Some weddings just feel like summer on the New England coast. Jackie + Kevin’s day at The Shining Tides in Mattapoisett, MA was exactly that. Blue hydrangeas, coastal air drifting off the water, and two best friends promising forever surrounded by the people who love them most.
From the moment I arrived, the energy was playful and lighthearted (which makes sense because Jackie + Kevin are exactly that). They’ve been each other’s person since their college days at Westfield State; friends first, then partners, and now husband and wife. From their college days to building a life side by side, Jackie + Kevin have always been each other’s safe place. Their love is equal parts playful and enduring. The best mix of friendship and romance.
A Coastal Massachusetts Wedding at Shining Tides
The Shining Tides is such a dreamy Massachusetts wedding venue, tucked right on the water with views that stretch across the Mattapoisett harbor. Jackie + Kevin wanted a wedding day that felt “classy clean” with nods to the New England coastal beauty, without leaning too “beachy.” Their color palette of soft blues and whites with blue hydrangea details was the perfect touch.
Their ceremony took place on the grassy lawn overlooking the water, officiated by Jackie’s brother (cue everyone crying). Bridesmaids in various dusty blue dresses stood beside Jackie, while Kevin’s groomsmen kept him laughing at the altar.
Before the ceremony, Jackie + Kevin shared a first look and spent time at Ned’s Point Lighthouse for all their family and wedding party photos. Later, as the day slowed down and the sun began to dip, they slipped away for a few sunset portraits. It was calm, golden, and so true to them, just the two of them, laughing and holding onto each other before heading back to celebrate with their favorite people.
The Reception Vibes
Inside, their reception was filled with light blues, crisp whites, and subtle coastal touches. The atmosphere was anything but stuffy. Jackie + Kevin wanted a party, and that’s exactly what it was.
From emotional toasts to dance floor moments that had everyone singing at the top of their lungs, the night was pure joy. It never once felt staged or forced. Just the two of them, surrounded by their people, celebrating this milestone the way only they could.
Why I Loved Photographing This Day
When Jackie + Kevin first reached out, they told me they wanted someone who felt more like a friend than a vendor. Someone who could blend in, capture the candid in-between moments, and not interrupt conversations just for a picture. That’s always my goal: to let the real story unfold while I’m there to preserve it.
And theirs was such a beautiful story to tell. From Jackie’s quiet moments getting ready to Kevin’s smile when he first saw her, to their spontaneous laughter during golden hour portraits, every detail of this Shining Tides wedding felt intentional, layered with love, and so authentically them.
Jackie + Kevin, thank you for letting me be a part of this. Your day reminded me exactly why I love what I do.
If you’re planning a coastal New England wedding (or anywhere your love story takes you), I’m here to photograph the big, bold moments and the quiet, in-between ones too. I would love to hear from you!
Jackie + Kevin’s New England Wedding Vendor Team:
- Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Shining Tides
- Catering: Russell Morin Catering & Events
- Photography: Britt Leigh Photography
- Videography: F.Ling Productions
- Hair & Makeup: Beauty Boston
- DJ: Cape Tunes
- Florist: Always In Bloom
