Lisa and Alan – A Romantic and Elegant Fall Wedding at the Willowdale Estate in Topsfield, MA

Lisa and Alan describe their meeting as a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence! Lisa, a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel who spent 24 years moving across the U.S., and Alan, a Gastroenterologist who commuted daily from Newton Center to Providence for 30 years, certainly didn’t have many opportunities to cross paths—until the pandemic. With his endoscopy office closed, Alan found himself at home, and his family surprised him with a Goldendoodle puppy one late winter day. Lisa, already the proud owner of a 2 ½-year-old Goldendoodle, was walking her dog twice a day when fate intervened. One day in April, their paths crossed by chance, sparking a conversation that lasted the entire dog walk. Over the coming weeks and months, their chance encounters continued, and as they walked their dogs together, their connection deepened, blossoming into love.

For their wedding day, the couple chose the Willowdale Estate as the perfect backdrop. They envisioned a setting that blended classic elegance with a relaxed, Tuscan-inspired atmosphere, complete with bistro lights and tea candles throughout the ceremony and reception areas. Drawn to the estate’s timeless beauty and rich history, Lisa was enchanted by its “ethereal quality.” The couple incorporated personal touches into the decor, including tributes to their matchmaker pups, Ruby and Tucker, with custom signage for their signature drinks and adorable cake decorations featuring the dogs. The vibrant, floral-themed decor added to the cheerful ambiance, and the couple also honored loved ones who were present in spirit, including parents, grandparents, and godparents.

Our day began as Lisa and Alan prepared for their first look on the boardwalk by the Ipswich River. Both shared that this was one of the moments they’d been most excited for, and the perfect weather, beautiful location, and soft sunlight made the moment even more magical as they exchanged personal vows. Next came the Ketubah signing and ceremony, with Alan’s granddaughters as flower girls and Lisa’s nephew’s son as ring bearer. Alan was escorted down the aisle by his sister, while Lisa walked with her brothers. The reception was full of lively toasts, heartfelt moments, and a joyous hora, which was another highlight of the day for Lisa and Alan.

Lisa and Alan, it was a joy to be with you for your beautiful and very romantic wedding day. Wishing you (and Tucker and Ruby) much happiness together in the many years to come!

Thank you Stephanie Berenson Photography for sharing the gorgeous wedding portrait with us!

https://stephanieberenson.com