This gorgeous Publick House Historic Inn wedding in Sturbridge, Massachusetts was full of rustic yet elegant charm.
Sometimes I leave a wedding feeling extra-elated. It could be because the dance-floor was hopping, or the day literally went off without a hitch (rare), or it could be because I know I’ve captured some of my best wedding photography work and I cannot wait to get back to my desk and check it out. Janna & Sam’s wedding at the Publick House Historic Inn was like the trifecta of leaving me feeling extra-awesome after their wedding and I probably could’ve flown home if humans had feathers.
My day started in the library of the Publick House Historic Inn, with Sam and his groomsmen getting ready there. In keeping with the historic vibe, Sam and his gents were wearing the bold colors of a Colonial Minute Man. I also got to take a sneak peek at the wedding bands and decided that they should be photographed among some of the old poetry books. I know, sometimes I can be a little cheesy.
Once I was finished with the fellas, I went to visit Janna and her bridesmaids. When I first met Janna and Sam, I could tell that they were a more reserved couple. Not necessarily shy, just not loud and boisterous like me. So it wasn’t shocking to see that Janna had chosen a dress and accessories that were a little more austere, allowing her natural beauty and glowing personality to shine through. Her wedding dress was a gorgeous combination of fabrics and lace that weren’t exactly white or cream or any definable color, but the effect was stunning matched with her romantic braided bridal-updo and makeup by Simple Indulgence Day Spa.
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Once everyone was all dressed and looking sharp, it was time for the ceremony. Janna and Sam opted to save the first time they saw each other for their ceremony, and the looks on their faces were just the best. The wedding ceremony was held under a beautiful arbor draped in flowers and the weather was simply perfect (Pro tip: overcast weather is the best weather for photos because it will create softer shadows and richer colors). Their ceremony was so beautiful and richly significant with religious meaning and special readings from family members.
When the ceremony was over, it was photo-time! If you’ve ever been part of a wedding party where I’ve been the photographer, you know that I don’t like to spend a bunch of time doing stuffy poses. We have FUN! We do a few traditional poses, and then we cut loose, tell jokes, and maybe I will coerce a few people into some light gymnastic activities for photos. Most of all, I don’t keep anyone longer than necessary, because I know you all want to go party!
With wedding party and family photos out of the way, it was time for Janna, Sam and I to explore the grounds and take their wedding portraits. This was their opportunity to relax and enjoy each other’s company a little bit before getting back into the rush of socializing with all of their guests who wanted to wish them well. For this part of the day, I like to mix up posed images with candid, so there are a variety of images. Janna and Sam were especially good sports as I threw rose petals at their faces for an artistic effect!
The reception room in Paige Hall at the Publick House was so beautiful. Gorgeous hardwood floors made a perfect dance floor and the whole room was decorated with historic memorabilia in its rafters. Guest tables were accented with floral arrangements, and Janna and Sam even had a guest book featuring the images we had created during their engagement session!
Janna and Sam kept the festivities of their reception simple, with a first dance, toasts and a blessing, cake cutting and parent dances. Then, they opened the dance floor up for some awesome party memories, powered by Champagne Toast DJ Entertainment. All in all, I can safely say that Janna & Sam’s September Publick House Historic Inn wedding was the perfect day for all involved, and I wish these two the happiest of marriages in the years to come!
Be sure to check out other amazing couples I’ve photographed here.
Publick House Historic Inn Wedding Vendors
Simple Indulgence Day Spa
Flowers by Michelle Bernard
Publick House Historic Inn Bakery
Champagne Toast DJ Entertainment
