When we first spoke to Mia on the phone a year before her October Charles River Museum wedding, we knew that she was the perfect client for Without A Hitch. She knew what she wanted and needed a bit of help making it all happen, especially on the weekend of her wedding.

We loved working with Mia (pronounced Maya) and her now-husband Alex throughout the planning process, and hope the day turned out just as they dreamed. Photos below are from the awesome Leah LaRiccia who, as always, captured the day perfectly and was a pleasure to work with!

The day of Alex and Mia's wedding dawned rainy and cold, but it only added to the warm and cozy feel that the couple exuded to their guests.  Both got ready at the Sheraton Copley Hotel, with hair and makeup experts on hand for the girls.  Gina Joubert worked her magic on the bride's hair and Cynthia Klocek applied Mia's makeup. With the beautifying taken care of, everyone headed over to the venue to take photos together.  Leah and her assistant staged a "first look" moment, and snapped away while Alex and Mia saw each other.

While the bride, groom, and their friends and family took photos, we made sure that all of the setup details were going according to plan.  The last minute change to move the ceremony inside involved a bit of coordination, but with the help of the fabulous catering team at Cuisine Chez Vous, there was no problem to be found.

While guests arrived for the ceremony, a group of witnesses close to the couple joined them for a Ketubah signing ceremony, led by officiant Rabbi Liza Stern. Once the Jewish marriage document was signed, we put it on display at the ceremony just in time for us to start.

Both the bride and the groom chose to walk down the aisle escorted by both of their parents. After a processional with live music from friend Al Hoberman, the bride and groom stood close together under a chuppah borrowed from Stow Greenhouses. Stow is one of our favorite florists, and they certainly didn't disappoint for Alex and Mia. The ceremony featured a beautiful moment where the bride and groom turned to face their loved ones, wrapped in a family tallis (prayer shawl). With a yell of "mazel tov!" from the guests, Alex broke the glass and the two shared a kiss.  

Guests explored the museum during cocktail hour and enjoyed the couple's signature drinks, "Bee's Knees" and a "Dark & Stormy." Just as cocktail hour was ending, Leah gathered all of the guests together and took a group photo from the balcony. That's sure to be a picture that the couple will treasure!

Upon entering the Jackson room for the reception, guests were treated to the many details that Mia and Alex had thought about.  Bistro lights were strung from the ceiling by Seacoast Events. There were the table numbers, with photos of the bride and groom at the age of the table number, cute menu cards, and gorgeous floral arrangements with small votive candles.  There were a dozen heirloom photos of family weddings and adorable placecards to help guests find their seats.  Guests also could sign the guestbook, which matched Mia and Alex's invites and placecards. So cute!

The Nate Bash Band, whose members are from the Berklee community, set the tone for the party with their dance music vibes and introduction of Alex and Mia. The two shared a first dance and a terrific hora dance, with both the bride and groom being lifted in their chairs.

The welcome toasts were given by the bride's parents and the groom's parents before dinner was served.  Mia and Alex visited their guests at their tables and then had a chance to hear from a few more toasts, including the bride's sister, the groom's brother, and friends Talia, Alex, and Leila.

After the toasts, Alex and Mia took a moment to cut the cake and also express their thanks to their friends and family for the beautiful day.  The floor reopened for several hours of dancing and entertainment.  At the end of the evening, many guests hopped on the bus to the afterparty in downtown Boston.

Check out a sneak peak of the couple's wedding video from Bangarang films!

Alex and Mia, we wish you all the best on this exciting adventure that you are starting together!

Each year Pantone releases their spring color report, and these color trends play a leading role in the fashion world. Their predictions always have a huge influence on wedding trends and decor as well. Pantone's 2017 report included a mix of light pastels, bright colors, and cool and serene hues, most of which are reminiscent of colors found in nature. Two colors that stood out the most in this year's line up were different shades of blue and green. We are sure to see these colors incorporated into many wedding themes in the year to come.

We have to start with "Greenery" because Pantone chose it as their color of the year! This vibrant hue awakes our senses and makes us feel one with nature. As described by Pantone, "Greenery is a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore, and renew." From natural and vibrant centerpieces to bouquets full of cascading greens, this refreshing citrus will be a must-have for both spring and summer weddings!

Kale is a dark, earthy shade of green. Both the name and color give us a sense of a healthy lifestyle. "Just as we see in nature, this lush and fertile natural green shade provides the perfect complementary background to the more vibrant tones in the palette." Just as Pantone mentions, this shade of green can be the perfect accent color for any wedding theme, but don't be mistaken, this color is bold enough to stand out on its own.

Lapis Blue is a bright and energizing hue. Pantone describes Lapis as "strong and confident". On the wedding spectrum, we think Lapis Blue is such an intense color that it will make its appearance in a bold way this wedding season. Bridesmaids dresses, statement heels, table linens, tuxedos...we can't wait to see this striking shade of blue make its debut! 

Pantone has chosen Niagara from their 2017 report as the most prevalent color for spring weddings. It is a denim-like, dusty blue, reminiscent of rippling ocean waves. Its cool tone emits a serene and calming effect. Pantone claims it "speaks to our desire for ease and relaxation." Niagara is elegant yet whimsical. From spring to fall, this versatile shade is ideal for any season.

​Raina and Chris celebrated their nuptials surrounded by friends, family and a staggering array of creative details at the historic Whittemore Robbins House and remarkable Arlington Public Library.
 
The beautiful images below are courtesy of Katy Doyle Photography.

After a morning of pampering by Sara Soriano and Jaime Berkman, the bride and her bridesmaids retired to the bridal suite at the Whittemore Robbins House to don their wedding attire.  Raina was breathtaking in her sculptural knee-length dress – a unique treasure she and her mother found in Paris!  As a special treat, each bridesmaid was presented with a hand-crafted floral pendant necklace (which Raina makes and sells) and paper flower bouquet!  With the morning’s preparations complete, Raina and Chris snuck away for a private first look followed by a fantastic bridal party photo shoot – a little rain could not put a damper on the buoyant spirit of the day!

