Grace Finneral’s bridal shower was all about celebrating sisterhood and friendship with the special women in her life. / Photo by Megan Holloway

For floral and event designer Stephanie Kent, crafting celebrations that feel deeply personal is both her passion and her philosophy. After nearly a decade working with legendary planner Janie Haas Events, Kent took time away upon having her first baby—and in doing so, discovered her next chapter. “The business found me,” she says. “It started organically, and I realized I wanted to design celebrations that tell a story and evoke a feeling.”

Rebranding as Wild at Heart Co. in 2020 allowed Kent to hone her signature approach: highly curated, emotionally resonant designs that balance artistry with intention. She takes on only a handful of events each year—each one a fully immersive experience marked by thoughtful detail and a “white glove” creative process.

That bespoke sensibility was on full display at a recent bridal shower for Grace Finneral, hosted by Grace’s mother, Megan, in their family’s backyard. “Grace and Megan were dream clients,” Kent says. “They came to me with unlimited trust.” Inspired by snaps on Grace’s Pinterest board that nodded to LoveShackFancy’s romantic aesthetic, Kent envisioned a modern interpretation—“something feminine and nostalgic, but not overly pink or trendy.”

Much of Kent’s work, she says, is in “juxtaposition.” Here, she felt the hard, black, structured tent with a clear top would be a beautiful contrast to the feminine color scheme. / Photo by Megan Holloway

The tablescapes evoked a nostalgic English-garden vibe, while mauve napkins and tent draping added feminine richness. / Photo by Megan Holloway

Photo by Megan Holloway

A custom-built trellis entrance set the tone, drawing guests into an ethereal garden scene layered with florals in mauve tones, loden greens, and unexpected pops of cherry red and powder blue. Lola Valentina patterned plates echoed an English-garden motif, while velvet touches and delicate butterfly accents added whimsy. Kent balanced lush, floral-filled moments with intentional negative space to let textures and light breathe—an interplay she describes as “soft and hard, feminine and masculine.”

Touches of personality made the event unforgettable: an ’80s glass-phone guest book, a custom watercolor crest, and a trellis bar framed by blooms. “I wanted it to feel like a Sofia Coppola dreamland,” Kent says, “where girls are sipping spicy sauvignon blanc and espresso martinis in this magical, nostalgic garden.”

For Grace, the result was everything she imagined—and more. “Stephanie went way beyond my inspiration,” she says. “Every little detail was so thoughtful. It was the most perfect September day.”

A glass push-button phone from the 1980s served as the guest book, where Grace’s friends recorded memory-filled messages of goodwill to her throughout the day. / Photo by Megan Holloway

The team at Art Experienced was at the event to create personalized sketches of the guests in their vibrant floral frocks. / Photo by Megan Holloway

Bartender Bartending by Tucker
Caterer Catering by Erin
Content Creation The Twentyfour Diaries
Drapery + Lighting Drape Art Designs
Floral + Event Design The Wild Dahlia
Floral Artistry Sweet Talk Floral
Invitations + Day-Of Stationery Gus & Ruby Letterpress
Live Artists and Custom Artwork Art Experienced
Musician Sam James
Photographer Megan Holloway, The New Romantic
Planner + Designer Wild at Heart Co.
Rentals Gooseberry Tabletop; Peak Event Service
Specialty Rentals and Custom Builds Form Creative Services
Tent Structure Peak Event Services
Textiles Lola Valentina

Photo by Megan Holloway

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “The Art of the Intentional Celebration.”

Photo illustration by Noemi Fabra

The first thing I see when I open TikTok is an influencer speaking directly to the camera: Five trends you have to include at your wedding. Followed almost immediately by a photo slideshow: Wedding trends I think are cringe. Then a request: Sound off in the comments. What’s one thing at a wedding that screams “tacky”? It’s whiplash in #bridetok form—one video telling you the newest trends you have to follow, lest you have a “boring” wedding, and another telling you to avoid the same ones, or else you’ll have a dated wedding that will look overly trendy five years down the line. But fortunately, there’s a third side to the conversation, too. For each social media influencer lecturing about the dos and don’ts of trends, there’s another saying to block out the noise altogether: that your wedding should feel like you, not like a photo op.

As I’ve been planning my own wedding for the past year, my social media has been an endless inundation of wedding content. Some are positive and helpful (I’ll never skip the ones about what to stock in your day-of emergency kit or how to best fluff your train), and others are judgmental (see above). I’ve been battling with myself and my social media feed to figure out what trends I’m inclined to incorporate into our wedding because I genuinely like them, versus the ones I feel obligated to adopt. More importantly, I’ve been struggling with how to make decisions that feel authentic to my fiancé and me—not just for the pursuit of Instagram-worthy photos.

Of all the champagne towers, the interactive seating chart installations, the newspaper-inspired programs, the fireworks, and the TikTok-ification of it all—with the price tags to match—which ones feel like us?

Makena and her fiancé, Alex Hill, were married in Maine—where the couple also got engaged in 2024—in December 2025. / Photo by Jenna Cavanaugh

Our big day will have come and gone by the time you read these pages, but here’s our plan. Matchbook favors, because I love to collect them, as do many of my friends. A “generations of love” memorial wall featuring photos of our parents and grandparents on their wedding days, because this was one of the trends that resonated with me the second I saw it on Pinterest (yes, social media did influence this one). Dance floor glowsticks, because it always helps to have something to do with your hands on the dance floor. Most importantly, DIYed table numbers—specifically ones that I’ve cross-stitched with the help of my grandmother, who taught me the craft a few years ago. They may not be the über-trendy acrylic or fabric table numbers gracing the receptions of TikTok, but they’re meaningful to me. And they do look pretty cute, too.

