Birthday Celebration | Jim Fest 2014 | Harvard Faculty Club, Cambridge MA

On Saturday, I had the pleasure of capturing Professor Jim Anderson’s Birthday Celebration at The Harvard Faculty Club in Cambridge, MA. After a long day of talks and presentations these folks still had the energy to celebrate!  Not only was this a celebration of a birthday but of the leadership and collaborations Professor Anderson has formed and encouraged over the years!

These are a few of my favorites from the evening and I can’t say enough kind words on how lovely it was to be a part of the night. Happy Birthday Professor Anderson!

Sabrina & Mike | Wedding |Merrimack Valley Golf Club

There are people you meet and you think… hey, I could hang out with these folks so easily… well, that is what happened when I met Sabrina and Mike. And not only did we get to hang out but we got to “hang out” at their wedding… ha. But really, it’s one of the best feelings when you hear your clients say the same thing about you!

Sabrina and Mike were married last month and between all the smiles, laughter, and well wishes, I’m happy to share just a few of my favorites from the day.

Best wishes to Sabrina and Mike! I can’t wait to Hang Out again!

A big thanks to Cheryl for second shooting for me on this event as well!

 

Sarah & Ryan | The Henderson House | Massachusetts Wedding Photographer

Sarah & Ryan wed at the gorgeous Henderson House in Weston, MA.

The details were soft and classic. From the same six pence Sarah’s Mother wore on her wedding day, to lacy touches on the invites and bouquet,  it was clear in even our first conversations that a lot of thought went into the entire day and no item was too small.

Both Sarah and Ryan surrounded themselves with their closest friends and family and I was certain they had fun on their mind.

As everything unfolded for the day I was in awe of how stunning Sarah was and inspired by how Ryan looked at her as she became his wife. Absolutely beautiful.

Another successful wedding day in this memorable season!

Once again, I thank Cheryl for second shooting and making the day run smooth.

Breakthrough Springfest 2013 | Boston Area Event Photographer

Last week I learned two things. First I learned that there is event space available at The Moakley Courthouse in Boston.

Second, I was introduced to another organization in the Boston area that is doing some spectacular work for the youth in the Greater Boston Area.

Here’s a snippet from their website :

“Breakthrough Greater Boston (BTGB) is a year-round, tuition-free academic program that serves middle and high school students in greater Boston.”

Their event brought in lots of supporters and they were treated to a colorful ambiance.

There were fantastic prizes in the raffle as well as some wonderful big ticket, live auction items.

Around every corner I found guests conversing and socializing….. and just having a good ‘ol time.

The students and teachers also had a couple of stations to show people some of the ideas they have been learning about!

They all did such a great job!

Some delicious food was served and it was almost time to start the program.

Last minute discussion among a couple of the speakers…

… and then it was time for the program to begin…

The teachers and students got the crowd involved and energized immediately!

Elissa, Executive Director, had many thanks and praise to announce to the audience.

And the audience’s participation was phenomenal.

The testimonials from current and former students were moving.

And based on Kayla and Kevin’s stories at the podium, it is clear how much Breakthrough is making positive changes in young people’s lives.

As the night wrapped up and people grabbed a sweet and a souvenir… I reflected on how it was a great honor to meet so many wonderful people at Springfest 2013. Breakthrough is an organization truly worth knowing about and worth saluting for all of their accomplishments thus far.

Kuddos to you Breakthrough! You put together an amazing event!

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Is your organization hosting an event? Contact me directly for more information about Event Photography Coverage for your next event. jennaltonphoto@gmail.com

Janez & Mike | Fairy Tale Wedding | Cape Cod Wedding Photographer

As I was looking back and organizing things for the upcoming season, I realized I had a few (more than I thought) weddings and events that I didn’t get to blogging about. So, I’m going to take this time to remedy that!

