​As wedding photographers, we've had the privilege of capturing many beautiful love stories, but Luke and Kelly's wedding at The Commons 1854 in Topsfield, Massachusetts, was truly special. Their story is one of love, dedication, and a deep commitment to each other and their country. Luke, active-duty army, and Kelly, his steadfast partner, came all the way from Germany to celebrate their love with family and friends in the charming, historic setting of The Commons 1854, a stunning venue north of Boston in Topsfield, Massachusetts.

The Arrival: Coming Home from Germany
​Luke and Kelly's journey to their wedding day was not a typical one. As an active-duty army Captain stationed in Germany, Luke's schedule was demanding and unpredictable. Despite the challenges, the couple managed to plan a wedding that reflected their love story and honored their journey together. Their commitment to each other was evident as they navigated the complexities of military life, making their wedding day all the more meaningful.

The Venue: The Commons 1854
​Nestled in the picturesque town of Topsfield, Massachusetts, The Commons 1854 is a venue that exudes elegance and charm. With its rich history and beautifully restored architecture, it provided the perfect backdrop for Luke and Kelly's wedding. The venue's timeless beauty, combined with its modern amenities, made it an ideal choice for a couple who wanted to blend tradition with contemporary flair! Kelly decided all though she got ready at a local hotel (hair and makeup) she wanted to put her dress on in the beautiful bridal suite with her bridal party and mother. This room was stunning!! We especially loved the large mirrors and "fainting" couch. John took this opportunity to do Groom & Groomsmen portraits on the common out front while we kept Kelly hidden inside!

A Unique First Look
One of the most emotional moments of the day was Kelly's first look—not with Luke, but with her father. This special moment was a testament to the strong bond between Kelly and her dad. As Kelly stepped out in her stunning wedding gown, her father's eyes filled with tears of joy and pride. The intimate father-daughter moment was beautifully captured, and it set the tone for the heartfelt celebrations that followed.

The Ceremony: An Outdoor Delight
​The weather on the day of the wedding was perfect for an outdoor ceremony. The lush gardens of The Commons 1854 were in full bloom, providing a picturesque setting for Luke and Kelly to exchange their vows. The ceremony was quick but filled with love and emotion. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, the couple promised to love and support each other through all of life's adventures. As they exchanged rings and sealed their vows with a kiss, there wasn't a dry eye in the audience. Our favorite part was Luke's reaction to seeing Kelly walk down the aisle! 

Following their quick ceremony we had close family and bridal party stay at the altar for formal portraits! Right after we had a few moments left to capture some portraits of just the couple together before heading in to the reception for introductions.

A Classy Reception
After the ceremony, guests were treated to a cocktail hour followed by a classy reception that was meticulously planned to ensure everyone had an unforgettable experience. The venue coordinator, Paige, was an absolute pleasure to work with and we do not say this about every venue! The dining experience was a highlight, featuring a sorbet palette cleanse that added a touch of sophistication to the meal. This delightful interlude was followed by a sumptuous dinner that catered to all tastes, ensuring every guest felt special and appreciated.

​Slow Dances and Special Moments
Immediately after introductions Kelly & Luke had their first dance, something we see at a lot of weddings! They also had their traditional parent dances and additionally which we find more and more rare, they had a few choice slow dances throughout the night! This allowed everyone to have a personal moment on the dance floor, creating an atmosphere of love and celebration. Their DJ, Freddy aka DJ Backspin Entertainment (https://www.djbackspin.com/) was incredible! We highly recommend him, he was so good at keeping the dance floor moving AND their timeline! DJs play such a crucial role in making sure the night is running smoothly, between communicating with Freddy and Paige we had a great experience. 
Kelly & Luke also did an adorable cake cutting and bouquet toss! It was super fun to see a bouquet toss, we haven't seen one in years! 

A Private Last Dance
As the evening drew to a close, Luke and Kelly shared a private last dance. This intimate moment allowed them to reflect on their day and savor the joy of their union. Away from the hustle and bustle of the reception, they danced under the soft glow of twinkling lights, their love for each other evident in every glance and smile. It was a beautiful reminder that amidst all the celebrations, the most important part of the day was their commitment to each other.

