First Night Whitman: Ringing in 2015 with a Toll House Cookie

Whitman, Mass: the only small town First Night in the area! The small South Shore town of Whitman, Mass has done it again: hundreds gathered in the town center to ring in the new year with a giant Toll House Cookie drop at midnight, followed by fireworks.

The streets downtown were closed down at 7:00pm and the six foot cookie was hoisted into place with a giant crane, high above Duval's Pharmacy.

Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's a six foot cookie!

Big Daddy Ray was your emcee for the night, on hand to keep everyone moving around and warm before the midnight countdown.

"Can I get an AMEN from the house?"  (Big Daddy Ray)

This year's band, Divas With a Twist, also helped to keep the crowd hopping to warmth until the cookie came down.

Divas With a Twist spread lots of holiday day cheer in Whitman center on New Years Eve!

Billed as a night of family friendly fun, we were happy to see the kids representing. They were dancing (and sitting) in the street.

There'll be laughin' and singin' and music swingin' and dancin' in the streets.

Not just family friendly, but four-legged friend friendly, as well!!  Can we get a "woof woof"?

This guy could have been the First Night Whitman mascot!

People also brought their own fun! Here we see some people who created their own "cookie drop", scaled down, of course.

Not every cookie drop involved a 6 foot cookie!

The night started out slow but well by midnight hundreds were gathered to see Divas With a Twists' final set, which led us to Big Daddy Ray going from "Jump Around" to "Let's Go Crazy".

Dancing, smiling, and waiting... 2015 is right around the corner.

Yours truly, your blog author, sporting the 2015 First Night Whitman button, with all proceeds going to the Whitman Food Pantry.

All proceeds for the Whitman First Night buttons help support our town's food pantry.

And the clock strikes midnight! Should times long past be forgot (days of auld lang syne). This is what it's all about: a ten second countdown, cookie drops and fireworks commence!

The roof of Duval's Pharmacy sets the stage for the pyrotechnics when the clock strikes midnight.

Special thanks to the First Night Whitman committee for all their hard work in bringing this together, as well as bringing so many citizens of a great little town together. More thanks and kudos to the Whitman Police Dept and the Whitman Fire Dept as always, for keeping our town safe.

Nedina & Jeremy: The Bay Pointe Club { July 12, 2014 }

The weather was beautiful on Saturday July 12, and everything that day came together beautifully for Nedina & Jeremy as their family and friends joined them at The Bay Pointe Club to witness and celebrate their wedding day. They also had the bonus of a Super Moon on their wedding night.  

001-002

003-004

005-006

007-008

009-010

011-012

013-014

 

 

Ashley & Keith at TJ Smith's Victorian House {April 19, 2014}

Ashley & Keith chose one of the quaintest spots on the South Shore for their wedding ceremony and reception. TJ Smith's Victorian House provides the setting that is overflowing with charm and beauty. Their charming chapel provides a unique way to keep all the events of the day at one venue. Ashley was able to get ready with her girls right on site.

Ashley is a vision of beauty, before and after the dress.

The ceremony went off without a hitch. From that first glimpse of his bride, to a recessional among family and friends, Keith could not have exuded a drop more of happiness.

Having an on-site chapel at TJ Smith's Victorian Chapel is a priceless amenity.

Plenty of gorgeous outdoor backdrop for some formal photos...

Ashley & Keith are picture perfect.

A beautiful ceremony, followed by a day of celebrating, dancing, and a flower toss...

First dance, parent dance, and a flower toss with a happy bridesmaid.

Venue: TJ Smith's Victorian House Officiant: Tom Welch Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry DJ: Mike's Music Photo Booth: Photobooth VIP Wedding Cake: Gingerbread House Flowers: The Candy Jar

Laura & John: The Neighborhood Club {March 29, 2014}

Going through Laura & John's wedding photos to write this blog post, all I can say is "wow"! Surely one of the most fun-filled weddings I have photographed, starting with getting ready at the Quincy Marriott, during the ceremony at St. Agatha's in Milton and right through until the last dance at The Neighborhood Club, there wasn't one moment that didn't exude Laura & John's love for each other, and for their friends and family who joined them that day. Quincy Marriott

Laura & John's wedding at St. Agatha's was unique in that it was modernly steeped in tradition. A very cool priest, Rev. Murphy, let the day dictate itself instead of trying to run the show made for an easy-going, nicely flowing and worry free ceremony.

