A SEASIDE-CHIC WEDDING AT THE BOHLIN IN NEWPORT, RI

Post-college sweethearts, Michaela and Greg had been together for years before he popped the question. It actually would have been 10 years around the time they were supposed to be married, on May 16, 2020. Insert - the Covid-19 Pandemic. They were forced to postpone their day to have the original wedding they wanted and it was definitely worth the wait.

To say this is one of my favorite weddings that I’ve planned would probably be unfair. The bride is my sister after all! But in all honesty this seaside, boho, beauty of a celebration, held at the Bohlin in Newport, Rhode Island, is truly the stuff of a wedding planner’s dreams. When Mic told me that she was marrying Greg I was so thrilled for her, but also excited because she had given me complete creative freedom. (YES!) I loved working with her personality and style - a neutral color palette with so many textures and details.

As I was also serving as matron of honor, I handed the reins of the day-of details to our associate planner, Hillary. She did a fabulous job, but of course I couldn’t resist checking in to make sure that everything was perfect for my sister. Our vendor team was truly amazing and they were on top of everything.

The invitation suite from Minted Weddings was simple yet elegant, and played on the fact that this beautiful August day was originally supposed to take place in May. We also loved this clever wine label, an Etsy find from Wine, Dine & Design, that read, “Pairs Well with Social Distancing.” So cheeky! 

And of course, it’s all about showing off the accessories! Michaela’s beaded clutch was the perfect complement to her simple nude Sam Edelman heels.

The morning of the wedding the bridal party got ready at the Newport Harbor Hotel + Marina. Mic really enjoyed being pampered by Christine from The Bridal Bar. Her classic Hollywood curls paired beautifully with her glamorous, yet natural makeup from the lovely Amanda McCarthy Beauty. Fun fact: Amanda also did my wedding makeup! 

The bridesmaids wore coordinating satin robes as they sipped champagne before Michaela revealed her wedding look, a stunning nude with white lace overlay gown from Allure Bridals with covered buttons down the back and a graceful train. A simple tulle veil was nestled in the back of her hair while her curls were pinned gently away from her face to create a romantic effect.

She then shared a sweet moment with our dad that had us in tears!

Greg looked so happy as he donned his blue suit from Calvin Klein for Macy’s. And his beige tie matched the neutral theme perfectly. We just loved how he had his initials embroidered on his shirt cuffs. Such a classy touch!

As a tribute to Greg’s late brother, Greg wore a small elephant pin next to his unique boutonniere, a mix of fresh and dried florals. 

Once Mic + Greg were wedding-ready, they met at Castle Hill Inn for a first look. Greg started to tear up when he saw just how beautiful Michaela looked in her gown. We always love it when a groom gets emotional when he first sees his bride! (I may have cried, too.)

Michaela’s bouquet from Beach Plum Floral was a lush mix of textures, dried and live florals, which made for the perfect seaside-boho bouquet. A simple neutral trailing silk ribbon held it together, adding to the bohemian look.

Before the ceremony the wedding party gathered for pictures and, as you can see, the group had a lot of fun with the photographer, Rachel Buckley Weddings. 

The groomsmen were as dapper in their blue suits as the bridesmaids were beautiful in their gowns. Mic had told us that we could wear any dress that we wanted, as long as it was nude and full-length and when we all came together it was amazing how well we matched! 

After pictures the bridal party headed to the Bohlin for a gorgeous ceremony. 

Michaela loves plants, so when Beach Plum Floral and I discussed the design for the deconstructed arbor - we took that into account. We incorporated so many plants that Michaela and Greg, and their families, were able to add to their collections. They also considered the seaside location and added lots of greenery and pampas grass. I may be a bit biased, but this was my favorite deconstructed arch of all time. So lush and different and gorgeous!

Once they said their vows in front of their family and friends, Mic + Greg sealed their love with a kiss and seemed to float back down the aisle. 

Mic + Greg were able to sneak away for a few moments to celebrate their first moments as husband and wife privately. As they were taking photos on the dock, one of the captain’s asked them if they wanted to grab a few shots on his boat. It was a totally spontaneous moment but it made for a very romantic backdrop, especially when Mic + Greg reenacted the famous scene from the Titanic at the bow of the boat! (And also, hilarious!)

Guests were welcomed to the reception by a large white, classic seaside shiplap and wooden boho escort wall featuring hand-stained, hand-lettered arabesque tiles. The tiles were attached to the wall using velcro so that they could be removed and brought home! The lush greens added a colorful touch. 

Tables were laid with rattan chargers, scalloped plates and a beige cloth napkin while a printed menu featuring an arabesque pattern informed guests of the meal they were about to enjoy. Tall beige taper candles sat in wooden holders, surrounded by delicate chimney glass holders. 

The centerpieces were a mix of neutrals and textures, including roses, dried florals within bud vases, pampas grass and plants. Table runners were made of cheese cloth and at the head table was an ornately embroidered linen that paved the way for a unique pampas grass runner.

Dark wood Chiavari chairs with white cushions added to the boho feel of the tented reception.

Michaela + Greg entered the large white tent to a round of applause before they made their way to the floor for their first dance. Toasts were made and then it was time to enjoy the beautiful evening!

For dessert, Mic + Greg had chosen a beautiful beige confection from Delicious Desserts with a fresh and dried floral topper. The bottom layer of the cake had a lace overlay which added a unique touch that was reminiscent of Mic’s gown. Lisa from Delicious Desserts also put together the most incredible dessert wall featuring treats that were as pretty as they were decadent. It was actually the other side of the Boston Backdrops escort wall! 

So that their special day could be shared with all of their nearest and dearest, including those that were not able to travel, a TV and camera were set up at the reception to allow guests to video call into the wedding. It was a very modern touch for these special times!

Since the wedding was held in Rhode Island, where COVID restrictions allowed dancing, Michaela was able to enjoy a laugh with her dad during the father/daughter dance and Greg and his Mom shared a sweet moment as well. 

We even did the Kalamatiano, the traditional Greek money dance, and everyone had an amazing time partying to the sounds of Ripcord! 

Though they had to postpone their original wedding day, Michaela and Greg were able to have the wedding of their dreams, just a little later in the year. And with the ability to have several guests attend virtually, it allowed them to share the most important day of their lives with all of the most important people in their lives.

Mic + Greg, I’m sure you know how special it was for me to plan your wedding. Congratulations to my beautiful sister and brother-in-law and thank you for letting me play a part in your big day!

Wedding Planning + Design: Jessica Hennessey Weddings
Photography: Rachel Buckley Weddings
Backdrop Rentals: Boston Backdrops 
Cake + Desserts: Delicious Desserts
Catering: The Bohlin 
Entertainment: Ripcord 
Event Rentals: Peak Event Services 
Floral Design: Beach Plum Floral 
Gown, Accessories + Bridal Shoes: Allure Bridals, Vows Bridal, BaubleBar, Sam Edelman 
Hair: The Bridal Bar 
Makeup: Amanda McCarthy Beauty 
Menswear: Calvin Klein for Macy’s 
Stationery: Minted Weddings 
Transportation: The Newport Trolley 
Videographer: Favorite Holiday Media 
Video Livestream: Sound City Events