A Bubble Send-Off and a Grand Exit
The night ended with a magical bubble send-off. Guests lined up with bubble wands, creating a whimsical tunnel for the couple to walk through. The bubbles sparkled in the night air, adding a touch of enchantment to the evening. As Luke and Kelly made their way through the sea of bubbles, their smiles were radiant, and their joy was infectious. Their grand exit was nothing short of spectacular! A classic Rolls Royce awaited them, ready to whisk them away into the night. The elegant car was the perfect choice for such a sophisticated affair, adding a touch of old-world glamour to the evening. As they drove away, waving goodbye to their loved ones, the car's engine purred softly, promising a smooth journey ahead.

This past Monday night, June 17th, we were invited by the Charles Riverboat Company at Rowe's Wharf (directly under the archway of the Boston Harbor Hotel is the entrance to the ramps leading to their gorgeous vessels) to their open house. We had previously worked on board the "Valiant" yacht for wedding photography last summer and were super excited to climb aboard again! John and I LOVE boats and anything ocean so it's definitely one of our favorite venues. Monday was a special night for wedding vendors, event vendors & corporate event planners - it was a great opportunity for us to network with local companies. We have also worked on board one of the Charles Riverboat Company's Charles River boats that leave from Cambridge for another wedding last summer! Both times we had a phenomenal experience with their staff - both the Charles Riverboat Company's staff and the catering staff from Johnny Burke Catering (more on their food below - YUM - johnnyburkecatering.com/). Not only did we have the opportunity to eat, drink and relax on the Valiant but we also got to tour the "Lexington" which is their largest capacity boat and their newest boat "Happy" which is absolutely adorable and their smallest - perfect for 20 people (hello elopements)!

Johnny Burke Catering - you cannot go wrong with ANY of their food and their catering staff is so kind and personable! We were treated to an incredible spread of meats, cheeses, crostinis, fresh fruits and vegetables, micro beef sliders, mini chicken and waffles, mini bruschetta, corn and edamame bowls, fresh melon squares with prosciutto sprinkled on top, shrimp cocktail, fresh marinated nectarines and even fresh chocolate chip cookies and mini ice cream cones!  Their website linked above has great sample menus available. Their spread was not only delicious but also beautiful and also included some passed around. If you're looking for a local Boston catering company you can not go wrong and they work with many different venues. 

The Valiant in my opinion is definitely the most luxurious feel of the fleet, it's a 97" yacht with a canopy deck on top and an elegant mahogany bar on each level. The first level has an open air (can be closed off to an extent) seating area with room for cocktail tables and has a built in comfortable cushioned bench seating area. Inside the first level has a gorgeous bar used for cocktail hour with more inside seating. If you continue out front their is ample outdoor seating including two large benches in the middle. Upstairs is where the ceremony is held with the couple at the bow with an incredible view of the Boston City Skyline. After the ceremony guests are moved to the first level for cocktail hour as the top floor is magically converted into a stunning dining space. We were shocked when we watched the catering staff turn over the ceremony seating of rows into round tables with centerpieces! There is even space for a small dance floor after dinner! Their cocktail cruising capacity is up to 120 guests and their full dinner cruise capacity is up to 54 guests. To us this was the perfect size for a more intimate wedding! There is space for a DJ or other entertainment as well. Please let us know if you'd like more information just ask or follow this link: charlesriverboat.com/events/wedding-events/ Also check out our other blog posts more specifically about the Valiant and Tricia & Travis's Wedding Day.

Meet "Happy" - Charles Riverboat Company's newest vessel! Happy is a custom built 36' boat that can accommodate up to 20 guests. It's perfect for "intimate outings, proposals, company gatherings and other social events,"(Charles Riverboat information flyer). We also think that Happy would be perfect for an elopement or intimate ceremony - immediate family and closest friends or even just the "happy" couple! Johnny Burke can still cater this even via "drop catering" and there is a full bar, bluetooth sound system, Rowes Wharf dockage with option to dock for a meal in the Seaport, flexible cruise times and of course a licensed captain and crew on board. Event coordinator Georgie also had the great idea to have a photographer posing as a crew member should you want a secret proposal to happen on board! This unique vessel being so small would probably only need one photographer unlike most of our other weddings and events. The open air back seating section can also be closed off more if it is raining during your event. Happy is filling a gap in the Charles Riverboat company's vessel sizes - their previous small boat "Carousel" only held up to 6 passengers. Happy starts at $1400 for 2 hours depending on the day of the week. It is also available for both Boston Harbor and Charles River cruises! We also have a sample menu for their events along with bar menu if you're curious just reach out! Check out a tour on our Instagram going live tonight: https://www.instagram.com/apreamedia/  

