To say that Cynthia and Tim are driven would be a massive understatement. She’s a grad student at Harvard and he’s a celebrated lawyer in Rhode Island. And while this would be more than enough responsibility for most people, they decided to also take on the challenge of planning a spectacular Rhode Island wedding!
Though preparations had long been underway for the festivities, Jesse and I started our weekend with the couple on Friday morning with a sunrise portrait session at Hazard Rock on Naragansett Bay. This spot is known as Hazard Rock for more than just its location at the end of Hazard Ave. It’s a somewhat dangerous spot next to the water owing to slippery rocks and unpredictable waves. Nevertheless, Cynthia and Tim had no problem following us out onto the rocks with only the light on my cell phone to guide us. (Note to self: invest in headlamps for next wedding season.)
Our trek was generously rewarded with a spectacular sun rise, including just the right amount of clouds scattered in the sky, capturing that beautiful pink color that only shows up in the early morning sunlight. After the sun crested the horizon, we headed to Cuttyhunk Brook Preserve for a change of scenery and to trade in the pale pinks for rich greens. Jesse and I could easily have photographed Cynthia and Tim all day, but we had to let them get back to their To Do lists.
We met the couple back at their house on Saturday morning to photograph the couple getting ready for their big day. Following a frantic search for missing shoes and a quiet first look with a shared glass of champagne, we split up into various vehicles to make our way into Providence. A brief but poignant ceremony preceded an intimate luncheon with their closest friends and family. Between that party and the next one, we went on a wild ride around Rhode Island, taking photos at the State House, with a plethora of gorgeous cars, and while purchasing rocks at the hardware store – all with Jesse and I trailing the newlyweds’ BMW i8 in their cherry red Tesla Model X. We certainly turned more than a few heads on the highway that day!
We rejoined their guests for a modern-day Gatsby-esque soiree at their beautiful home on Naragansett Bay. This party featured everything from massive lobsters to a selection of salsas with varying spice levels to traditional Indonesian dishes lovingly prepared by Cynthia’s family. As the sun set over the bay, guests partook in the abundance of food, drink, and fabulous company.
Cynthia, best of luck in your new school year, and Tim, if you ever need someone to drive any of your cars again, you know where to find us! Thank you so much for welcoming us into your community and trusting us to capture the beauty, chaos, and perfection of your Rhode Island wedding day. We hope that both of you find some time to catch up on sleep!
Pre-wedding session locations: Hazard Rock, Cuttyhunk Brook Preserve
Ceremony venue: Providence City Hall
Reception venue: Gracie’s
Hair and makeup: Jennifer Lee Johnson