First one that caught my eye was Janez and Mike’s wedding in Mashpee. Now, I’d never been to Mashpee. The name is one that will forever stick in my memory because when I first moved to Massachusetts and was sitting in traffic to get over the canal, it was signs for Mashpee that intrigued me. It only took 9 years and one month and a scheduled wedding to get me there. What I found in Mashpee was a beautiful area, lush and green in the height of summer. Not only that, but Janez and Mike’s friends and family were a hoot and a holler! After again getting stuck on the bridge before being able to head into Mashpee, I was thrilled to find Janez getting ready for her big celebration.

I took the utmost care of Janez’s dress, as I gave it a tour around her parent’s yard. Just wait ’til you see it on her! I also kept a close eye out so that Mike would not catch me… as he was getting ready in the house next door. Photography is much more than just taking photos… it’s also about being stealthy, among many, many, many other things.

  Nothing says Cape Cod wedding like Bride and Groom Adirondack chairs!

All the details were coming together. There was an entire crew of cooks making sure that this delicious menu was ready for later.

I fell in love with the wood porch and log cabin feel of the home and it provided a nice backdrop for many of the elegant details of the day.

Janez’s beauty still takes my breath away! Absolutely stunning. I couldn’t wait to see Mike’s reaction to her in the dress and he did not disappoint!

Final touches.

Fancy, Fancy ride to the wedding!

As the procession got started, this darling flower girl had everyone laughing. How cute is she?!

Micheal’s smile speaks for itself.

And here is where the Fairy Tale part of the wedding comes in. Janez and Micheal’s loved one brought her own unique twist to the ceremony. Coming prepared with a fair wand and everything.

Upon completing the ceremony I was thrilled (after first being completely startled when they began right behind me) to find these gentlemen drumming. It’s a tradition you don’t get to see everyday.

A very emotional groom accepting congratulations from friends and family. Moments like these are priceless.

Next we headed to a friend’s private property where we were able to capture some portraits of the couple and bridal party!

Janez was a brave bride and headed straight out on the dock despite the rain that was starting to form. Luckily it held out long enough to accomplish just what we wanted to.

An absolute favorite from the day! (and year)

Still all smiles. First dance, toasts, cake cutting and bouquet toss, they did it all! Oh, and the food was delicious… there was a lobster mac and cheese that I’ll never be able to forget! ha.

Congratulations again to Janez and Micheal! I can say without a doubt some of my favorite memories from my 2012 season were from your wedding.

If you or someone you know is getting married, please inquire directly for rates and dates. jennaltonphoto@gmail.com

Katie & Mike | Love Will Keep You Warm | New England Area Wedding Photographer

I’ve been waiting for Katie and Mike to return from their honeymoon to post about their wedding. Welcome back you two! I hope you had a blast!

I have to also say right away, that I have never felt as included as I was during the planning process. I was kept informed the whole way through and really I just felt like I was part of the family. Not only that though, when I arrived the day of the wedding… a small cheer went through the house and I got a small tear to my eye! Thank you Katie, Mike, Mary-Jo, Matt, Sarah and ALL the rest! You are truly amazing!

I squealed a little when I saw Katie’s shoes. I mean how darn cute are those little details.

And I got extremely excited when I saw how the rings looked against the veil.

Katie had all the support of her family and friends. Whether there were nerves at work, it didn’t show one bit.

I love the little glance Katie gives into the church before Matt walks her in. So so so sweet.

I can’t get over how happy both Katie and Mike were. They definitely made my job easier with smiles this genuine!

Things only got better after the ceremony. Despite the cold, Katie and Mike braved the temps and we had an awesome time in Gloucester and Stage Fort Park!

But seriously, you have no idea how cold it was! Either their formal wear was warmer than they appear or these two must have been generating some magical wedding day heat! Ha!

I fell in love with this stone building right away. Katie looked stunning against the rough textures.

Ummmm…. GQ much Mike? Ha! Looking good!

Always laughing, always smiling, always in tune with one another…

Immediately after this shot we all took cover and got warmed up for the rest of the party!