​After processing down a grand staircase, Raina and Chris exchanged vows in the front parlor of the Whittemore Robbins House.  The ceremony, led by Justice of the Peace Beverly Cook, was a light-hearted affair full of love, laughter and song, thanks to the personal details woven into the introduction and vows as well as an incredible performance by a local acapella group. 
 
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy an extended cocktail hour with delicious treats from local favorite, Mr. Sushi and refreshing served provided by CaterStaff from Atlas Liquors.  In lieu of a guestbook, friends and family were asked to leave notes for the happy couple on puzzle pieces!

​Raina and Chris’ guests were treated to an incredible feast for the eyes during the reception in the stunning Arlington Public Library.  The building’s incredible architectural details coupled with the collaborative creative efforts of the bride and groom and their families left guests in awe – from laser cut portraits of the bride and groom to original works of art in a variety of media to unparalleled book-themed centerpieces, the effect was simply spectacular!

Raina and Chris opened the reception with a beautiful first dance beneath a grand archway in the library’s entrance.  Guests then enjoyed a delicious dinner from Acitron while listening to thoughtful and moving toasts from the father of the bride and father of the groom.  Thanks to the efforts of Emcees/Groomsmen Tony and Piers as well as New England Audio Rental, Raina and Chris’ guests socialized, danced and even conga-lined the night away!  FoMu provided a sweet treat to end the celebration – a variety of delectable cupcakes in unique flavors like chocolate chai and spiced pecan!   

​Raina and Chris’s big day was truly a reflection of their love, imagination and ingenuity.  We are honored to have been a part of their celebration and hope that their boundless creativity and commitment to each other continues to bring them joy, love and laughter!

A traditional wedding registry most often includes a list of household items that couples have picked out for their home. Today's reality is that many couples may already own the majority of these registry items, or they would prefer cash to go toward a new home or honeymoon. We have chosen a few of our favorite unique gift registries to highlight. Click on each photo to explore these awesome sites further!

​Feather The Nest is an online registry that raises money towards a down payment, home improvements, and even furniture. Planning to remodel your kitchen or build a nursery? This is the registry for you. Friends and family can donate to your real estate dreams in the click of a button!

A lot of time and money goes into planning a wedding, so why should couples have to worry about saving up for a honeymoon as well? With Honeyfund couples can create a registry for their honeymoon. Share your vacation destination and dreams with friends and family and allow them to donate to your fund as a wedding gift. 
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​Choose from over 250 gift cards to register for on Card Avenue. Your guests can buy gift cards of you're choosing as wedding presents. From tools at Home Depot to linens at Macy's, as newlyweds start the next chapter in their lives, they can shop their favorite stores. The best part, these cards don't expire!

Thankful gift registry allows you to combine all your wedding wishes into one page for your guests to scroll through. Pages can include traditional gifts, gift cards, honeymoon contributions, experience gifts and even charity donations. Always wanted to take a cooking class with your loved one? Is there a charity that you wish friends and family could donate to in lieu of a gift? All of the above can be listed right on your Thankful registry. The best part is you may keep it as long as you like. After the wedding, turn your page into a holiday wishlist or baby shower registry.

Jamie and Anna celebrated their marriage at Warehouse XI, a unique gem tucked away in bustling Union Square, surrounded by friends, family and loved ones.  A wealth of hand-crafted details and overwhelming joy set the stage for a memorable celebration of love!
 
The breathtaking images below are courtesy of Wild Souls Studio.

​Anna prepared for her big day in the comfort of her home with the help of stylist and makeup artist Colleen Paiva.  After donning her stunning floor-length lace gown, Anna was joined by her groom and, together with their families, they walked to nearby Stone Place Park.

The ceremony, officiated by Anna’s father Paul, took place beneath a simple copper archway accented with lace and bedecked with a lush garland of seeded eucalyptus, gypsophila and dahlias.  The exuberance and beaming smiles of junior bridesmaid Ashley and flower girl Macie set the tone for the heartfelt and joyful ceremony to follow.  After processing down the aisle together, Jamie and Anna exchanged thoughtful vows in the dazzling September evening light. 
 
Following the ceremony, the bride and groom snuck away for a quick photo shoot in a neighboring park before joining the cocktail hour festivities.  Guests enjoyed treats from the Mei Mei food truck and beverages from Premier Bar Service, including a refreshing prosecco punch and a classic gin & tonic.  Perhaps one of the biggest hits of cocktail hour was the guestbook – with the help of an Instamatic camera, guests were invited to “shake it like a polaroid picture” and pin a note for the bride and groom to their photo!  

The carefully-curated details woven throughout the reception were a testament to the creativity of the bride and groom - from hand-sewn napkins and paper garlands to calligraphed place cards and eclectic gold accents, Jamie and Anna’s thoughtfulness was infused into every element of their celebration.  The beautiful ruscus table garlands and small cluster arrangements scattered along the guest tables and throughout the room, courtesy of Whole Foods, were the perfect complement to the rich and layered décor. 

​Jamie and Anna’s big day was a stunning affair replete with a staggering array of thoughtful details and a great deal of love and laughter.  We are honored to have been a part of their celebration and hope that the creativity, joy and love that surrounded them on the day of their wedding continues to be a strong presence in their lives!  

We have taken a look at 2017 bridal fashion collections to predict what will be trending in the year to come. Princess cuts and sweetheart tops always make an appearance on the bridal runway, but it's how these talented designers can transform a classic dress into something new and unique that we love. In spring 2017 collections we saw many shapes and patterns, but these three trends took over the runway. Here is a glimpse of what you are sure to see more of this wedding season.

High neck lines are classy with a bit of edge. They also make for an elongated silhouette, so for smaller brides, this might be the look for you. No need for necklaces and bold earrings with this style, the neckline is an accessory in itself!

