Marina & Zach’s Classic Belle Mer Wedding

The back story

I can’t wait to tell you all about Marina and Zach’s dreamy classic style wedding at Belle Mer, but first let me paint a picture for you. It was Sophmore year and Zach had just transferred from a school in Pittsburgh PA (to play hockey on a Boston-based team). During 2nd period Studio Art he saw Marina sitting across the room from him and it was love at first sight. He knew he needed to talk to her, he was always finding reasons to approach her desk. They began their relationship as friends but quickly became high school sweethearts. Marina recalled one particular ride in the car when Zach casually asked “do you think we’ll get married?” to which she replied without hesitation “yes!”. A few Decembers later Zach popped the question at the Vanderbilt hotel in Newport.

Newport quickly became their favorite get a way from their day to day lives in South Boston, so it was no surprise when they chose Newport for their wedding destination. The ceremony was held at Saint Lucy’s Church in Middletown. The reception was at one of Longwood Venue’s premier locations; Belle Mer. Belle Mer sits in the middle of Goat Island, Newport and boasts some of the best panoramic views of the harbor and the Newport Bridge.

The Wedding Day

We began our day at the Brenton Hotel where Marina was getting ready. The ever thoughtful sweetheart she is, Marina had laid out gifts for each of the moms and all of her bridesmaids. Our lovely bride decided to do a first look with her girls, so she dressed privately with her mom and her sister by her side. After a moment we invited her bridesmaids in and were delighted to see their smiles and tears of joy. A very appropriate reaction for our vision of a bride who was simply glowing. Before heading to the church Marina had one more person to surprise. She shared an intimate first look with her dad, and we were off!

Over at the boys hotel, they were toasting to his good luck and relaxing before heading to Saint Lucy’s. The traditional church ceremony was thoughtful and beautiful. Marina and Zach embraced each other as they made their way down the aisle during their recessional… as the new Mr & Mrs Phelps!

The Reception

Our bride and groom met their guests on the lawn of Belle Mer and enjoyed an outdoor cocktail hour. The flower arrangements by Fleur Soiree did not disappoint, the ball room was decked out in the most beautiful arrangements. Sunshine poured in through the sheer curtains and filled the crystal chandeliers with the prettiest twinkling light. The Beacon Street Band welcomed the guests into the ballroom. Marina and Zach surprised everyone with a grand entrance down a staircase of cascading flowers, and a beautifully choreographed dance.

If you’ve followed some of our previous weddings you know how much I love a sunset! We couldn’t resist taking Marina and Zach outside to the sea wall for a few sunset portraits with the bridge in the background. Marina and Zach were so much fun to work with and will forever have a special place in my heart!

Cheers to the talented vendor team that helped make this beautiful couples day such a success!

Venue: Belle Mer

Band: Beacon Street Band

Photography: Shannon Matos Photography

Video: Merriment Films

Hair + Makeup Artist: Jessica D’Amore Make Up

Florist: Fleur Soiree

Cake: I Dream of Jeanne Cakes

Bridal Gown: Allegria Bridal

Invitations: Shine Wedding Invitations

Reception stationary: Splendid Moment

Looking for more beautiful Belle Mer inspiration check out Carley and Jakes Island House wedding