Celebrating Lily and Nick During Their Cape Cod Wedding

When it comes to weddings, there’s nothing quite like celebrating in a place that holds so much personal meaning! Lily and Nick’s Cape Cod wedding was the perfect blend of sentimental touches, breathtaking views, and unforgettable moments, all tied together by the charm of the Cape. From their first look to their family cottage, every detail of their day was filled with love and connection!

A Place Close to Their Hearts

Lily grew up in the Cape Cod area, so it’s always been a special place for her. When she and Nick started dating, it naturally became an important location for them as a couple! Their venue, Captain Kidd Restaurant and Bar, was not only gorgeous but also meaningful—it’s where they celebrated their engagement! It was the perfect choice to host their intimate and heartfelt celebration!

Tips for Celebrating Your Wedding at a Restaurant

Lily and Nick opted to celebrate their reception at a restaurant instead of renting out a larger traditional venue, which made their day feel so intimate and relaxed. If you’re considering this option, here are some tips:

  1. Look for a Spot with Character: Restaurants with cozy interiors, beautiful patios, or waterfront views can provide a built-in ambiance that requires little decorating.
  2. Work with the Chef: A restaurant often means customized menus with incredible food, and they’ll likely be more flexible with special requests than a traditional catering company.
  3. Focus on Guest Experience: A smaller venue like a restaurant naturally creates a more personal atmosphere, where you can mingle with every guest.
  4. Budget-Friendly: Renting out a restaurant can be more cost-effective, as many locations provide tables, chairs, linens, and even decor.

Starting the Day With a First Look

Lily and Nick decided to do a first look before their ceremony, and it was such a great choice! Not only did it give them a private moment to soak in the day together, but it also allowed us plenty of time to take portraits in some of their favorite Cape Cod spots before their ceremony!

We kicked things off at Lily’s family cottage, which had the the most amazing harbor views. The backyard led right to a private dock, making it feel like their little slice of paradise and the cozy, intimate vibe of the spot added an extra layer of magic to their photos.

After that, we made our way to Black Beach for some classic New England coastal shots that really showed off the Cape’s beauty. Known for its dark, pebbly sand and tranquil atmosphere, Black Beach felt like the perfect backdrop for capturing those windswept, carefree moments. Thanks to Lily’s aunt, who has private access to this hidden gem, we were able to explore the beach without a soul in sight.

A Lighthouse Full of Love

One of the most unique and touching parts of Lily and Nick’s story is tied to Nobska Lighthouse, and I absolutely loved this detail. As part of Nick’s engagement surprise, he purchased a brick at the lighthouse and had it engraved to celebrate their love—how sweet is that? Naturally, we had to make this special spot a part of their wedding day! We gathered their family and friends here for some heartfelt group photos before heading off to the ceremony. It was such a meaningful moment and a beautiful way to kick off the day.

Side note: Did you know you can take photos with your friends and family before the ceremony? Many couples don’t realize this is an option, but it’s a fantastic way to maximize time and ensure everyone gets to enjoy the cocktail hour. Lily and Nick loved that they could focus on mingling with guests later, knowing these special group photos were already taken.

The Benefits of Booking an Airbnb for Your Wedding Day

One thing I encouraged Lily and Nick to do early on in their planning during our wedding day consultation calls was to book an Airbnb instead of a hotel for their wedding weekend—and they were so glad they did! Having a private space to relax with their closest friends and family added a layer of comfort to their day. It also made for a cohesive gallery, with getting-ready photos that felt personal and authentic.

Why Choose an Airbnb Over a Hotel?

If you’re planning a wedding, especially in a picturesque location like Cape Cod, an Airbnb offers several perks:

  • Comfort and Privacy: Unlike a hotel, you’ll have a space all to yourself, making it perfect for relaxing or hosting intimate pre-wedding gatherings.
  • Personal Touch: Airbnbs often have unique decor and charm that can add character to your photos.
  • Flexibility: You’ll have more room to spread out, cook meals, and enjoy downtime with loved ones.
  • Convenience: Many Airbnbs are located in residential areas, providing easy access to quiet spots for portraits or scenic views.

If you’re considering a Cape Cod wedding, I highly recommend looking into an Airbnb for the added convenience and New England charm!

A Cape Cod Wedding to Remember

From start to finish, Lily and Nick’s wedding day was a dream! It was intimate, meaningful, and filled with moments that truly reflected their love story. Whether it was the heartfelt first look, the gorgeous Cape Cod backdrops, or the thoughtful touches like the engraved brick at Nobska Lighthouse, every detail was a testament to their journey together.

Congratulations, Lily and Nick! Your Cape Cod wedding was nothing short of magical, and it was such an honor to capture your day. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and more Cape Cod adventures!

Head to my Pinterest to see more of my New England wedding photography!

Cape Cod Wedding Photographer | Paula Milena

Whether you’re drawn to the city’s urban charm, historic landmarks, or natural beauty, New England is a wonderful place to host your wedding or elopement! From choosing the perfect venue to navigating the logistics, I will help you craft a day that feels uniquely yours. Secure your date here!

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