I won’t tell you the trends we’re not following because, well, that would make me the same as those who cringe at the best day of others’ lives on social media. What I will say is that every decision we’ve made has been guided by what we want—one of my best friends officiating our ceremony, a string quartet for cocktail hour, and candle-only centerpieces (the warm glow inside our barn wedding will be stunning). It also helps that my fiancé has never once opened TikTok. If I try to even explain a trend to him, the point gets lost.

Though we might not have the influencer-coded wedding that I’ve seen all over my social media feed, our wedding will be intentional and personal. But, of course, I’m still hoping for some great photos to share on Instagram.

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “Off the Feed.”

Boston Diamond Company founder Stephanie Binder. / Courtesy photo

In an industry long defined by tradition, Stephanie Binder set out to change the narrative—one diamond at a time. As a second-generation, certified gemologist and founder of Boston Diamond Company, she built her boutique on Newbury Street to showcase female perspectives in a male-dominated world, creating an intimate, appointment-only destination where craftsmanship meets connection. Every piece is locally handcrafted and ethically sourced, designed to reflect each couple’s love story while delivering the caliber of artistry found at high-end retail jewelers, such as nearby neighbors Cartier and Tiffany & Co. The result? A woman-led fine-jewelry house that turns proposals into heirlooms and clients into lifelong friends.

Tell us about your background and how you ended up forming your company.

Boston Diamond Company was born from a deep belief that buying an engagement ring should feel extraordinary. I founded the company after years of seeing how impersonal and overwhelming the fine-jewelry world could feel—especially for women. As a certified gemologist and a designer who grew up watching my mother overcome every obstacle, I built my company with a vision that was rooted in trust, education, and craftsmanship. We started as a small boutique, and we’ve grown into Boston’s premier fine-jewelry destination. Located on the first block of Newbury Street, right next to Cartier, Tiffany, and Van Cleef, we’ve built a reputation for creating pieces that are never mass-produced, always hand-selected, and designed to last for generations.

Rings, from top to bottom: a stunning 8.00-ct emerald-cut diamond engagement ring set in platinum, featuring 0.62-ctw tapered baguette diamonds, a 4.75-ct cushion-cut diamond engagement ring in platinum with 0.75-ctw tapered baguette diamonds; and a 4.00-ct round brilliant-cut diamond engagement ring in platinum with 0.80-ctw tapered baguette diamonds. / Courtesy photo

Take us through your process.

From the moment the client steps through the doors, they feel we’re not a typical jewelry store. It’s a curated appointment-only experience, designed for connection, personalization, and creativity. Every consultation is private and intentional, so couples feel guided and supported through every single decision. When they come in, we take the time to learn their story, their style, and what matters most to them. Then we pair that with our expertise in design gemology. What makes our store unique is that we are all gemologists, so that makes our craftsmanship super refined and brings our vision to life. My favorite part of this work is watching a client’s face light up when they see their ring, knowing it’s not just a piece of jewelry but a chapter in their love story that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Let’s talk logistics: How far in advance do you prefer couples come to see you?

For engagement rings, we recommend couples schedule their appointments three to four months before their ideal proposal date. This allows time for personalized design, diamond selection, and hand-fabrication. For wedding bands, we recommend three to six months because there are a lot of minor details when planning a wedding. The rings and the dress are the most important.

A 4.00-ct marquise-cut diamond engagement ring set in 19-karat yellow gold, featuring a hidden halo and Boston Diamond Company’s distinctive Boston Cigar Band. / Courtesy photo

What ring styles are in high demand?

One of the most in-demand designs right now is the oval-cut diamond. We have seen more modern designs, but minimalism is what’s been very popular for timeless romance. Think of a solitaire engagement ring with a hidden halo, or a bold or classic cut like an emerald cut with a platinum band. These are pieces that feel of the moment and also timeless and forever. Our value is our belief in fine jewelry: It shouldn’t ever feel generic, whether creating a bespoke engagement ring, custom wedding bands, or a beautiful, redesigned, treasured heirloom piece. It’s crafted for beauty and durability. Our clients trust us not just to make a ring, but to create a legacy piece.

A 4.98-ct crisscross-cut diamond takes center stage in this platinum engagement ring, accented with 0.98-ctw round brilliant-cut diamonds along the band and a hidden halo. / Courtesy photo

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “A Cut Above the Rest.”

The mouth of a cave in the mountains, Belize / Courtesy photo

Voltaire once said that “marriage is the only adventure open to the cowardly,” but one thing’s certain: It’s undeniably an adventure. So why not celebrate it with a honeymoon that checks a few items off your bucket list? There’s a lot to be said—both literally and metaphorically—for navigating the unknown with your new spouse and experiencing the unfamiliar together. With that in mind, here are a few suggestions for honeymoons guaranteed to get your blood pumping and your heart racing.

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize / Courtesy photo

Belize

This underappreciated Central American gem is less overrun by tourists than Costa Rica and has the added advantage of English as its official language. It’s hard to choose between the coast—home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef—and the interior, where lush mountains blanketed by rainforest hide Indiana Jones–worthy archaeological sites.

The Family Coppola Hideaways solve this dilemma by offering five-star properties in both regions, with special rates and perks for couples who book them together. Blancaneaux Lodge, located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve near the Guatemalan border, began as Francis Ford Coppola’s private hideaway. Since 1983, it’s wowed guests with a level of service and luxury worthy of a Hollywood mogul.

