You know when you get a vision in your head about something and you eat, sleep and breathe that vision until you can actually make it come alive? Well this Vintage Bridal Styled Shoot was not only my FIRST styled shoot as the Lead Photographer but a vision that came from my Grandmother's Bridal Portrait. She is my "WHY" and bless her soul she left behind a legacy that I want to continue to honor and cherish. She was an artist, a real estate agent, a lover of antiques and one of the toughest ladies I have ever met. She was born in 1919 and was an only child. She lived through the Great Depression, World War II, married my grandfather and bore 5 children. She helped raise my sister and I until we were in our early teens. She was our second momma and after her passing in 2013 I feel like her spirit lives on within my journey. The bridal portraits I have of her not only keep her spirit alive but also inspired me to be better. To reach for the stars...Never Look Back...Jump off the cliff...because someone or something will always catch you!

This sentimental styled shoot was elegantly orchestrated by the sensationally talented Jackie Martucci of Events by Jackie M. It brought tears to my eyes when I walked into Mill 1 at Open Square venue in Holyoke, MA. Jackie had taken my little idea of inspiration from my Grandmother's era and created an amazing setting that not only encompassed our Vintage Bridal vision but honestly I felt transformed in time to the 1940-1950s.

I donated a few of my grandmother's antique dinner china set and I was so thrilled to see it showcased in our shoot. Our gorgeous model for the afternoon, Alice, is one of my September brides to be. When we were coordinating this shoot I immediately thought of her. She has this iconic and timeless look and she LOVES antiques as much as I do that I knew that she was the perfect fit. And OH Gosh! She totally was. Michelle of Michelle Anne Hair Design nailed the hair style we envisioned perfectly and Amber of That Girl brought her full game on and completed the vintage bride with gorgeous makeup artistry. The design skills from Kerry of I do Flowers complimented every aspect of a vintage bride. From the cascading bridal bouquet to the elegant and classy tabletop spread. I loved seeing the Proteus flower in her creations. Our bride wore a soft ivory tea-length wedding dress that was over the top perfection from Pearl Bridal of Holyoke. Her look was all pulled together with one of my favorite accessories - the Bird Cage Veil. Swoon....There is just something about them that has this simple and classy elegance. Seeing Pete's Sweets creations come alive for our wedding cake was breathtaking. They do the most exquisite work and never disappoint. I truly believe the venue at Mill 1 at Open Square was the icing on the cake for our styled shoot. The architecture, ambiance and the LIGHT created an amazing backdrop for our shoot. Lastly, I am always impressed by the variety and decor provided by Michael's Party Rentals. Seriously, they have everything you can think of to compliment your visions. 

I am deeply grateful to the team of vendors and friends who collaborated to make this dream come true. You all went above and beyond to create a fabulous Vintage Bridal Styled Shoot and I cannot wait for the next one. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Many Many Thanks to the Talented Team of:

Stylist/Event Coordinator: Jackie of Events by Jackie M

Venue: Mill 1 of Open Square

Bridal Gown/Accessories: Allure from Pearl Bridal

Hair: Michelle of Michelle Anne Hair Design

Makeup: Amber of That Girl

Florist: Kerry of I do Flowers

Bakery: Pete's Sweets

Rentals: Michael's Party Rentals