Sarah + Adam: Winter Wedding at Newport’s Ocean Cliff Resort
If any photographer asked me for tips on getting great photos of wedding couples in December in New England, I’d suggest they look into booking with two pro triathletes, to start. They’ll run, jump, dip, spin and do it hardly clothed in sub 30 degree weather, with a smile!
Sarah and Adam fit their wedding into a complicated schedule of work, graduate studies and oh yeah, training full-time as triathletes. You know, racing nationally and internationally, no big deal.
Their December wedding was at the gorgeous seaside Ocean Cliff Resort in Newport, which was beautifully dressed for the holiday season, and a stunning backdrop for a winter wedding reception.
Getting ready upstairs with her bridal party, with help from Bella Bridal.
This sponsored athlete with her Hammer Bars—fuel for a busy athlete and bride!
Handsome Adam getting ready to head to the chapel with his gentlemen.
Candles at Kay Chapel.
Sarah and dad making their entrance.
We saw a few tears during the ceremony, and lots of smiles.
Married!
Back at Ocean Cliff, we headed into the deep freeze for photos. I’m wearing a full-length down coat, hat and gloves, btw. They are TOUGH.
The geese didn’t just naturally fly through the frame, they were gently encouraged by the brilliant Nicki, my second photographer. 
Show ’em your Tieks! Love Sarah’s soft pink flats, and love the turquoise bottoms!
After watching the sun dip below the trees, we headed inside for their reception!
The wedding party. They were WAY livelier than pictured here, this is the sedate photo!
Guest book of selfies! Full confession: we added one to the book, too.
Creative table numbering from Sarah and Adam.
And their signature drinks!
An exceptional entrance from our bride and groom, as well as an unexpectedly creative dance.
Toasts and tears—and the tease of a Hamilton parody!
Parent dances for our couple.
General dance-floor antics.
And one of my favorite images of the day. This one, plus several of the ones above, taken by my amazing associate, Nicki. Thank you!
Happy love, Sarah and Adam! It was an unbelievable delight to be a part of your wedding, and I wish you both great happiness and success in all things in the years to come! #swimbikerunwed
xo, Anna
The Skinny:
Ceremony: Kay Chapel, Newport, RI
Reception: Ocean Cliff Resort, Newport, RI
Ceremony Coordinator: Kara Beth O’Grady
Photography: Anna Sawin and Nicki Pardo for Anna Sawin Photography, Stonington, CT
Floral Design: Sayles Livingston Flowers, Adamsville, RI
Band: Ripchord, Boston, MA
Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music: Allegro Chamber Players
Videographer: Sky Sabin Productions
Caterer: Ocean Cliff Resort, Newport, RI
Cake Designer: Confectionery Designs, Rehoboth, MA
Tablewear: Rentals Unlimited
Makeup/Hair Artist: Bella Beauty Bridal, Newport, RI
Bridal gown: Vera Wang
Bridesmaids’ gowns: Weddington Way
Groomsmens’ suits: Mens Wearhouse
Groom’s suit: Suit Supply
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Anna Sawin is a Connecticut-based portrait, wedding, and editorial photographer. She lives in the shoreline town of Stonington with her family and has discovered the perfect cupcake. Just ask, she is willing to share her secret.
Such gorgeous photographs! The bride and groom have a wonderful treasure trove of memories, thanks to you, Anna. You nailed them!
Thistles & Roses! Congratulations to this beautiful couple. May the road rise up to meet you. Love, The Bassan’s
Adam was my son in 2000 in a production of A Christmas Story. So impressed with the fine man he has become and I wish Sarah and Adam a lifetime of beautiful memories.