A Casual Vintage Backyard Wedding at a Private Residence in Easton, Massachusetts

Melanie Santos (42 and a massage therapist) and Jennifer Mead (42 and a college professor) met around 1980 and grew up in the same small town. They knew each other, but were never close until a twist of fate reconnected them in 2010. Knowing that they were heading toward marriage, the couple decided to ride the political tide leading up to the Supreme Court hearing of United States v. Windsor and planned for a June 2013 ceremony. The court case decision was announced a mere two days before the couple’s wedding ceremony. The couple wanted a casual celebration that reflected their individual personalities and ensured the presence and comfort of their family and friends, so the landscaped backyard of Melanie’s sister in Easton, Massachusetts met all their needs. Melanie wore an ivory lace Maggie Sottero dress, and Jennifer wore an ivory suit from Talbots. They each wore purple shoes and carried lavender bouquets. Vintage decor surrounded the couple at the ceremony, including a rustic door and ladders. At the reception, casual comfort foods were passed around and guests danced to music from pop, funk, Broadway and hip-hop. “Above all, we wanted everyone to be real and comfortable,” says Jennifer. “A backyard celebration allowed us to accomplish that.”