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If you’ve been reading my blog for a while or follow me on Instagram, you know some of my favorite venues to photograph weddings at are historical estates and mansions. There’s something so classic, yet romantic, about these settings that I just cannot get enough of! Rachel and Andrew’s wedding celebration took place at Haley Mansion in Mystic, Connecticut, a quaint little coastal town just miles away from the Rhode Island border. After photographing their Yale University engagement session in New Haven last September, I knew their wedding day was going to be a blast!

A HALEY MANSION WEDDING

Rachel got ready for the day ahead at her childhood home surrounded by her closest female family members and friends. Her bridal style was absolute perfection, finished off with a classic pair of Louboutin heels! She was zipped into her dress before heading to the church where she would see Andrew for the first time.

As the back doors of the church opened and Rachel began to walk down the aisle with her father, Drew saw her for the first time that day and his reaction was absolutely beautiful! Anticipation, excitement, and a wave of emotion crossed his face within seconds, wiping away tears as Rachel made her way closer to him step by step. 200 guests watched and listened as Andrew and Rachel became husband and wife! The two shared a sweet first kiss before taking their first steps together as Mr. & Mrs. with beautiful smiles on their faces!

After arriving to Haley Mansion, we walked around the grounds of the estate for newlywed portraits. Rachel’s classic bridal look (with just a touch of glam!) paired perfectly with Andrew’s dapper groom style. There’s something to be said about a black tie wedding with a groom in a timeless black tuxedo! Even though we were battling the New England summer heat, Drew and Rachel rocked every minute of their portrait time together!

Their wedding color palette included touches of soft neutrals and greenery with gold accents, all of which were displayed in their stunning wedding day florals! The centerpieces on the guest tables were a mix of high and low, which added a sophisticated touch to the reception space. Rachel and Drew’s signature drink was even named after The Whelk, the restaurant in Westport, Connecticut where they shared their first date!

Rachel and Andrew’s wedding day was HOT! I’m talking 90°+!! Despite the coastal breeze that would flow through the tent here and there the air was heavy and humid, but that didn’t stop the newlyweds and their guests from partying on the dance floor all night long! The love that surrounded Drew and Rachel on their wedding day was truly beautiful.

THE LOVE STORY

Rachel and Andrew met a few years back when they were at a mutual friend’s birthday party. They exchanged phone numbers and kept in touch, texting each other pretty frequently. As it turns out, Andrew worked for Rachel’s father, so when she realized her feelings for him she knew she needed to ask her dad if it was okay that the two of them dated. Rachel’s father already adored Andrew and didn’t want to stand in the way of what just might be meant to be! Fast forward several years, the two became engaged in 2018 and are now married!!

Congratulations Rachel and Andrew! Wishing you both much love and happiness for years to come!

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Rachel was a beautiful bride!

How sweet was Andrew’s reaction to seeing Rachel walk down the aisle?!

They’re MARRIED!!

Look at that dress!

Can you believe Andrew’s mom made their wedding cakes?! They were beautiful!

I hope you enjoyed this Haley Mansion wedding! Do you know Rachel and Andrew? Show the newlyweds some love by commenting below!

CREATIVE TEAM

Shaina Lee Photography is a husband and wife photography team serving Connecticut, New York, Hawaii and beyond. We specialize in timeless, elegant, and romantic weddings while celebrating all couples in love.

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