Art Inspired This Wedding of Two Photographers at Wadsworth Mansion in Middletown, Connecticut
A decade ago, Kaylyn Leighton and Joe Sinthavong crossed paths as photographers at a fashion start-up. "What started out as a friendship blossomed into the deepest connection we would ever know," Kaylyn fondly recalls. Their love story reached a magical turning point in Versailles during a foggy morning in the palace gardens. As the bride describes, "A thick fog had rolled in, making the vast grounds invisible and creating a unique and intimate feeling."
In that surreal moment, while capturing their journey through photographs, Joe surprised Kaylyn by getting down on one knee. "I heard a sound in the distance, and I looked over my shoulder; when I looked back, I saw Joe getting down on one knee! Everything was a blur after that as I grabbed the ring and kissed him," Kaylyn reminisces. The rest of the day was spent in a dreamlike state, walking on a cloud of love amidst the stunning gardens of Versailles, savoring the magic.
They contemplated eloping abroad; the irony, due to their profession, of not having their own wedding was not lost on them. Eventually, they decided to bring the enchantment of the south of France to New England, creating an artisan affair for their loved ones to cherish. Amid the rolling hills and charming landscapes, they planned a day to fit their artful, detailed vision: "Imagine being in the south of France on a late summer's day. The cool ocean breeze making its way up to the charming cliffside villages. The florals, a feast for the eyes, as if painted by Claude Monet himself."
Kaylyn took on the role of event designer, pouring her heart and soul into creating a bespoke experience that celebrated not only their love but also the artistry that goes into crafting a wedding. She meticulously designed the invitation suite, hand-printing, hand-tearing and hand-assembling each piece.
When it came to fashion, Kaylyn and Joe were equally thoughtful. By chance, Kaylyn discovered her perfect ceremony gown, a stunning Martina Liana creation that stole her heart. She customized it with an open back and a more fitted silhouette. For her reception dress, she collaborated with a local designer to craft a bespoke gown that shimmered like stars beneath the lights, creating a dramatic transformation when she took the dance floor. Initially, Joe had purchased a tuxedo online, but it left the couple underwhelmed. A trip to Suit Supply led them to the ideal black tuxedo, perfectly tailored and detailed to their liking.
On the wedding day, guests gathered in the idyllic setting of Wadsworth Mansion, where the cool breeze and lush surroundings brought the essence of the south of France to life. The ceremony, guided by the philosophy of L'Art de vivre, celebrated their deep connection with art and craftsmanship. The couple stood at the center, surrounded by their loved ones. It was an unconventional setup, with their officiant addressing the guests from the side. This unique arrangement allowed Kaylyn and Joe to connect not only with each other but also with the friends and family who had supported them on their journey.
The reception was a blend of understated elegance and timeless beauty. The space, already stunning in its own right, needed only a delicate touch to enhance its warmth. The transition between spaces was seamless, with special order linens adding a touch of color to the cocktail hour and creating a beautiful contrast with the dinner in the ballroom. Inspired by their travels, custom-built seating chart walls and flower box signs greeted the guests. The seating chart featured a sustainable twist, with "paper" rental cameras, a nod to their love for photography, and escort cards lovingly handcrafted by the bride herself. Bells, inspired by the scrap metal artists they encountered on the streets of Greece, added a whimsical touch to their celebration. The newlyweds didn't stop at visual aesthetics; every aspect of their wedding was designed to touch the senses and create an unforgettable experience.
Florals played a crucial role in their wedding design, with unique selections and minimal greenery to create light and airy arrangements. Both tall and low centerpieces graced the tables, creating a visual spectacle for the guests. Their wedding was not just a celebration but an experience that touched all the senses. From the bespoke reception dress to the fashion illustrations drawn on-site as guest gifts, from the curated 12-foot grazing table to the craft cocktails and meaningful song lyrics, every element was carefully chosen to create a wedding that was uniquely theirs.
The newlyweds emphasize the importance of staying true to yourselves as a couple, embracing authenticity over tradition. Their non-traditional timeline and unique approach to their wedding day allowed them to create an experience that was truly their own. They also highlight the significance of managing expectations, both in planning and on the wedding day itself. "In a Pinterest world, we often lose touch with reality. This goes not only for planning but also on the day of. We have two children, so I've learned to roll with the punches!"