Twenty deluxe hideaways with open-air living rooms and sumptuous sleeping quarters are scattered along the banks of Privassion Creek. Swimming, horseback riding, hiking, and tubing are complemented by a superb spa, and each room is equipped with a “shellphone”—a conch that connects directly to the front desk and room service. Explore nearby Mayan ruins; take a guided canoe trip into a cave filled with ancient artifacts; or hike to the aptly named Big Rock Falls. At the end of the day, return for superb Italian or local cuisine accompanied by one of the film director’s acclaimed wines.

Turtle Inn, Belize / Courtesy photo

The thrills continue at its sister property in the Caribbean, Turtle Inn, located just outside the colorful fishing village of Placencia. Beautifully wrought thatched villas with handcarved Balinese furniture sit steps from a white-sand beach. Unparalleled diving and snorkeling await on a coral reef teeming with marine life, and if you time it right (March through June), you can witness the awe-inspiring whale shark migration. Other adventures include exploring nearby Mayan ruins, waterfalls, a jaguar preserve, and a mangrove-lined river populated by crocodiles, exotic birds, and howler monkeys. As the locals like to say: Unbelizeable.

Mayan Ruins, Belize / Courtesy photo

Bisate Reserve, Rwanda / Courtesy photo

Rwanda

Few places compare to the exhilaration of East Africa, and when the wildlife includes our closest genetic relatives, the experience takes on a deeper meaning. Wilderness  an eco-friendly safari company, recently opened Bisate Reserve inside Volcanoes National Park, perfectly combining plush comfort with the unbridled excitement of gorilla trekking. Guided by experts steeped in local knowledge, you’re virtually guaranteed close encounters with these majestic great apes.

Close Encounter with an Eastern Lowland Gorilla, Rwanda / Courtesy photo

Intimacy is assured at the property’s four exquisite en suite villas, each with its own living area, deck, and hot tub. Birdwatching and cultural experiences with local people round out the itinerary, and even the most jaded travelers have dubbed Rwanda the ultimate wildlife destination.

From Bisate, continue on to Wilderness’s other new offering, Magashi Peninsula, an eight-bed camp located in Akagera National Park. Offering the full safari experience within Africa’s largest protected wetland, guests can see all of the “Big Five”—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo. One of the few places on Earth to host both white and black rhinos, Akagera also dazzles with giraffes, zebras, countless antelope species, and more than 520 bird species. It’s impossible to overstate the beauty of this tiny nation—the perfect place to, as they say, do it like they do on the Discovery Channel.

Glacier Hiking in Juneau, Alaska / Courtesy photo

Alaska

The best introduction to the 49th state is by cruise ship, and our favorite line for combining luxury and adrenaline is Silversea, whose ships Silver Whisper and Silver Moon sail to all of Alaska’s greatest hits.

Departing from Vancouver, the journey winds through the famed Inside Passage, with its first stop in Ketchikan—the “Salmon Capital of the World”—known for its candy-colored Old West architecture. Juneau offers immersion in the indigenous Tlingit culture, while Skagway is a portal back to the Gold Rush era, and Sitka retains a strong Russian influence, with landmarks such as the Russian Bishop’s House and the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Michael. (Fun fact: Sitka is the largest U.S. city by area—4,800 square miles—hinting at the vastness of Alaska’s wilderness.)

The undeniable highlight is the awe-inspiring Hubbard Glacier, which defies description. Guests disembark in Seward, from where they can continue on to Denali National Park or take one of the world’s most scenic train rides to Anchorage. For those choosing the latter, we strongly recommend a stay at the camp operated by Alaska Helicopter Tours. The exhilaration of flying low over pristine glaciers, landing beside cobalt-blue pools, and even dogsledding on the ice is an experience you’ll be telling your grandkids about.

Silver Muse, Alaska / Courtesy photo

Alaskan Grizzlies, Alaska / Courtesy photo

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “Wild at Heart.”

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The Bradley Estate / Dan Aguirre Photography

The Bradley Estate
Canton, Mass.

Just 15 miles south of Boston, the Bradley Estate in Canton offers a grand yet intimate setting that’s rich in New England charm. A property of the Trustees of Reservations, this Georgian-style mansion resides on 90 acres of gorgeous formal gardens, rolling meadows, and enchanting woodlands. Designed by landscape architect Charles Platt, the surroundings feel worlds away from the city, making them ideal for couples wanting refined elegance with a pastoral twist.

For ceremonies, the formal parterre garden that encircles the pristine manicured lawn makes the perfect spot for exchanging vows and taking photographs, boasting 360 degrees of stunning backdrops. There’s also a low brick wall that borders the garden, featuring a tranquil water fountain that sets the scene for serenity. In addition to ceremonies, gardens and terraces can host cocktail hours. For receptions, tented weddings are ideal for dinner and dancing for up to 180 guests, located adjacent to the residence on the North Lawn. Additionally, the mansion’s first floor is available for socializing, and seating within can accommodate up to 80 guests. With the guidance of the on-site event team, couples can tailor every detail, from catering packages to garden florals, making each celebration feel effortless and unforgettable. Canton, bradleyestateevents.com.

