We could not possibly have had more fun with Camille and Dan at their amazing Labor Day weekend wedding in Worcester. From their DIY photobooth and the rockin' dance floor to the heartfelt ceremony and the delicious food, guests were in for a real treat at this special event. The reception venue really took the cake, as guests had the opportunity to celebrate the newlyweds at Union Station, an active train station with stunning ceilings. We're thrilled to share the story of their day, with photos courtesy of JM Photography! Camille and her bridal party had their hair and makeup done at nearby Salon Nina Raffaella and then took their time getting dressed at the bride's parents' house, which is right around the corner from the church. Transport from Le Limo meant that the girls made it to the church, Christ the King, right on time. The ceremony started with a grand entrance for Camille and her dad as the double doors opened wide. All of the guests saw Camille for the first time at the same time as her future husband, Dan. The officiant led the ceremony, and Camille and Dan sealed their vows with a kiss. After the guests left to head to the reception venue, the couple stayed behind for some more photos at the church. Then they boarded the bus headed off to the party. Guests arrived at Union Station and enjoyed cocktail hour right on the railroad tracks, while Camille, Dan, and their families took photos around the property. At the end of cocktail hour, guests were wowed as they entered the magnificent event space and took in all of the details, including floral centerpieces from Jeff French Designs. After Camille and Dan were introduced into the party, they enjoyed a first dance before inviting everyone up onto the dance floor for some tunes from DJ Zeke from Murray Hill Talent. Guests enjoyed an excellent meal from Maxwell Silverman's and had the opportunity to hear toasts from the couple's friends and family. Camille and Dan cut the cake and, after the father/daughter and then mother/son dances, they started their dance party which lasted well into the night. A huge congratulations to Camille and Dan. We were proud to be a part of your special day and wish you all of the best for years to come!
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Bridget and Max tied the knot on a picture perfect September day in South Boston. The day was filled with beautiful details and just radiated with joy and love. We are proud to present details on their day, captured perfectly by Sarah Bastille Photography. Bridget and Max began their day traditionally - the couple got ready separately and did not see each other until they met at the end of the altar. Bridget had a relaxing morning surrounded by her family and friends as they primped and primed for the day with the help of Beauty Muse Bridal, Blushing Brides, Salon de Cheveux, and Beauty Bar, while Max prepared with his family and groomsmen at the Quincy Marriott. The girls celebrated with champagne toasts and brunch from Paramount while the day fell perfectly into place, starting with the arrival of gorgeous floral arrangements from Studio 123 and videographer Kellie Ryan. After slipping into her dress, Bridget and her bridal party hopped into a limo and trolley from Black Tie Limo and Kenny's Coach for a short ride to Gate of Heaven Church. The couple's loved ones were in awe as Bridget walked down the longest aisle in Boston to meet Max. The traditional Catholic ceremony was filled with love, and happiness, and guests joyously applauded as the couple sealed the deal with a kiss. The ceremony ended and the couple exited the church where they were welcomed by a bagpipe processional, played by a close family friend. Guests headed over to Granite Links in Quincy where the couple celebrated their marriage with a cocktail hour and reception. After taking pictures with the bridal party (where the view was to die for!), the couple snuck away for a swoon-worthy photo session in the quarry before joining their loved ones at the cocktail hour. Guests made their way over to the pink and gold-accented ballroom for a sunset reception. The bridal party set the mood for the night with introductions to Shut Up and Dance played by the always fabulous band Eye 2 Eye. A delicious dinner was served after emotional toasts, and the party kicked up a notch as guests danced the night away. Congratulations Bridget and Max! We are so honored to be part of your big day. We wish you nothing but happiness.
Gayla and Alex planned their Massachusetts wedding from across the country and still managed to have personal touches throughout the day. Guests truly felt a part of their love and were so happy to celebrate with them. We were thrilled to support the planning of their wedding day, and are pleased to share this summary with photos from the fabulous E.P. Widor Photography. Eric had so many great photos that it was hard to choose our favorites! Gayla spent the morning getting ready with her best friend and maid of honor, Caroline. They visited Visions Salon to get their hair and makeup done before riding to the Sharon Community Center in a stylish limo provided by Rockstar Limo. Meanwhile, we worked with Alex and his best man Corey to put the finishing touches on the wedding setup, including a handmade and custom-designed chuppah. Flowers were provided by Floral Fantasy in Stoughton. Gayla and Alex prepared for their romantic first look overlooking Lake Massapoag. After they saw each other for the first time, they returned inside to sign the Ketubah with their family as witness and Rabbi Julie Zupan officiating. After the signing, it was time for the official ceremony. The bride and groom entered separately, each on the arm of their parents, while Alex's stepdad played the violin. Rabbi Zupan led a beautiful, heartfelt ceremony, concluding with the bride and groom smashing a glass in the Jewish custom. While Alex and Gayla took photos with their family, the guests got ready to mix and mingle at cocktail hour with food and beverage provided by Catering with Distinction and music from Stephen and Tony at TNY Entertainment. Finally, we opened the doors to the main hall and guests took their seats before the bride and groom were introduced into their first dance as husband and wife and the traditional Jewish hora dance. Guests enjoyed a wonderful meal and a decadent dessert, including the couple's wedding cake. They celebrated all afternoon together before heading out to the afterparty at Twenty8 Food and Spirits at the Renaissance Hotel. It was truly a beautiful day for a wonderful couple and we loved every minute of it. Congratulations Gayla and Alex!