In almost every collection from this year's runway we saw plunging necklines. From fabric covered, illusion plunges to extremely low cut lines, cleavage is in this year. Don't be afraid to show a little skin ladies.

Neck and shoulders are two beautiful parts of a woman's body, so why not show it off on you're wedding day with an off the shoulder wedding gown? This look was all over the spring 2017 runway. Sexy, yet elegant we hope this look is here to stay!

We loved Mari and Ransom's wedding because it was so them.  They tied the knot in a family backyard, with ceremony music from a cousin and officiated by the bride's brother.  The wedding reflected the two of them perfectly, and their guests loved every little detail.

One of the most memorable parts was the weather; rain was forecast for the afternoon but it appeared to be holding off.  We were under the tent working on set up when suddenly the skies opened up.  The pounding of the torrential rain on the tent was so loud, you couldn't hear a thing.  Moments later, it suddenly stopped and the rain shone down for the rest of the day on the beautiful wedding.

Check out the details of Mari & Ransom's big day below, captured by the talented Erika Hemphill.

The wedding started for many guests on Friday afternoon. After we led a rehearsal with the whole bridal party and immediate family, they all headed out for a rehearsal dinner celebration.

On the morning of the wedding, both the bride and groom spent some time resting and relaxing with their friends and family while they got ready.  The boys played some golf while the girls got beautified at UA Fine Hair Studio.

Setup started early in the big backyard tent, including bathroom trailers from Stone Industries, homemade pies delivered by Grandma Miller's, and flowers from the backyard of the bride's mom. Centerpieces were made of fairy lights and long eucalyptus strands with bud vases and flowers.  It made for a magical looking tent! The favors for guests were custom Harding Lane hats - a friend of the couple started the company.  The ceremony chairs and arbor were set up facing the beautiful mountain backdrop near the tent. 

As soon as the rain let up, the couple hit the outdoors to capture some great portraits with each other and with their bridal party.

The ceremony was set in the backyard near the tent, on a vista overlooking the mountains. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her father. The groom's cousin played live music and the bride's brother officiated.  Because it was so inclusive of family and friends, it was a beautifully personal ceremony that involved lots of laughing and crying tears of joy from all in attendance. 

In a lovely surprise detail, the groom's parents had made small pins that said "WHOOPIE" and we handed them out to start the ceremony.   Mari and Ransom were surprised and especially touched since the pins were based on ones that Ransom's parents' guests had worn during their wedding many years ago.

After "I DO" this group was definitely ready to party! During cocktail hour in the backyard, we put the finishing touches on the tent and the guests heard remarks from the bride and groom's parents.

Once we were satisified that every detail in the tent was set, we invited the couple's guests to find their seats.  The dance band The Classic Yellow introduced the couple as the new Mr. and Mrs. and they went right into their first dance.  There were hundreds of guests there, but when Mari and Ransom hit the dance floor, it was only the two of them, dancing to "Clear Some Space" by Lake Street Drive.  Mari's dad and Ransom's mom were invited to join for the parents dance next and then the entire bridal party and all of the guests were called up to the open dance floor.

The catering team set up the buffet and, once everyone had eaten, we heard toasts from the Best Man, Maid of Honor, and both dads.  The dance floor re-opened while we set up the pie buffet (yum!).  In the midst of dessert, a very special reading occured.  In honor of the bride's great-grandmother, who recently turned 101 years old, a family member read aloud a personal letter to her from President Obama and everyone toasted to her birthday.

The guests danced late into the night. Even after dancing, the party continued with a big bonfire onsite, sparklers for all, and hot dogs and s'mores - the perfect late night food!

Congratulations Mari and Ransom! Thank you for letting us be a part of this wild ride!

We love a good love story, and Anne and Zach don't disappoint.  Their wedding at Misselwood at Endicott in Beverly, MA was beautiful, personal, and incredibly detailed. Because Anne and Zach live out of town, a lot of credit for the detailed plans goes to Anne's mom, Jean, who worked with the couple and the groom's parents to make sure every little idea was in place.  And it turned out perfectly, like something out of a magazine!

We are thrilled to share photos from the day by Shannon Cronin Photography. If you haven't already, you've got to check her out!

The groom and his groomsmen and the bride and her bridesmaids all got ready at the nearby Wylie Inn, just down the street from the venue.  Hair and makeup were impeccibly done by I Do On-Site Hair and Face and the girls had a ball together during the morning.

Anne and Zach decided they did not want to see each other before the wedding, so they took photos with their respective bridal parties, but held off on doing a first look.  The result was some awesome portraits of getting ready and all of the little details. 

The bridal party took seperate trollies from Salem Trolley over to Misselwood, which then circled back to the Inn to pick up guests.  Anne had a lot of help from her squad putting her beautiful dress on, and then had an emotional and private moment with her parents when her dad saw her for the first time.

Just before walking down the aisle, the bridal party had a chance to glimpse the ceremony setup.  The chairs were facing the Atlantic Ocean and a stunning arbor put up by florist Roses & Thistle.  A harpist from The Gilded Harps played as the pairs walked down the aisle, until finally it was the bride's turn, escorted by her father. There was not a dry eye in the house, and the groom sported a huge grin on his face! The ceremony featured personal vows from each of them and, before we knew it, they sealed the deal with a kiss.

After the ceremony, guests were wowed as they entered the reception tent for cocktail hour.  The tent was lit up by Design Light and the centerpieces were placed to perfection by the florist, with the table numbers, menu card and hashtag signage, and candy favors coordinated by the bride's mom. Food was abundant from Fireside Catering.  Guests grabbed their placecards and had the opportunity to sign the "guestbook" which was a custom piece of art for Anne and Zach to hang in their home.  DJ Derek from Entertainment Specialists set the mood with his tunes and guests filtered outside to the cocktail tables and the beautiful views.  They had a chance to play cornhole on a customized game set or take photos with silly props in the booth from Top Hat.

