: Nicole Gesmondi Photographer, LLC

Want to know how a summer wedding in downtown Newport is done? Then you’ll want to check out this flawless styled shoot put together by our talented friends at the Rhode Island Wedding Group. But, before we get to the pretty, we caught up with Jennifer Dodge, RIWG‘s Social Media Manager and one of the lead coordinators of the shoot, to ask how this all came to be.

What made the RIWG decide to do a styled shoot?

Since we have so many exceptional professionals in the RIWG, we decided to organize our first styled shoot to highlight not only our talents, but also our collaborative powers! While each member specializes in their own field, we come together to seamlessly design and provide dream weddings and celebrations our couples will remember for the rest of their lives. We often work side-by-side, attend educational seminars and research trends and technology in the wedding industry, so we are always at the forefront and ready for whatever couples want on their wedding day. This shoot allowed us to combine forces, get creative, and show off our skills and services for all of southern New England to see!

And aside from giving us the opportunity to promote our member services, the shoot also allowed members to learn more about each other’s day-of responsibilities. While we do all network and collaborate behind the scenes via email and telephone for our clients, we rarely get the chance to watch each other in action. This enhanced understanding provides insight into ways we can improve our services and better ourselves for our couples in the future — taking as much stress out of the wedding planning process as possible!

What was the inspiration behind the theme of this shoot?

We decided on a “Destination Newport” theme for a few reasons. First, Newport is a hot destination wedding location for both couples outside of and in Rhode Island. Second, with its natural coastal beauty, historic charm, and endless potential, it was the obvious choice for the blossoming summer season. Additionally, we are proud to feature our three fabulous Newport wedding venues, each offering unique amenities, and distinctly Newport character – perfect for accommodating every couple-style!

Tell us about the day of. 

We had a lot of fun during the shoot! At each venue, we attracted onlookers curious about what we were doing and interested to know more. Hearing “grassroots” feedback about how beautiful or unique something looked was fantastic! We enjoyed the opportunity to explain our work to the community without it feeling so sales-focused; it made us happy to see so much genuine interest! The best part of our day was probably when the local Del’s vendor noticed how hot we were (90 degrees and sunny!), and offered us all a cup of Rhode Island’s favorite lemonade! It was a cool way to get refreshed and incorporate them into the shoot.

Eager to see how it all turned out? Then scroll on! Trust us, it’s nothing but  from here on out.

Kicking things off by getting beautified by Salon KG. 

A morning of waterfront pampering at Gurney’s Newport Resort.

A sneak peek at the day’s wardrobe: Gorgeous gowns from The Bridal Garden and dapper suits from Aldo’s House of Formals. 

Flowers from Michelle Jeanne Floral Design perfectly complemented every part of the day.

A closer look at the dazzling rings provided by Mullen Bros. Jewelers. 

Let’s just take a sec to admire Nicole Gesmondi ‘s photography skills… Swoon, right? Okay, now you may proceed. 

What a good looking group (CC: The Beauty Within Model Management ), amirite? 

The Newport Wedding Trolley provided not only transportation but also an ideal backdrop for a wedding party selfie.

The Rotunda Ballroom at Easton’s Beach had it all: rolling waves, pristine sands, an awesome officiant (okay, the folks at An Everlasting Memory don’t come with beach, but they are regulars at Newport ceremonies — and for good reason!), the retro carousel, Del’s Lemonade trucks at the ready and even a nearby wildlife center!  

Next up: The International Tennis Hall of Fame, a local institution turned stunning reception venue. The dynamic space provided spacious, manicured grounds as well as a lavish interior for the shoot.

Uniquely Chic Vintage Rentals provided furniture and decor fit for Gatsby himself.

Everyone munched on lip-smacking hors d’oeuvres and entrees while they sipped from delicious cocktails, all provided by Blackstone Caterers. 

Then they indulged in this almost-too-pretty-to-eat, four-tiered cake created by Sin along with some sweet macarons from Ellie’s Bakery. 

Things got a bit heated when Arpeggio Wedding Entertainment broke out the corn hole, giant Jenga and giant connect four lawn games. 

But thankfully that didn’t stop anyone from rounding out the day with silly pictures with FunFotos2Go‘s photo booth or enjoying a good old-fashioned Awful Awful from Newport Creamery.

Now, on to the next great adventure: An all-inclusive honeymoon planned by Annie’s Escapes!

The Details

Photography: Nicole Gesmondi Photographer, LLC // Groom’s and groomsmen suits: Aldo’s House of Formals // Honeymoon planning: Annie’s Escapes, Inc. // Lawn Games: Arpeggio Wedding Entertainment // Videographer: Artistic Wedding Films // Catering: Blackstone Caterers // Cake: Sin// Desserts: Ellie’s Bakery // Photo booth: FunFotos2Go // Shoot Location #1 / Getting Ready Venue: Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina // Shoot Location #2 / Ceremony Site: // The Rotunda Ballroom at Easton’s Beach // Shoot Location #3 / Reception Site: International Tennis Hall of Fame //  Officiant: An Everlasting Memory // Floral Design: Michelle Jeanne Floral Design // Rings: Mullen Bros. Jewelers // Hair and Makeup: Salon KG // Furniture Rentals: Uniquely Chic Vintage Rentals //  Transportation: Viking Tours of Newport & The Wedding Trolley // Bride’s and Bridesmaid Gowns: The Bridal Garden // Models: The Beauty Within Model Management  // Coordinators: Rhode Island Wedding Group