Saint Agatha's

Laura & John choose a great venue for family and friends to gather for their reception. The Neighborhood Club helped to give them a wonderful night of great food, dancing and celebration that won't be forgotten.

The Neighborhood Club

Church: St. Agatha's, Milton Reception Venue: The Neighborhood Club Photographer: Photography by Joe Goldsberry DJ: John Cristoferi Flowers: Coleen's Flower Shop Wedding Cake: Montillio's Bakery

First Night Whitman: We're Gonna Need a Bigger Glass of Milk…

Whitman, Massachusetts: Home of the Toll House Cookie. Yes, that is my little town's claim to fame, and that iconic cookie, made famous by Ruth Wakefield and catapulted to fame by Nestle, just turned 75 years old. How do you celebrate something as major as that? You ask a local high school to build a six-foot cookie and drop it from the sky at midnight on New Year's Eve, of course! Sounds crazy, but that's exactly what happened last night in the town center, in front of Duval's Pharmacy and Mary Lou's Coffee. It wasn't "just a cookie". There were bands, a DJ, food vendors and lots and lots of people. There was also 2,014 homemade Toll House cookies given away, some Whitman First Night lip balms, LOUD horns, glow sticks and so much good cheer, you couldn't help but be glad you braved the cold and showed up. With funding from Nestle, the Whitman Winterfest Committee was able to put together a truly unique once in a life time event. WATD 95.9 FM was on hand with Kevin Tocci to do a live remote with up to date info and interviews with the key players who were "making history happen". If you were there, you know what an amazing job they did. If you couldn't make it, the photos will tell the tale.

DJ Big Daddy Ray from RPE was on hand as the Master of Ceremonies, kept the flow throughout the night that brought it all together. It's not a party until Big Daddy Ray is in the house.

Big Daddy Ray from Rob Peters Entertainment was your Master of Ceremonies from the start until the last cookie crumb!

Did I mention 2014 homemade Toll House Cookies?? Free for the asking, delicious for the eating, a hit all night long!

Who could refuse a homemade Toll House Cookie?

One moment in time that literally made my night… I witnessed Cookie Monster chasing a giant Toll House cookie down the street, clearly with intentions of also chasing a glass of milk if one happened by. But later in the night, there was this… and all was right in the world.

"C" is for Cookie, that's good enough for me… Cookie Monster is a lot nicer than you think.

The big draw for the night was the music. The bands kept the crowds dancing, which in turn kept them warm. These bands gave their all, and it was nice to see someone in the crowd named Mary hand over a pair of gloves to one of the singers. Baby, it (was) cold outside!

First band of the night at Whitman First Night  to brave the cold with Mike Kostas and Kim Tomkinson… brrrrrrrrrrrr!!!

6 Foot Sunday literally brought the crowd into midnight, finishing up their cover of Sweet Child o' Mine about 12 seconds before midnight (and the Toll House cookie drop). They did a "Linkin Park meets Skee Lo" cover of "I Wish" that should be at the top of the charts as we speak, and their unique take on "Airplanes" left the crowd pleading for more.

6 Foot Sunday rang in 2014 for the crowd at First Night Whitman.

Finally (last but certainly not least) what's a First Night celebration with pyrotechnics? You can't drop a six-foot Toll House cookie at midnight without fireworks.

First Night Whitman ended with a bang… fireworks lit up the sky as the cookie dropped at midnight!

Thanks to all who helped make this night happen… Nestle, Whitman Fire Dept, Whitman Police Dept, and The Whitman Winterfest Committee. This blog post is a little more personal than most, but we want to say we are very grateful to live in such a wonderful small town. Have a great 2014!

Here's to a happy and healthy 2014!

Nicole & Kevin: An Indian Pond Country Club Wedding

Nicole & Kevin were married at one of our favorite venues, Indian Pond Country Club. Nestled in Kingston, Mass, Indian Pond is about as picturesque as it gets. With a beautiful rolling golf course as your backdrop, the perfect weather on Nicole & Kevin's wedding day only sweetened the deal. The beauty of an  outdoor wedding ceremony at Indian Pond Country Club simply can not be beat!

With the promises and the "I do"s complete, the recessional made way to the  formal photos.

Beautiful flowers for a beautiful bride.

