An Elegant Aria Wedding in Prospect, Connecticut
Tom and Cally’s wedding at Aria in Prospect was a beautiful blend of elegance, tradition, and heartfelt moments. From a meaningful Polish blessing at Tom’s parents’ home to a joyful reception filled with cultural traditions, their day felt deeply personal from start to finish.
With Aria’s on-site chapel and reception spaces keeping the day seamless, Tom and Cally were able to stay present, grounded, and fully immersed in every moment.
A Traditional Polish Blessing at Home
Before heading to Aria, the day began at Tom’s parents’ home, where his family honored him and Cally with a traditional Polish wedding blessing. These moments are incredibly meaningful — quiet, emotional, and filled with intention.
Surrounded by family, the blessing offered words of love, guidance, and support as Tom prepared for marriage. It was one of those moments where time slows down, and the significance of the day truly settles in. As a photographer, these are the moments I’m always watching for — authentic, unscripted, and deeply rooted in family.
A Ceremony in Aria’s On-Site Chapel
Aria’s on-site chapel set the tone beautifully for Tom and Cally’s ceremony. The space felt serene and timeless, allowing the focus to remain fully on the couple and their vows. Soft natural light filled the chapel, creating an intimate atmosphere that complemented the emotion of the ceremony without distraction.
Having the ceremony and reception in one location allowed the day to unfold naturally — no rushing, no travel delays, just space to experience each moment fully.
A Seamless Transition into Celebration
Following the ceremony, guests moved effortlessly into Aria’s reception space — one of the biggest advantages of the venue. The transition felt smooth and relaxed, setting the stage for an evening filled with connection, laughter, and celebration.
The reception décor struck the perfect balance between classic and modern, complementing the elegance of the space while allowing Tom and Cally’s personalities to shine through.
Honoring Polish Wedding Traditions at the Reception
One of the most memorable moments of the evening came when Tom and Cally honored Tom’s Polish heritage during the reception. Together, they participated in a traditional prayer and blessing, followed by the symbolic offering of bread — representing prosperity — and a choice between vodka or water.
This tradition always brings a mix of emotion and laughter, especially as guests cheer on the couple. It was a perfect example of how cultural traditions can be woven seamlessly into a modern wedding day, creating moments that are meaningful and unforgettable.
Photographing Real, Emotional Moments
My approach to wedding photography is always centered on storytelling — capturing real interactions rather than staging moments. Tom and Cally’s wedding was filled with meaningful exchanges: quiet moments during the blessing, emotional vows, joyful reactions during traditions, and a packed dance floor by the end of the night.
Aria’s clean design and beautiful light provided the perfect backdrop for documenting the day honestly and timelessly.
From Vows to the Dance Floor
From the emotional ceremony to the celebratory traditions and dancing, Tom and Cally’s wedding was a true reflection of who they are — grounded in family, rich in meaning, and full of joy. Their Aria wedding proved that when tradition and intention lead the way, the result is a day that feels authentic and unforgettable. Let’s chat about your upcoming wedding!
