Pond House Wedding
The sun was shining as we loaded up our gear and made our way towards the beautiful West Hartford, CT! It was the perfect day for a Pond House wedding!
This lovely day at the end of September was the perfect day for Kate & Emile to say “I Do!” As we arrived at Kate’s parents house we were greeted with a happy bride surrounded by happy ladies getting ready for the big day! Dominique and Lindsay got to work on detail photos and found numerous cool spots around the house to set up Kate’s shoes, rings, dress, etc. while brian wandered around capturing candids of the ladies.
Once all done in hair and make up it was time for Kate to get into her stunning wedding gown! Her gown was gorgeous! And unlike anything we have seen before! It was satin, a fit and flare silhouette, and the train looked as though it was lace… however, it was a pattern of cutouts in the fabric that made a beautiful lace-like pattern. With help from her Mom and her sisters Kate was all dressed and ready to head to Elizabeth Park for her first look! As they finished up at the house we jumped ahead and got on our way to meet the boys who were already at the park!
Everyone that lives in the Greater Hartford area has found themselves wandering through Elizabeth Park from one time to another. Whether it be through the gorgeous rose garden all in bloom, the perennial garden in a rainbow of colors, or a winter stroll over the beautiful bridge with the pretty frozen pond below you. No matter what time of year it is a great spot to enjoy some of nature’s beauty.
As soon as we arrived at Elizabeth Park we did a quick walk through of the park to find the prettiest scenery with the best lighting. The perennial garden was our spot! We took some quick photos of Emile and his groomsmen and soon it as time to set him into place for the first look because Kate was pulling up! Kate’s dad walked her up to her groom and then she was on her own as she anxiously approached him and tapped him on his shoulder. When he turned around and they saw each other for the first time it was magic!
After we moved into the next garden and got started on wedding party and family photos! Soon it was down to photos of Kate & Emile! Then it was time to head over to the Pond House to get tucked away before their guests started arriving. These two were so excited to be getting married they happily skipped over there!
Dominique got to work on photographing the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception set up! Then we picked our spots to get the best shots of the ceremony as the guests found their seats. Soon the ceremony began! One by one their wedding party made it down the aisle and soon it was time for Kate and her dad! Their ceremony was so lovely and it made it even more special that it was performed by Kate’s Uncle! It gave everything a much more personal feel! Kate & Emile exchanged vows, rings, and soon they were sealing their marriage with a kiss! They happily headed down the aisle as husband and wife!
Cocktail hour was outside on the patio! It was filled with great food, drinks, laughs, and lots of love! As the wedding party got ready for intros guests found their seats in the stunning reception room. It was absolutely gorgeous – with rustic wood accents, lanterns, breathtaking florals all over, and twinkling lights everywhere you looked! One by one the wedding party was announced and soon everyone rose out of their chairs for the lovely newlyweds! Kate and Emile made quite the entrance!
Their first dance was amazing to watch. It is always so special to be in the presence of pure love! Then it was time for toasts! They had a very special line up for speeches! First off was Kate’s dad! He had everyone laughing with his poster-sized photos of Kate and Emile through their years of dating! Next up was Emile’s Best Man and longtime friend who gave a heartfelt speech about his friendship with Emile and great stories of the lovely couple. After was Emile’s Brother (and other Best Man) Dom who also gave a wonderful speech to his brother and his new sister-in-law! Last but not least were Kate’s two sisters (and two maids of honor) Laura and Allie. They gave a duo speech that was so amazingly written and special!
After speeches everyone was served an amazing dinner! We took the break in the action as the perfect moment to round up all 20 plus Uconn Alumni that were present at the wedding for one amazing group photo! After dinner it was time for parent dances and cake cutting! The crowd was overcome with tears of joy and love as each Kate and Emile shared very special dances with their dad and mom.
Before we knew it the party was in full swing and what lively crowd it was! Kate and Emile were nonstop on the dance floor! Along with many of their guests. Song after song there was not a single moment where the dance floor wasn’t packed with happy dancing guests! What a great celebration for this amazing couple! Congratulations to the lovely couple – we wish you love and happiness everyday of your lives together!
Part of the Amazing Team for Kate & Emile’s Special Day:
Venue & Caterer: The Pond House Cafe
Entertainment: Jim Collins Entertainment
Florist: A Special Place
Hair: Park Avenue Salon– Laurie Fisher
Make Up: Larissa Lake & CO – Stevie
Wedding Dress Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal
Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaid Dress Boutique: Bella Bridesmaids
Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Amsale
Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Wearhouse
Transportation Company: Premier Limo
Invitation Company: Minted
Cake: Classic Cakes
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