Always a perk at Indian Pond Country Club, golf carts to get you where you're going!

Mr. & Mrs. Dunn getting to the golf course in style!

Another great feature is the bridge view, perfect for group photos. say cheese!

Indian Pond Country Club has the best "built in" props for formal photos. The bridge makes a perfect setting for sitting!

Classic, but casual.

September 21, 2013.

Nicole & Kevin take a stroll on the grounds before making their way to their reception.

Love is in the air.

After their grand entrance as husband and wife, Nicole & Kevin took to the dance floor.

All eyes were on Nicole & Kevin for their first dance.

Nicole's dance with her dad was surely one of the many highlights of his day.

Nicole & her dad, sharing a few moments on the dance floor.

Congratulations, Nicole & Kevin. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Indian Pond County Club Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry Video: Bob Thorley Flowers: Marie Wallace Officiant: Cynthia DiTullio Wedding Cake: Veronica's Sweetcakes

5th Annual Run for the Roses

Once again, we were very proud to be the official photographer for the annual Run for the Roses, this year held on Sunday September 15 at the Whitman VFW. If you are not familiar with this annual motorcycle run, now in its 5th year, it's held in honor of Rachel and Lillian Rose Entwistle, a mom and her baby daughter who were victims of domestic violence at the hands of Rachel's husband (Lillian's father) Neil. This motorcycle run started 5 years ago, on a rainy Sunday, with a small number of motorcycles, has become an annual event which this year topped over 800 motorcycles, as well as many classic cars.

A sea of motorcylces wait at the Whitman VFW to begin the 5th annual Run for the Roses.

It's a day of  "coming together for a common cause". Men, women, old and young. All these people coming together is truly an amazing feat. Riders came from all over Massachusetts and from as far away as Florida.

Run for the Roses brings riders from all over the state to Whitman, Mass.

We should mention that some four-legged friends also came out to support the fight against domestic violence...

Who can resist a pup in goggles?

The official logo gets stuck on many helmets, because these rides are proud to support the fight against domestic violence.

We saw lots of riders add the Run for the Roses logo sticker onto their helmets.

Every year, the organizers arrange for great music and entertainment. This year they recruited the Mumblers to perform in the Whitman VFW pavilion to entertain the crowds.

Great music is found at The Run for the Roses every year.

You can almost smell the burgers cooking right through the blog. Every year, volunteers come out to cook up a storm. After all, these guys and gals work up an appetite!

Run for the Roses is all about people coming out and volunteering their time and talent.

Rachel's dad (Lillian's granddad) speaks every year to thank everyone for coming out.

Rachel's dad

Every year sees a purple balloon release after all the bikes come back from the run.

Purple balloons being sent up to Rachel and Lillian Rose.

If you've never been to the Run for the Roses, or didn't make it to this year's event, "like" their FaceBook page to be sure you don't miss next year's event. You don't even have to ride to come out and support this great cause.

You can view all the photos from the 2013 Run for the Roses here.

A Saphire Estate Wedding: Jes & Josh

We photographed a wedding at Saphire Estate in Sharon, Mass. last month that could not possible have been more perfect. The bride, Jes, was an absolute joy to work with. Her groom, Josh, was an equal pleasure to his bride, truly a match made in heaven. The friends, the family, the vendors, the venue, the sunset... this is why I love my job. Outside Saphire Estate, the groom aunt officiated the ceremony for a special and persoanl touch.

It was especially cool that the groom's aunt, Hon. Beverly Weinger Boorstein, was officiating the ceremony. She was smooth and captivating, and had the guests mesmerized.

The recessional, man & wife, and a quick kiss...

The first dance is possibly one of the most pivotal events of the night. DJ Derek Holt from Entertainment Specialists was on hand to ensure that everything went as planned.

All eyes on the Saphire Estate dance floor are on Jes & Josh as they dance like no one is watching.

The traditional parent dances took a unique turn when both couples, bride & dad and groom & mom, took to the floor together.

Jes & her dad, and Josh & his mom share the dance floor for the parent dance.

The traditional dancing didn't stop there. The night couldn't be complete without a Hora.

Watch that ceiling! A Hora on the dancefloor at Saphire Estate brings out the best dancers!

A few moments stolen away from the crowd is treasured, because the day is over in the blink of an eye.

Jes & Josh, walking back toward Saphire Estate, after stealing a few moments alone.

