Coast Guard Academy Wedding | Love Sunday Photo

Coast Guard Academy Wedding | Emily + Daniel

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Coast Guard Academy Wedding {09.15.2018}

Let me tell you about Emily + Dan—because these two? Total magic. From their sweet beginning as best friends to their Coast Guard Academy wedding in New London, Connecticut, every moment of their day was filled with love, laughter, and personal touches that made it feel so them. As a wedding photographer based in Mystic, Connecticut, it’s days like this that remind me why I love capturing emotional wedding imagery that feels like vintage art.

How it started: from friends to forever!

Emily and Dan met through mutual friends on a night out, and Dan was smitten pretty much instantly. Emily? She took a little more convincing—but their friendship only made things stronger. They spent months hanging out, traveling, and sharing their favorite coffee spots (because yes, they are coffee people). Both in the military and both close with their families, it didn’t take long before they realized they’d found their forever.

A ring pop proposal!!

Dan had planned an elaborate Easter egg hunt proposal, but after a quick convo with Emily’s Gram the morning of, he had to pivot fast. So he pulled her outside during the family gathering, handed her a ring pop first (classic move), and then got down on one knee with the real deal. She said YES and the celebration started immediately with their nearest and dearest.

Getting ready and a dreamy first look!

Their wedding was technically a destination wedding—Emily and Dan live in North Carolina—but Dan is an alum of the Coast Guard Academy, so the venue held deep meaning. Emily got ready with her girls at the Mystic Marriott, and the Parlor Suite was filled with giggles, mimosas, and sweet sister moments. Her sister gifted her a Tiffany bracelet—her “something blue”—and yes, there were definitely tears.

Hair and makeup by The Beauty Bar was flawless. Emily looked effortlessly stunning in her gown, with soft waves and glowing skin that felt straight out of a vintage film still. My camera was in heaven.

Dan, in his all-white Coast Guard uniform (looking sharp, might I add), waited by the water for their first look. The second he turned and saw Emily, his whole face lit up—and not in a cheesy way, but in that pure, joyful, can’t-believe-this-is-my-person kind of way. They laughed, hugged, and soaked up every second together before the ceremony began.

We explored the Coast Guard Academy grounds for portraits, which had so many perfect spots for vintage-inspired wedding photos. The golden-hour light, the soft breeze off the water—chef’s kiss.

Sweet traditions + personal touches!

The ceremony took place in the chapel at the Academy. It was filled with sunlight and the most gorgeous blooms from Thames River Greenery. One of my favorite moments? Dan had his parents stand with him at the altar instead of a best man. It was beautiful and emotional and gave me one of my all-time favorite shots—his dad smirking at him as he tried not to cry watching Emily walk down the aisle.

After the “I do’s,” guests headed to Alumni Hall for cocktail hour while we snuck away for a few more portraits. Then it was time for dinner and dancing at the Officer’s Club. But before the party kicked off, Emily and Dan did something super special—they introduced their own wedding party, sharing a little story about each person and why they were chosen. It was such a sweet way to celebrate their people.

The dance floor was non-stop thanks to DJ Siagel, and Dan? Let’s just say his dance moves did not disappoint. Emily had warned me he was the life of the party, and she was 100% right.

There’s nothing like a good father-of-the-bride toast, and Emily’s dad delivered one that had everyone laughing and tearing up. And just when I thought I’d seen it all, Dan whipped out his officer’s sword to cut the cake from The Cake Lady. Totally over the top. Totally amazing.

Emily said it best…

it’s all about love, laughter, and adventure. And I have no doubt these two are just getting started on the most beautiful journey together. Thank you, Emily and Dan, for letting me be part of your magical day. Capturing weddings like yours is why I do what I do.

Scroll down for some of my favorite moments from their Coast Guard Academy wedding. If you’re dreaming of your own wedding in Mystic, Connecticut or anywhere in New England, and want emotional wedding photos that feel like art, let’s talk.