Guest Excursion
Trillium Brewing Company – Canton

Just minutes from the Bradley Estate lies the family-friendly Trillium Brewing Company -Canton, a craft-beer destination with a full taproom, a restaurant with a seasonal wood-fired menu, and a large outdoor patio. Located at 100 Royall Street, the space merges an elevated microbrewery energy with an inviting dining atmosphere, making it the perfect place for wedding parties or attendees looking to keep the festivities going off-site. With rotating taps of award-winning ales, craft cocktails, enticing food, and non-alcoholic options (for young guests or nondrinkers), Trillium is an effortless outing for those who want convenience, local flavor, and a celebratory atmosphere without venturing back into the city. trilliumbrewing.com.

Highfield Hall & Gardens
Falmouth, Mass.

Perched above Falmouth’s lush Beebe Woods and minutes from the Cape’s shoreline, Highfield Hall & Gardens is a majestic manor with seaside charm. Originally constructed in 1878 by the Beebe family as part of a Gilded Age estate, the beautifully restored, Queen Anne–style mansion is now celebrated as one of Cape Cod’s most elegant wedding destinations. Surrounded by nearly 400 stunning acres of conservation land, this 6-acre property has two historic gardens, expansive lawns, heirloom trees, and woodlands, offering a secluded and romantic setting that feels both refined and relaxed. Ceremonies often take place in gardens framed by stone walls and vibrant florals, while cocktail hours and receptions can be held on the back lawn beneath an illuminated tent. Indoors, the mansion’s gallery-like rooms, intricate woodwork, and grand staircase provide striking photo backdrops and intimate gathering spaces. Overall, up to 150 guests can be accommodated.

As a historic estate, Highfield Hall is a space-only rental, which includes tent rental. The fee includes full use of the house and the surrounding area, as well as a ready room for the bride and groom. While the team at Highfield provides couples with a list of caterers to choose from, they are also permitted to select any additional vendors, enabling them to personalize every element of their event. Falmouth, highfieldhallandgardens.org.

Rehearsal Dinner
Flying Bridge Restaurant

Unfolding across the scenic waterfront of Falmouth Harbor, the Flying Bridge Restaurant offers a relaxed, coastal setting right on the water—ideal for bringing friends and family together before the big day. With thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor event spaces—plus access to an open-air patio and stylish furnishings—this venue seamlessly blends comfort with upscale appeal and fabulous, fresh classic New England seafood. flyingbridgerestaurant.com.

The Mount / Courtesy photo

The Mount
Lenox, Mass.

For couples seeking a wedding steeped in artistry, elegance, and history, the Mount—Edith Wharton’s former home in Lenox—sets a scene for romance. Nestled in the Berkshires, the historic estate, built and designed by the Pulitzer Prize–winning American author in 1902, spans nearly 50 acres and reflects her keen eye for architecture, gardens, and storytelling. Today, the meticulously restored Gilded Age mansion and its colorful, award-winning formal gardens provide a breathtaking setting for celebrations of every scale.

With a variety of ceremony and reception locations available, the estate and gardens can accommodate weddings of numerous sizes, serving up to 250 guests. Ceremonies often occur in the gorgeous French Flower Garden (inspired by the gardens at Versailles) or the intimate Italian Garden (inspired by Renaissance architecture). Receptions can be held on the Terrace, which overlooks the property’s grounds and the mountains beyond, or in one of the tent sites, such as the Forecourt in front of the mansion. Inside, couples have separate getting-ready rooms for before the ceremony and can host cocktail hours or intimate ceremonies. The Mount partners with seasoned event professionals to ensure every detail honors the estate’s storied legacy while simultaneously reflecting each couple’s personal vision. Lenox, edithwharton.org.

The Mount / Courtesy photo

Guest Accommodations
Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

Less than 1.5 miles from the Mount, Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa offers a serene, adults-only escape for wedding squads and attendees seeking an ideal, nearby retreat before or after the big day. Set on 380 acres in Lenox, the luxury wellness destination combines nature, restorative programming, and thoughtful hospitality with an all-inclusive format that features chef-driven meals, wellness classes, and access to the Life in Balance Spa. From equine experiences and yoga to sound-bath sessions and meditation, Miraval encourages guests to unplug and recharge in a digital-device-light environment where a peaceful setting and high-touch amenities are the focus. miravalresorts.com.

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “History Meets Romance.”

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Courtesy

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
Bristol, Rhode Island

The 33-acre Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arborteum along the shores of Narragansett Bay is one of the most intact examples of the Country Place Era in the U.S., where wealthy Americans commissioned lavish retreats from 1890 to 1930. Since then, it has been impeccably maintained inside and out, making this 45-room stone manor and its mature landscape a stunning setting for a wedding for up to 225 guests. Host your ceremony on the sweeping waterfront lawn, then steal a breath of fresh air and a moment alone with your new spouse as you stroll down to the bay. Follow the serpentine paths through the property, and you’ll find an arboretum filled with native specimens—including the tallest giant sequoia on the East Coast—as well as exotic trees inspired by the original owners’ travels to Asia and Europe. Don’t miss the Bosquet, French for “woodland,” and bamboo forest for your newlywed photos. Bristol, RI, blithewold.org.

REHEARSAL DINNER SPACE
The Franklin

This modern French brasserie exudes classic European charm, with its candlelight and vintage art setting an intimate mood for your rehearsal. From the first bite of mushroom coquettes to duck confit or pot de crème, plus bubbly, you’ll be whisked abroad the moment you cross the threshold. groundswellguild.com.

The Garden at Elm Bank / Courtesy photo

The Garden at Elm Bank
Wellesley, Mass.