When you have a lake, an amazing sunset and a newly married couple, the next photo is a must.

Sunset at the lake at Saphire Estate with Jes & Josh.

We'd like to thank Jes & Josh for trusting Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry with their wedding photography. Congratulations, and best wishes for a happy & healthy life together!

Venue: Saphire Estate Officiant: Hon. Beverly Weinger Boorstein Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry Flowers: Studio One Twenty Three DJ: Entertainment Specialists

Come On A Photographic Tour Of Lighthouses With Us...

While not everyone loves lighthouses as much as we do, I don't know anyone who doesn't at least appreciate the beauty of  majestic lighthouse that has stood the test of time, in all it's glory. We try to seek out and take advantage of lighthouses in our travels, and have found that over the years we have amassed quite a collection, not just nationally but internationally. Lets's start our tour local to us, and go from there. We are  fortunate to live so close to one of the most historic lighthouses in existence. Scituate Light was commissioned in 1810 and completed Sept 19, 1811, making it the 11th lighthouse in the United States. Cost to build: $4000.00. The keeper's house is a private residence and the tower is open to the public on rare but special occasions. The outside of the tower is accessible to all and has been the site of many weddings and other small events. We have taken countless photographs at Scituate Light (weddings, Super Moon, engagement shots, family photos and personal photos) but this is the one photo that always seems to get the most "ooooooohhhhs" and "aaaahhhhhhhhs". Let us know if you agree did this make you "oohh" or "ahhh"?

Scituate Light in all her glory. Is that orb a ghost from maritime past?

Boston Light is another "chock full of history" gem that we have the good fortune to live close by to. Accessable only by boat with an arranged tour, this beauty dates back to 1716 and was the first lighthouse to be built in the United States. The current Boston Light dates back to 1783 and is the second oldest working lighthouse in the United States. The light was automated in 1998 however there is still Coast Guard staff manning the station for tours. (The last time we visited, it was manned by a wonderful historian named Sally). If you live in the area or are visiting, please keep in mind that the tours to see and climb the lighthouse provide you with a priceless adventure. Tours are seasonal and information can be found by clicking here.

Boston Light, the first lighthouse built in the United States, and currently the second oldest working lighthouse in the country.

A trip to Rockport, Mass will bring with it more lighthouse. Here we have Cape Ann, a subtle yet stunning lighthouse is one of a set, current structure was built in 1861 (original construction in 1771).

Cape Ann Lighthouse has a twin which can be viewed at the same time, depending on the angle. We choose this photo to highlight just the one tower of beauty.

A special treat for serious lighthouse aficionados, Rose Point Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island has a little more to offer than most other lighthouses in the country. You can stay overnight as a guest or stay for a week as the lighthouse keeper. We did stay overnight as a guest and the experience is one of enlightening proportions. The serene quiet and peace was something to revel in. For information on staying at Rose Point Lighthouse, click here. For a visual delight of Rose Island Lighthouse, look below...

Rose Island Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island, only accessable by prearragned boat for overnight stays.

Moving on up to Maine, where you will likely find the greatest number of lighthouses, we present to you Cape Neddick Lighthouse, also known as Nubble Light in York Maine. Said to be the most photographed lighthouse in the world, she is an undeniable beauty. So close yet unobtainable on its own little island, the town does an annual lighting for the holiday season the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. Take note of the lighted Christmas tree visable through the front window.

Cape Neddick Lighthouse, also known as Nubble Light is easy to photograph from any angle.

One of my personal favorites in Maine, Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth has much to offer. Privately owned, the tower is not open to the public, but there is a museum and a small gift shop, and you can walk the grounds freely at no charge. There are 90 acres to explore which is Fort Williams Park as well as the grounds of the now defunct Goddard Mansion. She was first lit January 10, 1791. My research tells me it costs $2250.00 to build. If you look off to the right in the distance you'll see a "bonus" lighthouse. That's Ram Island Ledge Light in Casco Bay. Built in 1905, it's nearly a twin of Graves Light in Boston Harbor, built around the same time.

Portland Head Light sits in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. She's another lighthouse with many great angles to view her from.

We also enjoyed this little surprise we found while lighthouse searching on Thanksgiving day. Portland Breakwater Light, aka Bug Light in Portland, Maine is small but packs a punch. What I enjoyed most is that you can walk right out to her and say "hello". She was built in 1875 but never shows her age.

