By Mariah Ashley

We were so excited for Monica and Brian’s Squantum Association wedding, it’s always special to have local clients planning a local wedding! We had a little rain early in the day, but the skies cleared and gave Monica and Brian a beautiful afternoon in Providence. The day was rich with autumn colors and rich with family traditions. Grace Church in Providence, built in 1846 is formal and stunning, a nice contrast to our casual downtown photos after the ceremony. The Squantum Association is a hidden RI jewel, so full of character and coziness, it has a history dating back to 1844. It was the tradition back then of the graduation class of Providence High School to visit the little island and put on a clambake. 1871 was the official start of the Squantum Association, now that is a tradition! … 143 years in the making! We wish Brian and Monica as long and as a rich a tradition in Rhode Island as the venues they chose! They’re off to a good start by honoring some existing family traditions…

Monica and Brian’s invitation and wedding rings nestled in Monica’s grandmother’s tea set. {left} Monica reads a card from Brian before getting ready, a lovely newer tradition. {right}

A few miles away, Brian reads his card from Monica too.Monica gets ready with help from her cousin Nicole and her mother.Big Tie, Little Tie. Brian and his son, also named Brian! Brian is twelve and was the best man!Monica and her lovely bridesmaids. The grandfather clock in the background was made by Monica’s grandfather! {left} Monica reads a card from her parents before heading to the church. {right}Monica’s father bought special wine in Portugal and has saved it for her wedding, the date on the box was 1981. {left} Monica makes sure to get a photo with her adorable grandmother. {right}Our little ring bearer was having a hard time, he wanted his mom but was stuck hanging out with the men. {left} Brian and Brian have a hug before heading to church. {right}There’s no sadness that a little thumb-sucking can’t cure…Monica and Brian with their beautiful mothers. Any guess where these two get their good looks?! Getting the bride to church on time.Monica makes a dramatic entrance while her mother looks on.Vows and signing the marriage register. Can you imagine all the signatures before theirs with a church that was built in 1846?Married!Another old fashioned tradition… the giant group photo outside the church right after the ceremony. Grace Church is on Weybossett Street, Weybossett is a treasure trove of photo spots! I love how the design of the windows matches the bridesmaids dresses. Bouquets by Golden Gate.Ladies should always be covered with diamonds and jewelry… no?Fun with architecture and puddles.A few portraits of the bride and groom before leaving for the reception. The sun even started to peek out!The Squantum Association is such a cool venue. It has an amazing grand house and a lovely water view. Here’s a little of both and also our bridal party!Monica and Family.Brian and Family.Portraits of Brian and Monica with the breathtaking background at Squantum.Stealing the last bits of evening light.Cocktail hour and details. The cocktail hour is held up at the main house and then the guests make their way along the lighted path and little bridge toward the reception at the Bake House.

I love Monica and Brian’s idea to make the champagne flutes their table numbers. The ombre cake is by Sweet Indulgence.A little cocktail hour entertainment.A sweet moment during the first dance.Monica and Brian kicking off the party.Cheers from Nicole the MOH.Family fun on the dance floor.Signature cocktails.Party time! The band was Those Guys from Newport.