I never know what is going to happen when the Bridal Party enters the reception and this time was no exception. I wasn’t surprised that everyone brought their own personal twist to the entrance. And because Katie and Mike are sports fans the “football play” by the groomsmen and bridesmaid should have been on my radar and yet… it was the spiked flowers that shocked me to no end. Mostly because I had no idea a bouquet could explode in such a fashion. Oh boy… I’m sorry for any florists that see this. All those beautiful flowers.

Even if some of the crowd was still in shock the room exploded when the Newlyweds were announced, kind of like when the Celtics hit the floor at the Garden! Ha!

This was a first for me… Personalized Cornhole boards used as the guest book. So so cute!

With multiple food stations, everyone was able to find something they wanted and man was everything delicious. I could have eaten every option at that pasta station. Mmmm Mmmmm Mmmmm… but I digress.

Above is one of the Junior Bridesmaid’s showing off her artwork that she did especially for the Bride and Groom! How adorable!

Parent dances are always a treat!

After all the formal rituals, the dancing commenced…. For Reals…

The DJ even got all the ladies in attendance on the dance floor for a few songs!

And as the night came to an end this was my final shot! How freakin’ cute are these two!!!!? Ha.

Congratulations again Katie and Mike! As I’ve already told you, not only are you some of the finest clients I’ve had, I also consider you my friends! May you always find warmth in each other as you did on this special day!

Thank you also to my spectacular Second Shooter, Jess Hallett! Jess, you are ever so special to me!

If you are planning your wedding, now is the perfect time to contact me to find about more about Jenn Alton Photography. Email me directly at jennaltonphoto@gmail.com

Emily & Matt | Fruitlands Museum – Harvard, MA | New England Wedding Photographer

I fell in love. The first phone call with Emily made me giddy. And frankly, when I met her and Matt it was all over with. I was head over heals. There are those days, those weeks, those moments when you feel so fortunate to be a part of something big and Emily and Matt’s wedding was one of those for me.

We started at Emily’s Parent’s home, where all the ladies were getting ready. I quickly saw that my instincts were correct… Emily and Matt had paid attention to every detail. I love the little wooden tag with their initials for the wedding bands.

I loved their bathroom and had a bit of a field day in there…

This a new favorite ring shot. I love the reflection and the colors of the bands and the clean light that was falling on their rings. I also love the fact that Emily’s Grandfather gave them his band right after they got engaged. Little things like that just make me so happy.

What else makes me happy is that Ginger, Emily and Matt’s dog, was available for the getting ready portion of the day.

Now here is where things get tricky… Emily’s brother’s name is Matt too. But I’m sure you can keep the two straight… Brother Vs. Groom. Before Matt headed out to meet up with the Groom and his other Groomsmen, Emily wanted to see him. I love Matt’s expression here and I also love that their Mom is in the reflection in the glass door. So sweet.

I caught up with Matt and his Groomsmen at a local hotel… and they had these great barns/sheds in the back, so we used those for a few group shots… these guys were so much fun…

Before you knew it… it was time to head over to the ceremony/reception site at Fruitlands Museum.

I’ve been dying to photograph a wedding here and it did not disappoint.

Okay, remember that we left Emily back at the house getting her makeup finished… well, now she was all ready to slip into her dress… And she was a show stopper…

I have heard that she is getting all sorts of compliments about how she looked… and there is no doubt in my mind that she deserves every one of those kind words.

Va-Va-Voom!

Admiring her bouquet!

Emily and her Mom before the ceremony. Such genuine support and love.

Emily received this bracelet from Matt moment’s before this shot… Isn’t it beautiful?!

The Bride’s Bouquet was stunning.

And then it was time. Emily and her father made a statement as they entered.

And after all the blessings and loving words from family and friends they sealed their promises to one another with a kiss.

I’d say they were happy!!! Let the fun begin.

Emily and Matt had a signature drink for the day and we had a bit of fun with that…

And check out Emily’s manicure. So cute.

Oh Yes! These two were so adorable!

As the light was dipping we ran around and grabbed some of my favorite portraits of all time.

Ummmmm, yes!

All the textures, buildings and structures were a perfect backdrop.