Portland Breakwater Lightouse, affectionately called Bug Light, is my favorite "walk up" lighthouse.

Another favorite in the Portland area, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse was established in 1897.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in Portland, Maine started public tours in June 2013. Be sure to try to see her upclose and personal if you're in the area!

"Lighthouse" is synonymous with New England, so how excited do you think we were when we started searching for and finding great lighthouses in our travels outside New England? In Miami we found Cape Florida Lighthouse just waiting for us to discover her on the beach. Built in 1825 and reconstructed in 1846, she is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade county.

What could be cooler than a lighthosue flanked by palm trees? Cape Florida Lighthouse fits the bill!

One of our quick trips to Canada had us bumping into this little cutie. Her names suites her well, Port Dalhousie, because she does look like a doll house. She is located in St. Catharine's, Ontario. Owned by the Canadian Coast Guard, the tower is closed to the public but the grounds are open.

Port Dalhousie is found in St. Catharines, Ontario is really is as cute as a dollhouse.

Another picturesque find, Old Point Loma Lighthouse is located in San Diego, California. Conceived in 1851, she was first put into use on November 15, 1855. Steeped in history, she was a delightful find on our trip, and we were so happy to have met her.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse in San Diego, California is easy to access and marvel at.

The last of what we have to offer today are non working lighthouses we found on Cayman Island. Well hidden and possibly not the biggest tourist attraction, we were still attracted to these two obscure structures. The Cayman's do not boast any traditional lighthouses but there are several historic beacons regarded locally as lighthouses. We found these two on the East End, and once you find them, you'll find they are well-preserved and have many plaques to tell you their stories.

This structure is known as East End Light, aptly named for it's location in the East End of Cayman Island.

The lesser structure next to East End Light is no less important but we couldn't figure out if it had its own name.

The second lighthouse structure (long defunct) in the East End of Cayman Island is a strange but unique site.

Phew! This post has gone on a lot longer then I intended. I hope you have enjoyed our tour of lighthouses, near and far. If you know of any great lighthouse we should visit and photograph, please comment below and let us in on them! You can view more of our lighthouse photography here, where prints are available for purchase in all sizes. (Any purchased prints will NOT have our watermark on them).

Thanks for coming along!

Jen & Cody {July 6, 2013} The Neighborhood Club

With all the crazy weather we've had this season, Jen & Cody got lucky on their wedding day. It was warm with some clouds, and the rain stayed away. The alluring bride and her girls were getting ready at The Quincy Marriott, and so it was there Jen & Cody would also have their "first look". The stage is set, and Cody is anxiously awaiting his first look of his bride. This photo, one in a series, truly captures all of the emotion, excitement and bliss that is happening and that is to come...

Jen & Cody: first look in the courtyard at Quincy Marriott.

And once their eyes have met, the anxiety melts into a calm serenity that will set the mood for the rest of the day.

A kiss for luck and we're on our way... (We've only just begun).

When one arrives to their wedding, we always suggest you arrive in style...

A toast to say "we're ready to do this!"

Jen & Cody's wedding ceremony was nothing short of spectacular. One of Jen's bridesmaids, Julia, doubled as their officiant. The colors were amazing, the smiles were stunning and the words they spoke were both personal and winsome.

Jen walks down the aisle to meet Cody to exchange vows.

Once everyone was in place, Julia was by her friends, upfront and center, to help them exchange the vows that will change their lives forever in a few short moments.

You can't get married without your best friends by your side...

Now it's official, and it's just about time to celebrate!

They've made their promises to each other, and that's cause for celebration!

There's always time for an extra hug, a well wish, a moment to reflect.

Always take that extra moment to stop and hug the ones you love.

Jen & Cody had Epic Entertainment on hand to take over the Master of Ceremonies and entertainment for the evening. Bring in the wedding party, and start the fête!

DJ Sheldon Gentles announces everyone into the room to get this party started.

First things first, and that's the first dance.

Jen & Cody's first dance: Where Are You Going by The Dave Matthews Band

A wedding day is full of "firsts" and traditions, and Jen & Cody did not leave out the tradition of the wedding cake. The wedding cake dates back to ancient Rome, and generally symbolizes good luck to and for the new couple. Jen & Cody's wedding cake, by White's Bakery, fits the bill.