Over the winter, we highlighted some of our favorite wedding website services in a blog post. Today, we are revisiting that post with a new addition: Riley & Grey. If you are in the market for creating a personalized website, be sure to check them out. To start, they have beautiful, classic, modern designs that will fit well with any invitation design. On top of that, they give you full control to edit the colors, fonts, and layouts of the page to fit your vision: Another outstanding feature is that once you've chosen your design and worked on your site, you can always change the design without losing any of your content. Their support team is always on hand to answer questions and to help you customize your page.
When you register for a Riley & Grey site, you get to choose a custom domain name for your wedding site. Choose something that will be easy for your guests to remember! This is a great tool to print on your Save the Dates and Invitations for guests to easily check on wedding updates. Some important details to consider including:
Be sure to follow along on their blog for wedding inspiration. Have you tried Riley & Grey for your website? Tell us about your experience in the comments section! Brandy and Aaron’s rustic wedding took place at AD Makepeace Farms in Tihonet, MA. From the chalkboard menu to the reclaimed wood signs to the pie buffet, their wedding highlighted the beauty of the natural landscape with their country-themed aesthetic. We are proud to present this blog of their day with photos by Jessica Doherty. The day kicked off with the bride getting her hair and makeup done by Ali LoMazzo Beauty. The bride, groom, and their family and friends convened for the ceremony on the grassy field overlooking the Tihonet Pond. Guests picked up the creative wedding programs doubling as hand fans. The bridesmaids wore deep teal dresses and were followed by the adorable young ring bearers and flower girls who bounced their way down the aisle. Walking down the aisle to “Ripple” by the Grateful Dead, Brandy wore a gorgeous lace gown accented with her sunflower and wildflower bouquet. The bride and groom recited their own vows surrounded by their loved ones in the scenic setting. Following the ceremony, guests made their way to the cocktail and reception at the Box Mill Hall barn which was transformed into a beautiful space with wild-flower filled mason jar centerpieces and cascades of string lights illuminating the barn. Guests spilled out into the surrounding green spaces outside the barn while Brandy and Aaron took additional photos with their bridal and groomsmen parties. The barn opened for the reception which was beautifully decorate the barn with touches like the guest book, which was a tree of life to which guests added their own fingerprint “leaves,” becoming a framed image that would adorn the walls of Brandy and Aaron’s home. The place cards doubled as the guest favor – small bottles of red and white wine custom labeled with a photograph of Brandy and Aaron. Following the introductions, guests enjoyed a pig roast with all the cornbread, biscuit, and collard green fixings prepared by Christian’s Catering. A lively night of dancing followed with music by Each Production. The bride and groom snuck out to capture the sunset in breathtaking photos at the end of the night, then rejoined the party to enjoy a pie buffet overflowing the chocolate cream, pecan, and raspberry deliciousness! We hope the sweet ending to Brandy and Aaron’s fun-filled summer wedding kicked off the sweet beginning to their lives together!
This week, we are highlighting a special vendor friend of ours: Mobile Sauna! You may not have considered this type of service before, but it could be a great addition to many events. For our brides and grooms, what could be better for the bachelor/bachelorette parties than relaxing and de-stressing in the sauna at the location of your event? Or, how about detoxing from your hangover the morning after the wedding with a sauna for your bridal party? Sauna parties are becoming more and more popular as an informal, cozy atmosphere where you can relax both mentally and physically. Mobile Sauna can provide additional options such as professional massage, spa services, phytotherapy, and more. Make your special event unforgettable with Mobile Sauna! Did you know that saunas can have significant health benefits? Since ancient times, saunas have been used as a sanctuary for recovery. This is especially important today as we are often so busy that we forget to take care of our own health. Saunas have been shown to relieve stress and relax aches and pains in muscles. The sweating is great for your body - it flushes toxins, cleanses the skin, and actually has been shown to help sauna users sleep better at night.
Come check them out for free at the Boston River Run 5K on November 8th to see what they are all about. Be sure to mention Without A Hitch when you book and get 10% off your booking (cannot be combined with first-time customer discount). Instead of starting off with a quiet brunch to begin their special day, Nate and Glynis decided to "kickstart" their marriage with a kickball game. This friendly game took place just outside of the Overbrook House, the beautiful property where these lovebirds would later in the day say “I do.” Post kickball fun, the bride got dolled up at the house while Party Cape Cod set up the tent, tables, and chairs outdoors. B Lovely Beauty made Glynis sparkle: her curls accompanied by a diamond-studded headband and her makeup neutral to promote her natural beauty. Just outside of the Overbrook House, Nate saw his bride in her white glory for the very first time. We are happy to present these photos from Nate & Glynis’ wedding, courtesy of their friend Heidi Doroghazi. The ceremony began just after guests were greeted and seated in the yard full of with white satin chairs. Josh Knowles began the ceremony music and the bridal party began walking down the aisle. The adorable 1-year-old flower girl, Magnolia, stole the show for a short second, but all eyes quickly turned to Glynis. Glynis, hand-in-hand with her father, gracefully walked down the aisle. Her bouquet, designed by Jenn Smith Floral Design, was almost as detailed as her dress: all different colors ranging from white to lavender to dark purple. After the reception, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour while the bride, groom, and family shared a photo session made a little easier with the help of oysters and signature cocktails provided by B&M Catering. The celebration continued into the night with assistance from Murray Hill Talent, who provided great music all night long. After dinner, the DJ had a special announcement: not only were they celebrating their wedding, but also the bride’s father’s 67th birthday. Just prior to cutting the cake, courtesy of Chocolate Rose Cake Shoppe, the whole wedding party sang “Happy Birthday” to Mr. Ritchie. Then, after a quick dress change, Nate and Glyn shared their first dance to “Blame It On The Boogie,” followed by the father/daughter dance to “Born Out Of Mischief.” The night ended in sparklers, s’mores, and smiles as guests either departed or made their way to the Dance Hall to keep the night young. The day was beautiful and the couple couldn’t have been happier. We were honored to be a part of their special day and we want to thank everyone who aided in this successful celebration of Nate and Glynis.