And well, the adorableness that was, Emily and Matt’s Wedding continued straight through the night…

Are you in love with them yet? I mean, seriously!!!

There was so much dancing and fun, I don’t even know where to begin… but I do have to share the bouquet toss and the last dance.

Emily and Matt had planned their getaway with a sparkler exit. And sparkle they did!

Weeeeeee.

Congratulations Emily and Matt! I see a sweet, loving future for you both. Thank you for having me as part of your special day! Cheers!

Venue: Fruitlands Museum

DJ: Ryan Foley,  DRT Mobile Entertainment

Flowers: Hallie’s Garden

Catering: Fireside Catering

Hair: Blonde Salon & Spa

Emily & Jason | Marblehead Marriage | New England Wedding Photographer

The ring that started it all….

Emily and Jason’s wedding brought together friends and family for a day of fun.
They had a lot of help in the planning process and it’s safe to say that it turned out to be a classic affair and everyone was all smiles.

No detail was overlooked. From hand-painted portions of their invitations to the jewelry and personalized hanger, everything was just as it should be.

I fell in love with the lacy detail on Emily’s dress. And I wanted to make sure you could all see the intricate patterns.

And while all the girls were getting ready, Emily’s dad was at ease preparing for the rest of the day.

He looks so relaxed, while the big question upstairs was about the “Something new, old, borrowed and blue?” Let’s just say that the laughter was hard to ignore.

Emily had a beaming smile and kept things light with her laughs and sense of humor.

Gorgeous!

The lovely ladies were all ready as the limo arrived.

And as I reached the church I was happy to find my second shooter had the guys all set as well. And let me just thank my second, Jess, for all her hard work that day. Everything goes so much smoother having her around. Thank you!

Jason and his groomsmen indulged me for a couple minutes.

And then Jason waited for the arrival of his bride….

… and arrive she did. Proud dad and daughter moment!

Emily and Jason were totally in tune as they sang along with all those present to “Marblehead Forever”.

NAILED IT! I love these two!!!

And after a great ceremony, these newlyweds got to ring the church bells. How fun is that?!!!!

Emily and Jason’s friends and family provided well wishes during the receiving line.

All the while I cornered the couple’s limo driver and he was brave enough to let me get this shot with the Limo reflected in his sunglasses.

And then we were off to Crocker Park for formals. It was a race against time as a storm was heading our way and we made it just in time… and utilized the clouds to our advantage in the photos!

We finished our formal photos at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA. Last time I was here I was lucky enough to utilize this staircase as well. But now there is this amazing blue mural by Michael Lin.

I could have stayed there for hours photographing these two! It’s totally worth a visit!

But as with any event, it was time to continue the planned festivities.

The fall theme was intricately woven throughout the room.

This guest was so fun… she high-fived everyone. Here Jason’s parents were welcomed to the reception in style.

After the standing ovation that Emily and Jason received, they smoothly transitioned to their first dance.

I love this little glance that Emily gives to Jason during the dance. I think they’re having a good time!

I love the subtle moments that you get to see between two people in love…

…. other expressions are less subtle. Ha ha ha…

So synchronized…. did you two practice?

Among the beautiful things the bride was wearing that day, was her Grandmother’s ring… I got an opportunity to really appreciate it’s fine detail during the reception. Man, I love rings.

And soon after that, the dancing really got going. The Junior Bridesmaids were the first to show their moves on the dance floor!

But it did not take long to get everyone moving.

Limbo? What do you think…

Two Thumbs Up.

And those not on the dance floor were socializing… until the next event… which Emily excelled in…

Bouquet Toss.

I wasn’t sure what this look was for… it did look a bit mischievous to me… but even so, I wasn’t ready for…

… the EXTREME height that Emily was about to throw that Bouquet. Damn Girl!  ha ha ha… But eventually it came down and was claimed.

Jason had a quick pep session before the garter removal. The concerned look was fleeting because after he completed his task the antics continued…

Maybe I go to too many weddings, because I’m always shocked when the recipients of the bouquet and garter don’t know what they are in for next. But clearly, Emily is enjoying what’s about to happen….

