Eolia Mansion Wedding | Emily + Michael - wedding photographer in CT

{Eolia Mansion at Harkness State Park 8.20.21}

Emily + Michael hosted the kind of wedding day you read about in storybooks—romantic, classic, and filled with so much joy. Set at the stunning Eolia Mansion at Harkness State Park, their August celebration felt like stepping back in time. Think: elegant garden details, vintage charm, and emotional moments that had everyone reaching for the tissues (myself included!).

If I had to sum up their day in just a few words? Romantic, colorful, timeless, and a little bit Gatsby-inspired—in the very best way.

Getting ready at the iconic spicer mansion…

Emily and her bridal party spent the morning tucked away at the charming Spicer Mansion in Mystic. It’s one of my favorite getting-ready locations in Connecticut because it has this quiet, vintage elegance—perfect for those soft, film-style portraits that feel like they belong in an heirloom album.

Once Emily slipped into her Monique Lhuillier gown (that lace detail—obsessed), she was glowing. Her look was classic with a touch of vintage glam, and her hair and makeup by Beauty Entourage tied everything together flawlessly.

Meanwhile, Michael was just a few blocks away, getting ready with his guys in sleek black tuxes from The Black Tux. He made his way to the gardens at Spicer Mansion for their first look—and wow. His face when he saw Emily? Pure magic.

An intimate first look + portraits in mystic…

Their first look was emotional, sweet, and so full of joy. They couldn’t stop smiling—or holding hands—which made my job incredibly easy. We wandered the grounds, capturing those quiet in-between moments: the way Michael tucked Emily’s hair behind her ear, the way she smiled when he whispered something only she could hear.

Their wedding party joined us soon after, and the Mystic trolley picked us up for the ride to the mansion. I love that little detail—it felt like such a fun, old-school way to kick off the celebration.

The celebration of the century…

Eolia Mansion is always breathtaking, but it was next-level dreamy for Emily + Michael’s ceremony. The garden was bursting with late-summer color, and Hanna Floral brought it all together with lush, romantic arrangements that perfectly framed the ceremony space.

A solo performance by Juliana Sharp, their violinist, floated through the air as Emily walked down the aisle. It was like a scene from a movie—soft lighting, a gentle breeze, and over 130 of their favorite people watching them say “I do.”

Their reception inside the mansion was equally gorgeous. Melanie Paukner and Spin Enterprise transformed the space with warm lighting, elegant table florals, and timeless décor. Everything felt so cohesive—like stepping into a curated dream.

Once the sun set, The Silver Arrow Band kept the dance floor packed all night. Emily + Michael barely left each other’s side, twirling, laughing, and soaking up every moment. Their love is the kind that’s so infectious, it fills the entire room. You couldn’t help but smile just watching them.

Being there to capture this day—every tear, laugh, and golden hour kiss—was such an honor. These two truly made the day their own, and every piece of it was a reflection of their love.

Here’s to Emily + Michael—may your life together be as joyful, emotional, and artful as your wedding day. ❤️