“Sorry I annoyed you with my friendship.” — Andy Bernard

Rob & Shelby

Candlewood Inn in Brookefield, Conneticut gives all of the posh, New England vibes without the long drive. Rob and Shelby love going to Rhode Island ( we did their engagement session in Rhode Island) so Candlewood Inn was right up their alley when they started planning their September wedding. The stylish and modern aesthetic that Shelby and Robs wedding had was a DREAM to photograph. Pastel florals, candles galore, printed bridesmaid dresses and a phenomenal band  were just a few of things that took this wedding to the next level.

A Candlewood Inn Wedding

While working at Mastercard they set eyes on each other and a little over a decade later, they are MARRIED. Their friends and family spoke about the constant-ness they have been for each other. The steady benefit of real love that people search forever for. While in Rhode Island for their engagement session I quickly realized that being around them felt like being around a very seasoned married couple. The couple that you want to sit with and take in all of the secrets to a successful relationship.

 

Shelbys relationship with her parents is the type of one I want with my children. The daddy-daughter first look is typically tear-filled and even a little sad, but this was different he was PROUD. Over joyed at the amazing girl he raised and he was very happy to usher her into the next stage of her life.

Groom Prep

My favorite piece of advice for couples is to book air bnbs to get ready in! Not only do you not have to deal with inconvenient check outs times ( 11am hotels, really?) BUT you get to choose an Air BnB with the same aesthetic as your wedding venue. Plus you have a place for a whole bridal party to crash for a whole weekend that frankly will work out to be less money.

First Looks at Candlewood Inn

There is an abundance of locations for portraits at Candlewood Inn. I always choose my portrait locations based on good light, than I choose the location and than I lay out the image ( thanks Katelyn James )  Light is the single most important aspect when creating an image but do not worry, if the light at a location is not ideal for a first look I promise you we will get there when the light is better!

Because they are both so stellar I was not surprised to find their families equally as fun. Weddings that burn themselves into my memory are more than just aesthetic perfection. When I look at a couple and confidently say that they are going to make it the whole day marks something different. This is always made apparent in the wedding ceremony, and this wedding was no different. Candlewood Inns ceremony site is breathtaking. Right on the edge of the lake and under a beautiful expanse of blue sky its an idyllic view to say yuor I-Dos.

Now, what I just said is completely true but having a GORGEOUS wedding certainly does not hurt. Candlewood was draped in sunshine on the morning of their wedding, which was lucky because the weather looked sketch. Shelby and Rob went with a clean and classic color scheme that against the beauty of Candlewood Lake really sparkled. The focus was always on creating beautiful memories, both in front of the camera but also with the actual people they loved. Engaged people,this day and these people you invited are all present to celebrate YOU so make the experience the priority. A good photographer will make sure you have time for both.

From Rhode Island to CT…

To Shelby and Rob, I have so loved traveling with you two. From Rhode Island and the spot you got engaged to the spot you got married its been a joy. A true, from the gut to the heart joy. I cannot wait to watch your family grow, I cannot wait to see you at your friends weddings, and I will forever be grateful that you chose me!

 

Candlewood Inn Wedding Vendors

Weddings are a massive production and like all production much of the crucial work is done behind the curtain. Please take a moment to follow and support the following vendors who made this Candlewood Inn Wedding a DREAM for Shelby and Rob!

Wedding Photographer: Nidya Lloyd Photography book here!

Wedding Coordinator: Events by Jesse book here!

Connecticut Venue: Candlewood Inn learn more!

CT Videographer: Viviography learn more!

Connecticut Floral Design: Flowers by Danielle shop here!

Wedding Band: ETA Music book here!

Glam Booth: Haus of Balloons book here!

Attire resources

Bridal Gown: A Little Something White shop here!

Bridal Gown Designer: Caroline Castigliano shop here!

Hair and Makeup: Transcendent Studio book here!

M lo Beauty: book here!

Shirly Blush Brush: book here!

Erin Gaynor: book here!

Bridal Shoes: Bella Belle shop here!

Bridesmaid Dressed: Revelry shop here!

Grooms Suit: Custom from Suit Supply shop here!