A Spring Destination Wedding in Newport, RI

Megan and Billy’s destination wedding in Newport felt like the perfect fit for them, and I’m thrilled I had the opportunity of capturing it. Megan grew up in New England and was an avid sailor at her family’s club, the New York Yacht Club Harbour Court (side note: I’ve had the honor of capturing a wedding there!). Newport’s coastal setting held deep sentimental value for her, and Billy, a Chicago native, had grown to love it just as much.

The couple envisioned classic portraits. However, their top priority was candid imagery that captured them fully immersed in the moment with their guests. We quickly realized we were a perfect fit! I’m so grateful they trusted me to preserve the memories of their weekend—especially Billy, who didn’t relish spending so much time in front of the camera. From the impeccably designed rehearsal dinner to the heartfelt moments on the wedding day, I’m thrilled to share a glimpse of just how special this celebration felt.

Wedding welcome party at the International Tennis Hall of Fame

Pink cocktail with custom stir stick for a wedding welcome party

Rehearsal Dinner at the International Tennis Hall of Fame

If the wedding destination was a nod to Megan’s childhood love of sailing, the rehearsal dinner and welcome party at the International Tennis Hall of Fame celebrated a favorite hobby she and Billy share. I still think about how magical the evening felt. The décor was beautifully thoughtful, their families were incredibly warm and welcoming, and the overcast skies made the venue’s lights glow just a little brighter. I soaked it all in, switching between digital and film to capture meaningful moments of the couple with their guests.

Dinner on the East Porches flowed seamlessly into a welcome party on the Horseshoe Court, complete with the most adorable tennis ball macarons. Megan and Billy invited every guest, and most lingered late into the evening, laughing, reminiscing, and building anticipation for the day ahead. Although the forecast raised some concerns, it never dampened the celebratory spirit.

Blue and white wedding stationery flatlay by Merrow Creative

Bride getting ready for her destination wedding in Newport, RI

Coastal Blue & White Wedding Details

Megan and Billy drew inspiration from Newport’s seacoast when planning their wedding. From the custom invitation suite by Merrow Creative to Megan’s Loeffler Randall heels, each thoughtfully chosen detail echoed the white-capped ocean waves visible from the venue. The wedding party’s attire struck a perfect balance between coastal chic and classic elegance: Megan’s attendants wore blue-and-white gowns in mismatched floral patterns, while Billy’s groomsmen wore black tuxedos—a sharp complement to his cream suit jacket.

Bridesmaids wearing mismatched blue and white gowns

Bridal party portraits at the OceanCliff Hotel

A Rainy-Day Destination Wedding in Newport

As it turned out, Megan and Billy’s wedding day brought some of the most unusual weather I’ve ever experienced. Forty-mile-per-hour winds and spitting rain arrived right on cue for their first look, forcing the family and wedding party portraits indoors. Then, just as suddenly, the storm cleared. We dashed outside to finish group portraits and capture a few more images of Megan and Billy, windblown hair and all.

I can’t say enough about how adaptable they and their entire group were. They embraced the day as it came and focused on what mattered most: being present with their closest people. And honestly, the perfectly imperfect portraits often end up being the most meaningful.

Thankfully, the rain held off for their outdoor ceremony, a stunning moment overlooking Newport’s coastline. Megan carried a lily-of-the-valley bouquet in homage to her mom, and Billy’s expression when he saw her said everything. It was one of those moments I love capturing most—when New England’s natural beauty meets intentional details and a split-second you’ll want to relive again and again.

"Sailing America" coffee table book at a Newport destination wedding

Are you planning a destination wedding in Newport or elsewhere in New England? I’d be honored to photograph your celebration and tell this chapter of your story through emotive, artful imagery. Share a little about your plans, and I’ll be in touch. I can’t wait to connect!

Black and white photo of bride and father dancing

Groom dancing with mother and bride at a Newport destination wedding

Kind Words from Megan and Billy

“Halie!! These are incredible—we’re in awe and can’t stop looking at them. It’s so much fun reliving the whole weekend! You did an amazing job. Thank you again for everything!”