I haven’t done a vintage inspired wedding in awhile, but then I had two just last month!  Brianna and Joe planned a 1940′s World War II era wedding at West Point Military Academy, where Joe had graduated from a few years ago.  This retro theme carried through every part of the day, from the vintage shoes and classically designed dresses, to the reproduction WWII uniforms worn by the groomsmen, to the sound of big band and swing music that played all though the reception.  All the guests arrived dressed in 1940′s era clothing for a ceremony at the majestic Cadet’s Chapel at West Point.  Wingtip shoes, gloves and hats were the norm.  Brianna and Joe then exited the Cadet Chapel to the traditional Arch of Sabers before riding off in a reproduction Packard.

Having photographed many weddings at West Point before, I thought I knew alot about the history and grounds.  Joe proved me wrong – we went to places on the grounds I had never been before (Flirtation Walk and the Helipad at North Dock) and gave me more background on the history and traditions of West Point than I will ever be able to remember.  I had a great day as in addition to this beautiful wedding and fun couple, I had the pleasure of working again with filmaker Jen Cassaro!  After a drive around the grounds of West Point, we all headed to Herbert Hall for a reception full of swing dancing all night long.  Even the band came in 1940′s era costumes.  Official draft letters from the War Department were handed out assigning guests their table and MRE’s were given out as wedding favors.  Not a touch was missed.

Dress by Enzonal Blue Collection, Video by Jen Cassaro; Ceremony at West Point’s Cadet Chapel;  Photos at West Point;  Flowers by Main Street Florist; Music by Eric Nicolas & One Love; Reception at Herbert Hall at West Point Military Academy

Details, details, details….I just have to write about some of the beautiful and numerous details that Marissa and Shawn put into their West Point wedding.  Marissa’s hand embroidered dress was exquisite – I have never seen another dress like it!  She told me she had been admiring her dress designer, Claire Pettibone for years and always knew she’d wear a dress by her.  Marissa and Shawn had both an indoor and outdoor reception – they used both the ballroom and a tent for dancing and dining, and had beautifully decorated tables scattered throughout the lawn of the Hotel Thayer for thier guests to gather and talk.  The sweetheart table was set out on the lawn by itself, surrounded by flowers and candles.  What a gorgeous wedding!

Ceremony at Sacred Heart Church, Highland Falls, NY

Music by Partytime Productions and the bride’s father

Dress by Claire Pettibone

Flowers by Lily of the Valley

Video by the fabulous Jen Cassaro of Masterpiece Weddings

Photos at West Point

Reception at the Hotel Thayer

Marissa and Shawn

The ringbearer having a moment