The "Lexington" is the largest of the fleet accomodating up to 145 guests for a cocktail cruise and 110 for a full dinner cruise on Boston Harbor. This vessel also boards at Rowe's Wharf (same as the Valiant). The "Lexington" is a 75' "authentic two-level paddle wheel boat," (Charles Riverboat information flyer). Just as the Valiant, it has a full bar and full catering options. There is space for a DJ or other live entertainment and the Lexington has a much larger dance floor! If dancing is important their coordinator Georgie says that THIS is the ship for you! This vessel has even more space to walk or stand outside with more custom cushioned benches as well. It was so fun to tour! In the picture below you can see where the ceremony takes place in front of the door leading out to the bow. This is typically set up with two rows of chairs and then transformed into the set up you see now. On each side there is ample room for a buffet meal if you prefer buffet over served. Upstairs is where the dance floor is! Please check out our Instagram for a full walk through tour going up soon. 

We had such an amazing night on board the three vessels on the harbor and can't wait to also tell you all about the two river boats, the "Henry Longfellow" and "Charles I" in a separate post. If you're interested in hosting a company outing, corporate day retreat, wedding of any size or engagement please reach out to us! All of the information can be found on their website but we also have pricing and sample menus available. We can also offer week day or wedding size discounts compared to the pricing published on our site. We'd love to hear from you!

Celebrating Love and New Beginnings: Alexis and Zach's Intimate Boston Wedding
There are moments in life that are so profound, they deserve to be celebrated with love, joy, and those closest to your heart. Alexis and Zach's wedding at the Marriott Long Wharf Boston was one of those moments. This beautiful couple not only celebrated their union but also the upcoming arrival of their first child. Their wedding day was a testament to love, family, and the joy of new beginnings.

The Perfect Venue: Marriott Long Wharf Boston
Nestled on the picturesque waterfront, the Marriott Long Wharf Boston provided the perfect backdrop for Alexis and Zach's wedding. The venue, known for its stunning harbor views and elegant spaces, offered a blend of modern sophistication and historic charm. For a couple like Alexis and Zach, who value both style and comfort, the Marriott Long Wharf was an ideal choice. Alexis wanted a day of GLAMOUR!

Getting Ready
Alexis and Zach stayed at the hotel the night prior and were lucky enough to get upgraded from a regular bridal suite to an un-sold corner ocean view terrace suite! The room was just stunning and so spacious. It had many mirrors available to use and even a hook in front of the terrace perfect for getting those hanging dress shots. Alexis had two dresses specially ordered to accommodate her baby bump! Sarah stayed with Alexis to take her getting ready and flat lay photographs and even had the idea to include their ultrasound pictures of their baby boy on their flat lay. John stayed in the "Starlight Lounge" where their ceremony would be held shortly while Zach prepared there with friends and family. 

The First Look
Alexis & Zach wanted to have a private first look in their suite before heading down to their intimate ceremony. The perfect sliding door was in the middle of the suite between the living room and bedroom. We had Alexis in control of the door setting up a "first touch" before the big reveal!

Family Portraits: Under the Arbor Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
Immediately after their ceremony we snuck off to the Boston Waterfront for family portraits under the arbors, a classic Boston portrait location. Sarah had previously done a fitness photo shoot here! With such a small group these portraits were quick and easy. Thanks to AI capabilities editing the tourists from the background was easier than before!

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A Day to Remember: Grace and Sean's Enchanting Wedding at Blissful Meadows Golf Club
As wedding photographers, we have the honor of capturing love stories in some of the most beautiful locations. On May 26, 2024, John and I had the pleasure of photographing the enchanting wedding of Grace and Sean at the picturesque Blissful Meadows Golf Club. Nestled in the serene landscapes of Uxbridge, Massachusetts, this venue is a hidden gem, perfect for a romantic and unforgettable wedding day.

​The Venue: Blissful Meadows Golf Club
Blissful Meadows Golf Club is a place where natural beauty and rustic charm meet. The club boasts sprawling green fairways, beautiful forest, and a quaint 19th-century barn that provides a charming backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The meticulously manicured gardens and the elegant clubhouse further add to the venue's appeal, making it a photographer’s dream come true. On top of how gorgeous the venue is - the staff there was incredible to work with - one of THE BEST we've ever worked with. Cheryl, their coordinator was absolutely fantastic. She truly kept the day running on top and smoothly. She even shuttled not only the couple but also us and grandparents any time we needed a golf cart! 

