September 4, 2021
Cape Elizabeth, ME
A blind date in high school was the beginning of Lea and Derek’s love story. “We’re both from Pittsburg, and we went to neighboring high schools,” says Lea. “A friend of mine found out I didn’t have a date for my 10th grade school dance, so he set me up on a blind date with Derek. When he came to my door, I swear I’ve never had butterflies like that before!”
The couple chose Cape Elizabeth for their wedding because it’s close to where they first lived together in South Portland, when Derek was stationed there with the Coast Guard. “For a theme, I wanted to focus on the venue, Brick South, which has a very industrial vibe of brick and hardware. I also wanted to bring in that rusty orange in the flowers and bridesmaids’ dresses.” Her own dress, she says, was an instant “Yes!” when she tried it on. “It’s a beautiful textured silk with a lining of recycled fabric, which I loved, because sustainability is very important to me.”
For Derek, the most meaningful part of the day was standing by the shore watching their guests arrive, knowing most of them had traveled from Pittsburg to celebrate the couple’s wedding day. For Lea, it was the ceremony itself. “It was just Derek and me talking to each other—everything else just kind of drained away, and I could focus just on Derek.”
Written by Pat Chaudoin
{Wedding Recipe}
Photography:
Hope Allison Photography
Ceremony:
Two Lights State Park, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Reception:
Brick South at Thompson’s Point, Portland, ME
Planning:
Pinch Me Planning, Portland, ME
Caterer:
Big Tree Catering, Biddeford, ME
Cake:
The Cookie Jar Pastry Shop, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Flowers:
Yellow Twist Floral Design, Southern ME
Dress:
Ceremony Bridal Shop, Boston, MA
Suits:
Indochino
Rings:
Bride: Mom’s wedding ring
Groom: Bellman Jewelers
Hair:
Studio 88 Salon, Yarmouth, ME
Makeup:
Jennifer C. Nieman, New England
DJ:
The Music Man DJ Service, Portland, ME