Fête Collection
Photo by Julie Pike The wedding invitation is the first thing your guests see — so you want to make sure it sets the right tone. That’s where Julie Pike and Eileen Sherman come in. After an initial meeting at their sparkling new studio on Newbury Street, the duo can masterfully transform a couple’s inspiration — be it a special location, memory, or motif — into a bespoke stationery suite that’s truly unique. Prefer to select your stationery the old-fashioned way? Fête also has a library of wedding designs — replete with letterpress, foil stamping, and engraving — that can be customized with special touches. 222 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, shopfete.com.
Boston Diamond Company
Courtesy photo This Newbury Street spot feels like a luxurious lounge you’d like to linger in, and that’s exactly what owner Stephanie Binder was going for — a comfortable environment akin to a boutique hotel. But you’re there for the bling, and trust us, you won’t be disappointed. The platinum and 18-karat-gold engagement rings showcased in the boutique’s cases are true stunners made only with the highest-quality diamonds — though we fully endorse working with Binder to design your own custom sparkler. 35 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, bostondiamond.com.
Scarlet Roots Photography
Kiley Sullivan and Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy at the Boston Public Library. / Photo by Scarlet Roots With a background in photography for well-known commercial brands, Julianne Meyers has an intuitive feel for creating magical shots. Her wedding images capture authentic moments: a couple running hand in hand down a deserted beach, sharing a secret on a crowded dance floor, or sitting behind the wheel of a vintage roadster like they’re in a scene from a 1950s movie. You’ll feel instantly at ease in front of the camera — in fact, you’ll probably laugh hysterically about something funny Meyers says at least twice — and the shots she gets will capture you and your betrothed’s most authentic selves. scarletroots.com.
The Liberty Hotel
Courtesy photo Situated at the base of Beacon Hill, the Liberty Hotel is a former jail — but don’t let its criminal past scare you off. Romance is perennially in the air in the Yard, an inviting outdoor ceremony spot featuring alluring lights, plenty of greenery, and intimate vibes. The Liberty Bar in the hotel’s rotunda serves as a stylish spot for cocktail hour, while Lydia Shire’s on-site restaurant, Scampo, offers a 50-seat private dining room for foodie couples. 215 Charles St., Boston, MA 02114, libertyhotel.com.
Harbor View Hotel
Couples will truly feel like Cinderella and Prince Charming when they’re transported to their Harbor View Hotel reception in a horse-drawn carriage. The other perks that come with hosting your wedding here are numerous, but the majestic Vineyard location overlooking Edgartown Harbor and Lighthouse Beach takes the (wedding) cake. In addition to its luxurious ballroom, smaller spaces in the well appointed hotel accommodate more intimate affairs. The most iconic and memorable celebrations, however, take place under a tent on the Great Lawn amid English gardens. 131 N. Water St., Edgartown, MA 02539, harborviewhotel.com.
The Four Seasons Hotel Boston
Many a bride has descended from this icon’s dramatic staircase for first-look photos; now, with a recent reimagining of the ground floor public spaces by designer Ken Fulk, you can also strike a pose in a chic lounge offering rich velvet seating accented in silk fringe. Upstairs, the former restaurant Aujourd’hui has reopened as a delightful event space framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that capture leafy views. And if you prefer to take the party outside, the Sanctuary, the hotel’s new brick-clad terrace, is positively dreamy, too. 200 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116, fourseasons.com.
Hot Mess
Photo by Jill Person When you hear the phrase “hot mess,” you might not have high hopes — after all, the phrase traditionally isn’t used as a compliment. But this nine-piece ensemble will surprise and delight you — and your guests — while getting everyone on the dance floor. Not only do they boast five lead vocalists and offer powerhouse performances that make every wedding memorable, but their set list also includes an expansive catalog of pop, rock, soul, and more featuring songs from the ’60s up to the Top 40 tunes of today. hotmessrocks.com.
Madeleine’s Daughter
For some brides, saying “yes” to the dress can be almost as challenging as meeting the ideal mate, yet when you head to Madeleine’s Daughter, finding the perfect fit is practically guaranteed. Celebrated for its impressive collection of gowns that range from the modern designs of Enzoani to timeless favorites such as Mikaella, this bridal shop offers hands-on, personal guidance from a knowledgeable team. All you have to do is book an appointment and then get ready for the big reveal. 775 Lafayette Rd, Portsmouth , NH 03801, madeleinesdaughter.com.
Cake Monstah
Photo by Kristin Griffin Photography While some monsters conjure screams, Cake Monstah promises to make your mouth water. Since turning her lifelong passion for baking into a business in 2010, founder Michelle Scurio has picked up numerous awards and even appeared on the Food Network. For couples craving a bespoke, custom-made treat for their big event, Scurio can sculpt and paint to your specifications (checkout Instagram for some great examples, including gorgeous handpressed edible flowers). She’ll also manage delivery and setup on the big day to ensure the display is photo-ready. cakemonstah.com.
SH Videography
With more than three decades of experience behind the lens, you can rest assured that the team at SH Videography know their craft. Founded by married couple Steve and Kathy Horemiotis, and now in its second generation of ownership, the talented team creates timeless wedding films with cinematic flair to ensure that you can relive your wedding whenever, and wherever, you want for many years to come. (No silver-screen required--unless you want one.) shvideography.com.
Fleur Events
Photo by Gabby Riggieri One of the most compelling aspects of Molly Anne McGill’s work is that her floral arrangements often include an unexpected element. Sometimes, it’s a rare branch; other times, it could be a paper accent. Whatever the flourish, it always feels like perfection — the missing something you didn’t know you needed. As for the flowers themselves? With a background in the fine arts, McGill is known for transforming gorgeous blooms into bouquets and centerpieces that have personal meaning to couples. fleurevents.com.
Entertainment Specialists
The biggest sign that you’re hosting a successful wedding? People are hitting the dance floor with no signs of slowing down. But everyone knows it’s not just the tunes that ensure the ultimate party atmosphere — it’s the person behind the turntable. That’s where Entertainment Specialists comes in. Its roster of emcees delivers good-time vibes that can’t be beat, with perfect set lists and tons of energy and personality. entertainmentspecialists.com.
K. Kerkorian Events
From hailstorms to lost rings to torn dresses and much worse, there’s no last-minute snafu that Kristyn Kerkorian can’t solve. The seasoned pro has planned weddings in ballrooms, on beaches, and everywhere in between, garnering great respect and a considerable list of contacts along the way. Kerkorian takes on a limited number of clients to ensure they get her full and undivided attention — which has led several of them to emphatically insist to their newly engaged friends that they can’t afford not to enlist her to execute their big day. kkerkorianevents.com.
Glamour Cosmetics
There’s a difference between what makeup looks good in person and what appears best on camera. Thankfully, Garineh Ashjian has mastered the art of balancing the two. In the years that she’s been working with Boston brides, Ashjian has been lauded not only for her skill with cosmetics but also for her calming and upbeat demeanor. She listens carefully to her clients, with the goal of making them look like the best version of themselves — because no bride wants to be unrecognizable on one of the most important days of her life. glamourcosmeticsoffical.com.
Flair Boston
Bridesmaids should never upstage the bride on the big day, but at Flair, they’re the star of the show — at least for the duration of your appointment. Here, associates pull from a collection of beautiful fabrics, trendy hues, and contemporary styles to find each ’maid’s ideal dress. The upscale yet casual setting, meanwhile, makes it easy to sit back, relax, and have a fun day with your gals. 140 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, flairbridesmaid.com.