Category Archives: Love and Marriage

Laura & Gil’s Wedding – Winchester, MA

The farm was beautifully set with an abundance of sunflowers, chickens that were as friendly as any pet dog, and weather that could not have been more perfect if it had been ordered. And when Laura arrived with her dress in tow, the level of excitement rose in such a way that the flower girls stopped in their tracks. Family came from as far away as California and as near as Cambridge to surround both Laura and Gil as they took vows to remain side by side. There were bridesmaids and bridesmen (am I making up that term?), a dear sister as matron of honor, a dear brother as best man, ushers, and groomsmen, parents, and VIPs who helped with readings and special blessings. There was a necklace of rings from her mom and her aunts, a prayer of gratitude posted in the barn, and surprise birthday wishes for two special guests. But most of all, what was apparent was a love that has grown for over a decade that has taken firm hold of their hearts.

Laura and Gil, thank you so much for the honor of photographing your beautiful day. Wishing you many years of happiness together!

50th Wedding Anniversary Party – Boston, MA

In my estimation, 50 years of anything is a feat to behold. 50 years of marriage is even more amazing! Carolyn and Bill have been beside each other through many, many chapters, including kids and, now, grandchildren. They decided to celebrate their love and dedication to each other with their family and friends in Boston. The day started with a Duck Boat Tour for all. The rain may have stopped them from going on the water, but it did not seem to dampen the celebratory mood. The duck boats dropped off all of the guests at the Hampshire House where both a magician and tarot card reader were waiting to entertain both children and adults alike. While I didn’t have a chance to chat much with the couple on this day, one thing was very clear: they are loved and admired by those who know them.

Bill and Carolyn, congratulations on a strong 50 years! What an inspiration. I feel so honored to have been able to document your celebration. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Lorelei & Jor’s Wedding – Stoneham, MA

It’s not every day that a stranger stops to offer someone on crutches a ride to the T. It’s also not every day that one would accept such an offer. But that’s how it started with Lorelei and Jor in Allston 19 years ago. It involved her convincing herself that it was ok to get into his Jeep. It involved him writing her phone number on his windshield in marker. And just three weeks ago, they decided to make the whole thing paper-official after years of sharing their lives together. It was an intimate back yard celebration of a union as it should be: families gathered, children running around, and everywhere you looked there were beautiful touches of Lorelei’s bubbly personality and Jor’s fun-loving nature. And even though the threat of rain loomed throughout the day, it couldn’t have been a more gorgeous day.

Lorelei and Jor, I’m so humbled that I was able to document this day for you. From your meaningful vows to the cheeky bar signs, it was a joy to witness. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together!

Engagement session (Danielle & Dave) – Gloucester, MA

Fifteen years ago, she had a computer question so she called her oldest brother to ask for help. He had just finished up dinner on a first date with a girl (me!); he happily took the call and walked her through it. He hung up the phone and told me a little bit about his only sister, still in high school at the time. I met her soon thereafter and was blown away by how sweet she was AND how stunningly beautiful she was (and still is). I loved getting to know her fun-filled spirit back then and couldn’t be happier to call her my sister (-in-law if you want to be totally technical about it).

Fast forward to 3 years ago, she brought a guy to a family cookout and he met everyone in one fell swoop. Not only did he bring food to share, but he arrived at some ungodly hour to go fishing with her dad and her two brothers, having never met any of them before. Oh, and it was his birthday. And he was moving the Ohio the next day. Bonus points, right? They remained together through his time in Cleveland until he moved back last year. He popped the big question earlier this year at the beach where she grew up and we are oh-so-excited for them both!

Danielle and Dave, I’m so happy for the two of you and cannot wait to tear it up on the dance floor next June!

Marriage of J & Kara – Cambridge, MA

So many things come to mind when I think about this day. Friendship, the meaning of family, and authenticity are just a few of those things. Having spent many, many hours in a classroom alongside J during college (both of us being psych majors), wondering out loud about our philosophy professor over a cup of coffee, attending at least one reunion together, and staying in touch here and there through the years, I couldn’t have felt more fortunate to have been his photographer on this day. This day, he married a wonderful, beautiful, and hilarious woman. He and Kara, together with sweet H and handsome T, became a united family. To be honest, I am struggling with the words here because well before this day, they were already a family. Well before this day, they exemplified the meaning of family – working together to raise two amazing children, loving each other wholly, and rolling with the punches, together. Their sweet ceremony was completely them – a genuine, no frills-needed, let-the-kids-run, commitment to each other. Thinking back on the day, I think my favorite part was photographing them all getting ready together in their home. Kara kept reminding him, “J, you’re getting married today.” J was completely unfazed and ready for it, looking dapper in his dark blue jeans and brown leather jacket. K was stunning in her custom-made, floor length skirt. H had selected some colorful accessories that kept her ensemble true to herself. T’s matching leather jacket was one of the most awesome things I’ve ever seen. My heart was so happy on this day. So happy.

J & Kara – your love for each other and those kiddos is evident in all that you do and I couldn’t be happier for you all. I can’t wait till we get to see you all again. My heartfelt congratulations to all four of you!

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photographystephanie goryl

stephanie [at] stephaniegorylphotography [dot] com

Wakefield, MA

(just north of Boston)