This week, we have a featured blog post from guest blogger Svetlana Sharapova, founder of A-Skin Care Salon in Waltham, MA. Svetlana has been perfecting the art of skin care for nearly 25 years, so listen carefully to her advice! Are you engaged? Do you have your wedding date set? Before you start planning, first picture yourself walking down the aisle on your special day. Not just your dress – there is plenty of time to find the perfect one – but your healthy and radiant face. Do you have a regular aesthetician? If not, then it may be time to choose one. When searching, it is important to find one that has a passion for what they do and truly cares for their clients. Preparing for your wedding, and your new life with your fiancé, could be a cause of stress. It’s best to see a specialist early, to ensure healthy and happy skin for your special day. After finding the perfect aesthetician for you, don’t be afraid to schedule an introductory appointment. This is an opportunity to get a thorough skin analysis along with instructions and recommendations to ensure the health of your skin. Consider bringing your fiancé with you! Once comfortable with your aesthetician, you may want to consider making her a part of the beauty team on your special day. Provide her with the necessary information and be sure to ask the following questions: Do you specialize in makeup? How far are you willing to travel for your clients? What are your terms and conditions? How many people can you provide makeup services for in a given amount of time? If necessary, are you willing to help the groom prepare as well? If you have any doubt as to the need for professional makeup keep in mind this tip: your casual, everyday makeup is great for just that. But when you are making an investment in your wedding and your photos, it is essential to also invest in the right airbrush and non-reflective makeup so that you truly shine (in the best possible way) on your special day. With the right aesthetician, anyone can ensure to leave a beautiful memory in guests’ minds and a beautiful print on photographs. Contact Svetlana today at svetlana@a-salon.com or 781-373-9260 to schedule an appointment and start to beautify! Jessie and Michael shared a gorgeous, romantic wedding alongside their friends and family on June 26, 2015 in our favorite city. The bride was able to have a morning full of laughs while getting ready with her sister and her mother. Her hair and makeup was beautifully done with a little help from Miss Laura’s in a quaint Jamaican Plain home. Her husband-to-be was right around the corner in a different JP home, getting ready with his family and friends while waiting the chance to see Jessie for the first time on their wedding day. Needless to say, Michael was in awe, and The Maine Tinker was there to capture every moment with stunning photos. Jessie is able to brighten any room with her smile... and there was a permanent smile on both the bride and grooms faces that day. Before the ceremony, the couple snuck away to take pictures in some of their favorite spots in South Boston - by rustic buildings, fountains, and the beautifully built brownstones iconic to their city. The ceremony was set up beautifully in Titus Sparrow Park, and all eyes were on the gorgeous couple. Jessie's smile, her detailed strapless gown, and bright bouquet all graciously flowed down the aisle on the arms of both of her parents. As the ceremony came to a close, the entire wedding gathered to take a congratulatory photograph for the bride and groom. Following the reception, guests took a short walk together to the Villa Victoria Center for the Arts, where the celebration continued. The Heritage Truck Catering Company served a cocktail hour with delicious food while the wedding party stayed back to take more photos around South Boston. Guests enjoyed music courtesy of Boston Party Makers, and just as cocktail hour came to a close, the newlyweds had their first dance. Then came time for the toasts: Patrick, Jessie’s siblings, and their parents. There was even a surprise serenade from the couple's dads. Tears, laughs, and smiles were shared, but through these speeches it was evident just how much this couple is loved. The reception came to an end, but everyone was all smiles waving the couple off into their first night of marriage. The whole day was enchanting, and it was exciting to watch the beginning of their love story. It was an honor to be able to be a part of their special day and we thank everyone who was involved in making this day as special as it was for Jessie and Michael.
Tarryn and Kyle are the type of couple that can turn rainstorms into sunshine - and that's exactly what they did on their big day! The day started off dreary for the two self-proclaimed "book nerds," but that didn't stop them from enjoying every moment of their library themed wedding at the Robbins Library and reception at the Whitmore Robbins House. We are proud to present Molly Burns Photography's photos and details of their perfect day below. Tarryn and Kyle arrived early morning at the Whitmore Robbins House to prepare for their brunch nuptials with family and friends in tow to pitch in. While munching on donuts and sipping on coffee, Tarryn pulled a Kate Middleton by dolling herself up with the help of friend Allie create a spectacular updo. As she zipped into her floor-length classic a-line dress and grabbed her simple white and green bouquet from Festive Flowers, Kyle finished off his navy suit look with a matching white flower boutonniere. The couple met in the hallway for an emotional first look, before heading out into the rain to begin their ceremony at the Robbins Library. The ceremony began promptly at 11am, as the rain turned to a drizzle, and guests were welcomed into the Arlington Public Library with breakfast pastries and coffee from Deja Blu Catering. The couple's friend Brandon strummed "Here Comes the Sun" on the guitar as Kyle and family entered the ceremony from a dramatic spiral staircase attached to the library lobby. Tarryn and her father cascaded down the staircase as the music changed to "Storybook Love," and the pair met Kyle at the end of the aisle. The ceremony was filled with laughs, tears, and applause as the couple said "I Do" and were introduced as husband and wife. Guests made their way over to the Whitmore Robbins House for a cocktail hour under the tent. The couple joined guests after a quick photo session in the library, for champagne toasts from the couple's family and friends. Brunch was served in the Robbins House which was decorated with DIY personal touches (and many book references!) by Tarryn and Kyle - our favorite decoration was the table centerpieces which incorporated handmade book (paper) flowers, and greenery. Brunch led into dessert, with a dessert bar and cake created by Tarryn's mother. The couple cut their cake and danced the afternoon away in the Robbins living room. Much to our delight, the sun broke through the clouds and pushed the rain away. The couple explored the grounds, and were able to fit one last photo session in- what a beautiful way to end a perfect day! Congratulations Tarryn and Kyle! We are so honored to be part of your wedding memories. We wish you a happy life together with many trips to the library!
