Saltwater Farm Vineyard Wedding | Tara + Nick - wedding photographer in CT

Saltwater Farm Vineyard Wedding | Tara + Nick

{Saltwater Farm Vineyard 5.20.22}

Lovebirds, Tara + Nick met in the heart of Mystic at a bar while they were both out with friends. You know those moments that feel like fate? This was one of them. Their first date was the sweetest all-day adventure—from coffee at Java, to oysters at TwoTen, to a dreamy sunset walk along Napatree Point. That same spot would later become the place where Nick dropped to one knee and asked Tara to spend forever with him. Full circle, full hearts.

A classic church ceremony + moody vineyard reception…

Tara + Nick tied the knot at Saint Pius Church, a timeless setting filled with natural light and sweet, emotional moments. Their ceremony was heartfelt and tear-filled (yes, even behind my camera, I teared up). Tara looked absolutely stunning in her BHLDN gown, surrounded by her bridesmaids who were also rocking effortlessly romantic BHLDN looks. And Nick? He and his guys kept it sharp in classic Burberry suits.

After the ceremony, guests made their way over to Saltwater Farm Vineyard in Stonington for the celebration. This space is always magical, but that day it felt especially cinematic. Think glowing café lights, deep moody tones, and the scent of wine and florals in the air. Even with the grandeur, there was such an intimate, cozy energy—exactly the kind of feeling I love to capture.

All the details that made it so them…

Tara carried a simple yet stunning bouquet from Stop and Shop, proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to create something beautiful. Her glam team, led by Jen Marshall, nailed the effortless chic look—soft waves, glowing skin, and classic makeup that photographed like a dream.

Dinner and coordination were handled by Coastal Gourmet, who kept everything running smoothly while serving up the most delicious dishes (I still think about that risotto, not gonna lie). DJ Matt Sisky kept the dance floor packed all night—like, people only sat down when the lights came on kind of packed. And yes, the reception ended in the best way: with everyone dancing, arms around each other, celebrating the start of something beautiful.

Days like this are what I live for as a wedding photographer in Mystic, Connecticut. The vintage charm of Saltwater Farm, the emotion in the air, and the way Tara + Nick looked at each other—it all felt like a scene from a film. These two reminded me why I do what I do: to freeze the in-between moments and turn them into art.

So beyond thankful to have been a part of it.