The Wedding Day
Lizzie and Patrick got married on the most beautiful Fall day in September at the Branford House Mansion in Groton, Connecticut. Branford House is such a unique venue, with its historical architecture and breathtaking views. The venue sits right on the water and the ocean was the perfect backdrop for their outdoor ceremony on the lawn.
Both Lizzie and Patrick got ready in their separate rooms at the venue. These getting ready pictures were some of my favorites because of the uniqueness of the bridal suite and the character all around the mansion. The darker colors of the walls paired with the natural light coming in from the windows was absolutely breathtaking and made their time getting ready seem calm and slow, which I love. Lizzie shared a first look with her dad before heading outside to do the same with her soon-to-be husband.
Their first look was natural and emotional. They met under the archway on the patio outside and took a few minutes together to prepare for their day, all while their entire wedding party of seventeen people (!!!), and their parents, peeked through the windows. It was beautiful. We then spent time exploring the grounds of the venue and taking photos as we went.
The ceremony was truly one of a kind. From one direction, all you could see was endless ocean behind the floral details of their altar, and from the other side was the architectural masterpiece that is the Branford House Mansion. I love that not only did they use the venue practically, but they used it artistically as well. It was such a unique decision that resulted in one of my all time favorite photos of a wedding ceremony.
Lizzie’s dad walked her down the aisle and their close friend officiated the ceremony. They read their own vows, Lizzie’s veil blew in the wind, and when they said “I do” and walked back up the aisle, all their guests cheered. From the ceremony to the cocktail hour was a quick little walk up some steps onto the large patio outside the venue. We took wedding party and family photos which were so easy because their family and friends were truly so wonderful, and then entered in to their reception.
Okay, this reception was one of the coolest receptions I’ve ever photographed and I’m going to tell you why — the formalities and the dance floor were all outside! The guests lined the patio as Lizzie and Patrick were announced, making their way through the crowds of people towards their outdoor dance floor. To be more specific, their outdoor, black and white checkered, dance floor. So fun. So luxury. So unique. So pretty in photographs. Anyway! They went right into their first dance as the sun set behind them, and then listened to their closest friends and family give speeches about how much they are loved. From there, the guests went inside for dinner while we snuck away for after-dark, blue hour photos down by the lighthouse on the water. Finally, they cut their cake and danced on that black and white checkered dance floor until the band went home.
Lizzie and Patrick were a dream to work with. Easy going, overflowing with love and kindness, and so excited to celebrate with their favorite people. Lizzie’s exact words to me before her wedding day were, “Even if it rains or no one shows up or food is missing… I couldn’t care less- as long as we get married. That’s it.” And that’s all I needed to know. Lastly, I’m pretty sure I also remember her running around the dance floor, hand-feeding her friends peanut butter and jelly sandwiches around 10pm. It really doesn’t get much better than that.

The Vendor Team
Venue: Branford House Mansion, Groton Connecticut
Coordination: Jen Strunk
Photography: Nicole Maday Photography
Videography: Move Mountains Co.
Hair and Makeup: Larissa Lake & Co.
Florals: Flower Works
Checkered Dance Floor: Bopper Events
Lighting: EZ Occasions
Dress: BHLDN