Less than 20 miles from downtown Boston, 12 resplendent gardens are a wedding haven at the Garden at Elm Bank’s 36-acre oasis. The Pollinator Meadow, Dahlia and Daylily gardens, and Goddess Garden offer layers of color and thousands of diverse plants from spring through late fall, while the Olmsted Italianate Garden is an exclusive spot for a ceremony, with its 14th-century Spanish fountain and blush hydrangeas. Wander the grounds to get your bearings or visit the Belvedere Pagoda during cocktail hour. Then settle under the stars for the reception (with a tent, of course) in the Maple Grove, known for its towering maple trees and enough lawn to cover a hockey rink. With multiple event venues for indoor and outdoor weddings, you’re covered even if it rains—the Hunnewell building is a stately carriage house with romance in its veins.

Wellesley, masshort.org.

GUEST EXCURSION
The Davis Museum at Wellesley College

This modern art museum is free and open to the public Tuesday through Sunday on Wellesley College’s campus. The 11,000 objects in its permanent collection are sure to delight, while temporary exhibitions include French faience ceramics and ancient Mediterranean jewels, plant portraits, and African American prints. wellesley.edu.

Long Hill / Courtesy photo

Long Hill

Beverly, Mass.

A beloved Federal-style home for the Sedgwick family from the early to late 1900s across 114 acres, Long Hill has blossomed into a property that’s open to the public and hosts al fresco weddings for up to 140 people. Its enchanting naturalistic and structured gardens are organized into “rooms” with distinct plantings, ornamentation, and statuary that offer blooms of color through the growing season. With ample space here, guests can explore before the ceremony or stay in intimate groups to admire and compare the horticulture between rooms. Take a cocktail to investigate the property’s network of 100 woodland acres that flanks the gardens with walking trails, an apple orchard, meadows, and a children’s garden, or the happy couple can escape for a smooch and a private portrait session. Beverly, thetrustees.org.

GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

CLARENDON SQUARE BED AND BREAKFAST

Clarendon Square Bed and Breakfast occupies a beautifully renovated 1860s townhouse where historic charm meets boutique luxury. Guests will discover designer-decorated rooms with marble en suite baths and rich fabrics, while upstairs, a rooftop terrace with a hot tub offers sweeping city views.

clarendonsquare.com.

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “Verdant Vows.”

 

Photo by Hassan Hadad

For Katherine and Harley Waller, love seemed meant to be since they had been in each other’s orbit for years. The pair first met at boarding school in the Berkshires, where Harley was friends with Katherine’s older brother. Years later, when she moved to Boston for college, her brother encouraged her to reach out to a familiar face also living in the city. “We started dating pretty much immediately,” Katherine says. Nine years later, Harley proposed on Nahant Beach at sunset, with their beloved dog, Braxton, by their side, just days after Katherine’s father suffered a heart attack. “It’s kind of crazy how it all happened,” Harley recalls. While jokes were made about the timing, the family felt nothing but joy after her father recovered and wedding planning began.

Although the bride grew up spending summers in Hyannis Port, originally imagining the big day there, the couple soon realized Harley’s family farm in Stockbridge was actually the ideal destination. “We spent a lot of time there, and it became a really special place for us,” Katherine reveals. A sprawling property dating to 1902, the farm has been home to generations of horses, history, and heartfelt celebrations. “There’s a level of formality to the property, but there’s also a level of comfort,” Harley adds. The weekend’s standout moments included the couple’s horse-drawn arrivals—Harley in a vintage Bugatti carriage and Katherine in a smaller one alongside her father in a top hat—their ceremony beneath the family’s heirloom arbor, and a champagne-sabering reception that gave way to a glowing “Pink Pony Club” after-party, complete with a brass-band parade and late-night McDonald’s delivery. “It was perfect,” Katherine says. “We really had the best time ever.”

Photo by Hassan Hadad

Photo by Hassan Hadad

The Details

THE THEME

“Our big theme was we wanted to make sure we had a good environment for both our younger crowd to have fun and dance, and our older crowd to have areas where they could sit, chat, socialize, and have a good night without worrying about everything being so loud, hectic, and hard to get to,” Katherine reveals. “I think we really pulled that vision off. Mandy [the wedding planner] did such a great job making sure that everyone was really comfortable .”

Photo by Hassan Hadad

THE FAMILY TRADITION

A tradition that’s literally rooted in the family’s farmland is to marry under a specific arbor located on the property. “Everyone in the house who got married under there has had very long and happy marriages,” Katherine reveals. “It was built for my parents,” Harley adds. “They got married there in the 1980s, and there hasn’t been a bad marriage underneath it.”

THE BAND

“Our wedding planner sent us a bunch of bands, and we listened to all of their different samples. We found this one band [Ripcord]. The two singers were just incredible, and they have this award-winning brass section that is internationally known,” Harley says. “We just couldn’t live without them. It was definitely really high on the budget, but it was so essential. They really made the whole evening.”

Photo by Hassan Hadad

THE FIRST DANCE

After some photos, the couple was announced into the reception tent, where they had their first dance to “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” by Leo Sayer. “We had a little mix-up with that, where we weren’t used to it. We were only used to the recording—not someone performing it,” Katherine shares with a laugh. “So we missed our first mark and just improvised it,” Harley adds. “No one knew. It was great. We just did our moves.” It was very “them,” the bride continues, “because we were giggling the whole time.”

THE CAKE

While at some weddings the cutting of the cake is an event in and of itself, Katherine and Harley wanted everyone to just keep enjoying cutting a rug on the dance floor. “We didn’t do it traditionally and have everyone go around us,” the bride explains. “We had the cake off to the side, and we did it privately, which was great. We got great pictures. We had a lot of passed desserts because we just wanted to dance.”