Susan and Billy had a gorgeous wedding that was shared with their closest family and friends on May 23, 2015. We are thrilled to share these photos from Ali Rosa Photography that show how beautiful their day was. The weather was absolutely perfect for their outdoor ceremony at the Arlington Town Hall. Susan glowed with her loose curls by Salon Astante and flawless makeup done by Hilary Warner as she walked down the aisle to her handsome groom. After Susan and Bill exchanged their emotional vows and said “I Do”, they snuck away to have their pictures taken in the courtyard. The guests mingled at the cocktail hour as Ali Rosa captured memorable and romantic pictures of the couple before having the bridal party and family members join. The guests made their way to the beautifully decorated reception, as cocktail hour concluded. All of the flowers on the beautiful centerpieces were a perfect addition to this already beautiful day, thanks to Billy's mother, Jean! DJ Max Baun of C-Zone Entertainment introduced the couple for the first time as husband and wife: Mr. and Mrs. Billy Lyons. Friends and family could feel the passion between the happy couple when they had their first dance to Stand By Me by Ben E. King. Once everyone made their way to their seats, a divine dinner was served by Cuisine Chez Vous. Everyone enjoyed the fun DIY photo booth that the newlyweds added to their amazing reception! When the reception wistfully came to an end, the exit of the bride and groom sparkled. Everyone was all smiles while they lit the outside pathway for the beautiful bride and groom, as they got into their getaway car to head to the afterparty. The night was angelic and intimate, and it was a night that they will remember for the rest of their lives.
PS To get a true sense of their wedding day, check out the video from Yellow Hook Productions here. Caroline and Sergio have a love story that stretches around the world from Mexico to Dubai and Boston. Their wedding reflected their international love in a way that was beautiful, exciting, and romantic with multi-cultural toasts, music, dancing and more. We are so excited to post Nicole Chan Photography's stunning photographs of Caroline and Sergio's big day below. The day started out perfectly - a sunny, 80 degree June day. Caroline got primped and primed with hair and makeup done by Makeup 2 Die 4 in Fairmont Copley Plaza's bridal suite with her family and bridal party. The bridal party donned teal floor-length gowns with bright floral bouquets, reflecting Sergio's Mexican heritage, by Lindsay Norris Designs before heading over to Trinity Church in Copley Plaza for the first look. The couple met in the garden courtyard at Trinity Church for their emotional first look. Sergio was ecstatic to see his bride in her white strapless gown with full, textured skirt (just wait until you see their dancing shots!) and Caroline was emotional seeing her dapper groom in a classic black tux. The wedding party snuck a peak at the first look and joined in for a photo session before the ceremony began. The ceremony started at five, with guests from all over the world. Twilight cascaded through stained glass windows and into the historical church as Caroline and her father descended down the aisle where Sergio waited to meet them. The ceremony incorporated Caroline and Sergio's multicultural romance with prayers and vows in English and Spanish. Guests teared up as the pair exchanged emotional vows and were named husband and wife. A mariachi band congratulated the couple outside the church as a crowd gathered in Copley Square to see the married couple. Bubbles surrounded the couple as they exited the church and lead the mariachi band around the square, a nod to Sergio's Mexican heritage, and to the Fairmont Copley Plaza where Ackers Brothers trio played smooth jazz to set the mood for cocktail hour. The sun began to set as Caroline and Sergio were introduced to guests as a married couple. Guests were served dinner as Kim McHale serenaded them with her six-piece band and lighting set the mood from Boston Events. Guests were treated to emotional toasts from the couples' family members with translations in both English and Spanish. The night picked up with DJ Marc Anthony from Murray Hill Talent playing hits from all decades. Guests were offered a dance break with late night tacos from Cha Cha Cha. Caroline and Sergio snuck off for one last photo session in Copley Square, and boy were the results romantic. We had such an amazing time working with Caroline and Sergio, and can't wait to see where the next stop in their marriage is. Congratulations Caroline and Sergio!
