Madison Beach Hotel | Kristin + Jason - wedding photographer in CT

Madison Beach Hotel {10.27.18}

Kristin + Jason are that couple that just clicks. You know the kind — as soon as people found out they were dating, the only question anyone had was: When’s the wedding?! That natural, magnetic chemistry just made sense. And in true Kristin and Jason fashion, they didn’t wait long to make it official.

I got the happiest phone call just a few months before their big day. Kristin was absolutely glowing as she told me she and Jason were planning a wedding at the Madison Beach Hotel — one of my all-time favorite venues for a coastal Connecticut wedding. They pulled everything together so effortlessly. All they needed were their closest friends and family (and a band that knew how to bring it). Even an October Nor’easter couldn’t dampen the vibes of this joyful, intimate day.

First look feels + portraits that feel like art…

The Madison Beach Hotel sits right on the shoreline, with cozy suites and classic New England charm. It made the perfect backdrop for these two. Kristin and Jason shared their first look in one of the private suites overlooking the water — and let me tell you, Jason’s reaction? Unreal. That smile said everything. The usually chill groom was clearly in awe, and honestly, same. Kristin looked like a vintage dream in her gown from The Savvy Bride.

After soaking up those sweet first-look moments, we wandered the hotel grounds for portraits. The wind was wild (hello, coastal fall wedding!) but gave everything this ethereal, windswept vibe that felt straight out of an old film still. These two twirled and laughed and leaned into the moment, making for some of my favorite emotional wedding photos I’ve taken in Mystic, Connecticut.

A family-centered ceremony by the sea…

Kristin and Jason said “I do” inside the hotel, surrounded by a room full of their favorite people. Kristin walked down the aisle with both of her parents — a moment that felt so personal and grounding. Their ceremony was officiated by Jason’s uncle, which added such a meaningful, full-circle touch.

And can we talk about their wedding party? So many sweet little nieces (six, to be exact) added the most adorable energy to the day. Every moment felt warm, relaxed, and full of love.

Pearl jam, powerhouse toasts + the best kind of party…

These two couldn’t wait to celebrate. After a cozy cocktail hour with stunning ocean views (and yes, incredible passed apps thanks to Madison Beach Hotel’s catering team), Kristin and Jason made their grand entrance to Pearl Jam — their first dance was equal parts rock ‘n roll and pure romance.

Then came the toasts. Kristin’s dad gave the sweetest speech that had everyone in the room tearing up. But it was her maid of honor — her ride-or-die — who truly stole the show. She turned her speech into a full-on Lifetime movie moment, singing a soundtrack she wrote herself. It was hilarious, heartfelt, and totally unforgettable.

Jason’s best man? His dad. And his speech was one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Honest, funny, and filled with the kind of love only a father can express. Everyone laughed, cried, and raised their glasses high.

A dance floor for the ages…

Kristin and Jason brought in Andre & Eddie, a live band that knew exactly how to pack a dance floor. From little ones spinning in their party shoes to full-on breakdancing adults, everyone was out there living their best life. It was the kind of party you wish you could attend every weekend — elegant, laid-back, and so full of heart.

Every detail came together seamlessly. From florals by Fisher Florists that added classic fall elegance, to the delicious cake by J Cakes, to the glam from Posh Salon that had the whole crew glowing — it was the kind of day that just felt right. And I’m so lucky I got to be the one to capture it all.

Kristin + Jason, thank you for letting me witness and photograph your love. Your day was so you — stylish, heartfelt, a little wild (in the best way), and absolutely unforgettable.