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Shannon and Ryan’s fall fete was everything sweet and more at the Bittersweet Farm in Westport, MA.
The Meet Cute: Shannon and Ryan had been friends on Facebook for a couple of years when Ryan reached out to Shannon about an injured back. Shannon is a massage therapist and helped him set up an appointment. They kept in contact after the appointment, and realized they were a match.
The Engagement: Ryan had come up with a big plan to propose, but unfortunately the ring was a week late for Plan A to work out. So, when he did receive the ring, he went to see Shannon’s father to let him know his plan and was told to not tell Shannon’s mother so she wouldn’t ruin the surprise. Somehow, her mother found out and mentioned it to Shannon. Shannon had a feeling it was coming. One day, she came home from work to a handwritten card from Ryan set out for her with a single rose, then Ryan got down on one knee in their kitchen and said with a laugh, “So, will ya?” The answer was yes.
The Special Guest: The flower girl is the couple’s godchild and Shannon’s niece, Vera. “We have a great relationship with her and she’s very important to us, so it was special to have her be part of our day,” Shannon says.
The Venue: Late October was a perfect time at Bittersweet Farm, when the leaves were flaming red, orange and yellow, providing a burst of bright colors to match the autumnal floral arrangements. The couple enjoyed fun details provided by the venue, including a stocked coffee bar with various flavors and chocolate accents. The venue also has a beautiful red barn that stands out in wedding photos. “We chose a fall wedding because we love the foliage and Bittersweet Farm has such beautiful grounds,” says Shannon. “It was exactly what we were looking for.”
The Highlights: During the reception, the couple asked guests to participate in an audio guestbook, where they left a recorded message for the bride and groom via a vintage telephone. Shannon’s bouquet handle was set with photos of her grandparents who passed away so they could still be included as a part of the day. They also had a doughnut wall, allowing guests to bite into a late-night snack.
The Details
Ceremony, Reception and Catering: Bittersweet Farm, Westport, MA | Hair and Makeup: Salon Serenity, Somerset, MA | Bridal Attire: Carmen Fashions Bridal, Fall River, MA | Groom’s Attire: Main Street Formals, Acushnet, MA | Florals: Homegrown Blooms, Westport, MA | Entertainment: Joe and Mike Peixoto | Audio Guestbook: After the Tone