As New England natives, we, at Without A Hitch, are naturally suckers for classic Boston weddings, and Kathyrn and Peter's wedding was one for the books. We are proud to present Newbury Photographs' shots of the wedding for a glimpse into their big day. Kathryn and Peter kept wedding traditions, by getting ready in separate locations, and seeing each other for the first time at the alter. Kathryn kept her look gorgeous and simple, with tousled curls by Christine Riley at Avanti Salon and completed with cathedral veil and crystal headband, makeup by Katrina Hess, and a beautiful floor length lace gown with lace cap sleeves and open back. Peter accented his crisp black suit with a black bow-tie and finished off his look with a white Calla Lily boutineere by Blooms of Hope before heading over to Emmanuel Church for the ceremony. The ceremony was elegant and full of music, including a soprano singer, baritone, oboe, violin, and cello. Kathryn and Peter said their meaningful vows under towering stained glass windows, providing memories (and these breathtaking photos) to last a lifetime. The couple snuck away to the Boston Public Garden to take photos, while family and friends gathered in the Fairmont Copley Plaza for cocktail hour and music by pianist Sylvia Berry. While we love the natural light captured in these photos; their love is really what shines through the shots. The celebration continued over at the Fairmont Copley Plaza with delicious food, music by Emergence String Quartet, a beautiful cake by Cakes to Remember and ballroom dance lessons by Arthur Murray Cambridge. In a night that brought two families together, it was one to remember with beautiful toasts, and so much love. Congratulations Kathryn and Peter! Best wishes for a happy and healthy life together, from Without A Hitch Boston.
This day started off with the bride getting prepped and primped for the ceremony with the help of Carolina Velasco of Special Day by Carolina. The Jewish traditional ceremonies of tisch and bedeken took place. The tisch is an informal reception for the groom where all the men come to wish the groom well wishes. During the tisch, the engagement officially ends, and the groom and witnesses also sign the ketubah. The ketubah is the wedding contract which traditionally lays out all of the groom’s obligations to his wife, as well as how he must support her through life. A Bedeken is literally the veiling of the bride where the men all dance and sing into the bedeken room with the groom. It is a beautiful moment and you could see the joy on both Dahlia and Nate's faces as they saw each other for the first time all day. The ceremony was held outside on this lovely spring day with a white fence and blooming trees setting the tone for this classic event. Pink peony petals lined the aisle, complementing the deep pink bouquets by Watertown Main Street Florists. Dahlia’s stunning lace gown with a crystal, embellished belt was breathtaking as she walked down the aisle with her parents to her future husband. A lively cocktail hour followed the ceremony, with music by Behzad Dayanim of Berach Orchestra, while the bride and groom took photos together and with their families. The tent reception was gorgeous; the simple, bold color scheme of deep pink, white and touches of dark blue worked perfectly with the tent backdrop. The band played traditional Jewish wedding music, with some modern songs mixed in, and the couple heard heartfelt toasts from family members. We were thrilled to be a part of a wedding so chic and to be able to be a part of the happiest day of Nate and Dahlia’s lives! Congratulations to the Chertoks!
Melanie and Jason’s rustic barn wedding was filled with delicate details and carefully curated décor. It was held at Bittersweet Farms in Westport, MA, a 29-acre farm that dates back to the 1920’s. This happy couple's big day was filled with unique touches like centerpieces featuring vintage books and pearls. We were mesmerized by the attention to detail at this fabulous wedding. We are proud to present this blog of their day with photos by Forevercandid Photography. The morning of Melanie and Jason’s wedding began with the bride and her bridal party getting their hair and makeup done at Stephan and Company Salon and dressing at Hampton Inn Westport. The bride, groom, and attendents all headed to Headtown Landing Country Store, a fun location for Melanie and Jason’s romantic first-look photos. Much fun was had in the candy aisle. Before we knew it, it was time to head to Bittersweet Farms for the ceremony. The venue was decorated with homemade Tibetan prayer flags, draped from the beautiful vaulted ceiling. Baby’s breath lined the aisle as the bride walked down the aisle to Billy Joel's She Got A Way , her father by her side. Tunes from Christopher James Music livened the lovely cocktail hour while family and the wedding party joined the happy couple for photos. Final touches were put on the reception space from Erickson’s Florist - it was gorgeous! The reception DJ'ing from Music on Wheels set the tone for a wonderful night of celebration, punctuated by heartfelt toasts from the best man and maid of honor. The wedding guests danced up a storm! As the night came to a close we were left with the feeling of joy, knowing that we were able to take part in the happiest day of this couple's life. Congrats again, Melanie and Jason!
Recently, we have been encountering more and more brides who want their weddings to make a difference in the world, not just their own lives. You might be asking yourself how this is possible beyond the tried and true “Please make donations to _____” method. That is where passionate wedding vendors come in - there are a vast selection of businesses that are dedicated to making a difference or have a green initiative. By using these vendors you are ensuring that a certain percentage of your wedding budget goes to improving the population in one way or another. Our founder, Sarah Basch, got her first event planning experience working for non-profit organizations, and to this day Without A Hitch supports the Boston community by planning the Boston River Run 5K, which raised more than $30,000 for college scholarships in 2014 alone. Black Sheep BrideThe trend of couples giving back continues to grow, and as it does couples need resources to find vendors that share their vision for change. This leads us to Black Sheep Bride, an absolutely adorable website that is leading the way helping couples do good, while still having the wedding of their dreams. Black Sheep Bride makes it easy to find vendors who share a passion for giving back. You can search for vendors by state, and then view the vendors, their specialty, and what their business does to improve the community. Finding Local VendorsSince Without A Hitch is based out of Boston, MA, we decided to highlight some vendors who are featured on Black Sheep Bride. The first vendor is yours truly, Without a Hitch! We provide superior day-of and event planning services and remain committed to engaging with non-profits and bettering New England communities. The second Black Sheep Bride Featured Vendor is Celia Grace Fair Trade Bridal in Amherst, MA, a brand that makes breathtaking, ethereal bridal gowns. The best part is that all dresses are 100% fair trade made using eco-silks and other sustainable materials. With each dress sold, Celia Grace Fair Trade Bridal gives a percentage back to local charities and business. Lydia Leclair Photography is based out of Harwich, MA. This passionate photographer donates a portion of her earning to a multitude of charities; you can even pick which cause to donate to if you have a preference. Blooms of Hope is another Massachusetts-based vendor whose philanthropy is only matched by their exquisite taste in event florals. Blooms of Hope supports numerous causes like Room to Grow, which is dedicated to helping babies who are born into poverty in the early stages of their life. Donating at Your WeddingNot only do brides today have the option of choosing charitable vendors for their wedding, they can also ensure that they are directly donating on their big day. There are many different ways that brides can give back, one of the quickest and easiest ways is by creating a charity registry. You can simply register on a website where a percentage of the purchases made goes to the charity of your choice. Another way that couples can ensure that their wedding makes a difference is by using sustainable decor and flowers. Rebloom is a Boston-based company that saves your gorgeous floral arrangements from going straight to the trash! Rebloom will pick up your flowers as soon as your wedding is over and store them safely to be reused for another event!
