Maine & NH Wedding Photographer // Ngaire & Jake's Wedding // Hammond Castle, MA
As a wedding photographer, I get excited to shoot at specific venues and locations, especially if they are unique. Nothing is more unique than a freaking castle! From the moment I stepped into the hotel room where the girls were getting ready, I knew this was going to be a day to remember.
Ngaire and her bridesmaids were gathered in the hotel room, chatting and laughing as they got their hair and makeup done. I took this opportunity to set up and photograph all the beautiful details, from the invitations that were designed by the bride and groom, to the special jewelry that the bride would wear that day. Ngaire's mother was by her side as she stepped into her dress. The dress, which looked as if it had been made just for Ngaire, was simply perfect..
With everyone ready, we headed to Hammond Castle—a location that couldn't have been more perfect for this couple of architects. The castle, with its rich history and breathtaking architecture, provided the ideal backdrop. As the museum portion of the castle closed its doors, the wedding preparations began. Everything came together seamlessly.
Jake arrived, and we moved quickly into the first look. The couple chose to see each other for the first time in the castle's atrium, a space bathed in natural light with the gentle sound of a fountain and the lush greenery of the garden adding to the atmosphere. After the beautiful moment of the first look, the couple tucked away, readying themselves for the ceremony as guests began to arrive.
The ceremony itself was a beautiful blend of traditions, reflecting the love and respect Ngaire and Jake have for their respective heritages. Combining Ngaire’s Mexican background with Jake’s Jewish traditions made for a truly unique and heartfelt celebration. Watching these two cultures come together was one of the highlights of the day.
After the ceremony, the couple joined their guests for the cocktail hour, taking the time to connect with each friend and family member. But before the festivities continued, we snuck away for some portraits around the castle grounds. There’s something so amazing about photographing a couple against the backdrop of a castle. The images we captured were full of the romance and timeless beauty that only a place like Hammond Castle can provide.
As the evening continued, Ngaire and Jake dazzled their guests with a perfectly choreographed first dance. When the dance floor opened up, everyone let loose, the energy of the day culminating in a celebration full of joy, laughter, and love.
Ngaire and Jake's wedding was a day filled with love, tradition, and unforgettable moments. It was an honor to capture every detail of their story, and I feel lucky to have been a part of such a special day.