The Couple: Grace and Sean
​Grace and Sean are one of those couples whose love radiates in every glance, every touch, and every smile they share. Grace, with her effortless elegance and warm demeanor, looked every bit the fairy-tale bride. Sean, with his charming personality and evident adoration for Grace, complemented her perfectly. Together, they created a dynamic that was both heartwarming and inspiring.
They met through Sean's mother who worked with Grace! Grace was placed in her classroom as a teaching assistant and Sean's mom just knew Grace would be the perfect daughter-in law! Their wedding day was a celebration of their journey, surrounded by family and friends who had been part of their story.
The day began in the historic clubhouse, where Grace and her bridesmaids were getting ready in the Bridal Suite and Sean was getting ready with his Groomsmen and the dads in another room. The suites buzzed with excitement and laughter as hair and makeup artists worked their magic and shots were passed around in the men's room! Grace’s dress, a stunning creation of lace and tulle, hung in the corner near a stunning vintage mirror, waiting to transform her into a bride. As she stepped into her dress, the room fell silent, everyone mesmerized by her beauty. Sean’s suit, tailored to perfection, added an air of sophistication to his already handsome appearance. As he adjusted his cufflinks and straightened his tie, you could see the anticipation and excitement in his eyes.

The First Look
One of the most intimate moments of the day was the first look. We chose a secluded spot in the barn, where the sunlight filtered through a crack in the sliding barn doors. Sean stood with his back to the door on the inside of the barn, waiting for Grace to be revealed as the coordinators slid the doors open. When Sean turned around, his expression of awe and love was priceless. They embraced, sharing whispers and tears, a moment just for them before the whirlwind of the day continued. We continued on to do some intimate portraits of just the two of them before lining up for their ceremony.

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How to Get the Perfect First Dance Pictures from Your Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is a tapestry of moments stitched together, each one precious and fleeting. Among these moments, the first dance stands out as a timeless expression of love and unity. Capturing this magical dance perfectly requires a combination of preparation, communication, and artistry. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to ensure your wedding photographer in Norwood, Massachusetts captures those perfect first dance pictures you'll cherish forever.

1. Choosing the Right Photographer - (obviously we hope this is us)! 
Research and Recommendations - Start by researching wedding photographers in Norwood, Massachusetts and surrounding areas. Look at their portfolios, paying particular attention to their ability to capture moments filled with emotion. Recommendations from friends, family, and online reviews can also guide you to a reputable photographer. Check out our testimonials tab for our rave reviews!
Meeting with Photographers - Set up meetings with potential photographers to discuss your vision. A good photographer will be willing to listen and offer suggestions based on their experience. This is also a great time to assess their personality and professionalism, ensuring you feel comfortable with them. We always do a first meeting on Zoom and go from there. We're happy to do coffee or drinks too!

2. Communication is Key
Discuss Your Vision - Clearly communicate your vision for the first dance. Whether you envision a romantic, soft-focus capture or a vibrant, energetic shot, your photographer needs to know. Share examples from their portfolio or other sources that resonate with you.

3. Venue Walkthrough
Arrange a walkthrough of the venue with your photographer. This allows them to assess lighting, angles, and potential obstacles. For Massachusetts venues, which can vary from elegant ballrooms to rustic barns, this step is crucial in planning the best shots. Is there enough room around you on the dance floor for your photographers to work? Some spaces are very tight! If seats are right up against the dance floor it's important that while dancing you make sure to make full 360 degree turns to give your photographers every opportunity. 

4. Lighting
Discuss the venue's lighting with your photographer. Will there be spotlights, fairy lights, or candles? Will your DJ have lighting set up? Photographers need to know this to bring the necessary equipment to balance and enhance these lighting conditions.

5. The Dance Itself
Practice Makes Perfect - Rehearse your first dance multiple times. While spontaneity has its charm, being comfortable with your steps ensures you can focus on each other rather than the mechanics of the dance. A relaxed couple looks better in photos. Emotion and Expression - Concentrate on the emotional connection between you and your partner. Smile, laugh, whisper sweet nothings, or simply lose yourselves in each other’s eyes. Genuine emotions are what make the photos special. Practice both looking at a pretend camera - put your cheeks together or one of you puts your head against the other's chest. It's important to get a few shots while both looking in the same direction.

