A summer wedding at the Gardens at Elm Bank is a special experience; the gardens are lush and layered, the Mansion gives the air of an English countryside manor, and even though the grounds are extensive, the various gardens make every space feel intimate. Laura and Steve’s wedding day captured all of that and more.

As a photographer who is well acquainted with the Gardens at Elm Bank, I know how the property transforms throughout the day and how to use each space to add variety to your wedding pictures while capturing you in the best light. From quiet garden paths to grand architectural moments, this venue offers endless opportunities for timeless imagery when it’s approached with intention.

In the months leading up to the wedding, Laura and I worked closely together to ensure her vision felt fully realized on the day itself. We walked the Gardens at Elm Bank together ahead of the wedding, moving through the property so she could visualize where portraits, first looks, and quiet moments would naturally unfold. Being able to see the spaces in person helped her feel confident and relaxed, knowing there was a thoughtful plan in place that still allowed room for spontaneity.

We also collaborated on the wedding timeline, carefully building it around the moments that mattered most to Laura and Steve. This included allowing space for Welsh traditions they wanted to incorporate, as well as unhurried time with family who had traveled such a long distance to be there. The result was a timeline that felt personal, respectful of tradition, and never rushed.

From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this day would be special. The grounds were in full bloom, with a large variety of florals, manicured hedges, and layers of greenery creating a setting that felt refined yet welcoming. For couples dreaming of a garden wedding that feels elevated but never stiff, the Gardens at Elm Bank are unmatched.

A Love Story Years in the Making: A wedding at the Gardens at Elm Bank

Laura and Steve’s story began long before wedding plans, vision boards, or guest lists. They met in high school, and a young love was born. Their connection grew quietly, built on shared experiences and an easy familiarity that only comes from knowing someone over time. Steve made the first big move when he asked Laura to a dance, a moment that would set their relationship in motion.

Years later, Steve planned a proposal that felt just as thoughtful. On a beach in Cape Cod, with the sound of the ocean and the open sky around them, he asked Laura to marry him. It was romantic in the truest sense. Simple, meaningful, and perfectly them. That same feeling carried through every part of their wedding day at the Gardens at Elm Bank.

Getting Ready Among Family and Anticipation

The morning of the wedding unfolded with a calm, joyful energy. Laura got ready surrounded by her bridesmaids and close family, including loved ones who had traveled from Wales, where her parents are from. That sense of family and heritage was woven beautifully into the day, adding depth and emotion to every moment.

Laura wore a stunning gown by Essense of Australia, purchased from Angela’s Bridal Boston. The dress featured a timeless structured waist that highlighted her silhouette in the most elegant way and paired beautifully with the softness of the skirt, creating a look that felt both classic and romantic. Her veil, detailed with delicate floral lace, added a layer of softness that moved gently as she walked. Pearl earrings completed the look, understated and refined, a perfect complement to the garden setting.

Her bridesmaids wore silk fuchsia dresses from Revelry, a bold and beautiful choice that popped against the greenery of the Gardens at Elm Bank. The richness of the color added a modern edge while still feeling romantic.

Hair and makeup were flawlessly done by Traveler Beauty Company, creating a look that felt polished yet natural. Laura looked radiant, comfortable, and completely herself, exactly how a bride should feel on her wedding day.

Emotional First Look at the Gardens at Elm Bank

One of the most special parts of the day was the series of first looks Laura chose to have. Before seeing Steve, she shared a first look with her bridesmaids. Their reactions were filled with laughter, happy tears, and the kind of excitement that only comes from seeing someone you love step fully into such a meaningful moment.

Next came a first look with her dad. This was a quiet, emotional moment, full of pride and love. The gentle smiles exchanged as Laura helped pin her father’s boutonniere were truly touching. These moments are often some of the most powerful of the day, and Laura’s first look with her father was no exception.

Finally, Laura met Steve for their first look together in the garden, surrounded by flowers in full bloom. The setting could not have been more perfect. As Steve turned and saw Laura for the first time, his reaction said everything. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them, sharing a moment that felt private, deeply emotional, and full of beauty. The Gardens at Elm Bank truly shine in moments like this, offering endless pockets of quiet beauty that feel intimate and secluded.

