Cheri & Ryan's Elegant Summer Wedding at Tupper Manor

Tupper Manor has become one of my most-photographed venues this year, and somehow it never loses its magic. From the grand historic estate to the iconic fountain overlooking the front lawn, every corner offers a timeless backdrop for beautiful wedding photographs. Cheri and Ryan's wedding was the perfect example of why I love returning here time and time again.

Getting Ready

The day began with both of them getting ready inside the estate. Cheri and her bridesmaids spent the morning together, with Cheri in classic white pajamas while her girls wore matching blue sets. As everyone finished hair and makeup, I spent some time styling and photographing their beautiful wedding details before heading outside for some fun pajama photos on the balcony. A gentle summer breeze swept through the estate, making it one of those perfect New England mornings that simply couldn't have been ordered any better.

Once everyone was ready, Cheri stepped into a breathtaking gown featuring delicate lace and floral detailing cascading into a dramatic train. Her bright, colorful bouquet paired beautifully with the bridesmaids' deep ink blue dresses, creating a vibrant color palette that felt both elegant and joyful. Before leaving the bridal suite, we captured timeless portraits by the large window where the natural light poured in. Meanwhile, Ryan and his groomsmen enjoyed a more relaxed start to the day, playing pool in the billiards room before it was time for portraits.

First Look & Portraits

Cheri and Ryan chose to share a private first look in the grand foyer of Tupper Manor. The moment was filled with smiles, happy tears, and excitement as they saw one another for the first time. Before exchanging hugs, they each read private letters they had written to one another—ironically discovering they had expressed many of the very same heartfelt sentiments.

Afterward, we headed outside for family portraits and wedding party photos before giving the newlyweds a chance to enjoy some quiet portraits together around the property. The grounds at Tupper Manor always provide such a beautiful variety of backdrops, making every portrait feel effortlessly elegant.

The Ceremony

Guests gathered on the front lawn overlooking the estate's beautiful fountain for an outdoor ceremony officiated by a close friend of the couple. Flower petals lined the aisle and framed the ceremony space in a soft semicircle around the altar, creating an intimate setting despite the open lawn.

One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony was their sand ceremony, where they each poured different colored sand into one vessel to symbolize their two lives becoming one. Their personal vows had everyone alternating between laughter and tears, especially as they affectionately referred to one another by their nickname, "Papaya." After exchanging rings and promises, they officially became husband and wife, sealing it with not one—but two—celebratory kisses.

Cocktail Hour

Instead of spending cocktail hour away from their guests taking more portraits, Cheri and Ryan made the intentional decision to celebrate alongside everyone they love. Guests enjoyed signature drinks, delicious hors d'oeuvres, and plenty of conversation while the conservatory received its finishing touches for the reception.

Inside, bright floral centerpieces filled the room, and each table was named after a place that held special meaning to the couple. Before everyone was called inside, we gathered a few fun group photos before the wedding party prepared for their grand entrance.

The Reception

The reception kicked off with introductions for the parents, wedding party, and finally the newlyweds before Cheri and Ryan shared their first dance as husband and wife. Rather than moving immediately into dinner, the DJ invited everyone onto the dance floor to get the celebration started.

It turned out to be such a fun decision. Since we weren't scheduled to stay late into the evening, it allowed us to capture a packed dance floor full of incredible energy before guests settled into dinner in the conservatory.

As everyone enjoyed a delicious meal, Cheri's father welcomed guests with heartfelt words before speeches continued. Cheri's two Maids of Honor shared stories filled with love and laughter, while Ryan's brothers proudly stood beside him as his Best Men, delivering speeches that had the entire room smiling.

As the evening light softened, we snuck Cheri and Ryan back outside for a few more portraits during golden hour. The warm summer glow around the estate created the perfect ending to their portrait gallery before we returned inside for cake cutting and parent dances. Cheri shared a beautiful dance with her father, while Ryan danced with his mom, creating two more unforgettable moments before the dance floor officially reopened.

We stayed just long enough to capture a few more joyful dance floor memories before saying our goodbyes and leaving the newlyweds to celebrate the rest of the evening with their family and friends.

Cheri and Ryan's wedding was the perfect combination of heartfelt moments, genuine laughter, and timeless elegance. Every part of the day reflected who they are as a couple—from their emotional letters and meaningful vows to the countless smiles they shared with the people they love most. It was such an honor to document the beginning of this new chapter together.

Congratulations again, Cheri & Ryan! Thank you for trusting us to capture such an incredible day. We wish you both a lifetime filled with laughter, adventure, and plenty more "Papaya" moments together.

A huge thank you to the incredible vendor team who helped bring this beautiful day to life. It is always a pleasure working alongside such talented professionals, and I can't wait to share and credit each of them below.

Vendors

Venue: @tuppermanor | Photography: @dampolophotography  | Videography: @josiahdoesvideos  | Hair: @hair.byjz  | Makeup: @jmv_makeup_studio  | Florist: @suekenasbouquets  | DJ: @djchuck617 | Photobooth: @nephotobooth