While guests took in the sights, the bridal party and family took a few photos and then Anne and Zach had their turn at portraits.  Taken close to sunset, these are some of the most beautiful portaits we've ever seen! They ventured out onto the rocks for a backdrop like none other.

The reception was ready to start and the bride, groom, and guests were ready to party! DJ Derek introduced the newly minted couple, who shared a first dance, followed by a few dances with everyone on the dance floor. The first set of toasts came from the bride's dad, the maid of honor, and the best man, who all shared personal stories about the couple.  Dinner was served and we were treated to another toast from the parents of the groom and we heard a few words from Anne and Zach, to express their gratitude to family and friends.

Out came the giant whoopie pie cake, made by Topsfield Bake Shop. After they cut the "cake," Anne shared an emotional dance with her father, followed by Zach and his mom.  Then the dance floor opened up and it was filled for the entire rest of the night. Guests took breaks to hop in the photo booth, grab a drink, or have dessert, but this was definitely a party crowd.

Anne and Zach hopped into a trolley with their guests and headed out for a late-night afterparty to start their married life together.  We wish them all the best and many years ahead of celebrating!

​Amanda and Jimmy have a fairy-tale love story over a decade in the making. Married on a dramatic August day, at Elm Bank Reservation, one of our favorite floral-focused venues, this wedding had it all – Pinterest-worthy decorations, a high energy band, delicious food, and, most importantly, heartfelt love that radiated from the couple and their loved ones. We are excited to present details from their big day, captured by the amazingly talented Dan Aguirre Photography.

Rachel and Josh got married over the 2016 4th of July  holiday weekend in a splash of color.  We have coordinated many weddings at Elm Bank Horticultural Center, but it's fair to say that Rachel and Josh truly designed something special.  You'll see what we mean in the photos below, courtesy of the FABULOUS Alex + Betty.  Seriously, if you are planning a wedding anywhere in the world and haven't yet hired a photographer, contact them!

Josh started his wedding day off by getting ready at their home in Natick while Rachel was with her bridesmaids at the Verve Hotel. The girls started early getting their hair and makeup done by experts The Makeup Artists and they looked great! The men and women met up at a red bridge near Rachel and Josh's home for photographs.  It's a private bridge, but Rachel convinced the owner to allow them to take pictures on it during their wedding day and it worked out for the best!

The bridal party hopped in a Local Motion bus to Elm Bank where they took some more group shots around the beautiful property.

In the meantime, we were working with a fabulous team to set up for guests' arrival.  Florist Mimosa Style put together and delivered the most beautiful ombre centerpieces, boutonnieres, and bouquets. Caterer Max Ultimate was busy getting the cocktail hour garden ready and setting up welcome drinks for the ceremony.  And the whole space was beautifully lit by Event Illuminations, who provided a custom chandelier and a pop of color with the uplights. Before the ceremony began, Rachel and Josh had a private Ketubah signing, led by Rabbi Alan Flam.

The ceremony was set up in the Italianne Garden at Elm Bank, facing a beautiful tree. The aisle extended half the length of the garden, making for a dramatic entrance for the bridal party as they walked down the long carpet towards the alter. The bride's parents hand-made the chuppah that the couple stood under for their nuptials.  Audie Bridges led the musicians in the processional and recessional music.

After the smashing of the glass and a big smooch, guests headed to Wheezie's garden for cocktail hour while the newlyweds took portraits around the Elm Bank property.

Guests moved into the carriage house for the reception.  As they grabbed their escort cards, guests could select a charity that the couple would donate to in lieu of a favor. We love it when our couples choose to give back!

After all of the time and energy put into planning and getting ready for this day, Rachel and Josh were definitely ready to let loose and dance.  DJ Greg from Beat Train Productions introduced the bridal party and the Mr. and Mrs. They hit the dance floor right away for their first dance, followed by the very sweet parent dances, and all of the guests were invited to the dance floor for a traditional hora.

The caterer served a delicious meal and then we had the chance to hear some personal stories from the toasts, which included the bride's parents, the groom's dad, the bride's siblings, and the groom's brother.  Rachel and Josh stood up at the end to thank everyone and then the dance floor re-opened in earnest. 

At the end of the night, guests left full and happy, having shared in the joy that Rachel and Josh have together as a newly married couple. Congratulations you two - you are beautiful together and your celebration reflected that!

Hosting a bash or considering a New Year's Eve wedding? There are so many reasons why this is one of our favorite holidays. From popping champange to tossing confetti, here are four big reasons why we love a NYE celebration!

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One of our favorite things about a New Year's Eve bash....glitter! This is one night you can pull that sparkly dress out of your closet that you have been waiting to wear all year. But the glam doesn't need to end there. This is a special day when you can decorate with all the glitz you want. From glitter tableclothes to confetti filled balloons, bring on the glitz and glam!

The kid in us all of us can't wait to dress up in silly hats for the holiday. Hats and horns are a must have at any NYE celebration. Photobooths are trending at weddings these days. If you are planning a new year's wedding, consider a photobooth at the reception. With boas,  hats, confetti poppers, and other fun props, your guests will be able to capture some awesome pics and remeber all the fun they had ringing in the new year.  
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​A new year, a new you. The start of a new year brings the chance for a fresh start. It's a tradition in which many people make promises to do an act of self improvement throughout the upcoming year, whether it be to start doing something good or stop doing something bad. What will your New Year's Resolution be?
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2016 was a year of huge growth for Without A Hitch and we are incredibly proud of the work that we did with our many clients this year.  As we approach the new year, we want to share with you some of our favorites moments from 2016.

This year we coordinated multiple weddings, as well as several Bat Mitzvahs and fundraisers. We traversed New England, with events on the South Shore and North Shore, down the Cape Cod, up in Maine and New Hampshire, and out in Western MA! We could not have accomplished this year without all of the lovely clients who asked us to be a part of their big days. A big thank you and congratulations to all the happy couples and families!