Jen & Cody's wedding cake, made by White's Bakery, was an obvious hit, but the looks on their faces.

As the night wore on, there was much tripping the light fantastic attended to and performed by all. You'll have to check in with Jen & Cody for more photographic proof, but here's one peek...

(Well don't skip romance beause) you're old enough to dance the night away... Dance, dance, dance the night away....

As the night winded down, we knew what a great wedding we had on our hands (and in our cameras). You, the reader, may or may not know Jen & Cody personally, but we think you'll feel like you know them after reading their wedding blog post. A wonderful, fun couple who have a lifetime together ahead of them, we wish them well as they endeavor into married life.

Saying good night with a dip at the enterance to The Neighborhood Club!

Getting Ready/First Look: The Boston-Quincy Marriott Wedding Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Neighborhood Club Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry DJ/Photobooth: Epic Entertainment Boston Flowers: Suzanne Luck Wedding Cake: White's Bakery Officiant: Julia Sellers

Judy & Paul {June 9, 2013} "My Girl"

We had the pleasure of filming Judy & Paul's wedding a couple weeks ago among some truly stellar professionals. We wanted to be able to share some of the great moments from the day, which lead us to create this highlight video. Please enjoy what you are about to watch, share this post if you feel the urge, and if you start to sing along with the video, we won't tell. (Music used with permission.)

Small Business Spotlight: The Happy Frog in East Bridgewater

We're starting a new series of posts that will appear through out the year, in between our event blogs. We'll be showcasing local small businesses that we love. It's not advertising, and no money changes hands,  just informative blogs posts to let others know about some really great small businesses. Our first showcased business is The Happy Frog Copy Center in East Bridgewater.

The Invitation Room at The Happy Frog is, well... Inviting!

We happened upon the Happy Frog one day when we were looking for something a little different, slightly unique but not too expensive. We needed something to help us "stand out" at wedding and bridal shows. We stopped in at The Happy Frog, unannounced, and met the owner and "top frog", Rose-Marie Culp. We sat down in her side room and brainstormed. You need to understand that we did not yet know Rose-Marie is whiz kid with imagination. We told her what ideas were in our head, and she made them real. She helped us design a professional invitation to hand out to couples at shows that would "wow" anyone and everyone.

The front of our pocket style invitation, from our brain to Rose-Marie's computer, into reality.

The idea of blogging about great local small businesses came to me when Rose-Marie told me about their newly done over Invitation Room. Realizing that wedding invitations were quickly becoming a paramount part of her business, she decided to completely re-do her consultation area. What came about was a warm and alluring space to let the creative juices flow and overflow.

Welcome! Come in and sit and let's creative something sui generis!

Rose-Marie and her team have albums of standard invitations, but custom design is their speciality. Her design for our invitation is what is drew us in and kept us coming back. Have a look.

The many styles of The Happy Frog, showcasing their panache and pizzazz.

 

The Happy Frog isn’t just about weddings, nor are they just about invitations. They are a full service copy center, providing such services as high speed copying, full color and business printing, graphic design services, faxing, laminating, shipping and more. They are truly a small business success story, having opened their doors in 2001 with just two copy machines. They now boast 5 copy machines and employ three “tadpoles” to keep up with their ever-growing presence.

So much more than "just" wedding invitations! Check out the cutest little baby shower invitation you could ever hope to recieve!

Everything on the shelves at The Happy Frog will catch your eye!

Custom candy car wrappers to match your invitations? At The Happy Frog, you'll get what you dream up!

We hope this peek into The Happy Frog has piqued your curiosity enough to encourage you to stop in and say hello. Rose-Marie and her crew can help make your next event, party or business event stand out and be remembered.

Rose-Marie Culp, top frog at The Happy Frog Copy Center.

Leah & Eric: Holy Family Church {March 9, 2013}

We'd like to take you on a photographic journey of a wedding that took place just over a week ago. Leah & Eric were married by Father Hickey at Holy Family Church in Rockland, and continued the celebration with family and friends at The Pembroke Country Club. The stage was set: a beautiful bride, a handsome groom... A wedding party filled with family and friends and overflowing with smiles and tears. There were tears of joy for the coming together of two beautiful people and their families, and there were tears of sorrow for those who could not be with them in body, but were surely there in spirit, to offer Leah & Eric their blessings from beyond. Above all, love each other deeply. You must be ready for a peek at the bride by now? Here she is...

