Saint Clements Castle Reception | Fall 2021

Brittany and Mateo’s Saint Clements Castle reception was as beautiful as the grounds. Brittany reached out to me through a referral from a friend of mine (thanks Beth). Brittany explained to me that they were getting married in Italy, where Mateo is from, and they were having their big party here in the states for the family and friends at Saint Clements.

Now I’m not going to lie I am kind of jealous of the photographer that photographed their Italian wedding, but I am so glad I was able to capture this for the two of them. The day was filled with laughter, family, and all of the other things I love about a wedding.

I have shot receptions at Saint Clements before but it had never rained. Yes, it has rained on wedding days before, but never at this location. I happy that they got the good luck that comes from rain (still a debate if that’s true) but based on how they interacted they really don’t need luck.

Brittany and Mateo were so sweet to each other. I had never met them in person before yesterday, but they really were a loving couple with a beautiful friendship. Whether it was their first dance, their couple’s portraits, or watching their Italian wedding video, you could see how much they adore each other.

I arrived a little early to get some photos of the details because I wouldn’t have much time once everyone arrived. The colors of deep red and green were not just perfect for the castle, but they brought Italy to Portland CT. The place cards were little suitcases and that ha a background of photos of their relationship.

Once they arrived, we started with some getting ready photos that she could take with her friends who were not that there for their wedding. Then we went into the courtyard next to their ballroom for the bridal party and family photos. It had just finished raining so the light was perfect.

We then went around the venues for romantic photos. The iron gates, landscaping, and grand peaks give transport you. When you are Saint Clements you can easily forget that you are in a town in Connecticut. It truly is one of my favorite places to shoot outdoors. One of the highlights of these photos was Brittany’s fabulous bridesmaids… That girl made sure the train of Brittnay’s dress was perfection (she also was a great hype person)

The reception was like most wedding receptions except that we watched highlights from their Italian wedding in September… I couldn’t keep my eyes off their interaction of them watching their own wedding. The way they smiled, while he rested his chin on her shoulder was so sweet.

Even though this wasn’t a traditional wedding it was definitely just as special. We knew that with everything that went on last year that we would see these types of events and wondered how it feels to not have a ceremony. It did feel different but it was a good kind of different. Every event is unique anyway.

I am so thankful that I was able to capture these photos for them.. Yes, it’s not Italy but it was still an honor.