​Drew and Zachary tied the knot on a picture-perfect June day surrounded by loved ones. Although the couple currently resides in Texas, they chose to marry in the historic New England town Marblehead, since the church and Boston area have personal significance to them. The couple captured the essence of New England in every detail – from a meaningful ceremony at a historic church, to coastal place-cards and photos with a lighthouse backdrop, not a detail was sparred.  We are thrilled to share photos from their big day by Julie Lippert Photography, who perfectly encapsulated Zachary and Drew’s summertime nuptials.

Drew and Zachary began their wedding celebrations at the Old North Church in Marblehead, where they welcomed guests who had traveled from across the country and globe to see the couple tie the knot. The sun shone down on the couple as they entered the church and walked down the aisle hand-in-hand. After exchanging heartfelt vows, Zachary and Drew sealed the deal with a kiss, and the marriage became official with a few tugs on the church's historic bell.

Guests headed over to Turner's Seafood in Salem to enjoy a nautical themed cocktail hour while Drew and Zachary explored the North Shore. We absolutely adore the shot of them by the lighthouse.

As the night set in, guests were welcomed into the reception space by the Acker Brothers jazz trio. The tables were donned with brightly colored floral arrangements by Dana Markos Events, and bright marine-themed place cards to match them. Guests enjoyed a seafood dinner and vibrant conversation throughout the night. 

As the evening wound down, Guests tasted treats from Turner's while listening to heartfelt toasts from the couple's loved ones. Zachary and Drew cut a tres-leches cake from Lolly's Bakery and said farewell to their guests. It was a heartfelt evening for guests and the couple alike!

Thank you for including us in your wedding celebration, Zachary and Drew! We wish you nothing but wedded bliss!

​Pooja and Josh picked a bright, sunny day in June to get married. Surrounded by family and friends who traveled from all over, they exchanged vows at St Clement’s church in Medford, MA.  The bride’s hair and makeup were gorgeously styled by Heather Cohen of I Do Wedding Hair New England. Pooja walked down the aisle in a bejeweled, full skirted dress while her bridesmaids wore deep red dresses with gold jewelry – a color combination inspired by Pooja’s heritage and seen in touches throughout the day.

Following the ceremony, Pooja, Josh and their bridal party boarded a trolley provided by The Original Party Trolley to head to several iconic Boston sites that held meaning to the couple. The amazing MKD Photography captured these moments as well as ceremony and reception.

​Once the photos were taken, it was time to party! The guests headed to Morss Hall at MIT – a venue close to Pooja’s and Josh’s hearts as MIT is where they first met. Violinist Karen Burciaga played in the background of the cocktail hour as guests enjoyed the picturesque views of the Boston skyline. Masala Art, known for their modern Indian cuisine, provided appetizers such as bhel poori and chili paneer. 

​Yogesh Rana from Boston Light and Sound welcomed everyone into the historic hall for dinner during which the bride’s parents offered a traditional blessing to the couple and three of Josh’s siblings gave speeches that brought tears and laughter to everyone. Following toasts, the DJ kicked up the music and it was time to dance. Everyone joined in for the dandiya, a traditional folk dance that incorporates decorated sticks and lively dancing. 

​From the tea inspired place cards to the decorated dandiya sticks to their own personalized copies of Coffee News, so many personal touches came together to make the day. Without A Hitch is so honored to be a part of Pooja and Josh’s wedding and wish them many years of happiness together. Congratulations to Pooja and Josh! 

Fall may be coming to an end but that doesn't mean wedding season is over. We are here to talk winter weddings! Many couples shy away from planning a wedding in the winter,  but there are so many reasons why it can be a perfect time of year. From snowy backdrops to spiked hot chocolate, let's explore the perks of winter weddings!
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Who doesn't love hot chocolate on a cold winter day? When you throw a winter wedding, you can serve delicious warm drinks at cocktail hour. Spiked hot chocolate with a full bodied red wine, chocolate and ripe fruits? Yes, please! For whiskey lovers, hot toddies will be your new favorite cocktail. Think whiskey and tea blended together with honey and clove. Hot apple cider is another must-have at a winter wedding... a delicious treat that even the kids can enjoy.
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Snow can be your best friend at a winter wedding. A snowy day creates a cozy ambiance for an indoor reception. Imagine a rustic cabin filled with candles, your guests won't want to leave! Snow can also serve as a gorgeous backdrop for wedding photos. Who wouldn't want to be captured with their loved ones in a winter wonderland? Make it snow indoors.: after saying I DO, walk down the aisle as it rains "snowflakes," a Pinterest favorite! 

Winter brides can take advantage of the cold weather and accessorize for their big day. Keep warm with a chic fur coat or an elegant wrap. Don't forget your winter boots. Some of our favorite wedding photos include brides and their bridesmaids rocking adorable winter boots and scarves during their outdoor photos. Don't be afraid to accessorize!
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Planning a winter wedding means more honeymoon options. Jet set away from the cold and plan a tropical vacation. For mountain lovers out there, a ski trip might be the perfect vacation for you. Cozy up in a log cabin for a week with your loved one. The Swiss Alps is a great honeymoon location for couples who love the snow! Hop into a hot tub, snuggle up  next to a fire, or hit the slopes. The possibilities are endless!

Wedding season is winding down and we are approaching 2017! From centerpieces to dresses, a new year brings new trends, but we hope this year's favorites are here to stay. What trends have you seen this year?

We are obsessed with the succulent trend! Why do we love succulents so much? Succulents are essentially a small sustainable cactus. They offer an earthy and natural feel to any occasion. Succulents have become a staple in home and wedding decor. We have seen them used to accent centerpieces and bridal bouquets, and used as escort cards, boutonnières, and cake toppers! One thing is for sure, we love these hearty little plants and the natural vibe they create as decor. 

