Tracey + Bennet's Elegant Newport Wedding at The Chanler

Mike and I got a thank you card from Tracey's parents shortly after their wedding with a note to us from each of them. The one from her dad simply says "When I think of you, I smile." 🥹

I love Tracey and Bennet's story because these days, it's anything but average. This pair met over 7 years ago at a fitness center. She was on the stair master doing her thing, and he just kinda walked up to her and asked for her number 🤣💪 (go Bennet!)

I gotta tell you, I just adore these two. They're some of the goofiest humans I have ever met and our sessions usually involve a LOT of laughter and maybe just a lil bit of clumsiness (on my part of course). In fact, I love their entire family. I photographed Bennet's sister's ICA wedding this past Spring (as well as her proposal!) and have really enjoyed getting to know them all over the course of the last few years. It's one of the parts of my job that, when it happens, makes it all so much more special.

It also makes it possible for me to create beautiful, joyful images like these. I may have had to beg these two party animals to join me for those last photos as the sun set, but it was so worth it. It always is on those Newport cliffs!

As we always do with full weddings, we started this day with a gorgeous set of details. Classic colors with a pop of baby blue that we had the perfect backdrop for!

That brings me to their stunning venue - The Chanler, located in the charming town of Newport, Rhode Island. This luxurious estate-like hotel is situated on Newport's famous picturesque Cliff Walk overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, making it a breathtaking backdrop for any wedding celebration. While The Chanler is often associated with sophistication and elegance, it is also a fantastic venue for those who want a little bit of adventure on their wedding day.

One of the highlights of The Chanler is its historic property. Built in 1873, the mansion has been impeccably restored, with ornate details and grandeur at every turn. The property boasts 20 uniquely designed guest rooms, each with its own character and charm. For those looking for a more intimate and exclusive experience, The Chanler also offers private villas and cottages with stunning ocean views. The deep blues and golden yellows really tied in well with the bride’s colors.

The Chanler's location on Newport’s Cliff Walk also allows for a unique wedding experience. Imagine saying your vows with the sound of crashing waves in the background, or taking your wedding photos with the stunning ocean and cliffside as your backdrop. For those seeking a more daring wedding experience, The Chanler even offers a private helicopter tour of Newport and the surrounding area!

Tracey + Bennet chose to have their ceremony on the main lawn with the venue and ocean in the background. It was a hot summer day, and just steps away was a beautiful wooded area with some shade. It was the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy cocktails while we took family photos.

After family photos we took couples photos as guests enjoyed cocktail hour with a live band. The Chanler has SO many amazing spots for photos in such close proximity - from the gorgeous manse, to the grande entrance and iron gate, the wooded area we took family photos in, the gardens, the back entrance leading to the cliff walk, and of course, the stunning cliffs and beaches of Newport.

I love the cascading centerpieces for Tracey + Bennet’s big day with blue and white hydrangeas. The outdoor patio is the perfect place for a small to medium sized reception!

The Cliff Walk at sunset is a must if you have a wedding at The Chanler. The 3.5-mile trail that hugs the coastline and offers incredible views of the ocean and the stunning mansions that line the route. The early fall was the perfect time to explore the Cliff Walk, as the weather is mild and the foliage is still lush.

While The Chanler is undoubtedly a grand and elegant venue, it also has a sense of adventure and excitement that sets it apart from other wedding venues. The property's historic charm, combined with its stunning location on the Cliff Walk, makes it the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable wedding experience that is both sophisticated and thrilling. Whether you're looking to say "I do" in a grand ballroom or on a cliffside overlooking the ocean, The Chanler has something for everyone! We were with Tracey + Bennet through last hugs of the night, and those are always some of our favorite moments. Keep scrolling to see how epic the dance floor got and some full moon vibes!

Venue Team

Couple: @tsull617
Venue: @​​thechanler
HMUA: @wavelengthssalon
Florist: @fleursoiree_ri
Dress Designer:: @inesdisanto
Bridal Shop: @lelitebridal
Menswear: @hiveandcolony
Rentals: @peakeventservices
Rings: Barmakian
Invitations: @serif_and_sans
Videography: @realdavidruzicka
Band: Golden Estate Entertainment
Transportation: Accent Limo