Melissa & Mick’s Coastal Autumn Wedding at The Colony Hotel, Kennebunkport, Maine

There is something so special about returning to a place with history—not just history in the venue, but in the people you’re surrounded by. Melissa and I went to high school together, and throughout the day I kept catching glimpses of those familiar Stoneham faces laughing, hugging, and celebrating her new chapter with Mick. After photographing their engagement session this past summer, I had already seen how naturally the two of them fit together. Their wedding day only confirmed it—quiet comfort, shared humor, and a joy that spreads easily to everyone lucky enough to be around them.

Getting Ready

The morning began in a mint-colored room tucked up in The Colony Hotel—a space that felt perfectly suited for a wedding morning. Pale green walls, vintage florals, and a bright bay window that poured in soft coastal light set the tone for a morning full of warmth and anticipation. Melissa and her bridesmaids floated between laughter and happy tears as jewelry was clasped and final touches were placed. Their coastal-inspired palette of blues and greens was paired with subtle autumn warmth in the florals, and thoughtful details—like their illustrated save-the-date of the hotel and hand-painted oyster shells—brought a personal touch that felt uniquely them.

Meanwhile, the guys got ready in the library—a room of dark wood, quiet corners, and classic New England character. Once dressed, Melissa shared heartfelt first looks—first with her mom, then her dad—and both were emotional in the most genuine, grounding way. When she and Mick finally saw each other for their first look, she in her long-sleeved lace gown and he smiling in a way that could only be described as pure joy, everything else—wind, ocean, movement—fell away. We spent time on the grounds capturing portraits that held both elegance and a natural, easy playfulness.

The Ceremony

Their ceremony took place on the oceanfront lawn. It was a windy day—the kind where the breeze moves the veil and the flowers and the sound of the ocean blends in with every moment—but incredibly beautiful. Melissa’s Aunt Gerri, who almost wasn’t able to be there, shared a reading that brought extra weight and meaning simply through her presence. Another reading from a friend and a deeply personal ceremony led by one of Melissa’s closest friends, Raisa, made the exchange of vows feel intimate, honest, and rooted in love.

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour unfolded on the wraparound porch, overlooking the waves below. Guests sipped signature drinks named after the couple’s pets, Mocha & Cinnamon—complete with little illustrated drink toppers that had everyone grinning. The porch was full of fashion, laughter, and that unmistakable late-season coastal breeze.

Golden Hour

Before heading into the reception, we stole Melissa and Mick away for a few quiet moments on the green during golden hour. The wind had softened, the sky had warmed, and everything felt still for just long enough. These portraits were calm and intimate—full of soft smiles, hands held, and quiet conversation. It was one of those rare pauses in a wedding day where time feels like it slows down just for the couple to be together. A small breath before the celebration kicked into full swing.

The Reception

Inside the ballroom, the celebration truly came to life. Melissa and Mick began the evening with a beautifully practiced first dance that was both graceful and filled with personality. Heartfelt speeches from the maid of honor, best man, and fathers of both the bride and groom filled the room with laughter and tears in equal measure.

And then—the party. A live band set the tone with incredible sound and energy, filling the night with color, movement, and music you could feel in your chest. Guests danced under fun lights, sporting custom sunglasses with the couple’s last name across the sides. Melissa’s grandmothers were right there on the dance floor, absolutely thriving—one of those moments everyone will remember forever.

The reception was full of playful and personal touches: a guest book where guests added instant-film photos and handwritten notes, a chic green backdrop photobooth, and a cake topped with mini figurines of Mocha & Cinnamon. Every detail was thoughtful, joyful, and deeply reflective of who Melissa and Mick are.

A Beautiful Day, A Beautiful Beginning

Melissa & Mick—thank you from the bottom of my heart for welcoming me into this day. It was a joy to witness, to document, and to celebrate alongside you and so many familiar faces. Your love is easy, warm, and full of life—and this day reflected that perfectly.

A special thank you to the incredible vendor team who brought this day to life.
Vendor credits will be listed below.

Venue: The Colony Hotel | Band: SOHO Band from Night Shift Entertainment | Florals: Lemon & Tulips | Hair & Makeup: 5 Diamond Salon | Coordinator: Praks Planning