With so many great options for couples to make their wedding sustainable, it's no wonder more and more brides are choosing to give back. It's fantastic websites and businesses like these that make it all possible! With all of the decisions involved in planning a wedding, choosing a venue and selecting the music seems pretty easy. When it comes to the food, that’s where the real passion for ‘just the right menu' comes out! Luckily for modern day couples, the choices go a lot further than your typical sit down wedding dinner or mainstream buffet. Over the past few years, we've seen many trends come and go, but 2015 is bringing us a whole new batch of “foodspiration." Family-Style Serving2015 is the year to get creative with your catering. Cindy Mamane from Deja Blu Catering and Events says “we will see much more in the way of themed stations offering small plates, as well as of family style salads and spreads set up on guests’ tables, intended for sharing." We love the idea of each table having an edible centerpiece, sort of as a first course preceding a plated meal or a smaller offering while guests wait for their table to be called up to a buffet. Fresh Ingredients“I’m seeing more and more vegetarian and vegan brides and grooms, who want more than the 'old pasta' staple offered. Fresh, seasonal, high-quality ingredients with all dietary styles in mind” is what’s on every client’s menu, these days, according to Cindy. From tables piled with fresh fruits and cut vegetables to a station with locally baked bread and homemade spreads, we see all of our favorite foods represented in a healthier way. SimplicityLastly, we are seeing a shift, moving away from fancy, multi-course dinners to more simplistic, stationed menus with a flair. “I think the trend now is back to basics with a touch of modern day vibe," says Cindy. This will be music to casual couples' ears. With so many catering options, couples no longer have to feel obligated to have the traditional wedding menu. Cindy at Deja Blu Catering and Events creates custom menus with fresh, vibrant flair. To book her for your upcoming wedding or event, visit www.dejablucatering.com.
It’s officially been two years since we started Without A Hitch and we can’t believe how fast it has gone by! It has been a privilege to be able to connect with as many wonderful clients as we have. Looking back on our journey, there have been so many special moments, so we decided to highlight just a few of our favorites. From magical events, to trends that have stood the test of time, we can’t wait to share what we have learned! Creative Tablescapes Over the past two years, we’ve seen our fair share of centerpieces and table designs! The ones that have always stood out to us incorporate unique elements. Some of our favorite tablescapes include votive candles that often bring a soft glow to an event, or florals that incorporate another element like tall vases or colorful vegetables for a rustic touch. Summer Solstice WeddingKatie and Patrick’s New England Aquarium wedding is a perfect example of how unexpected venues can make for a stunning event. We love the way this couple mixed their love of the ocean with the city to exemplify a true New England Wedding! Check out these photos captured by Elizabeth Bradford Photography. Scenic PhotosAlthough couples have been taking their wedding photos outside for years, we have noticed couples taking their photography locations to the next level. From the middle of the city to a dock in a lake, we can’t get enough of this scenic photography. Pictures like these also make the perfect personalized backdrop to guest thank you cards. Garden Inspired WeddingLast but certainly not least, we could not let our two year anniversary go by without featuring this lush garden-inspired wedding. Lisa and Alyssa’s wedding was filled with bright colors and touches of nature that really gave the event a personalized feel. The photos by Stacie Kirkwood Photography perfectly reflect the happiness of the brides and their guests. We will certainly remember the stunning photos in the floral field for anniversaries to come.
Without A Hitch Boston is approaching its 2 year anniversary. It has been a fantastic journey so far and we cannot wait to continue making memories with our clients. Over the last two years we have seen many trends come and go, but there have been a few that have stood the test of time. We decided to upgrade our favorite trends from 2013, our first year, with a 2015 twist! Décor: Paper Lanterns Paper lanterns have been a wedding staple for years now. They come in virtually every color and every size which makes them perfect décor for any style wedding. We love the way these lanterns look when strung from the ceiling but we can’t get over how amazing they look stacked! When stacked, these lanterns have tons of different uses - for example, as a backdrop for your dessert table or even to line your aisle. This fun 2015 twist will be sure to impress all of your guests! Theme: Rustic WeddingsWhile rustic weddings have always been popular, these past few years we’ve seen a considerable shift in décor. We’re finding that brides are using rustic venues as a backdrop for some seriously glamorous decorations. The mix of natural materials with metallic features makes for a magical combination. We love the addition of mirrors to a rustic wedding theme - they add the perfect amount of shine and make your space feel bigger, which can be essential if your venue is on the smaller side. Bridal Accessories: CrownsIt’s no secret that many brides want to feel like a princess on their wedding day. Adding a crown to your bridal look is a great way to incorporate that, but that doesn't mean you're stuck looking like a pageant queen. Flower crowns are a great option but if you're looking for a 2015 update with a bit more sparkle, try a floral-inspired crown. Sometimes known as hair jewelry, these delicate crowns use beading and design to mimic real florals, making them the perfect bridal accessory for your big day!
