Some of my favorite weddings are the ones where the wedding party is comprised mainly of childhood and college friends. Those kind of friends just create a different vibe — the absolute silliness and ridiculousness that usually comes after 9PM on the dance floor is just flowing all day long. This was the case for Maddie and Tony’s fall wedding in Portsmouth, NH, which was full of historic charm, downtown energy, and surprises all around.
They started the day getting ready at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club, with Aura Jade Beauty handling hair and makeup. Maddie was relaxed and surrounded by a crew that kept things light from the jump. Their first look took place on the roof of the club, where Tony’s best man pulled the best prank every by putting on a wedding dress and posing as Maddie when Tony first turned around. The rest of the wedding party was just dying with laughter. Finally, Maddie made her appearance for the real first look and it was so sweet. The excitement for the day just kept building!
Next, we all headed to Strawbery Banke Museum, tucked among historic homes and fall leaves — a classic New England October backdrop. Family photos came first followed by the ceremony, which was short and sweet in the gorgeous museum garden. The weather was on our side, and the proceedings had a grounded, comfortable feel — no frills, just authenticity.
After the ceremony, the party moved back to Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club downtown. If you’ve never been, it’s got a killer atmosphere for a reception — warm lighting, exposed brick, and just enough edge. The large spaces somehow felt intimate. Flowers by Leslie and Marshall Rental tied it all together, and once the Tony Mack Band started up, the night really took off. Another surprise was in store for the wedding couple as Maddie’s own grandfather took to the stage with the band to play saxophone on a few songs. He crushed his solos!
Before the reception really got going, I whisked Maddie and Tony back up to the rooftop for some sunset photos. I love this part of the wedding day - not only is the lighting absolutely scrumptious, but it’s a quiet moment of pause in the chaos to capture the beauty of two people in love looking their best.
Back downstairs, the dance floor absolutely delivered. That “late night” energy kicked in right after dinner and just didn’t quit. Conga lines, dance circles, even an unplanned hora.
Maddie and Tony, thank you for having me along for the ride. Congratulations!
Venue & Catering: Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club
Ceremony Venue: Strawberry Banke Museum
HMU: Aura Jade Beauty
Music: Tony Mack Band
Florals: Flowers by Leslie
Rentals: Marshall Rental
