Farmington Gardens Wedding | Tara + Alicia - wedding photographer in CT

Farmington Gardens Wedding {09.29.18}

Okay, I could probably work on that title a little more — but Tara and Alicia’s love story seriously needs to be turned into a rom-com. One that even the two of them would totally enjoy. 😉 Because when you’re looking for a roommate on Craigslist and end up finding your forever person? That’s pretty iconic.

Tara was losing her sister as a roommate, and expectations were low when she posted the listing. But then Alicia showed up — and not only did she fit right in, they clicked. Fast. First as roommates, then best friends, and eventually something more.

It was one of those beautifully slow-burn, natural evolutions that just makes your heart feel full. From NYC to Sydney, they’ve traveled the world together, shared the sweetest date nights, and grown their little family with two of the cutest dogs on the planet — Baxter and Franklin. And when Tara finally proposed during their annual trip to Block Island? She brought it all back to their pups with a sign that read: “We want our moms to be together forever.” Excuse me while I cry forever.

A romantic wedding day at farmington gardens…

September 29, 2018 was pure magic. Tara and Alicia got ready in separate rooms at the Delamar West Hartford, surrounded by their closest friends and family. They chose the hotel for its gorgeous location and cozy ambiance — and it was the perfect start to their day.

There were heartfelt gifts, lots of happy tears (I mean LOTS), and the sweetest, most relaxed energy in the room. You could feel how deeply loved they both are.

We then made our way to their Farmington Gardens wedding, and oh my goodness — what a dream. If you’ve ever been there, you know how breathtaking the gardens and greenhouse are. That lush landscaping? It just begs to be photographed. Every corner was glowing, and with Tara and Alicia in front of my lens, it felt like I was capturing a literal fairy tale.

First look feels + all the vows…

For their first look, Tara and Alicia wanted something a little different. Instead of one walking up to the other, we set them back-to-back and had them turn around at the same time. The second they locked eyes… it was like the world paused. Pure joy. Tears. Huge smiles. And so much love.

Their ceremony was officiated by Tara’s brother and was filled with humor, heart, and yes — even more dog references (because obviously). They wrote their own vows, which were personal and perfect, and during the unity ceremony they blended sand from all their favorite family vacation spots. Such a meaningful way to celebrate all the memories they’ve already made — and the ones still to come.

Dance floors + grilled cheese bars (yes, really!!!)

After their “I Do’s,” it was time to party — and let me tell you, these two know how to throw a celebration.

Their first dance was to “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles, and the way they held each other? It felt like no one else was in the room. Their sisters gave hilarious and heartfelt toasts, and the dance floor was packed the entire night. Seriously, no one sat down. And yes — Tara and Alicia were right there in the middle of it, the entire time.

Oh, and just when you thought it couldn’t get any better: they had a grilled cheese bar at the end of the night. ICONIC. Best. Day. Ever.

Tara + Alicia, it’s been the biggest honor not just to photograph your day, but to know you and call you friends. Watching your love story unfold — from a Craigslist ad to a stunning wedding day surrounded by people who adore you — has been pure magic. I can’t wait to see what comes next for you two (and Baxter + Franklin, of course). Thank you for letting me be a small part of something so big and beautiful.