Jenn & Joey's Colorful Summer Wedding at Connemara House Farm

Some wedding venues instantly make you stop in your tracks, and Connemara House Farm in Topsfield did exactly that. This was my first time photographing a wedding at this stunning estate, and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful place—or couple—to experience it with.

Jenn and Joey met while working at sea, and throughout their wedding day it was impossible not to notice the incredible love and admiration they have for one another. Every glance, every laugh, and every happy tear spoke volumes. Their wedding perfectly reflected them: joyful, colorful, heartfelt, and full of meaningful details that honored the life they've built together.

Nestled among acres of lush green fields and apple orchards, Connemara House Farm provided the dreamiest backdrop for a summer celebration. Soft yellow bridesmaid dresses paired beautifully with vibrant florals, bringing cheerful pops of color to every corner of the day.

Getting Ready

The morning began inside the estate, where the bright and airy bridal suite was filled with excitement as everyone prepared for the day ahead. One of my favorite spaces in the house was the room dedicated to Jenn's dress. Complete with gorgeous vintage pink floral wallpaper, it was the perfect backdrop for her sleek beaded gown, which hung alongside an equally adorable beaded mini dress she'd later change into for the reception.

Once Jenn was ready, she shared a sweet first look with her bridesmaids. As she walked into the room, they erupted into applause and smiles, making for such a fun and emotional moment before the festivities officially began.

Downstairs on the sun porch, Joey and his groomsmen enjoyed a much more laid-back morning. They finished getting dressed, shared drinks, laughed together, and soaked in those final moments before the ceremony.

A Private First Look & Portraits

Jenn and Joey chose to share a private first look tucked away near the orchard. Surrounded by sunshine and the peaceful landscape, they had a quiet moment together before the excitement of the day truly began. It was one of those moments where everything else seemed to disappear.

Afterward, we gathered everyone in front of the estate for family portraits and wedding party photos. We captured all the classic family images before mixing in plenty of fun, candid moments with their bridal party. Of course, we also took time for portraits of just the two of them while their excitement for the ceremony was still fresh.

A Heartfelt Ceremony

Their ceremony took place on the lower lawn, surrounded by towering trees and centered around a beautiful fountain.

One of the most meaningful parts of the day was that Joey's mother, Mary, officiated the ceremony herself. It was such a personal touch, and although it was understandably emotional for her, she did a beautiful job guiding Jenn and Joey through this next chapter of their lives.

The couple exchanged handwritten vows, and Jenn couldn't help but laugh through happy tears as she tried to make it through reading hers. It was heartfelt, emotional, and perfectly them.

Cocktail Hour Among the Orchards

Guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the side lawn overlooking the orchards, where lawn games, cozy seating, delicious hors d'oeuvres, and signature cocktails created the perfect summer atmosphere.

One of my favorite things about Jenn and Joey's wedding was how they incorporated subtle nods to their love of the ocean throughout the day. Guests signed a Jenga guest book instead of a traditional book, creating a keepsake they'll actually use for years to come. Scallop shell magnets served as thoughtful favors, while a lobster trap-inspired card box welcomed guests' well wishes.

Rather than disappearing after family photos, Jenn and Joey spent cocktail hour mingling with their guests before sneaking away for a private reveal of their reception tent. It's always one of my favorite moments of the day—seeing couples take in all the details they've spent months planning before anyone else gets to experience them.

Inside the tent, soft yellow napkins tied in beautifully with the bridesmaids' dresses while bright, colorful florals filled each table. Their cake perfectly carried the coastal theme with scallop shell-inspired details and the cutest little lobster cake toppers.

A Reception Full of Love, Laughter & Celebration

The reception kicked off with one of the most energetic entrances I've seen. The entire wedding party made their way into the tent with bubble guns in hand before Jenn and Joey were introduced to roaring cheers. They headed straight into their first dance, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Throughout dinner, family and friends shared heartfelt toasts. Jenn's mom welcomed everyone before her sister and Maid of Honor reflected on years of memories together. Joey's brothers brought plenty of laughter while sharing stories that perfectly captured who he is.

Before dessert, the couple cut their cake—but not before surprising one very special guest. He happened to share his birthday with their wedding day, so Jenn and Joey cut him a slice, added a candle, and had the entire tent sing "Happy Birthday." It was such an unexpected and thoughtful moment that had everyone smiling.

Following dinner, Jenn and Joey each shared emotional dances with their parents before gathering every single guest onto the dance floor for one massive group photo—a fun way to commemorate everyone who celebrated alongside them.

Golden Hour in the Orchard

As the sun began to set, we slipped away from the reception for a few quiet moments in the apple orchards.

Golden hour at Connemara House Farm is absolutely magical. The warm summer light filtered through the trees, creating the dreamiest backdrop for a few final portraits before the couple returned to the celebration. Those peaceful moments together made for some of my favorite images from the entire day.

Dancing the Night Away

After sunset portraits, Jenn changed into her adorable beaded mini dress and made an unforgettable entrance back onto the dance floor.

From that moment on, the celebration never slowed down.

The dance floor stayed packed all night with guests of every age dancing, singing, and celebrating together. The bubble guns made another appearance, quickly becoming a favorite among the kids (and honestly, plenty of adults too!). There was so much laughter, so much joy, and the kind of energy that makes you never want the night to end.

From heartfelt vows and meaningful family moments to colorful details, ocean-inspired touches, and one incredible party, Jenn and Joey's wedding was such a beautiful reflection of who they are together. It was an honor to celebrate alongside them and to photograph the beginning of this next chapter.

Jenn & Joey, thank you for trusting me to capture your incredible day. Wishing you both a lifetime of adventure, laughter, and love—wherever the tide takes you.

vendors

Venue: @connemarahouse | Photographer: @dampolophotography | DJ: @djangelalba | Hair: @styles.by.chelsey | Makeup: @cosmeticsbykateduffy | Florist: @pedaligarden | Bakery: @jcakesllc | Content: @allstar_weddings