Scandalous!… ha ha ha…

As my time came to an end, the party continued and I heard later that the parents, guests, bridal party and Emily and Jason had an amazing evening celebrating!

Congratulations again Emily and Jason!

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Videographer: Softshell Productions

Live Band: Mark Greel Musical Services

Venue: Peabody Essex Museum

Catering: Hawthorne Hotel Catering

Church: Old North Church, Marblehead

Kimberly + Adam | Merrimack Valley Golf Club | New England Area Wedding Photography

Kimberly and Adam got married and I was there!

This incredibly fun and loving couple got all their friends and family together for their special day! There were twinkles in their eyes and a loving embrace around every corner.

With a purple theme every little detail was united together. And Merrimack Valley Golf Club was a perfect backdrop for the day’s festivities.

Beautiful blue skies were on hand. And check out those heals! Dang!

As the final touches were made, Kimberly was also onto her final stages and Adam was awaiting his moment of a first glimpse of his bride to be.

I think it’s safe to say that everyone in that room was glowing due to Kimberly’s smile!

And then it was time…

Lovin’ all those smiles!

And I got to capture so many more that day.

Such a gentleman!!!

Clearly there was fun to be had during the cake cutting. And then this happened…

No need to mess that pretty dress….

As the sun set the party revved up!

The photobooth brought out lots of characters…

Wowzer!

The kids had their fun… and so did the adults.

The DJs version of musical chairs had the crowd in an uproar!

But mostly, everyone was there to celebrate the love of this beautiful couple that I’ve come to think of as friends!

Congrats Kimberly and Adam! May you have the pleasure of being swept off your feet for all the years to come!

Venue: Merrimack Valley Golf Club, Makeup Artist: Rouge Couture Makeup, DJ: DJ Star Entertainment, Photobooth: Mojo Photobooth

Sara & Spencer | A Rockin’ Wedding | Atlantica in Cohasset, MA

Let me just say this, Sara and Spencer’s Wedding was AWESOME. And I’m thrilled to be Finally  posting my favorites from the day on the blog.

Now, I didn’t realize it until I was skyping with Sara and Spencer that I had met them before. Where you ask? Well, at Sara’s sister Maureen’s Wedding on NYE, of course! Yep, I was Maureen’s photographer and low and behold, it was now Sara and Spencer’s big day and I was to be a part of their event also. I couldn’t be happier at the prospects and the day was just as wonderful as I had imagined.

Sara’s choice of a pink theme suit her to a T.

There were also hints of green, which I loved.

All of Sara’s family and friends were close at hand to support this beautiful person marry her true love.

These are moments that I cherish on the wedding day. Father-daughter time. Precious.

A smile a mile wide.

Sara’s friends and family erupted in song on the trolley! “Going to the Chapel and We’re Gonna Get Maaaa~aarrried”

Spencer’s groomsmen were poised to make sure that the groom did not sneak a peek at his wife-to-be.

Once they were together in the church there were few dry eyes to be found.

That would be Sara’s Father giving a high five! Perfect!

Bubbles Bubbles everywhere!

These ladies made sure there were plenty of laughs to go around.

But the guys would not be outdone!

Put them both together and there was no stopping them!

Sara showing off her beautiful veil.  And Spencer sporting his top hat.

The party continued at the Atlantica on Cohasset Harbor.

The cake was perfect!

If you do not remember, Sara and her family are known to entertain. And that they did.

Sara’s dad had her literally off her feet for the Father-Daughter dance.

The speeches were a hoot and a half, too!

Cheers Sara and Spencer.

As the signature drinks were poured and the music began to flow, the party was in full swing.

And then this happened!

Sara had taken the stage and played a couple numbers. She rocked it in her dress and with her pink guitar!

So much freakin’ fun!

Congratulations Sara and Spencer! I know there is no stopping the love that you share and the support from your family and friends on the journeys you’ll have.

Best wishes!