On a frozen day this past winter, Sarah’s mother, Ella, connected with me. We had a lively conversation as we began to discuss details of her daughter’s wedding and in the process both got very excited by the prospect of rusty walls and colored textures in photographs….it was during this interaction that I learned both Ella and her husband, Knapp, are also photographers.In fact, Ella and I discovered we had even been in some of the same photography exhibits in recent years!

As we all got to know each other, I also learned that Sarah and Ian met at the start of high school, when Sarah was just 13 years old. And, as Sarah’s father mentioned in his wonderful toast, they had bonded over their “dorky interests” (hey, we can relate!) and the rest was history.  Sarah + Ian had known each other more than half of their lives by the time their wedding day arrived on the summer solstice! ❤

We all met at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, to photograph formals and portraits before their ceremony. During the session, we opted against the familiar landmark at the park, and instead incorporated fort ruins, bright green trees and some graffiti we came across. (The rusty walls followed later!)

James McBride created a stunning bouquet and boutonniere (we loved the succulents and the twisty twigs!) for the Bride and Groom.

Jodi Smith of Acapello Salons created Sarah’s adorable hair style.

Then, it was off to the Salt Water Grille in South Portland for the ceremony and an intimate afternoon cocktail party.

Their ceremony was beautifully officiated by Chaplain Sarah Shepley, who is also an accomplished and amazing book artist too!

She created the piece for Sarah + Ian’s wedding below. Oh! AND Ian’s Aunt read from Shel Silverstein, one of our favorites!





During the ceremony, each parent and grandma held their rings, to bless them, as did Sarah + Ian, before exchanging them.

Immediately following their ceremony, we slipped out for a few more portraits (cue rusty walls).

Sarah + Ian kicked off their reception with a time honored Polish Wedding Tradition (a nod to Ian’s heritage), the Sharing of Bread, Salt and Wine. Sarah + Ian’s parents and Ian’s Babci (Grandma!) presented them with a piece of rye sprinkled with salt and a glass of wine, which symbolizes the bitter and the sweet in life.

Their friends and family enjoyed delicious h’orderves, created in house at the Salt Water Grille, and cake and cupcakes from the European Bakery.

After their party, Sarah + Ian caught a water taxi across the harbor, where they celebrated into the evening in Portland’s Old Port.

We can’t forget a quick shout out to the Best Man, Will, who held our reflector, helped the boat dock in a tight spot, and gave a great toast to boot!

Congratulations Sarah + Ian!  It was a joy to be part of your awesome day! xo

Officiant: Sarah Shepley of ChIMe /Event Coordination: Megan Brady at the Salt Water Grille /Venue and Catering: Salt Water Grille  / Cake and Cupcakes: European Bakery  /
Floral Design: Fleuriste at Papier Floral Arrangements by James McBride / Hair: Jodi Smith at Acapello Salons /Favors: Haven’s Candies