There are some weddings that pull you into its orbit—where the mood, the people, and the design all operate at a level that feels almost cinematic. Julia & Kevin’s wedding at Glen Manor House was one of those celebrations. Elegant without trying, joyful without performance, and deeply rooted in connection.

Everything about the weekend felt like a reflection of who they are: stylish, discerning, and full of warmth. From the historic venues to the curated cocktails and late-spring florals, nothing was overdone—and yet every detail felt beautifully dialed in. It was refined, yes, but most of all, it was personal.

One of the many moments that stood out that morning? The team from Gathered East—true collaborators in every sense—brought over one of the reception linens for me to use in styling the details. That level of thoughtfulness doesn’t just elevate the flatlays; it creates cohesion across the full gallery. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes magic that makes the final imagery feel seamless.

Getting Ready at The Vanderbilt

The day started at The Vanderbilt, a Gilded Age mansion-turned-boutique hotel in the heart of Newport. With its sculptural staircases, grand interiors, and rich textures, it set the tone immediately. And when the forecast shifted and the rain rolled in, this getting ready venue gave us the perfect backdrop for a stunning indoor first look and bridal party portraits.

The night before, Julia and Kevin welcomed guests at the hotel with a rehearsal dinner inspired by the playful opulence of the Vanderbilts. In a full-circle gesture, they brought in a circus troupe from California—the very same performers from Julia’s bat mitzvah—for an evening of palm reading, fortune telling, and immersive entertainment. It was sentimental, bold, and completely unforgettable. A perfect prelude to a wedding that celebrated not just aesthetics, but legacy and personal connection.

A Garden Ceremony That Felt Like It Was Meant to Be

By the time we arrived at Glen Manor House, the rain had passed and the clouds lifted. The ceremony went forward outside, exactly as it was meant to be.

I was especially grateful to have my drone on hand for this one. Capturing Glen Manor from above added a whole new layer to the visual story—showing not just the elegance of the architecture, but its stunning proximity to the water. I’m always moving between wide, sweeping scenes and quiet, intimate moments, and having that aerial perspective allowed me to fully convey the sense of place that defined this day. It’s those establishing shots—zoomed out, grounded in landscape—that give context to the close-up moments. Together, they tell a fuller, richer story.

The setting was lush and expansive, framed by the Sakonnet River and the estate’s classic French-inspired architecture. Soul Flora Design floral work looked as though it had grown up from the earth: grounded, organic, and elegantly wild. The chuppah, flanked by a meandering aisle of blooms, created an immersive moment—like walking into a curated garden scene that just happened to be a wedding.

Golden Hour, in Ten Minutes

With a day shaped by shifting weather and on-the-fly decisions, portraits could’ve been a stress point—but they weren’t. Not for me, and definitely not for Julia & Kevin.

We had about ten minutes total—just enough time to pull them from the end of cocktail hour and again briefly during golden hour. And honestly, it was perfect. These two were completely present, totally connected, and trusted me to move fast and make it count.

The portraits didn’t need to be the main event. They were a quiet, beautiful moment in a day already full of meaning. Just a chance to step away, take a breath, and soak each other in. And sometimes, that’s when the best images happen.

A Reception Defined by Elevated Ease

The reception design was next-level. Every surface, texture, and palette choice was intentional but never precious. The custom-built bar, wrapped in soft green and topped with sculptural florals and lavender-hued menus, was as much a design statement as it was a gathering point.

Inside the tented terrace and reception rooms, scalloped lace linens, soft lilac napkins, and layered candlelight gave each table a polished but relaxed elegance. The floral palette was tonal and romantic without veering into traditional. Think garden florals with edge—orchids, ranunculus, lisianthus, and herbs, grounded by fruit and branch elements for depth.

More Than a Vendor List—A Circle

Julia and Kevin are the kind of couple who draw people in—with their warmth, wit, and effortless sense of style. They brought together the best creative partners New England has to offer and brought us up from Philadelphia for the full weekend. From the very beginning, it was clear: this wasn’t just about curating a beautiful event—it was about forming genuine, meaningful connections.

Julia works alongside her parents at Heimark Vineyard, their family’s winery in California, and the intentionality she brings to that work was woven through every element of the weekend. Her taste is discerning, yes—but what really stands out is the way she honors artistry, trusts her team, and makes everyone feel like they’re part of something special.

That energy flowed through the whole celebration. Every vendor felt seen. Every moment felt considered. And as the night came to a close, Julia turned to me and said, “I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but if I ever have a baby, I’m flying you to California for the photos.” That’s the kind of person she is—quick to laugh, loyal to the core, and fully present with everyone lucky enough to be in her orbit.

This wedding was built on trust, taste, and an abundance of love. It was a privilege to be a part of it.

Vendors

 Planning & Design: Gathered East
Venue: Glen Manor House
Getting Ready: The Vanderbilt
Florals: Soul Flora Design
Drapery & Installations: Ryan Designs
Catering: Russel Morin Catering
Hair & Makeup: UpStyle
Stationery: Andi Mejia + Co.
Strings: Boston String Ensemble
Band: Wilson Stevens
Videography: Shutter & Sound