Sep 19

Amanda and Glenn s Non-Traditional Wedding Day in Boston

When Amanda and Glenn envisioned their wedding day, they knew they wanted something uniquely theirs, non-traditional, intimate, and filled with moments they could truly savor. Their non-traditional wedding day was a stunning example of how you can throw the rulebook out the window and create a day that reflects your personal style. From a candlelit ceremony in a historical chapel to an intimate French bistro gathering, Amanda and Glenn’s wedding was a carefully crafted day designed to highlight what truly mattered to them. Here’s a look at how they did it, and some tips for you too!

Amanda and Glenn’s Non-Traditional Wedding Day in Boston

The day began with a breathtakingly beautiful ceremony in the candlelit Leslie Chapel at Emmanuel Church. I still get goosebumps thinking about it! The chapel’s historical architecture set the scene for an intimate and emotional exchange of vows. The warm glow from the candles added a romantic ambiance, making this moment unforgettable for everyone present! Amanda and Glenn chose this location for its beauty, and the decision couldn’t have been more perfect. It was an environment that allowed them to focus entirely on each other, without the distractions.

One of my favorite parts of the day was how Amanda and Glenn didn’t rush from the ceremony straight into the chaos of the reception. They took a well-deserved break (something I wish more couples would do!) to just soak in everything. This downtime allowed them to enjoy the company of their wedding party and take in the day without rushing. A party bus took the group to Petit Robert Bistro, a charming French-inspired spot in Boston’s South End. Here, Amanda and Glenn and their closest friends and family shared drinks, relaxed, and enjoyed a few intimate moments before the reception. This was also the perfect setting for some couple portraits.

On the way to the wedding party's cocktail hour, we passed a liquor store, and the owners spontaneously invited us in for shots of tequila. They generously gave us a bottle to pass around, which everyone took a shot from and signed. Once the bottle was filled with signatures, we returned it to the store, where it became part of their display! It was a fun and memorable moment that added to their wedding day

Amanda and Glenn’s reception was held at Rochambeau, a stylish French brasserie that set the tone for a sophisticated yet relaxed dinner party. The couple embraced the restaurant’s existing table setup, which made the reception feel more like a close knit gathering of friends rather than a traditional banquet style event. When it was time to kick off the party, the lights dropped, and waiters brought out bottles in a high-energy, club like fashion, ushering everyone onto the dance floor to celebrate the night away! It was an exciting shift from the calm, intimate dinner into a lively party, creating an unforgettable contrast that matched their day’s non-traditional flow.

Their wedding was truly one of those days that reminded me why I love what I do—capturing these moments, big and small, and watching couples like Amanda and Glenn celebrate in a way that’s so authentically them.

Tips for Your Very Own Non-Traditional Wedding

Planning a non-traditional wedding is all about making your day uniquely yours. If you’re looking to break away from convention and design a wedding that reflects your personality and values, here are some tips to help you get started

Prioritize What Matters Most

Instead of following a strict timeline or checklist, focus on the moments that truly matter to you. Whether it’s spending more time with family, creating space for intimate moments, or throwing a lively party, build your day around the experiences you want to remember. Don’t feel obligated to include traditions that don’t resonate with you!

Reimagine the Ceremony

You don’t have to follow a cookie-cutter script for your ceremony! Consider writing personal vows, incorporating symbolic rituals, or hosting your ceremony in a location that’s meaningful to you!

Break the Timeline

Amanda and Glenn’s wedding, for example, featured a relaxed break between the ceremony and reception. This gave them time to decompress and enjoy their day at a slower pace. Think about how you want your day to flow, and don’t be afraid to add in moments for spontaneity, relaxation, or even just a coffee break with loved ones.

Create an Intimate Vibe

If you prefer a more intimate celebration, consider hosting a dinner-party-style reception. Using existing restaurant setups, like Amanda and Glenn did at Rochambeau, can make the evening feel cozy and personal. You’ll have a more relaxed atmosphere where guests can truly connect with each other.

Personalize the Details

From your outfits to the décor, let your personality shine through every detail. If you have a favorite style or theme, like Amanda and Glenn’s Parisian-inspired day, lean into it! Use it to guide your choice of venues, attire, florals, and even the menu. Every element should feel like an extension of your style and love story.

Forget About What “Should” Happen

There’s no right or wrong way to plan a wedding, so release the pressure of meeting traditional expectations. You don’t have to have a first dance, a large wedding party, or even a formal sit down dinner if that’s not your style. Instead, think of ways to make each part of the day enjoyable for you and your guests.

Make it Yours

Above all, your wedding day should be a reflection of your relationship! Whether that means staying small and intimate or going all-out with a destination celebration, every choice should feel like you. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and create a day that you’ll look back on with joy and pride.

If there’s one key takeaway for couples planning their wedding, it’s this: don’t feel like you have to stick to tradition! Whether it’s opting for a relaxed break in your day or choosing venues that speak to your personal style, make decisions that align with what you and your partner want. As Amanda and Glenn showed, when you create your own flow, every moment becomes more meaningful!

Planning your own Non-Traditional Wedding? Looking for a Wedding Photographer?

Planning a non-traditional wedding is all about breaking the rules and making your day uniquely yours. Whether you're ditching formalities or going for an intimate vibe, it should reflect your love story. I’d love to capture those moments for you! If you’re looking for a photographer who values creativity and connection, let’s chat! Get in touch here! In the meantime check out more of my work!