When Amanda and Glenn envisioned their wedding day, they knew they wanted something uniquely theirs, non-traditional, intimate, and filled with moments they could truly savor. Their non-traditional wedding day was a stunning example of how you can throw the rulebook out the window and create a day that reflects your personal style. From a candlelit ceremony in a historical chapel to an intimate French bistro gathering, Amanda and Glenn’s wedding was a carefully crafted day designed to highlight what truly mattered to them. Here’s a look at how they did it, and some tips for you too!
Amanda and Glenn’s Non-Traditional Wedding Day in Boston
The day began with a breathtakingly beautiful ceremony in the candlelit Leslie Chapel at Emmanuel Church. I still get goosebumps thinking about it! The chapel’s historical architecture set the scene for an intimate and emotional exchange of vows. The warm glow from the candles added a romantic ambiance, making this moment unforgettable for everyone present! Amanda and Glenn chose this location for its beauty, and the decision couldn’t have been more perfect. It was an environment that allowed them to focus entirely on each other, without the distractions.
One of my favorite parts of the day was how Amanda and Glenn didn’t rush from the ceremony straight into the chaos of the reception. They took a well-deserved break (something I wish more couples would do!) to just soak in everything. This downtime allowed them to enjoy the company of their wedding party and take in the day without rushing. A party bus took the group to Petit Robert Bistro, a charming French-inspired spot in Boston’s South End. Here, Amanda and Glenn and their closest friends and family shared drinks, relaxed, and enjoyed a few intimate moments before the reception. This was also the perfect setting for some couple portraits.
On the way to the wedding party's cocktail hour, we passed a liquor store, and the owners spontaneously invited us in for shots of tequila. They generously gave us a bottle to pass around, which everyone took a shot from and signed. Once the bottle was filled with signatures, we returned it to the store, where it became part of their display! It was a fun and memorable moment that added to their wedding day
Amanda and Glenn’s reception was held at Rochambeau, a stylish French brasserie that set the tone for a sophisticated yet relaxed dinner party. The couple embraced the restaurant’s existing table setup, which made the reception feel more like a close knit gathering of friends rather than a traditional banquet style event. When it was time to kick off the party, the lights dropped, and waiters brought out bottles in a high-energy, club like fashion, ushering everyone onto the dance floor to celebrate the night away! It was an exciting shift from the calm, intimate dinner into a lively party, creating an unforgettable contrast that matched their day’s non-traditional flow.
Their wedding was truly one of those days that reminded me why I love what I do—capturing these moments, big and small, and watching couples like Amanda and Glenn celebrate in a way that’s so authentically them.
Tips for Your Very Own Non-Traditional Wedding
Planning a non-traditional wedding is all about making your day uniquely yours. If you’re looking to break away from convention and design a wedding that reflects your personality and values, here are some tips to help you get started
Prioritize What Matters Most
Instead of following a strict timeline or checklist, focus on the moments that truly matter to you. Whether it’s spending more time with family, creating space for intimate moments, or throwing a lively party, build your day around the experiences you want to remember. Don’t feel obligated to include traditions that don’t resonate with you!