Photo by Hassan Hadad

THE AIRPLANE

In addition to the vintage carriage that was stationed inside the big tent for the reception, another showstopping decorative piece was a small World War I–era airplane. “After I drove the coach to the ceremony, we put it on one side and then this airplane on the other,” the groom explains. “It was a really cool feature because it’s fully functioning, and people could actually climb into it.”

Photo by Hassan Hadad

Photo by Hassan Hadad

THE HORSES

While the horses played an important part leading the couple to the ceremony in their respective carriages, that wasn’t the only role they took on. “Some of the amazing staff who work at the farm brought up two of the horses so everyone in the tent could pet them,” the bride reveals.

Photo by Hassan Hadad

THE AFTER-PARTY

The after-party theme was the “Pink Pony Club,” and its big reveal didn’t disappoint. “The lighting team was able to make it look almost like a landing strip all the way from our big tent down into what we call the ‘Party Barn,’” Katherine reveals. “The band turned into this Louisiana-style marching band,” Harley adds, “we all marched down there together.” The band played a few songs with the DJ, and later, multiple McDonald’s Happy Meals were brought in for late-night snacking.

Photo by Hassan Hadad

The File

Band Ripcord
Bride’s Dress (Ceremony) Amsale with custom Vera Wang sleeves and veil
Bride’s Dress (Reception) Anne Barge
Cake and Caterer Mezze Catering
Flowers Fleur Events
Groom’s Attire Hive & Colony
Hair & Makeup Jeannie Reilly-Ortega
Lighting & Draping SociaLight Boston
Photographer Hassan Hadad
Planner & Designer Hummingbird Events & Design
Shuttles AA Transportation

Photo by Hassan Hadad

Photo by Hassan Haddad

Photo by Hassan Hadad

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “Landmark Occasion.”

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Prima / Courtesy photo

PRIMA

Sophisticated yet inviting, Prima Italian Steakhouse brings contemporary luxury to weddings with an atmosphere that feels both modern and timeless. The restaurant’s design features rich textures, marble accents, and warm lighting—creating a setting that’s perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.

FOR FUEL BEFORE THE FESTIVITY

La Saison Bakery

This branch of the beloved Cambridge bakery opens every day at 7 a.m., making it a bright, early-morning stop in the neighborhood. Inside, you’ll find artisan breads, pastries, and sourdough pizza with a 72-hour slow-fermented crust that made the bakery famous. lasaison-bakery.com.

For smaller weddings, the Park Room, furnished with plush velvet seating and vibrant florals, is ideal for ceremonies, dinners, or cocktail receptions of up to 40 guests. The Rose Room, equally stylish and equipped with its own bar, lends itself beautifully to rehearsal dinners or smaller receptions. Larger affairs can take over the main dining room, which seats 180 or transforms into a full restaurant buyout spanning 4,300 square feet, including a seasonal patio for outdoor gatherings. With elevated Italian cuisine, impeccable service, and artful interiors, Prima offers a wedding backdrop that feels both grand and intimate—a true celebration of taste and style.

Charlestown, primaboston.com.

Capo Restaurant & Supper Club / Courtesy photo

CAPO RESTAURANT & SUPPER CLUB

A South Boston landmark, Capo brings bold Italian energy and urban sophistication to weddings of every scale. The sprawling venue unfolds across multiple levels, offering settings for everything from romantic dinners to lively, late-night receptions.

GUEST EXCURSION

Castle Island

This 22-acre waterfront park offers sweeping views of Boston Harbor and miles of scenic walking paths. At its center stands Fort Independence, a granite fort dating to the 1830s on a site that has been fortified since the 1600s, making it one of the oldest continually fortified sites in the country. Today, the island welcomes visitors with its beaches, picnic areas, and breezy coastal charm. nps.gov.

The main dining room, with its exposed brick, wood-fired ovens, and warm lighting, can host 360 guests (180 seated), while the Private Dining Room offers a more intimate experience for up to 200 guests. Below, the Supper Club—with its private street entrance, state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, DJ booth, and built-in stage—creates an unforgettable after-party or reception venue. Whether couples envision a candlelit dinner followed by dancing into the night or a full-venue takeover, Capo combines the soul of classic Italian hospitality with the vibrancy of a city celebration. It’s a venue that transitions seamlessly from sophisticated dinner to spirited dance floor, making it a dynamic restaurant wedding destination.
South Boston, caposouthboston.com.

Capri / Courtesy photo

CAPRI

In the South End, Capri offers an effortlessly chic setting for couples seeking a refined yet relaxed celebration. Inspired by the Italian coastline, the restaurant is layered with natural textures, soft lighting, and a warm palette that feels at once cosmopolitan and transportive.

GUEST EXCURSION

Clarendon Square Bed and Breakfast

This under-the-radar spot occupies a beautifully renovated 1860s townhouse where historic charm meets boutique luxury. Guests will discover designer-decorated rooms with marble en suite baths and rich fabrics, while upstairs, a rooftop terrace with a hot tub offers sweeping city views.clarendonsquare.com.

The Garden Room on the first floor, featuring a private bar and lush greenery, is perfect for intimate ceremonies or cocktail receptions, hosting up to 50 guests standing or 34 seated. Upstairs, the main dining room, anchored by a grand piano and elegant bar, accommodates 175 guests (120 seated) for dinner and dancing. For larger celebrations, full buyouts can include the patio, bringing total capacity to 460 guests. Capri blends upscale dining with easy sophistication—where exceptional food, seamless service, and romantic ambiance come together for weddings that feel timelessly Boston yet distinctly Italian.