An Italian Garden Ceremony at the Gardens at Elm Bank

Laura and Steve exchanged vows in the Italian Garden, one of the most iconic spaces at the Gardens at Elm Bank. The symmetry, European-style fountain, and lush plantings created a ceremony setting that felt both formal and romantic. Guests were seated among the greenery as sunlight filtered softly through the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The ceremony itself was heartfelt and elegant. With family and friends gathered, including loved ones from across the ocean, Laura and Steve promised their lives to one another in a space that felt timeless. The Italian Garden provided a sense of structure and grandeur while still allowing the natural beauty of the gardens to take center stage.

Thoughtful Details and Elevated Design

Every detail of the day was carefully chosen, creating a cohesive and elevated design that never felt overdone. Laura’s bouquet, designed by Bespoke Blooms MA, featured a romantic mix of seasonal blooms that complemented the garden setting beautifully. The florals felt organic and soft, enhancing the environment rather than competing with it.

The invitations, designed by Natalie Hill, set the tone from the very beginning. Elegant and hand-illustrated, they added a custom touch that hinted at the garden romance guests would experience upon arrival.

Steve wore a classic black tie tux from Men’s Wearhouse, a timeless choice that paired perfectly with the formal elegance of the venue. The black tie look added a level of sophistication that elevated the entire aesthetic of the day.

Laura and Steve’s rings from Mia Kaizer Jewelry were classic and meaningful, designed to be worn and loved for a lifetime. These small but significant details are often what make a wedding day feel truly personal.

A Carriage House Reception at the Gardens at Elm Bank

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour among the various gardens before they made their way to the Carriage House for the reception. The Carriage House at the Gardens at Elm Bank has a hint of historic charm and is ideal for couples who want an indoor reception.

The reception space was warm and inviting, filled with laughter, music, and the energy of celebration. Baker’s Best Catering provided an incredible dining experience, with thoughtfully prepared dishes that delighted guests throughout the evening.

The cake, created by Buttercream Boston, was both beautiful and delicious, a true centerpiece of the reception. Elegant in design and rich in flavor, it perfectly reflected the refined yet joyful tone of the day.

Music was provided by Kahootz Entertainment, who provided the perfect atmosphere from a romantic first dance, to soothing dinner music, to dance-worthy songs that got you out of your seat. The whole evening felt perfectly suited to Laura and Steve’s personalities.

Why the Gardens at Elm Bank Is Perfect for a Summer Wedding in Massachusetts

A summer wedding at the Gardens at Elm Bank offers something truly special. The warm weather and extended sunlight allows you to take full advantage of the variety of gardens. From quiet first looks to grand ceremonies and lively receptions. The grounds feel expansive yet intimate, making it ideal for couples who value both beauty and experience.

A Timeless Gardens at Elm Bank Wedding Day

Laura and Steve’s wedding day was a beautiful reflection of their journey together. From high school sweethearts to husband and wife, their story unfolded with grace, connection, and deep love. Their summer wedding at the Gardens at Elm Bank was not just a celebration of a single day, but of years of connection, family, and shared history.

It was an honor to document a day filled with such meaning and beauty. Having photographed at the Gardens at Elm Bank, I approach each celebration with a deep understanding of the property, the light, and the rhythm of the day, ensuring that couples can be fully present while their story is documented with care. For couples dreaming of a romantic garden wedding that feels timeless and personal, Laura and Steve’s celebration is a perfect example of what is possible at the Gardens at Elm Bank.

Save this blog post for inspiration.

---

Vendor Team

Venue: Gardens at Elm Bank – https://www.masshort.org/the-gardens-at-elm-bank/

Bridal Boutique: Angela’s Bridal Boston – https://www.angelasbridalboston.com/

Dress: Essense of Australia – https://www.essensedesigns.com/essense-of-australia/

Hair & Makeup: Traveler Beauty Company – https://www.travelerbeautycompany.com/

Rings: Mia Kaizer Jewelry – https://www.miakaizerjewelry.com/

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Revelry – https://shoprevelry.com/

Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse – https://www.menswearhouse.com/

Invitations: Natalie Hill – https://www.nataliehilldesign.com/

Caterer: Baker’s Best Catering – https://www.bakersbestcatering.com/

Cake: Buttercream Boston – https://www.buttercreamboston.com/

Flowers: Bespoke Blooms MA – https://www.bespokebloomsma.com/

Band: Kahootz Entertainment – https://www.kahootzentertainment.com/