Leah makes a stunning bride. Bouquet by Barry's Flowers.

This wedding couldn't get underway without some smiles and advice from the bride's grandmother.

Leah clearly gets her smile from her grandmother, as they both light up the room.

Grandmothers can speak volumes without saying a word...

Leah's grandmother overlooks and silently gives her blessing.

The bride always get first dibs on the blog, being mentioned and showcased first. That's just how it goes. But we had a groom, as well, and the groom had plenty of support.

Eric and his groomsmen at Holy Family Church, Rockland.

A grand entrance was made by all, including the youngest of the wedding party. Lucky guy, or lucky girls? You decide.

The Junior Usher is escorted by two lovely Flower Girls.

As the ceremony gets underway, Leah and Eric follow the lead of Father Hickey on their journey of becoming man and wife.

Leah, Eric and Father Hickey are the center of attention, as family and friends look on.

Smiles, laughs, and stolen moments, unknowingly captured and frozen in time.

Taking a break during communion to smile and relax.

Once it's official, it's official forever!

Two lives, one moment... a lifetime ahead.

It was on to the Pembroke Country Club, where, announcing for the first time ever, as husband and wife... well, you know the rest!

Mr. and Mrs. Eric Machado made their grand entrance into The Pembroke Country Club.

The first dance tradition was not lost on Leah and Eric. These two were in a world of their own, yet surrounded by family and friends. Congratulations, Leah & Eric. Here's to a lifetime of happiness!

Leah & Eric's first dance for the rest of their lives.

Ceremony: Holy Family Church, Rockland Reception: Pembroke Country Club Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry DJ: Sister Spin Cake: Montilio's Flowers: Barry's Flowers

A wedding party who knew how to party!

Bethany & Chris: A Winter Wedding Wonderland {February 16, 2013}

My wedding blog posts are usually chronologically presented, but with a title like "A Winter Wedding Wonderland", I have to "WOW" you right out of the gates and go a little out-of-order. Ready? Set... Bethany & Chris outside of the Holiday Inn, Rockland, with the snow making the most amazing background and foreground.

I can't leave it at just one. I have to sneak in another outdoor photo in the snow.

It's never cold when you are with the one you love.

Now we can go back to the beginning and start with the ceremony. Bethany and Chris were lucky with the wedding date they picked. It was one week after the big blizzard, and just enough snow to make everything a little prettier. Their ceremony and reception were both held at The Holiday Inn, Rockland.

Family and friends look on as Bethany & Chris exchange vows.

 

Hand in hand, man and wife.

Stealing some time away for husband and wife photos after the ceremony, before the reception, and during that magical time when Bethany & Chris realize... we're married!

A moment alone on the grand staircase at The Holiday Inn.

 

Making time to show of the new bling.

After the introduction by their DJ, Tim Kane from Blue Line Entertainment, Bethany & Chris fall into their first dance.

Uplighting always adds a little extra something to the first dance.

 

Bethany & Chris are simply lost in each other during their first dance as husband and wife.

The parent dances are always a special and emotional time for the parent to spend a few moments with their now adult child and reflect.

Bethany and her dad dancing as Chris looks on from the background.

 

Chris and his mom shared smiles, laughs and maybe some tears during their dance.

Bethany & Chris had a wedding cake that was just beautiful, colors that complimented and coordinated with the rest of the wedding, and looked almost too good to cut.

A great shot of the the wedding cake "before"...

 

... and during the traditional cutting of the cake.

Later in the night, Bethany changed from her traditional wedding dress into a fun "dance the night away" wedding dress, and just had to get away for a few minutes with her girls...

Bethany and her girls stealing a few minutes away, back in the suite...

Let Them Eat Cake! {Wedding Cake}

It may seem like a small detail to some, but a wedding without wedding cake would be noticed by all. History tells us that the idea of wedding cake comes from the Roman Empire, when the groom would break bread over the bride's head to bring good fortune. There are so many traditions, superstitions and symbolism attached to wedding cakes over the centuries and they have brought us to where we are today. Some cultures said the cake would bring luck, prosperity or even fertility. In some eras, depending on who cut it and who served it, it was said to show the groom's dominance over the bride. We've all seen the modern-day wedding cake where the bride and groom feed each other one bite of cake and then kiss. I think we also all dread any cake in face antics.