We’ve just moved our clocks forward and it’s finally starting to feel a little bit like spring here in New England, so what better time to explore our favorite spring color trends! We’ve picked our three favorite colors from the famous Pantone Spring 2015 Color Report and can’t wait to show you how to incorporate them in to your big day! Toasted AlmondThe first of our spring color crushes is Toasted Almond. Described by Pantone as a sun-tanned neutral, we love the soft, romantic touch this muted pinky-beige adds to any color scheme. Whether you feature Toasted Almond as your main color or incorporate it as a secondary neutral, it will be sure to add some warmth to your wedding. We love this color for bridesmaids dresses- while vibrant colors are sometimes distracting next to a white wedding dress, Toasted Almond holds its own without overshadowing your own dress. TreetopWe love spring weddings that highlight the color green, as this beautifully fresh and vibrant color screams spring without seeming too cliché. That is why our next choice is Treetop, which is described by Pantone as a healthy, harmonious green. This soothing hue is the perfect highlight tone for your wedding color scheme. Our favorite way to showcase Treetop is with plants themselves; luckily Treetop is a tone that can be found in nature. We cannot get enough of this “table runner” constructed out of various Treetop toned plants; the addition of fresh lemons adds the perfect splash of color! Lavendar HerbLast but not least is the most classic of our three choices, Lavender Herb. This pared-down purple is a fresh new take on your classic Easter-pastel lavender. The slightly darker tone of this dusty lavender adds a bit of edge to a typically sugary-sweet color. Although we think this color can be used in many aspects of a wedding, from a universally flattering bridesmaids dress color to tablecloths, our most beloved way to feature this shade is by using actual dried lavender! For a stunning candle design, place it in a mason jar under a votive, or use it as an understated boutonniere for your groom and his groomsmen!
The importance of an engagement ring is no secret, and it’s something that you will wear every day for the rest of your life. It’s both the most important piece of jewelry we wear and the most important piece of jewelry your fiancé will ever buy. Luckily for soon- to-be brides, it’s easier than ever to find a ring that perfectly suits your personality. With more and more unique designs and trends emerging, we wanted to share our favorites! Unique SettingsThe trend we’re most excited about this year is uniquely set center stones. Just when we thought we had seen every version of halo style rings, designers started to get more creative with ring shapes. From an “east to west” setting (think horizontally set), to a more intricate shaped halo design, we love the classy twist this puts on a traditional ring. This is one trend that you’re sure to love for years to come. Rose GoldWhile rose gold is certainly nothing new as far as engagement rings go, this trend has only been getting bigger. The beautiful pink tones in rose gold perfectly compliment a sparkly center stone while giving an extra girly touch. Rose gold can function as the sole metal on your ring or just as a compliment alongside platinum or white gold. With more ways to incorporate this metal than ever, there is a rose gold ring to match any future bride's style. Colored Stones Although diamonds will almost always be the more popular choice for engagement rings, we are seeing more and more options when it comes to center stones. Whether you incorporate your birthstone or simply a unique colored gemstone, this bold engagement style will certainly be eye-catching. Love the colored stone look but still want a traditional style ring? Try a colored stone in a classic setting or more muted color!
Stars always save their most treasured desinger pieces for the Academy Awards- the last big show of the award season. Every year we anticipate (as ordinary people) what celebrities will wear, what trends will emerge, and we fantasize about what it must be like to be a trendsetter walking down the red carpet. The 2015 Academy Awards didn’t disappoint, and we think blush, nude and white dresses stole the show. A number of dresses could easily work as a wedding gown, making it easy to imagine walking down the aisle in these trends. Click through the slideshows below to see our favorite Oscar looks and real look-alike wedding dresses! SlinkyOne of the first trends we saw on the red carpet were body-skimming, sheath style gowns. With luxurious draped fabric and delicate straps, this perfect understated glamour is sure to dazzle at all types of weddings -whether it’s a barefoot wedding on the beach or a black tie event. EmbellishedAn undeniable theme on the red carpet was sparkle and shine, with beading that wasn’t limited to one color scheme! Silver, nude and pearl tones were all on display in a variety of styles. There are many ways beading can be incorporated into your wedding gown, which means it can work for all kinds of weddings. Try beaded tulle for an ethereal look, or beaded lace for a glitzy take on the normal vintage look. StraplessFor the past few years, the wedding industry has been in love with the sweetheart neckline. It’s too often that we forget to distinguish the difference between sweetheart and strapless necklines. Sweetheart necklines dip slightly in the center while strapless necklines fall straight across the bust. It seems that strapless necklines will be making a comeback in 2015. This surprisingly flattering neckline adds a classic touch to any silhouette, from peplum to a ball gown! ColorThis year the men of Hollywood really impressed us with their fashion risks. Color was the biggest theme we’ve seen all awards season, and it was no different at the Oscars. We especially adore Oscars Host, Neil Patrick Harris’ cool gray ensemble.
