When Doris and James described their wedding as a cross between "Moonrise Kingdom" and "Wet Hot American Summer," we knew we were in for a treat.
James grew up attending Camp Becket in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, and even though they currently live in California, we could see why they chose this magical place for their wedding. As one of the oldest continually running summer camps in the United States, Camp Becket offers not only the well preserved beauty of its natural surroundings, but a spirit of caring and timeless charm that gleams from their rustic cabins and halls.
James and Doris decided to offer their guests a multi-day retreat packed with summer fun, so we arrived a day early to capture some the activities. Friends and relatives from near and far relaxed by the lake, enjoyed the saunas, made arts and crafts, and played Capture the Flag. The more daring "campers" even climbed rock walls and high ropes (including one of us)!
^Behind the scenes: I got to climb up the side of a telephone pole to capture Doris and James on their couples high ropes course. Combining wedding photography and a dangerous outdoor sport = my version of heaven <3
^Capture the Flag winning team!
The official celebration began when all of the guests surprised Doris and James by singing them down the aisle - swaying and snapping along to the intro of Mariah Carey's "Always Be My Baby." After the ceremony, the couple escaped on a canoe while their guests enjoyed refreshments in the camp's library and yacht club.
After a sunset portrait session, they joined their guests in the dining hall which had been filled with a few personal touches: a polaroid station, marital advice postcards, giant inflatable snacks, and a flag that had been designed by the newlyweds themselves.
Despite the sprawling camp grounds filled with giant trees, we never had a problem finding Doris or James because they both have the kind of laugh you could recognize anywhere - and they never stopped having fun! It was such a pleasure to meet these two and be a part of their unforgettable event.
To view the entire wedding gallery, or order prints, visit: tinyurl.com/DorisLovesJames