Hope Artiste Village Wedding | Kelly + Andrew - wedding photographer in CT

{Hope Artiste Village 12.16.17}

What made Kelly and Andrew’s wedding at Hope Artiste Village so freaking awesome? Aside from their ridiculously fun personalities, it was their incredible style and all the personal touches that made this day truly theirs. Every detail told a story — from the wedding bands they crafted together to the travel-inspired snow globe centerpieces.

Even the things they didn’t make held deep meaning. Kelly wore her mother’s vintage veil and headband, plus her grandfather’s ring. Her mom handmade the cozy fur shrugs and mittens the bridal party wore. The flower girls’ outfits were handmade too! And, while the officiant wasn’t DIY, he was Andrew’s close friend — another way they made this day unmistakably personal.

Getting ready in style…

Kelly and Andrew started their day just a few doors down from each other at the trendy Dean Hotel in downtown Providence. The hotel’s cool decor perfectly matched their vibe. Even though they didn’t want a traditional first look, they came up with a hilarious way to sneak in some couple photos without seeing each other.

Picture this: everyone riding the bus together, snapping photos separately, and then leading Andrew to Kelly without him peeking. We even stood them back-to-back so Kelly could plant a kiss on Andrew’s cheek. Pure torture for Andrew, but also absolutely priceless!

A venue like no other!

Later, we headed to Hope Artiste Village, easily one of the most unique venues I’ve ever shot at. Just hours before, it had been an indoor farmers market filled with fresh foods and local crafts. But by evening, it transformed into a glowing winter wonderland, draped with string lights, candles, and lush foliage inside a huge industrial brick warehouse.

Oh, and yes — there was a giant painting of an Awful Awful on the wall, because, well, Rhode Island.

Kelly walked down the aisle with her dad, and Andrew’s reaction was worth the wait. He was visibly in awe and had to hold back tears. Even one of the flower girls couldn’t help but cry, totally understanding the emotion of the moment. After beautiful vows and ring exchanges, Kelly + Andrew were officially husband and wife.

Cocktails, dancing + dessert dreams!

While guests enjoyed cocktail hour upstairs at Breaktime Bowl and Bar, an actual bowling alley (lanes and all!), we captured some stunning portraits of the newlyweds.

The reception space sparkled like a twinkly winter wonderland thanks to Kelly’s vision and the flawless execution by Drape Art Designs. The couple’s first dance was full of sweet moves and laughter. Andrew’s brother sang during the mother-son dance, and Kelly shared a heartfelt dance with her dad.

Tears flowed again during the best man’s and maid of honor’s speeches, and the night wouldn’t have been complete without the jaw-dropping dessert table from Amy’s Apples + Devilish Delights. Honestly, those desserts were almost too beautiful to eat!

Kelly + Andrew’s wedding day at Hope Artiste Village was such a joy to be part of. Their creativity, love, and genuine spirit shined through every moment. I can’t wait to watch them continue this amazing journey together.