Having been to hundreds of weddings over the years, we have seen some beautiful wedding cakes. Some with such painstaking detail, you almost didn't want to see it eaten. We've also seen some of the most unique cake toppers you can imagine.

Allison & Jason showed off the love for their dogs with their Boston Terrier cake topper.

Imagine using a topper that has been passed down from generation to generation. What a great tradition!

Old fashioned cake topper

Sometimes a wedding cake topper is there to showcase the couple's personalities.

Motorcycle cake topper

And yet something as simple as a monogram can still be as elegant as any other wedding cake topper.

Monogram cake topper

And finally, as far as wedding cake toppers go, classic never goes out of style.

Classic cake topper

The details on your wedding cake can be eye catching, exquisite, subtle or WOW! It all goes along with you, your theme and your personalities. I loved this autumn themed cake, and the edible details.

Patricia & Ross had an amazing true to life detail wedding cake.

As many cakes as we have seen, we can still be "wowed" and amazed at the talent, time and craft that must go into achieving the detail like you see here.

Tony & Diana's wedding cake had a "built in" amazingly edible topper.

Sometimes it's the cupcake buffet that makes an appearance and surprises everyone's taste buds.

Stephanie & Dan gave their guests a great surprise by surrounding a smaller cake with cupckaes at their wedding.

It's no wonder black and white has always been thought of as elegant.

The wedding cake was a three tiered black and white cake with cascading flowers, prepared by White's Fine Cakes and Pastires.

Black and white elegance, part deux...

This gorgeous and delicious cake was made by Montillio's Baking Company.

While the traditions of centuries ago dictated a white wedding cake to indicate purity, today's modern couple gets to have fun with color as they please.

Florence & Steve's cake displays just enough color to stand out.

When a wedding cake can become the center of the entire room, it really makes a statement.

Ericka & Mark's wedding cake took center stage with uplighting enhancement.

We've seen cakes by the larger and popular bakeries in the area like Montilio's, White's and Konditor Meister. When you start you wedding cake search, don't forget the smaller guys like The Cake Lady and Veronica's Sweet Cakes. So many delicious choices!

New Year's Eve: Christina & Christopher Style! {Dec. 31, 2012}

Christina & Christopher's wedding was our last wedding of 2012... and sort of our first wedding of 2013, all in one! They were married New Year's Eve at TJ Smith's Victorian House in East Bridgewater. If you have ever had the pleasure of attending a wedding at TJ Smith's, then you can surely imagine what a wonderful time was had by all. For starters, take a look at this first photo, and see if you can guess what the groom does for work... Ahoy! Not every bride can say she has her groom's occupation on her toe!

The ceremony was held at TJ Smith's quaint on location chapel, as family and friends  gathered to ring in the New Year and celebrate the newly married couple.

Christina & Christopher exchange vows at TJ Smith's Victorian House chapel.

 

This shot has the look of "classic" and it's the Navy uniform that does it! Thank you for your service, Christopher.

 

Christina, Christopher and Travis, all smiles, all happy and all perfect.

There was plenty of dancing and entertainment all night long, thanks to DJ Arthur Calabro. The first dance is always the most memorable.

Capturing the first dance when they don't know you  are capturing it makes for the best photo, wouldn't you agree?

 

Never a dry eye when it comes to the father/daughter dance.

 

Could a mom possibly look any happier than what you see here?

There is something about this photo that really captured my attention. The pride you can see in Christina's mom's face actually seems to have traveled to Christopher. Is that even possible? You decide.

Some photos tend to emote in a way that truly holds a moment in time forever.

Let's not forget... this was New Year's Eve! There may have been some really cool music being played. There may have been some really amazing dancing going on. (If you were at the wedding, I suggest you ask Christina and Christopher for the link to all their wedding photos...) And yes, there may have been some colorful masks, some interesting hats and other props floating around...

The groom changed from his Navy uniform to a smart black suit for a New Years kiss with his new wife.

 

And yes, they are even more gorgeous with the masks off!

 

We were honored that Christina and Christopher choose Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry to capture their wedding, and to share this night with their family and friends. One last photo, and this one they specifically asked for...

Happy New Year!

Ceremony and Reception Venue: TJ Smith's Victorian House

Photography: Photo & Video by Joe Goldsberry

DJ/Entertainment: Arthur Calabro