South End, capriboston.com.

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026with the headline, “Love on the Menu.”

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Photo by Callisto & Co.

August 16, 2025
Assaggio Restaurant & Lounge
Boston, Massachusetts

For Margaret Jones and Cooper Milano, finding love was a twist of fate during one of the most unlikely times. After moving back home to Massachusetts during COVID, Margaret was unsure how she would meet anyone new until her roommate’s boyfriend unexpectedly connected her to his roommate, who turned out to be Cooper. “It was kind of like a butterfly effect,” the bride says. “Everything just fell into place.” Though the two hit it off immediately, life took them in different directions when Cooper moved to Arizona for work. Still, their connection was undeniable, so he eventually decided to return to Boston—this time for good.

A few years later, that same sense of serendipity carried through to their engagement. During a family getaway in Kennebunkport, Maine, Cooper surprised Margaret with a proposal on the beach outside their favorite spot, the Tides Beach Club, complete with a hidden photographer and both families waiting in the wings with champagne and cowbells. “I thought that I had made all these plans [for the day],” she says, laughing, “when he secretly was planning above my plans.”

Photo by Callisto & Co.

When it came time to wed, the couple decided to honor their relationship’s roots. They ultimately opted for an intimate celebration in their favorite part of the city, the North End, marrying at St. Leonard’s church surrounded by their closest family and friends during Fisherman’s Feast. With rich red florals—nods to the neighborhood’s Italian influence—and a cozy dinner-party vibe, the event embodied what mattered most: family, connection, and the joy of keeping traditions while simultaneously making the experience entirely their own.

Photo by Callisto & Co.

THE MUSIC

Because the event was held in the North End there were restrictions on amplified music, so the couple had to work around that. “We ended up having a guitar and a violinist who led us from the church to the restaurant, so guests knew where they were going,” the bride explains. “Then they stayed throughout cocktail hour and came upstairs for dinner and a portion of the night.”

THE TRADITIONS

“My ‘something borrowed’ was my older sister and maid of honor’s wedding dress, which I wore for the reception,” Margaret reveals. “We bought it from Unbridaled in Austin, Texas, where she lives. It fit perfectly, and I bought a neck scarf to make it my own. This was a money saver and also so sentimental.” The couple also burned the same candle the bride’s sister used on her wedding day for additional good luck.

Photo by Callisto & Co.

THE FIRST LOOK

Before the ceremony, Margaret’s girlfriends came over for a “first look” before her father arrived for his. “They surprised me with a playlist of songs that reminded them of me—I had to guess who picked each one,” the bride says. “It was such a sweet, joy-filled moment that helped calm my nerves and set the tone for the day.” Additionally, as part of her look, Margaret wore feathered Jeffrey Campbell kitten heels she bought on a girls’ trip long before she met Cooper, which were still in the box, never worn, and originally saved just for her “bridal era.”

Photo by Callisto & Co.

Photo by Callisto & Co.

THE VENUE

For Margaret and Cooper, selecting a venue—one of which was Assaggio—was based on accommodating their guests. “We never dined there before,” the bride admits, “but I loved the other restaurants from DePasquale Ventures, so I knew the food would be good.” After narrowing it down to two places, the couple fell in love with Assaggio’s event coordinator, Mikhael, which sealed the deal. “I got such a good vibe from her, and it was all exactly what we wanted. Plus, Assaggio is attached to the church, so no one had to go far.”

Photo by Callisto & Co.

THE FOOD

The couple wanted people to feel like they were at a feast, passing around different dishes and foods. That included some classic North End Italian fare like raviolis and meatballs, along with some Assaggio special sides, because they thought the experience should be a unique combination of what the restaurant offers. “We tried to make the cocktail hour feel like social bites, which is how dinner ended up being as well,” the bride says. “We wanted it to be like a large grazing table where everyone went around family style and grabbed whatever they wanted.”

Photo by Callisto & Co.

THE GOODIES

The couple got cigars for all the guys in attendance because the groom and the bride’s uncles enjoy smoking them. “That was fun to do out in the street,” Margaret says, “and it was a nod to the North End.” Each guest was gifted a takeaway box from Modern Pastry on the way out. “But people were so full at the end of the night that half of the guests left without them,” she laughs. “I couldn’t believe the amount of food that came out. It was like a never-ending feast!”

Photo by Callisto & Co.

THE FIRST DANCE

While the couple didn’t have an official first dance prepared, that was what made theirs so fun. “We talked about doing it and decided not to, but then we ended up having an impromptu spin when one of our friends put on ‘Iris’ by the Goo Goo Dolls and told us we must dance,” Margaret reveals. “It was the end of the night, so whoever was still there at that point—a good amount of people—got to see us.”

Photo by Callisto & Co.

Photo by Callisto & Co.

Photo by Callisto & Co.

Bride’s Dress Gabrielle Atelier, Unbridaled (Austin, Texas)
Ceremony Venue St. Leonard of Port Maurice
Flowers Rococo Floral Co.
Groom’s Attire Suit Supply
Hair Abbie Cooke Hair, One Zero Four Salon
Makeup Athra Mikha
Music Joe Sabourin (guitarist), Danielle Turano (violinist), via Music Management
Photographer Cory O’Leary, Callisto & Co.
Planner Jodi Raphael Events
Reception Venue Assaggio Restaurant & Lounge

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “Margaret Jones and Cooper Milano.”

Rachel Puppolo and Joseph Olson. Photograph by 2026 Best of Boston Weddings winner CityLux Studios.

