The mansion held the energy and excitement for the bride and groom. Its always a pleasure to record the historic life changing event of a couple in love. The Commander's Mansion was built in 1865 and is lavishly decorated with marble fireplaces, ornately carved moldings, and a magnificent Victorian veranda. Guests are able to step back in time, weaving their way through the grand foyer, elegant, sweeping staircase, and charmingly-restored rooms.

With intricate details throughout, the mansion is a classic example of Italian Victorian architecture. Rich autumn leaves painted the trees and decorated the grounds, perfectly complimenting the bride's traditional Chinese, red wedding dress. The mansion which boasts a rectangular grape arbor, sits adjacent to the Charles River on six richly landscaped acres, providing privacy and natural beauty not commonly found so close to Boston in recent times.

I was selected to photograph a wedding reception at the Lyman Estate because I had experience with both event photography and historic architectural photography, having work published in This Old House Magazine. The location is a good example of a Federal period country estate, and is part of Historic New England. Demi Beetar is the coordinator there and is a real gem. The dining was outside under a tent, and the dancing was indoors, in the grand ballroom. There were smaller break-out rooms which made this venue a unique and comfortable setting to photograph in. Demi Beeter is the events coordinator at this venue and is prompt at returning phone calls. Each time I've spoken with her she is very pleasant.

I shot a wedding at this castle and the staff was very helpful. The setting was great, including unique rooms, a fantastic hall, and an excellent view. My only critique would be that there was a lot of dead grass on the grounds of the property - and I assume this was because it was in early September and perhaps there were many weddings (and feet) that had made their way across it. It would have been nice for the castle owners to re-lay fresh grass as needed, but I ended up fixing it in photoshop for my client.

I was selected to photograph a wedding reception at the Wayside Inn because I had experience with both event photography and historic architectural photography, having work published in This Old House Magazine. A unique location for a medium-sized wedding if you want it indoors, or they will do a tent for an outdoor wedding. There is a historic mill on the property as well as a church. Perfect for a traditional New England wedding with a lot of character. - Heather Parker