Be on the lookout for unique fabrics and bold colors in 2015. We think shirt buttons color coordinated to a suit coat are the smallest detail we saw, that makes a dramatic difference. We can’t wait to see more grooms showing their personality and embracing their unique wedding style. There are so many different social media platforms, and it can be hard for couples to determine which to use to help plan your wedding. Instagram might be one of the less obvious choices, but if you know what you're looking for it can be a fantastic tool. Here are our three favorite ways to incorporate Instagram into wedding planning and some useful hashtags as well! Real Wedding InspirationSearch by #hashtag: #realweddings #realbrides #wedding(flowers, invitations, etc.) Instagram is a great place to find pictures of real weddings - from intimate destination weddings to lavish formal receptions you’ll find all kinds of creative ideas. Most vendors are tagged in #realwedding pictures, which makes it easier to find your dream vendor whose style and aesthetics align with your vision. DIY Wedding Ideas Search by #hashtag: #DIYweddings, #DIYevents, #DIY(centerpiece, banner, etc.) Looking for some fun DIY ideas? You’ll find those on Instagram as well! Whether you’re looking for DIY garlands or a DIY boutonniere you’ll find all the inspiration you need simply with a search by hashtag! Need proof? We found these lovely monochromatic painted jars using #DIYweddings - we envision them filled with flowers or arranged with pillar candles for an eclectic centerpiece. Finding Vendors and Locations Search by #hashtag: #(yourlocation)events, #(yourlocation)weddings #(yourlocation)(photography, caterers, etc.)
One helpful way to utilize Instagram is by exploring and following different vendors and locations. Think of Instagram as a digital portfolio for vendors - search by hashtag or name to get some on whether they will fit into your wedding. It gives you a way to see their work in the actual setting it’s designed for, and this makes it much easier for you to decide whether or not they're style will work for your big day. To see more of Without A Hitch's wedding inspiration, check out our Instagram account, @withoutahitchbo! Wedding websites are getting more and more popular each year. Whether you plan on using it every step of the way or to simply manage your guest list, they are a fun and effective way to keep guests updated on the wedding planning process. With so many services available, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. Here are a few of our favorite services to help you create a pretty, personalized wedding website. Appy Couple Price: $35 One-Time Fee Appy Couple is an awesome website and app combo. The app is free to download and lets all of your guests keep track of your wedding updates on their phones. This service is loaded with cool features like a guest list manager, in-app RSVP’s, and event details like dress code and weather. Our favorite feature of this service is the ability to take and share photos in real time - a great way for your guests to share their favorite photos from the wedding with you! With over 400 website themes in every color, this super customizable service has everything you could ever want. Wedding Window Price: Basic Package is free, Premium Packages are between $69-129 per year Wedding Window is a household name in wedding websites. Their wide-ranging premium packages allow for tons of content, storage space and bountiful features - these include media galleries, registry links, mobile friendly themes, and RSVP management. We especially love that Wedding Window offers a free package for couples who don’t want to manage every single detail online but still want to keep guests in the loop! Wedding WooPrice: $49 per year
Wedding Woo makes it as easy as possible to personalize your wedding website by using pre-built pages and putting your photos front and center. This is a great option for couples with engagement photos they're in love with and are looking for a place to use them. Your account comes with unlimited storage and the ability to add widgets like a wedding countdown! Other features include guestbook and RSVP management, wedding checklists and customizable themes. All of the great features aside, this services stunning use of your photos will be sure to win you over. We are officially a month into 2015 and that means wedding season is getting closer by the day. This week, we want to share with you our favorite cute and eclectic 2015 wedding trends we're eager to try. Menu: Late Night Snacks No matter what time it is, guests are sure to be hungry after all that dancing! Late night mini dishes are a fun way to keep the party going just a little longer. We love snacks like grilled cheese squares and tomato soup in shot glasses, mini burritos, and oreos with white russian shots, which are perfectly portable and delicious, and are sure to delight everyone at your wedding. Flowers: Lush Greenery Here's another trend we can’t get enough of - lush greenery. You can use greenery virtually ANYWHERE at your wedding - string together mint, ivy, or magnolia leaves as centerpieces for round tables, a fabulous table runner for long tables, or wrapped around white pillar candles. We love the natural warmth it brings to wedding décor for winter weddings. Invitations: Monochromatic Every couple knows the importance of wedding invitations. They are the first impression that your guests get of your wedding. Whether you plan a casual gathering or a formal affair, it’s important that the invitations fit the event. The biggest change we are seeing this year is in color - gone are the neons and brights of 2014. This year, we’ll be seeing more and more monochromatic invitations and save the dates with sophisticated and clean typography, neutral cream colored palettes, and modern metallic accents. Cocktails: Bubbly In 2014, sangria pitchers, local craft beers, and the all-important “signature drink” were some of our favorite drink trends. What does 2015 have in store for us? Champagne! Pinterest and Etsy are full of adorable champagne trends, like champagne towers which are fancy and impressive (and super easy to make!), champagne-themed prints (see the middle pic -we love it!) and mimosa bars, with fruit buffets. Champagne is the perfect drink to celebrate with, and we can't wait to see the fun ways our couples put a spin on this classic drink.
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Note from Sarah!
Life got too crazy to blog, but please enjoy these archives of some of our favorite past weddings. Archives
December 2020
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