Photo by Jenna Brisson

First comes love, then comes marriage; somewhere in between, you get to know your partner’s family. For South Boston residents Emmy Murtagh and Geoff Sullivan, these moments came early in the relationship during family trips and memories forged on the slopes of Stowe, Vermont. Emmy and Geoff’s story began on a rainy night in 2020, on a date set up by mutual friends. Although they had crossed paths as boarding students at the Governor’s Academy in Newbury, the pair were a few grades apart, had attended different colleges, and hadn’t stayed in touch.

Immediately, the couple knew they were the perfect fit for each other. Soon, Emmy and Geoff were dating, and as a pandemic couple, their love blossomed among family. Weekends skiing together at Spruce Peak in Stowe—a second home to Emmy’s parents—were especially treasured, eventually serving as the inspiration for their wedding.

When Geoff proposed to Emmy, the couple considered honoring their North Shore roots with a classic coastal wedding. But, after some thought, Geoff suggested tying the knot in the mountains instead, at their beloved Spruce Peak. “We had been going up there since we started dating,” Geoff says. “Stowe held a special place in our hearts.”

With the venue decided and a date set—August 9, 2025—Emmy and Geoff began planning the summer wedding of their dreams, which featured an outdoor ceremony and reception, a playful color scheme, and a lively dance floor.

From heartfelt speeches to the bride’s “something borrowed” gown, every part of the day was infused with the one thing Emmy and Geoff value the most: their love of family.

“It was a real molding of all our closest people,” Emmy says. “We feel really lucky that everything came together, and it was really the people that made it so incredible.”

Photo by Jenna Brisson

Photo by Jenna Brisson

The Details

THE VENUE

The Lodge at Spruce Peak is home to glorious views of Vermont’s Green Mountains, which played a starring role in Emmy and Geoff’s wedding décor as a backdrop for their ceremony and reception. The ceremony took place at the base of Spruce Peak—a meaningful nod to their years skiing together—while the reception was hosted in a clear-paneled tent on the resort’s lawn, giving the event an open-air feel.

Photo by Jenna Brisson

Photo by Jenna Brisson

THE FLOWERS

To add color to the event’s décor, the team from Blue Door Flower Co. relied on vibrant shades of pink and purple, making every corner of the venue feel “warm and full of life,” the couple says. “Being by the mountains, you could go neutrals or beautiful greens and whites,” Emmy says. “But I just wanted to have something that jumped out.”

Photo by Jenna Brisson

THE PLACE CARDS

Handmade accents—including a seating-chart mirror and 175 heartfelt letters, handwritten by the bride and placed at each guest’s seat—brought an intimate vibe to Emmy and Geoff’s special day. Along with the notes, the couple made gondola-shaped fuchsia-pink place cards, with some extra support from Emmy’s dad. “I got these wooden stands for them, and the week before, my dad had to saw every single stand for them to fit,” Emmy says.

Photo by Jenna Brisson

THE WEDDING GOWN

On her special day, Emmy honored her grandmother and mother by donning the dress they both wore for their nuptials: an elegant gown custom-made for her grandmother by a designer in Connecticut. Accompanied by a removable bustle and lace overlay, the strapless dress offered three styles in one. Other than some minor alterations and a touch of restoration—performed by the experts at L’élite Bridal on Newbury Street, where Emmy bought her veil—nothing was changed style-wise, making the dress a true homage to the women who wore it first.

Photo by Jenna Brisson

THE PARTY DRESS

When it was time to dance the night away, Emmy matched her bridesmaids and the couple’s lively floral arrangements with a bright pink mini dress—a fun outfit she says is a reflection of her personal style. “I wanted something that was very me,” Emmy says. “That, and I wanted it to fit with the kind of bright color scheme.”

Photo by Jenna Brisson

THE SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

As a specialty drink, the couple offered a whiskey-based Colby Mule, in honor of Geoff’s alma mater, Colby College, and its mascot, the mule. Then there was the Mookie Margarita, served classic or spicy, named after their pet golden doodle and inspired by their wintery visits to Vermont. “On all of our ski trips when we were falling in love, we were getting margaritas on the mountain,” Emmy says.

Photo by Jenna Brisson

THE CAKE

Much like Emmy and Geoff, the wedding cake was a fun pairing made in heaven: three tiers of bourbon-vanilla-bean sponge topped with Amaretto buttercream and a layer of tart raspberry-lemon preserves. Decorated in lush pink flowers, with a Mookie cake topper to boot, the dessert was a sweet complement to a night on the dance floor.

THE DANCE FLOOR

For their wedding reception, the couple envisioned a party full of good energy and lots of dancing. To achieve that, Emmy and Geoff went with a live band—Boston-based ensemble collective East Coast Soul—rather than a DJ. “We wanted a band that was really going to get into the crowd and feed off their energy,” Geoff says. “That was one of the staples of our wedding.”

Photo by Jenna Brisson

The File

Band East Coast Soul
Bride’s Dress Preservations & Alterations L’élite Bridal Atelier
Event Coordinator David Hall from the Lodge at Spruce Peak
Flowers Emma Murray from Blue Door Flower Co.
Hair Jubilance Salon
Makeup Maia Rose from Aphrodite Artistry, CDH Makeup Artistry
Photographer Jenna Brisson
Planner Katie Cary from the Event Sisters
Stationery Scriptura
Videographer Dominique Wilkins from StopGoLove

Photo by Jenna Brisson

Photo by Jenna Brisson

First published in the print issue of Boston Weddings 2026 with the headline, “High Spirits.”