The forecast for this past Saturday, like many others this summer, was unsettled.  Everyone’s favorite "chance of thunderstorms" was the prediction.  Tris and Chris had planned for their ceremony and reception outdoors at the Mass Audubon Sanctuary "Habitat", nestled in the hills of Belmont, MA.  The Habitat, an antique home surrounded by formal and informal gardens, is the perfect place for an outdoor wedding.  Everyone had their fingers crossed and one eye on the gray clouds above. 

Chris arrived first.  George and I were quickly introduced to his grandparents who would be officiating for the ceremony.  They are both ordained ministers with the United Methodist Church and were very excited to have the opportunity to marry their grandson.  Chris’ grandfather approached George and I and voiced his expectations regarding our photography during the ceremony.  He wanted to ensure that we wouldn’t distract him or the audience from the significance of the ceremony.  We assured him we wouldn’t and then asked if he would be willing to "grade" our performance.  He was happy to oblige. 

Tris arrived soon after.  She looked incredibly elegant in her strapless white dress.  Chris greeted her in the now empty living room with a huge smile and warm hug.  They were quickly surrounded by family and friends.  Tris and Chris opted to take their formal pictures before the ceremony so they could participate in their cocktail hour.  We set up for the group shots in the formal garden directly behind the house.  We shot the requested family and wedding party pictures and then stole away with just the bride and groom for a few more of just them.  It was soon time for the ceremony to begin.  No rain yet.

 The ceremony was set in one of the less formal gardens with the audience looking down a shady wooded path behind the bride and groom.  Wooden folding chairs were set in silent rows with programs waiting to be picked up.  A guitar and flute duo serenaded the audience as it gathered.  Chris stood up front with his brothers and exchanged excited smiles with guests as they awaited Tris’ entrance.  Still no rain.

During the ceremony, George and I tiptoed through the grass and I snuck up a wooded path I saw before the ceremony began so I could get a shot looking back at everyone.  This was a rare opportunity, as most ceremonies are in a church and priests/ministers typically request we stay on the congregational side of the altar.  I made sure I was back far enough so as not to distract, keeping a close eye for any reaction from Chris’ grandfather. 

Following the ceremony, we took a few more formal pictures with just Tris and Chris before they joined their guests for the cocktail hour on the patio.  Toward the end of the cocktail hour, the matron of honor gave a toast, followed by a stand-up routine – I mean another toast – by the groom’s brothers.  During the transition, I took the opportunity to inquire with Chris’ grandfather as to mine and George’s performance during the ceremony.  I asked, "So what’s our grade?"  He responded, "100%.  I didn’t even know you were there."

Amy, of Wildflour Catering, and her staff had been hard at work the whole day preparing for the reception (as well as the cocktail hour).  Guests were seated at tables in the garden and enjoyed dinner along each other’s company.  During dinner, George and I took some formal portraits of guests as well as some candids from the second story window.  Still not a drop of rain.

Tris and Chris cut the cake and after it was served, the guests moved indoors for dancing.  A special slideshow of pictures of Tris and Chris throughout the years was prepared and shared with the guests.  There were many "Aww"s and "Ooh"s as their entire lives were highlighted in five minutes. 

As the evening was winding down, the sky was turning deep blue, so George and I ran outside to set up a twilight shot.  Once we were set up, we ran back in a grabbed Tris and Chris for a moment.  As we were walking out, we realized it was sprinkling just slightly.  We got Tris and Chris in position and took the picture.  The best part is that the camera flash picked up the raindrops, so it looks like the sky behind Tris and Chris is full of stars.  For once, a little rain added to the day. 

Our best to Tris and Chris.  Thanks for allowing us to share in your special day!