6. Technical Aspects
Camera Settings - Experienced photographers will adjust their camera settings to suit the environment. High shutter speeds can freeze the motion, while lower shutter speeds can create a beautiful blur, conveying movement. Aperture and ISO settings will be adjusted for the perfect exposure. Lens Choices - Discuss lens preferences with your photographer. Wide-angle lenses can capture the grandeur of the venue, while prime lenses can focus on the intimate details of your expressions. John and I both use different focal lengths while simultaneously shooting so that while we are shooting the same thing, you have variety in how your photographs will look.

7. Trust Your Photographer 
Give Creative Freedom - While it's important to communicate your vision, also give your photographer creative freedom. Trust in their expertise to capture moments you might not have considered. Often, the most memorable photos are the spontaneous ones. It's so important to hire someone you feel trust in - not just someone who might fit your budget. Poses and Candid Shots - Your photographer will likely suggest some posed shots, but candid shots often turn out to be the most authentic. Allow your photographer to blend these approaches for a diverse collection of photos.

8. Post-Processing and Edits
Editing Style - Discuss the editing style you prefer. Some couples like a bright, airy feel, while others might prefer a more dramatic, moody tone. Your photographer’s editing style should align with your vision. You should be hiring your photographer because you like their style - not expecting them to change their editing based on the style you like. Great edits take time! While we are occasionally able to finish a gallery faster than average, it's not always the case. This tends to happen if you're the first or second of our busy season. Our average turn around time is 6 weeks. For the majority of photographers, especially weddings - our hard work and the most time consuming isn't on your actual wedding day - it's the back end of processing. We backup your photographs immediately, have to cull through thousands of images to select the best and then hand edit each image. Each hour of your wedding day takes Sarah approximately 8 hours of editing work!

9. Creating an Album
Selecting Photos - When selecting photos for your album, choose a mix of wide shots, close-ups, and candid moments. This variety will tell a complete story of your first dance.
Consider investing in a professionally designed album, our middle and highest package both include a print credit or album. Photographers often offer this service, ensuring your photos are presented in the best possible way. We can also offer Save The Date cards from your engagement session and Thank You cards after your big day!

Your first dance is a moment of pure magic, and with the right preparation, communication, and trust in your photographer, you can capture it perfectly. By choosing a skilled wedding photographer in Norwood, Massachusetts, and following these tips, you’ll ensure your first dance photos are a beautiful, timeless reflection of your love story. We are a husband and wife wedding photography team, while based in Norwood we photograph weddings all over New England - even the country! We have zero travel fees in New England and will travel anywhere for the right couple. Contact us today to see if we're a good fit for your wedding day photography!

When it comes to capturing the essence of your special day, selecting the right wedding photographer is crucial. In the bustling city of Boston, Massachusetts, finding the perfect photographer to document your wedding can be a daunting task. However, fear not, as Aprea Media stands out as the premier choice for those seeking top-tier wedding photography services in the Boston area.
With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, our husband and wife team at Aprea Media is dedicated to creating stunning visual narratives that beautifully capture the magic of your wedding day. Specializing in wedding photography, Aprea Media goes above and beyond to ensure that each moment, from the exchanging of vows to the cutting of the cake, is elegantly preserved for years to come.
One of the key reasons why Aprea Media is considered the best wedding photographers in Boston, Massachusetts, is their unwavering commitment to excellence. From the initial consultation to the final delivery of your photos, our team at Aprea Media goes above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service and unparalleled attention to detail.
We understand that every couple is unique, and our approach to wedding photography reflects this belief. By taking the time to get to know each couple and understand their vision for their special day, we are able to tailor our services to meet the individual needs and preferences of each client. Check out our most recent review below!

In addition to our personalized approach, Aprea Media also boasts a talented team of photographers who are experienced, professional, and highly skilled in their craft. With years of experience in the industry, we at Aprea Media have an innate ability to capture the raw emotions and candid moments that make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
Furthermore, Aprea Media prides itself on using state-of-the-art equipment and innovative photography techniques to ensure that your wedding photos are of the highest quality. When you choose Aprea Media as your wedding photographers, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. With a reputation for excellence, a passion for storytelling, and a commitment to capturing the beauty and emotion of your special day, Aprea Media is the top choice for couples looking for the best wedding photographers in the Boston, Massachusetts area. We truly care about our couples!
To learn more about us and our wedding photography services, visit our website at www.apreamedia.com and our instagram at www.instagram.com/apreamedia. Don't settle for anything less than the best – choose us and let Aprea Media turn your wedding day dreams into stunning visual memories that will last a lifetime.