Shay + Matt, married in Essex (part 1)

Shay, you are GORGEOUS.

You too, Riley. (Their pooch and flowergirl.)

Shay and Matt have one of my favorite stories of all time—she was once a patient of Matt’s, and when he (very clearly and ethically) completed her course of care with a followup phone call, he then called her back as a civilian and asked her on a date. It’s pretty darn sweet, I think!

It gets better, too—their first date fell on that big friend and family reunion night, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and Shay met most of the key players in her now expanded circle of famly and friends. Good thing it worked out so well!

The rain stopped and the sun came out! Photo by Dallas Galbreath for Anna Sawin Photography.

Their wedding day dawned hot hot hot, and by just before ceremony time, a raging thunderstorm swept through the Connecticut shoreline. With the members of the wedding party arriving by boat, and an outdoor ceremony at Essex Yacht Club, things looked pretty damp for a while. But, with a slight delay, the sun peeked through, a glorious rainbow emerged and an army of helpers rushed to dry the seats for the outdoor ceremony.

It was sunny skies for their gorgeous, waterfront ceremony with warm and tender vows, a breathtaking solo by Shay’s sister and the incredible backdrop of the late-day sun on the Connecticut River. The skies stayed clear for the tented reception to follow. (LOVED the pink lanterns!)and some amazing dancing for hours and hours.

Enjoy the slideshow of their day here, and look for part 2 of this awesome wedding later this week—a truly epic photobooth event so good it needs it’s own blog post!

Happy love, Shay & Matt!

xo,

Anna

They got engaged in a green Jeep Wrangler. This one sat on top of the cake!

Rehearsal dinner: Old Lyme Beach Club

Ceremony & Reception: Essex Yacht Club

Bridal gown: San Patrick by Pronovias from Camille Bridal

Floral: Thames River Greenery

Hair: Jesslyn Fromme

Make up: Jennifer Opeka

The bride’s custom jewelry: Olivia Engel

Band: Amish Outlaws

Photography: Anna Sawin Photography

A special thank you to my amazing guest photographer from Ohio, Dallas Galbreath!