From Mediterranean appetizers, to southern barbecue, catering food trucks have become increasingly popular at weddings and other celebrations this year. Many couples are opting out of the traditional sit down dinner at wedding receptions and exploring the world of food trucks. Two of our favorite local Boston food trucks that we have worked with at weddings this year are Mei Mei and The Chubby Chicpea. Mei Mei offers creative Chinese-American cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. The Chubby Chicpea is a full service food truck and catering service that offers fresh Middle eastern cuisine. Both serve up delicious, quality meals for any occasion. Click on the following pictures for more information. We hope to see more of these unique food trucks catering weddings in 2017!

Mix-and-match bridesmaids dresses are another favorite trend of ours. Your bridesmaids  personalities can shine when choosing different styles for each of them. We love the look  of a signature color warn in multiple variations. Many brides this year have also embraced different color patterns! From ombre dresses to flirty florals, we'd love to see these trends progress in the year to come. 

John and Rakeen’s wedding at the beautiful Whittemore Robbins House in Arlington was a celebration suffused with thoughtful details, meaningful family connection and of course, overwhelming joy for the happy couple! 
 
The stunning images below are courtesy of Ashley and Alex of Analog Wedding.

​After a morning of hair and makeup by Kristen Ball and Ashley Christine, the bride and her bridesmaids enjoyed a little down time in the bridal suite of the Whittemore Robbins House.  When John and Rakeen snuck away for a private first look in the historic mirrored parlor, the entire bridal party rehearsed a special surprise for later in the evening!  

​The day’s main festivities kicked off with a touching ceremony officiated by the couple’s close friend Rob as well as readings from the brothers of the bride and groom.  Rakeen, escorted down the aisle by her parents Abdul and Sayeeda to Mumford & Son’s Hopeless Wanderer, was radiant in her white sari and beaded earrings.  The vibrant contrast of the bridesmaids’ eye-catching teal saris, the groomsmen’s classic charcoal grey suits and the timeless bouquets of white roses, peonies and lisianthus from Brattle Square Florist was a real showstopper!
 
As the ceremony drew to a close, Rakeen and John were presented with lovely traditional flower garlands and sealed their commitment with a kiss to the resounding applause of their guests!  

​Following the ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy delicious treats from Deja Blu and Rasoi as well as refreshing beverages from Cocktails on the grounds of the Whittemore Robbins House.  Just before the start of the reception, Rakeen snuck away for a dramatic wardrobe change!
 
Rakeen’s incredible attention to detail was evident in the thoughtful reception décor – guests were treated to beautiful tablescapes featuring scattered rose petals, tiny gold elephant frames that served as place cards, bold teal accents and custom menus! ​

Welcome toasts from both sets of parents had guests laughing and tearing up over tales of the bride’s first day of kindergarten and the groom’s early story-telling efforts (hoovering spiders!)!  The laughter and joy continued throughout the evening thanks to a touching toast from the maid of honor and a hysterical roast from the best man!  Rakeen and John were also treated to a special Bollywood-esque flash mob orchestrated by the bridal party - all that practice certainly paid off!  And thanks to the efforts of DJ John of CZone, the dancefloor was packed for the rest of the night!

John and Rakeen’s big day was a testament not only to their love for each other but to the love their friends and family have for them both.  We were honored to be a part of their celebration and hope their next adventure will be equally full of joy, laughter and hopefully, another Bollywood flash mob!   

It’s no surprise that weddings cost a lot of money. Most of the items purchased are either thrown out at the end of the day or put into storage, never to see the light of day again. Many charities, many even in the Boston area, will accept used wedding items and give them back to the community. Here are a few of our favorites!

​The I Do Foundation has partnered with The Knot to help create gift registries that give back. Register with one of the Knot’s partner stores; including Crate & Barrel, William Sonoma, and more! Up to three percent of every purchase made through your registry will be donated to the charity of your choice!

​Donate your wedding dress to Brides Across America, a local charity, out of Andover, MA. Most couples in the military can not have the wedding of their dreams of due to deployments and other hardships. This charity donates used wedding dresses to deserving military wives.  Brides Across America has donated over 15,000 dresses nationwide!

​Don’t just toss your wedding flowers at the end of your wedding day! Rebloom in a Boston based company that resells your leftover wedding flowers at a discounted rate. A large portion of the proceeds is donated to a charity of your choice. It’s hassle free too! Rebloom will pick up your flowers after your wedding celebration had concluded. An easy way to give back to the community!

​It’s a fact that most brides grow their hair out for their wedding day! Most women want long flowing curls or fancy updos for their wedding photos. Once the big day is over and you are ready for a new look, donate those locks! Locks of Love donates hair to children suffering from medical hair loss.
 
These are just a few of our favorite charities. There are multiple organizations nationwide that can help you plan a wedding that gives back! Know of a great charity? Comment below!

Seth and Diana seriously ordered up the best possible day for their Cambridge wedding at the Royal Sonesta.  We love working with the team at the Royal Sonesta and their event spaces are pretty killer.  But the best part about the whole hotel? By far, it's the stunning view of Boston. Diana and Seth took advantage with beautiful pictures captured by Randall Garnick Photography. So many good ones, it was hard to choose our favorites!

Diana and Seth got ready in seperate hotel suites while we worked with the event staff to prepare their ballroom for the ceremony and the reception.  The amazing Bill Mizuta and his team transformed the ballroom with florals, candles, and the ceremony chuppah.  Boston Lighting installed uplighting and pinspots that made the decor pop!

The girls got their hair done by Michelle, the owner of Demiche Salon.  With a few finishing touches, Diana was ready for her first look with Seth and pictures with their family and bridal party. The Charlesgate Yacht Club, directly across from the Sonesta, was nice enough to let us in to take photos on their docks!

