Branford House Wedding – Sarena + Alex – CT Documentary Photography
Branford House Wedding – Sarena + Alex – CT Documentary Wedding Photographer
Sarena and Alex’s Branford House wedding in July was one of those days that felt intentional from start to finish—beautiful without being overproduced, emotional without being heavy, and fun in a way that unfolded naturally. The kind of wedding that reminds me why documentary wedding photography works so well: when people are relaxed and present, the moments take care of themselves.
These two met back in high school in Lincoln, Rhode Island, which already gives their story that long-rooted, steady kind of energy. I found my way to them through Sarena’s cousin Adrienne (whose winter wedding I photographed earlier this year), and I had a strong feeling this day would be special. I was very right.
They chose Branford House at UConn Avery Point because they wanted a setting that felt elevated and scenic, without blowing the budget just for the sake of it. Branford House checked every box: waterfront views, historic architecture, and that quiet, coastal New England elegance that photographs so well. For couples planning a Branford House wedding, it’s such a smart balance of beauty and value.
Sarena got ready on site and designed her own stationery suite, which felt personal and thoughtful right from the start. She works as a physician’s assistant, and if you’ve ever worked with healthcare professionals, you know they tend to be calm under pressure. That energy carried through the entire day. Alex, a former high school wrestling champ turned local attorney, brought a grounded, quietly confident presence that complemented her perfectly.
Their first look happened mid-afternoon, tucked into the grounds of Branford House, followed by group photos and then couple’s portraits that leaned editorial—yes to that veil shot. Everything flowed easily, without rushing, which gave us space to create images that felt both refined and real.
The ceremony began at 5pm, with guests arriving to soft coastal breezes and summer light. Sarena and Alex slipped away just before to have a quiet moment together. The ceremony exit featured a mid-aisle dip (always a crowd favorite), with Harry the ring bearer and Maddy the flower girl absolutely stealing hearts.
Cocktail hour brought live music from Tony Riccio, spontaneous hugs, and those in-between moments I love documenting most. The reception space was elevated by Spin Enterprise’s lighting and florals from Golden Gate Studios, but the unexpected showstopper was the black-and-white checkerboard dance floor Sarena chose. It was bold, graphic, and photographed even better than I imagined.
Later in the evening, Sarena changed into a second dress, and the dance floor energy jumped up several notches. The night peaked with a Syrian song where Sarena and Alex were lifted onto chairs, surrounded by cheering guests—pure joy and exactly the kind of moment documentary wedding photography is made for.
This Branford House wedding felt true to who Sarena and Alex are: thoughtful, connected, and genuinely joyful. If you’re planning a Connecticut wedding and want images that tell the story as it actually felt, this day is such a perfect example of what’s possible when you stay present and trust your people.
VENDORS
