A Chic Summer Wedding at The Lakehouse in Halifax, Massachusetts
A modern summer wedding at The Lakehouse in Halifax, MA with editorial portraits, heartfelt moments, and floral-forward.
The Lakehouse Wedding Venue
Set on the waterfront in Halifax, Massachusetts, The Lakehouse provided a beautiful backdrop for Mariela and Gregory’s celebration. With a modern getting-ready space and sprawling lawn overlooking the lake, the venue was a perfect match for their vision.
Mariela got ready with her bridesmaids in the light-filled bridal suite, wearing a custom wedding gown lovingly handmade by her mother.
Mariela + Gregory's Story
Mariela and Gregory first crossed paths as nurses at Rhode Island Hospital. She worked the day shift, and he came in at night. What started as brief handoffs during shift change quickly turned into a growing connection. As travel nurses, they navigated cross-country assignments together—from Hawaii to Texas to New England, deepening their bond along the way.
Now back in Rhode Island, they’ve built a life that includes launching businesses, pursuing graduate studies, and always prioritizing the people they love. Their wedding was a reflection of that, bringing together guests from across the globe, from California to Albania, to celebrate their next chapter.
A Fresh Take on A Lawn Ceremony
Their ceremony took place under a blue summer sky on the lakeside lawn, surrounded by full-size planters overflowing with sculptural florals in blush, green, and white. The setup felt lush and elevated, but still natural, thanks to textures like rattan and layered greenery that grounded the design.
After exchanging vows, Mariela and Gregory were greeted with a joyful shower of flower petals tossed by guests as they walked back up the aisle.
Golden Hour Portraits by the Water
We planned their portraits around the golden hour light, and it paid off.
Mariela, who has experience in front of the camera, wanted portraits that felt composed but natural. In fact, we had a pre-wedding posing consult to help them feel confident and natural, and it showed.
Personalized Guest Experience
The reception, held indoors in the Lakehouse’s open, modern space, focused on connection and comfort. Guests found handwritten notes waiting for them at each place setting, individual letters from Mariela and Gregory thanking them for being part of the day.
The space itself featured blush-toned florals, greenery in full planters, and rattan textures that echoed the design from the ceremony. It was one of the hottest days of the year, but with the AC flowing, guests were ready to celebrate.
A Night of Music and Meaning
One of the most memorable moments came during the reception, when Gregory sang “Mariella” by Leon Bridges to his new wife, bringing the room to a standstill. Later in the evening, traditional Albanian dancing added even more energy and joy to the celebration, a beautiful nod to Mariela’s family and heritage.
CREDITS
Photography: Photos by Annalee x Soleil Levant Weddings
Venue: The Lakehouse, a Saphire Event Group Venue
Florist: Jenny Events Co.
Makeup Artist: Fine Line Artistry
Hair Stylist: Hannah Kelly Stylist
Dessert: The Icing on the Cake
Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank
DJ: Mercier Music
Rings: Jared Jewelers