expected that weekend, it actually turned out to be a mild day for January! Perfect for some outside pictures that we had hoped for!
When we arrived, we met up with Mike while April was on her way from the salon…He let us in the room so that I could start on detail shots and Sharon, joined to guys while they were hanging out and getting ready!
When April arrived, we slipped her right into her dress and began to accessorize:)
This is Michelle – she is one of April’s closest friends from college and she is my connection to April! Michelle was in a wedding that I photographed a couple years ago (Deanne & Jaeke:)! and has since also had a family session with me! Thank you so much Michelle for your kind recommendation!
When April was ready, we headed down for a first look! 
I love the picture on the right! Sharon’s angle captured such a cute expression on April’s face!
When the bridal party came out to join us, the flower girls arrived on cue:)! They looked fabulous and were clearly so happy to be part of their uncles (and new aunts!) special day!
Back inside Sharon grabbed a few pictures of the ceremony set up, while we worked on our family formals in front of the fire:)
This is the incredible view through the windows:)
Sharon’s view as the ceremony began….
April and her dad made a grand entrance and had an adorable snafoo that you can read about below! I have a great picture of her saying “one minute:)”!
I just love this picture of April – the most adoring and happy eyes…
During the ceremony, they passed around their rings to be blessed by their friends and family…
After the ceremony we looped around outside for a few pictures with the bridge before everyone headed into cocktail hour for some greetings and conversation!
Then the party began:)
Sharon headed outside to capture a few shots as the sun was setting…
The girls put on a show to Cotton-Eyed Joe and April’s grandmother did a ton of dancing, including these dances with her two sons!
As I was headed out, I noticed the trolley waiting to take the guests for a bit of a pub crawl around Newport….I took back out a camera and grabbed a final shot of the night!
April and Mike – congratulations to you both! Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of your day! You two are fantastic and I wish you the best!!
Vendor Info
bridal gown | Maggie Sottero from Alexandra’s Boutique
bridesmaid dresses | Bari Jay from Alexandra’s Boutique
tuxedoes | Carl Anthony Tuxedo, Cranston, RI
hair & makeup | BlueSky Spaworks, Warwick, RI
florist | Toni Chandler Flowers & Events
ceremony & reception venue | Oceancliff Hotel & Resort
cupcakes – Scrumptions – East Greenwich, RI
dj | Victor Rodrigues – Victor Events
Songs
first dance | Make You Feel My Love – Adele
father/daughter | In My Life – The Beatles
mother/son | What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
last dance | Make You Feel My Love – performed & recorded by Peter Sousa (bride’s father)
Bride/Groom Questions
What was the most memorable moment of your day? Our first look was very special for both of us. It helped to calm any nerves either of us had and it was a moment for just Michael and I before the rest of the day began.
What was your favorite detail? Mike – the lighting provided by Victor. April – the beautiful flowers and candlelight gave the atmosphere a very romantic feel.
Any advice for future brides/grooms? Don’t let the stress of the planning get to you, it’s completely worth all of the time and effort you put into creating such a special day.
Funniest memory from your wedding day? April – my shoe got stuck in the floor just as I started to walk down the aisle with my father. As a staff member was trying to dislodge it, I looked up at Mike and said, “I’m coming!” as my face turned bright red! Once my shoe was fixed, the crowd clapped as I made my way up the aisle.
If you could do it all over, would you change anything? We wouldn’t change anything at all.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? We are planning a trip to wine country in northern California.