GRETCHEN + CHRIS

A PRIVATE ESTATE WEDDING ON CAPE COD, MA

Gretchen + Chris call Washington, D.C. home. But when it came time for their big day they knew they wanted something more coastal chic. Chris’ family’s private estate on Cape Cod was the perfect location to bring their family and friends together to make their wedding dreams come true! I just loved turning the grounds of this beautiful Cape home into a romantic fall setting. And there was even a celebrity appearance at the reception!

Creative Parties LTD created this simple, yet elegant, invitation suite in blue calligraphy (that matched Chris’s tux) with gold and cream-lined envelopes. 

Gretchen’s bouquet in muted shades of pink, white and cream with lush greens was the perfect complement to her classic A-line Justin Alexander gown.

Gretchen spent the morning of the wedding with her sister and mother, being pampered by Lisa V. George Hair and Make-up Artistry. Her chic chignon looked beautiful, especially with her chapel-length veil pinned at the top. 

After her mother and sister helped her into her gown, both smiling proudly, Gretchen shared a sweet hug with her dad who had tears in his eyes. We just love an emotional father of the bride!

Down the hall at his family home, Chris donned his Bonobos blue tux. His monogrammed handkerchief, black bowtie and fall floral boutonniere completed his handsome look.

I mean, how dapper is he?!

When everyone was wedding-ready it was time for the big reveal! In one of their favorite places in the world, with the sun shining down on them, Gretchen + Chris had their first look. Chris was in awe as he saw Gretchen in her gorgeous gown. And Gretchen’s smile grew bigger as she gave him a kiss.

Gretchen’s sister served as maid of honor in a pink v-neck dress, while Chris’s brother was his best man. 

The moment had finally come for Gretchen + Chris to say “I do!” The ceremony was held right along the water, under a large deconstructed floral arch by Leslie Lee Floral Design. Chris was beaming as Gretchen walked down the aisle with her dad to a sweet rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You.” Once the vows were said, the only thing left was to seal their love with a kiss! Then they made their way back down the aisle past all of their loved ones. 

While guests enjoyed cocktail hour, Gretchen + Chris were able to spend the first moments alone as husband + wife. Of course, the tent and floral arrangement made for beautiful backdrops, but there is a dock and coastline along the property, which also made for a romantic setting. The smiles on their faces never faltered as they enjoyed slipping away for these gorgeous post-ceremony portraits with Meredith Jane Photography.

Three tents had been assembled together to create a gorgeous white canopy for the reception. Guests were greeted by a large wooden escort card display, surrounded by the deconstructed arch from the ceremony.

For favors, Gretchen’s family gifted guests delicious jams in mini jars, the tag commemorating her hometown of Athens, Ohio.

At each place setting a blush linen napkin was folded beneath an oyster shell personalized with each guest’s name. The table numbers were placed in simple silver frames as not to take away from the lush floral arrangements in different shades of pink and white. 

Lights were strung from the tent rafters and, along with the blush tapers and pillar candles in glass holders, they provided a romantic glow as the early fall sun began to set. 

Since Meredith Jane Photography also shoots film, she was able to capture the romantically vintage feel of this gorgeous event. Can you spot which shots are digital and which are film?

Once everyone had gathered under the tents, the real party could begin! Gretchen + Chris entered to a round of applause, then had their first dance as husband and wife as Ripcord Music played “Feet Don’t Touch the Ground.” Chris couldn’t take his eyes off of Gretchen as they spun across the dance floor. It was magic!

And as a yummy treat for their guests, Chris’s dad invited his friend, Jerry of Ben + Jerry’s fame, to scoop ice cream - Ben + Jerry’s ice cream of course!

At the end of the night, I have to admit that it was hard for me to say goodbye to this special couple. Thank you so much Gretchen + Chris for letting us play a part in your big day!

Wedding Planning + Design: Jessica Hennessey Weddings
Photography: Meredith Jane Photography
Bartending Service: The Bartending Service of NE
Catering: The Chef's Table
Ice Cream: Ben and Jerry's 
Entertainment: Ripcord Music
Event Rentals: Peak Event Services
Floral Design: Leslie Lee Floral Design
Hair + Makeup: Lisa V. George Hair + Make-up Artistry
Transportation: Cape Destinations
Bridal Gown: Justin Alexander at Sincerity Bridal
Tux: Bonobos
Invitations: Creative Parties LTD
Calligraphy: Calligraphy by Deanna
Wedding Rings: Boone and Sons Jewelers