Suzanne Simmons Photography

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Kristan & Greg's Winter Wedding at Maine Irish Heritage Center and Grace in Portland, Maine (Part 2)

Susie Simmons

I know that many of you lovely beings have been waiting oh so patiently for Kristan & Greg's second half of their sneak peek. Without further ado, here is the continuation! (If you missed the first half, go check that out first!)

Kristan & Greg chose to hold their ceremony in the Maine Irish Heritage Center in the Old Port of Portland, Maine. I've been longing to photograph a wedding in the Center largely due to their gorgeous stained glass windows and gorgeous blue ceiling. It is such an expansive space (and with the sweetest caretaker)! Their ceremony was filled with personal touches from their dear friend performing the ceremony to their parents doing the readings. Before officially exchanging their rings, they did a ring warming ceremony with their bands traveling the length of each row of guests via a white ribbon. I love how it gives the couple an opportunity to really soak in the power of what is happening as well as to see all of their friends & family. With their rings warmed, they made it official and became Mr. & Mrs.! Following a quick round of portraits, it was off to their reception to start celebrating!

We made our way across the snow covered Old Port to the incredible Grace. If you have not been, it should certainly be on your list! Kristan & Greg's cocktail hour was held on the main floor of the restaurant, which features expansive stained glass windows and super tall ceilings thanks to it's former life as a church. Once they were ready to party, they moved downstairs with their guests to partake in a delicious plated dinner. One of the most popular "events" of the evening was their cake bar with a wide variety of cakes to chose from. Alan and I were drooling over many of the combinations (chocolate and peanut butter, hello!) as every guest struggled to chose which ones to add to their plate. I dare say it was the most consumed dessert option I've ever seen at a wedding! Cakes by Debbie in Windham always does such a great job for my couples!

After we all had a good cry during Kristan's dad's toast, cheered during Greg's dance with his mom, and celebrated the Patriots winning, Kristan & Greg took a step out to capture portraits in front of the well known red doors of the entrance to Grace. And it made for the perfect opportunity to snap my traditional selfie with the newlyweds at the end of their amazing day! I even got one with Jess & Aaron, whose wedding I photographed back in 2012! It is a funny tradition for sure, but I do love having a wall of selfies with so many of my couples over the past few years. 

Kristan & Greg, thank you so much for having us there with you for your winter wonderland of a wedding! It was absolutely our honor to capture the story of your day. I cannot wait to share your entire gallery with you in the next few weeks!