Katie got ready at her parent's home in Andover which was filled with happy family pictures and childhood memories:
I'd gotten to know Katie and her mom Claudia through the planning process and learned how close they are. It was so lovely to be able to capture this closeness thoughout the day.
Katie was also surrounded by the most fabulous group of girlfriends who made her giggle and happy-cry all day!
Meanwhile, Audrey started her day with Zirui and the guys.
I was lucky enough to photograph the rehearsal dinner at Andover Country Club the night before the wedding and it was amazing to hear all of the stories about Katie & Zirui and the glowing speeches. Katie's two brothers have become especially close to Zirui and they were present to help with last-minute bow-tie issues.
Katie and Zirui exchanged letters and gifts and I loved seeing Zirui's reaction to Katie's words.
Meanwhile, Katie was helped into her dress by her mom and co-MOHs. Somehow putting on the dress makes it all seem real, and Katie's eye shone as she realized this was all really happening.
Time to head to church! Katie's parents helped her up the steps of the church. In a weird weather anomaly, the skies darkened, the heavens opened and the rain poured for the hour-long ceremony and then just as the ceremony ended, the clouds parted and the sun came out.
Katie, could you look more radiant!?!??!
Zurui was waiting for Katie at the top of the aisle and a slew of emotions went across his face as he saw Katie for the first time.
Katie was walked down the aisle by her proud father:
Emotional for Katie's grandmothers too:
The wedding ceremony was held at St Augustines Parish in Andover, MA:
I had a preview of the musical talents of Katie's family at the rehearsal dinner and towards the end of the ceremony, Katie's father sang one of her favorite hymns (changing just a few of the words!).
Heartfelt vows:
Not sure these two could have looked any happier!!!
I rode in the limo with Katie & Zirui to Castleton in Windham, NH (shout-out to Lisa of Next Level Films who was super fabulous to work with, we were both overcome with emotion seeing Katie and Zirui interact in the car and laugh and talk about the ceremony, not to mention checking out their new wedding rings). We stopped at the entrance to Castleton to take advantage of the rocky backdrop with waterfalls.
Once we got to Castleton we worked quickly to take all of the formal pictures - wedding party, family pictures and portraits of Katie & Zirui during cocktail hour. I couldn't help myself from stealing a few moments to photograph Katie who looked just stunning!
Katie & Zirui's families couldn't have been more welcoming, they were so happy and supportive and joyful!
Meanwhile, cocktail hour was well and truly underway with all sorts of delicious hors d'oeuvres and champagne and conversation!
Seriously, have you seen a happier pair of newlyweds?!?!?
As cocktail hour drew to a close, it was time for friends and family to enter the ballroom filled with beautiful flowers, not to mention cake and uplighting and decor. I must also mention how amazing it was to work with Ana (again!). Ana is the owner and wedding planner of North Shore Weddings by Ana and she is just amazing, so calm, professional, on top of everything and meticulous in her approach. Can't recommend Ana highly enough!
The newlyweds made their entrance and went straight into their first dance:
Speeches and toasts were epic, both fathers spoke as well as Katie's maids of honor and Zirui's best men along with the most moving speech by the newlyweds as they thanked their nearest and dearest for their love and support and for being there.
Katie danced with her father:
And then the dancefloor was declared open!
We popped outside for a couple of minutes to take advantage of the blue twilight sky, Katie and Zirui then asked for a little alone time to reflect on the day. I kept my distance so I couldn't hear what they were saying but couldn't help myself from making a few pictures:
Katie & Zirui, thank you so much for choosing me as your wedding photographer. From your fall engagement pictures with pumpkins to the spring pictures on the harbor and then to your rehearsal dinner and wedding, it's been an honor to parachute into your lives and document your relationship which will only grow as you start your married life together!
