colleen and noel
Colleen and Noel were married on August 17, 2019 at Glen Magna Farms in Danvers, MA. Every now and then a wedding comes along and it’s so easy to shoot, effortless to plan, and the day flies by in a happy blur of ease. For me, Colleen and Noel’s wedding was just that. They were so wonderful to work with, and so easygoing that it made my job a delight. Their 6 hour timeline was one of the least complicated I have ever encountered. Their number one goal was to spend as much time as possible with all their guests and to truly be present in their day, and we made that happen by organizing their first look, bridal party, and family photos prior to the ceremony, so they got to spend their entire cocktail hour having fun. Glen Magna was such a dream to shoot at, and it’s now one of my favorite venues which is why I could not wait to blog this wedding.
Glen Magna is a gorgeous historic estate in Danvers, MA showcasing incredible European style formal gardens, and a number of photogenic features like the columned arbor, an old fashioned gazebo, stone walls, and numerous paths which are beautiful in every direction. From a photography standpoint, the size of the place is ideal, having enough room to roam around and find good spots, but it’s compact enough to never go very far. There are many options for light, whether you need shade or are seeking sun. I found it to be absolutely ideal as a combination of my love of history, gardens, and natural areas, and I would be so happy to photograph more weddings there.
Even though we had not scheduled any getting ready photos, we found ourselves with a few extra minutes before the first look began, so I treasured that time because I was able to get a few of Colleen and her girls hanging out in the gorgeous Victorian home. The interior and the staircase is a dream. The girls had a little fun dancing and relaxing and working off some jitters. I never know in these old homes how the light will be in the bedrooms, but I was in awe of the natural light, high ceilings, and neutral colors that continued to make this place perfect in every way.
I know Colleen and Noel were a tad nervous for their first look, but they were so happy to see each other and feel those nerves melt away. We used one of the formal gardens for their meeting, and all the bright flowers made a lovely path to walk down.
We had so many options for portraits, and it was so fun to take a little walk around the property, finding all the good light and beautiful backgrounds.
Colleen’s bridesmaids wore a beautiful palette of pinks in all different styles. They all looked gorgeous, and it was all tied together with the beautiful pale pink and cream bouquets by White Moss & Twigs.
I like to get a photo of all the girls with their bouquets in a way that shows off the colors of the dresses and the flowers. The flowing ribbons are such a beautiful touch!
With a little time to spare, the bridal party went back to the house to regroup before the ceremony. The guests were invited to take their seats, and I loved how they followed the manicured paths through the gardens to reach the back of the Chamberlain Garden, where chairs were set up diagonally in front of the arbor.
Cocktail hour was a breeze, and all the families and friends had lots of time for mingling and enjoying the beautiful food and drinks. I was very impressed with the organization and professionalism of Vinwood Caterers. And most of all, everyone was completely wowed by the incredible doo wop live performers! Street Magic Acapella sang all the favorite 50s and 60s songs. So good!
The tented reception area at Glen Magna Farms is just lovely. It’s a beautiful sailcloth tent which lets the lights shine up through the fabric at night, and the floor is pavers so there’s no worry about grass or mud. Located at the back of the Chamberlain Garden, there are lovely views and easy access to the grounds.
What a stunning day! Colleen and Noel, thank you so much for having us photograph your beautiful wedding.
Vendors who made this wedding so beautiful:
Venue: Glen Magna Farms
Catering: Vinwood Catering
DJ and Photobooth: A Good Time DJS
Florist: White Moss & Twigs
Acapella Group at Cocktail Hour: Street Magic Acapella
Hand Lettered Signage: Gray Letter Co.
Wedding Dress: BHLDN
Beauty: Bliss Studio NH
Desserts: Topsfield Bakeshop
Photography: Erika Follansbee Photography
2nd photographer: Christine