1. Real Weddings

Nicole & Raul: A Waterfront Wedding in Portland, ME

During a New Year’s party, Nicole’s friend Sophie introduced her to the roommate who eventually led her to Raul. As a nod to her role in their meeting

During a New Year’s party, Nicole’s friend Sophie introduced her to the roommate who eventually led her to Raul. As a nod to her role in their meeting, Raul made sure Sophie was there when he popped the question. Raul proposed to Nicole in her apartment at 9:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. It was the exact time and place the couple met two years before. The Bride Nicole Gannon, 34, senior ad account executive The Groom Raul Ripatti, 34, in business development The Date August 23 Nicole and Raul live in New York City, but wanted to get married in Maine, the bride’s home state, so they invited friends and family to Portland for a hip yet elegant affair. This fun couple brightened up their rustic surroundings with a mix of deep red and light peach, creating depth with hundreds of flickering candles.

Nicole uploaded a bunch of photos of Raul and her to Kodak.com to make fun place cards.
There was no question about what flavor this couple’s cake would be. “We both love chocolate so much!” Fresh dahlias tied the creamy confection into the look of the day.
Like Nicole’s maids, the groomsmen chose their own black suits to fit their style. The bride’s mother picked out identical cream shirts and ties for the men which created some consistency. Raul’s best man, a US Army Major, had recently returned from Iraq. The couple asked him to wear his dress blues in honor of his service.
Nicole found this Onyx Waverly fabric online a year before her wedding and asked her planner to use it for the reception tablecloths. The contrast with her bright color palette made the look all the more elegant.
Nicole and Raul learned how to swing dance for their big day! The bride changed into this summery Betsey Johnson dress for their big performance.
The bride and groom stole a few private moments out in the sunshine. Nicole especially loved how the silhouette in her handmade gown looks in the light.
On Nicole’s request, each bridesmaid chose a black dress that complemented her body type and personality. “It allowed them to buy a dress they liked and felt great in!” she says. The ladies topped off their look with all-gold shoes and accessories.
The photographer set up a photo booth and brought in cool backdrops and tons of props for the guests (and the wedding party!) to take all kinds of silly photos.
To coordinate with the color scheme, Raul pinned a bright orange bloom on his lapel.
Bursts of bright dahlias were the perfect contrast to the rustic reception site. Blooms ranging from deep red to pale peach livened up the space.
A bouquet of dahlias in pale pink and cream -- the softer hues of the wedding palette -- complemented Nicole’s handmade gown and champagne-colored sash.
The couple’s guests raved about the gorgeous waterfront location. The sloping ground prevented them from setting up too many chairs, but the ceremony was brief, so guests didn’t mind.
The couple chose a stunning way to feature nontraditional arrangements. Deep red, orange, and pink dahlias sat in a black painted window box on a bed of stones.