Eliza and John were married on August 26, 2023 in the ultimate downtown Portsmouth wedding. I am obsessed with their very special day, and I still swoon over all the incredible locations and details. Working with Lauren Wilson Events was a dream. She ensured a completely flawless day for Eliza and John.

Portsmouth NH Summer Wedding | Gov John Langdon House Ceremony | Jimmy's Jazz and Blues Club reception | Erika Follansbee Photography

If the past few years have taught me anything, it’s that I want to sell everything I own and go live in Portsmouth. I am so inspired by its history, its culinary scene, and the scenic beauty. So when I get an inquiry about a wedding date for a Portsmouth location, I drop everything and try to see if it can fit into my calendar.

Getting Ready at Residence Inn at Portwalk Place

I’ve been telling clients for years about what makes a great getting-ready interior space. You simply need natural light, neutral colors, and no competing artificial lamps. You need ample room for everyone to move around, and you need to minimize clutter. This is not an easy feat when you have multiple women all carrying overnight bags, and there are hair and makeup artists in the room. But somehow, Eliza’s crew made it look effortless.

Eliza chose the Residence Inn at Portwalk Place to get ready, and it was the perfect location in downtown Portsmouth. It also met all of the photo criteria. And the results? Absolutely beautiful. Eliza was prepared and had all her accessories ready for me in a little container, so I didn’t have to spend valuable time looking for them and gathering them. She even included a Mrs. Box in her wedding color which made styling her jewelry and invitations a breeze.

Portsmouth NH Wedding Photographer | Residence Inn Getting Ready | by Erika Follansbee

By the way, I do have a selection of single-ring Mrs. Boxes in a few different colors that I can bring to style your jewelry for the photos–just ask!

Ceremony at Gov. John Langdon House

One of my favorite organizations for stunningly unique and gorgeous properties is Historic New England. They have eight properties throughout New England available for wedding rentals. The Langdon House in Portsmouth is an incredible Georgian residence from 1784.

Portsmouth NH Summer Wedding Ceremony | Gov John Langdon House Historic New England

Eliza and John’s ceremony in the back garden was the epitome of summer leafiness, and they were surrounded by golden sunbeams.

Portsmouth NH Wedding Ceremony at John Langdon House | Erika Follansbee Photography | Lauren Wilson Events

Unforgettable Wedding Photos at Portsmouth’s Waterfront

Portsmouth is of course known for its recognizable landmarks. It’s no wonder that every wedding couple loves to have their photos taken in places that reflect the beauty and character of the city. After their ceremony, Eliza and John walked through downtown to the waterfront where we took some amazing photos. The blooms at Prescott Park were looking spectacular from such a rainy summer, and I can’t remember ever seeing it so lush.

Portsmouth NH Prescott Park Wedding Photos Erika Follansbee

Portsmouth NH Downtown Wedding Photos Erika Follansbee

Reception at Cool & Swanky Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club

At the time of Eliza and John’s wedding, Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club was a newly opened venue, and it is stunning. It’s cool and swanky, and the perfect venue to dine and dance the night away.

Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club Wedding Reception Photos | Erika Follansbee Photography

Things I loved?

The brick bar area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Portsmouth that faced the gorgeous sunset,
the architectural details of the historic venue,
the incredible lighting provided by an in-house lighting technician, and
the impeccably-timed dinner service which was served with efficiency and precision.