Sarah and Phillip’s Block Island wedding at The Sullivan House was the perfect New England summer wedding. They put so much intention into creating a day that was full of love and authentic moments, and it absolutely showed! And by choosing Block Island for their celebration, they were able to spend an extended amount of time with their friends and family on the island, which was such a bonus!
If you’re looking for gorgeous coastal wedding inspiration, this post is for you.
Getting Ready on Block Island
I started the morning by taking the ferry over to join Sarah, Phillip, and their families. As a New England wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky to shoot several island weddings, from the Vineyard to Block Island, and starting the wedding day with a boat ride is the best!
When I arrived at their venue, I met up with Sarah, who was getting ready with her bridesmaids and family. We captured a few sweet detail shots before heading out onto the lawn for portraits with Phillip and the rest of the wedding party. The venue was incredible–ocean views from both sides, and the beautiful harbor filled with boats was our backdrop for photos! My favorite part of their portraits, though, had to be that they included their dog. I always love it when my couples find a way to incorporate their pup into the day—it adds so much personality and joy.
A Heartfelt Block Island Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour
After portraits, guests began to arrive, and everyone headed to the ceremony site. From there, their heartfelt ceremony led seamlessly into a gorgeous cocktail hour out on the lawn. Guests mingled with ocean views in every direction, soaking in the sea breeze and the beautiful late-August weather.
Sarah and Phillip’s energy set the tone for the entire day—they truly lived in each moment. There was no rushing, no stress, and nothing pulling them away from enjoying this time with their favorite people. I always encourage my couples to build breathing room into their timeline, to be able to fully embrace every moment with intention.
[Related post: Wedding Day Timeline Tips]
Dinner, Dancing, and a Stunning Sunset
From cocktail hour, everyone moved under the tent for dinner. Being a late summer day, we were lucky to have the most gorgeous late afternoon light throughout dinner and as their open dancing began. It was warm, golden, and glowing!
I snuck Sarah and Phillip outside for a few brief minutes during their reception so we could catch the sunset and capture some golden hour newlywed portraits. This is one of my favorite moments of a wedding day, because you are so much more relaxed, and just get to hang out and celebrate the fact that you’re finally married. It’s such a romantic moment.
After that, the celebrations continued well into the night, including one of the most fun dessert options ever: an ice cream sundae bar! It was a huge hit with guests and the perfect way to cap off an incredible celebration.
Block Island Wedding Photographer
Block Island weddings, particularly at The Sullivan House, have such a magic to them. With amazing panoramic ocean views and that relaxed island vibe, you can’t go wrong!
Sarah and Phillip’s day was just that, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it. I’ll never forget those sunset views over the ocean as everyone celebrated on the dancefloor.
If you’re dreaming of your own Block Island wedding and are still looking for a photographer, I’d love to connect! Reach out through my contact form, and we can start planning your vision for an unforgettable island celebration!
