A few weeks ago I photographed Christine and Rob’s beautiful wedding at Smith College in Northampton, MA. Christine reached out to me about a year ago, having remembered me from her friend, and former client of mine’s, wedding 5 years ago! She and her fiancé Rob were living and working in the UK, but were planning a Massachusetts wedding on Smith’s gorgeous campus (the bride’s alma mater). In talking with the couple via skype, I learned that the bride and groom had met in Japan while teaching English for the JET Program. For those of you who know a little about my background and my time teaching English outside of Tokyo, this little tidbit sealed the deal for me. I absolutely had to be a part of this awesome international couple’s big day 🙂
After a week of iffy-at-best weather, we were greeted with bright blue skies and sunshine!
There were so many creative and thoughtful details in this wedding, including the bride’s shoes which she made herself! I love how they mimic the pattern of Japanese washi paper…
The couple also incorporated UK-inspired decorations, like the beautiful pastel bunting hung at the church, handmade by the groom’s mother 🙂
The groom’s sister played flute while all the guests followed the bride and groom procession-style across campus to the Smith Conference Center.
I stole the bride and groom away from their guests for a few formals of the newlywed couple…
I loved Rob’s floral bow tie – which he picked out himself! So dapper 🙂
Christine also looked stunning in a romantic lace dress and veil. I was excited to find the perfect setting for these Japanophiles…a gorgeous red bridge like those found in Japanese gardens 🙂
After the formals, we decided to escape the heat and join the guests at cocktail hour…
The couple was sure to have their favorite Japanese beer on ice 🙂
Below are some of the many thoughtful details, acknowledging this international couple’s roots, as well as their love of travel and adventure. The origami cranes were such a great idea!
After a delicious meal, everyone went downstairs to get their dance on! The couple had the DJs play a special Japanese song and showed their guests a traditional Japanese folk dance “Awa Odori.” The guys grabbed their fans and really got into it 🙂
Rob and Christine, I hope you had an amazing time on your Japanese honeymoon. Your wedding was so unique and special and I loved being a part of it! Omedetou gozaimasu 🙂
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