Before the official ceremony could start, Diana and Seth were married in the Jewish tradition with a ketubah signing. Both of them signed the document, as well as two witnesses and the Rabbi.  Finally, it was time to walk down the aisle! Diana was walked in by both of her parents. Seth and Diana circled each other to start and then broke a glass to signify the end of the ceremony (both are Jewish traditions). They looked so happy to be married as they headed back down the aisle and straight to cocktail hour!

As guests returned to the ballroom after cocktail hour, they found the room transformed. It now featured a huge dance floor and a stage with the band, ​Kahootz, keeping the dance floor full.  Mr. and Mrs. Moskowitz entered the room to much applause and then had their first dance to "Everything" by Michael Buble. Everyone was invited to the dance floor for the hora and then guests stuck around for more dancing before dinner was served.  The photobooth from Shutterbooth opened for guests to snap pics with silly props and guests filled up on the candy buffet favors.

Diana and Seth's grandfathers said the blessing over the meal (the motzi) and dinner was served.  Between courses, Diana danced with her dad and Seth with his mother.  Diana and Seth cut their beautiful cake from Icing on the Cake and then sat down for toasts. We heard personal stories from the bride's dad, the maid of honor, and the best man.  Before dancing resumed, photographer snapped a few school group photos and then guests danced the night away.

The party still wasn't over at midnight. As the band packed up, guests headed downstairs to Dante for the afterparty. 

Every wedding is special to us, but this one had a really special feature.  Diana first found us when she was a bridesmaid in Patrice's wedding last year, which we coordinated.  She was so impressed, she had to have us at hers too! :) From there, Diana's family also referred Without A Hitch to a family friend, and we coordinated Amanda and Jared's wedding.  It was the first time that we ever had three Without A Hitch couples in one room at one time!

Congratulations Diana and Seth! We are so happy for you and your families. What a beautiful celebration!

Kendall and Devin's wedding was like something out of a magazine.  Between the stunning MIT Chapel, delicious food, incredibly personal ceremony, and beautifully styled details, we couldn't get enough!  Check out their story below, with images from one of our faves, Captured in Moments.

Both the bride and groom got ready for the big day at the Kendall Hotel in Cambridge.  Just a coincidence that the name of the hotel was the same as the groom's name ;)  Hair was done by Nicole of Outluks and makeup by Ashley from The Makeup Artists.  The bridal party was mixed - both Devin and Kendall chose their favorite people regardless of gender.  It was such a fun group!  Photos from the first look and bridal party are some of our favorites.  After taking lots of pictures, everyone headed over to the chapel on the MIT campus to get ready for the ceremony.  The officiant was the couple's friend Makkah, which made it even more special and meaningful for everyone in the room.

After the ceremony, guests lined up for a confetti toss.  Devin and Kendall ran through guests and towards the tented reception at McDermott Court (aka The Dot). Guests walked down the infinite corridor to get there, which gave them a real taste of MIT.  Upon arriving, there was food from Mei Mei (guests could go right up to their food truck!) and beverages from Premier Bar Service.  Guests could play cornhole or find their seats at the beautifully decorated tables.  Flowers from The Celebrated Flower adorned the tables and the gorgeous cake, from Icing on the Cake.

Devin and Kendall had an unbelievable party in store for them with DJ Cookie Policy spinning the beats. The party started with introductions and then Mr. and Mrs. LaSane took to the dance floor for their first dance to Nat King Cole's "Unforgettable."  Everyone joined them on the dance floor while Mei Mei set up a delectable buffet meal.  After everyone was served, toasts followed, including a thank you from the bride and groom themselves.  Kendall and Devin cut the beautiful cake and took a few college group photos.  

Before the dance floor re-opened, there was a very special moment.  Everyone who was in Devin's sorority, including the groom's mother, came up on the dance floor to surround Devin and sing the sorority song. It was such a sweet tradition!

The party kept going long after cleanup, as the guests headed to a nearby bar for the after party.  Congratulations Devin and Kendall! You two are too cute and we wish you all the best!

Sam and Stephen were so much fun to work with for their June wedding at Arlington Town Hall.  They were detail-oriented and prompt decision makers, which made planning a pleasure, and helped everything to come together beautifully on the day of the wedding.  A team of talented vendors and a gorgeous day helped to complete the picture.  Check out details of their day below with images from Josh Kuckens!

Sam and Stephen both started the day getting ready with their friends and family. Stephen was at the Element Hotel while Sam got ready at their nearby home in Arlington.  The girls got to work with Christine Herbst for their hair and Nadia Monti for their makeup, and they ended up looking gorgeous! Everyone made their way to Arlington Town Hall for the finishing touches before Sam and Stephen's first look.

After taking photos, it was almost time for the ceremony to begin! Everyone lined up inside Town Hall, including the bridal party and the flower boy, for the processional.   The girls carried beautiful bouquets from Stow Greenhouses. Stow also did the floral centerpieces for the reception and the airy, floral chuppah at the ceremony.

The officiant was a friend of the couple, and he led a thoughtful and meaningful ceremony that was really personal to the two of them.  There were some tears shed and it was a lovely moment for everyone there.  After the ceremony, people were ready to celebrate! Guests were treated to cocktail hour food from Deja Blu, drinks from Atlas Liquors, and music from the bride's dad's band, Whose Muddy Shoes.  It was the perfect vibe for a sunny June afternoon.

When it was time for the reception to begin, guests went inside and saw the beautiful decorations for the first time, including the lighting from Seacoast Events.  Guests witnessed Sam and Stephen's first dance, then everyone was able to enjoy a family-style meal provided by the caterer. Parent dances were up next. After Stephen danced with his mother, Samantha took the stage with her dad. Instead of a typical dance, they performed a singing duet together, which was super sweet. They are so talented!  Everyone jumped onto the dance floor for an awesome hora and then dancing didn't stop for more than 2  hours, thanks to the skilled DJ Jeff Durand from Beat Train Productions.  It was such a fun crowd.  Congratulations to Sam and Stephen on starting their married life together!

We are pleased to share the Mass Realty has selected Without A Hitch for a special feature article! 

"Your wedding is a big deal. It's an event that you'll recall yearly, remembering every detail and savoring every picture. For some, they want to hire a full stage wedding planner, avoiding the stress and difficulty of the planning stages. But for others, the planning is part of the fun, leaving them to be hands-on, having full control over every stage of the planning and preparation.

But for those who do not want to hire a full service coordinator, they find themselves scrambling on the day of the wedding. One thing many forget, when opting to plan a wedding themselves, is that on the day of the event they will not be able to regain control. You can't walk down the aisle and ensure the sound system is working adequately all at the same time. So what is a bride to do?"

Check out the article here!

It's officially fall, which means its apple season! Whether you are looking for a signature wedding cocktail or throwing a bash with friends, fresh apple cider is the perfect addition to spice up the classics. We are here to inspire you with a few of our favorite apple cider drinks. Click on the following photos for full recipes!

Replace the OJ in your mimosas with apple cider for a fun twist on a classic! Tart meets sweet in this delicious cocktail. Add a brown sugar rim for a garnish that looks fancy and adds more sweetness to the cocktail. Toast to the bride and groom, or enjoy at Sunday brunch, a champagne drink that is good for any occasion!

Moscow Mules are huge trend this year. A classic vodka drink with lime and ginger beer. This fall, mix up your basic mule with apple or caramel vodka, and add apple cider for yummy apple pie mule. Ginger and apple are delicious combination! Not only does this drink taste good, it looks good too. A mule is classically served in a copper mug, which color and look is very fitting for the season. Garnish with cinnamon sticks, for a tasty straw that smells good too! 

It's no secret that sangria is a fan favorite.  This fall, add some apple cider to your favorite red wine. The key to a great sangria recipe is the fruit and spices you add to it. Include fresh cut apples, pears, and cinnamon sticks to add texture and flavor. Red wine and fruit? Yes please!

Jules and Andrew tied the knot on a sunny Saturday in May at the bride’s family home in picturesque Stow, MA.  With the help of friends and family, Jules and Andrew transformed her parents’ yard into an intimate ceremony space, an inventive cocktail area and a rustic reception venue.  There was no shortage of detail, personality or handmade touches at this beautiful backyard celebration!
 
The vibrant images below are courtesy of Jim Moffat of JB Moffat Photography, a fantastic photographer who also happens to be the groom’s uncle!

​Jules and Andrew’s big day kicked off with a thoughtful, humorous and moving ceremony performed by a long-time family friend.   Shared memories and insightful words of wisdom characterized the proceedings, leaving guests both laughing and tearing up.  Of course, the bride’s entrance was a real showstopper!  With her side swept updo and elegant ruffled column dress, Jules was reminiscent of the screen sirens of Golden Age of Hollywood, complete with classic elbow length gloves!  In a striking compliment to the clean lines of her dress, the bride carried a natural and asymmetrical bouquet of thistle, roses and succulents from One Main Street Studio.

​Following the ceremony, guests were invited to sample four distinctive custom-brewed beers courtesy of the groom’s cousin as well as a delicious antipasto spread from Celebrations Catering.  Guests were also treated to a feast for the eyes!  Jules and Andrew’s creativity was evident in every decorative element of cocktail hour – from the repurposed beer bottle favors and vintage suitcase card box to the clever guestbook display featuring a collection of antique glassware, no detail was overlooked!  The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by some lively cornhole and giant Jenga competitions!  

​There were several surprises in store for Jules and Andrew’s guests during the reception including singing Happy Birthday to the father of the bride as well as a moon-walking dance number from the bride’s nephew to Michael Jackson’s Smooth Criminal!  After thoughtful, funny and memory-filled toasts, DJ Keith of Each Production invited guests to dance the night away.  In a true testament to their vibrant and fun-loving nature, Jules and Andrew closed out their epic day with a classic – Bohemian Rhapsopy, complete with air guitar solos, naturally!

Jules and Andrew’s wedding was full of thoughtfully-curated details, laughter and of course, love!  We were honored to be a part of their celebration and we know this couple will enjoy many more great adventures together.

We are thrilled to feature a guest blog from one of our favorite friends at DB Studios. In case you didn't know, DB stands for Dancing Buns, which is exactly what owner Kendall Sealey encourages all of her students to have.  Enjoy these tips for your first dance (or any dance) and be sure to read to the end for something just for you!

​The follower will walk backwards, and a long train can be cumbersome or cause you to trip.

​Consider purchasing a dance heel for your first dance and reception. The sole of dance shoes is padded and made of suede which is incredibly comfortable. A dance heel is a beautiful and comfortable option that will keep you dancing until the wee hours of the night (or morning)!

​Leaders should always keep their feet on the ground... literally! It's important to slide your feet on the floor during your first dance. This ensures that your feet will glide beneath your partner's dress, avoiding any mishaps or trips!

Make sure to talk with your photographer about what shots you want to get of your first dance. There are important moments like twirls, dips, and tricks that you will want to be sure they capture!

If you don't have a wedding videographer, make sure that you ask a few different friends to video your dance. It's a moment you will want to remember forever so getting it on video is important. Ask a couple of friends to video... someone is bound to forget :)

For a limited time, friends and clients of Without A Hitch can take a 45-minute introductory lesson at no charge, with no strings attached.  Just contact Kendall and mention Without A Hitch to redeem.  Check out all db's success stories here. 
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About Dancing Buns
Kendall Sealey adores working with wedding couples. She believes that working on a first dance is the most fun item on the wedding to-do check list! Dance lessons at her studio are spent laughing, learning, and connecting. She lives for the moments when her couples grin from ear to ear after learning a new step, nailing their dip, or simply getting lost in each other on the dance floor. She believes that no matter how you feel about your dance skills, she can get you to a place of ease and comfort for your first dance! She has worked with many couples in New England and is excited to meet you!