When planning their intimate September wedding, Sam and Winston knew they wanted a celebration that felt authentic to their relationship and journey together. Their choice? A heartfelt ceremony at Dearly Studio followed by a cozy reception at Tony and Elaine’s, a beloved North End Italian restaurant with warm and moody vibes. Their day proved that weddings can be both meaningful and deliciously memorable no matter how many guests you have with you on your wedding day.
Micro Wedding Ceremony at Dearly Studio
A Personal Touch: Family Contributions to the Wedding Venue
Located in Somerville at Bow Market, Dearly Studio is the cutest micro wedding chapel with Vegas vibes and big feeling – perfect for a celebration of this size. And Dearly holds extra special meaning for Sam and Winston. Sam’s best friend since their Emerson College days, Jusmine Martin, owns the venue, and Sam’s father, a professional carpenter, crafted both the altar where the couple exchanged their vows and the bar where they toasted with their friends and family afterwards.
The Intimate Ceremony Experience
With 20 of their closest family members and friends present and the help of their friend and officiant, Jusmine, Sam and Winston created an unforgettable ceremony. Jusmine began the ceremony by sharing the story of their journey to the altar – from “we’re just friends” to soon to be parents and spouses – their love story is far from traditional, but it’s beautiful and so real. Then, they shared their own personally written vows followed by a ring exchange.Winston’s ring was put on a custom-made chain instead of going on his ring finger – another beautiful and unique personal touch. After sealing their love with a kiss, they exchanged toasts, hugs, laughter and tears with their guests. The intimate setting allowed every guest to feel deeply connected to the moment.
Wedding Reception at Tony and Elaine’s
The Restaurant’s Authentic Italian Charm
Tony and Elaine’s on North Washington Street wasn’t just another venue choice. For Sam, who grew up in an Italian-American family, the restaurant’s authentic atmosphere felt like home. While rather unassuming from the exterior, the vibe changes as soon as you step inside and the smell of fresh garlic hits your nose. Between the red leather booths, brick walls, checkered floors and bottles of Chianti surrounding the room, Tony and Elaine’s is the epitome of the old North End experience. Sam and Winston even specifically requested the signature red and white checkered tablecloths and red tea lights remain in place, understanding that these details added to the authenticity of the space.
Creating Memorable Moments in an Intimate Setting
The reception flowed naturally in the cozy restaurant space. Guests took turns sharing heartfelt toasts, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt part of the celebration. The intimate setting encouraged genuine connections and conversations throughout the evening. It truly felt like they were gathering around a home cooked meal together.
Tony and Elaine’s Menu
Of course one of the biggest highlights – and reason to have a wedding here – was the incredible food. The couple chose to keep things simple and authentic, allowing guests to enjoy family style salads and appetizers followed their choice of entree from Tony and Elaine’s regular menu. Guests feasted on classic dishes like chicken parmesan and shrimp scampi, creating a family-style dining experience that perfectly matched the celebration’s warm atmosphere. However, it was the restaurant’s meatballs that held a special significance for Sam. They’re the only ones she’s ever had that remind her of her Italian grandmother’s recipe – and I can attest to the fact that they’re DAMN good!
Personalizing Your Restaurant Reception
Sam and Winston embraced the restaurant’s existing charm for their micro wedding reception. They decided that Tony and Elaine’s was unique enough so why ruin the atmosphere with unnecessary wedding decor. However, they did bring in their own wedding cake for guests to enjoy. It was a quirky, vintage-inspired creation from Buttercream Boston, featured their catchphrase “double trouble” – proving that small personal touches can blend seamlessly with a restaurant’s established ambiance.
Tips for Planning Your Restaurant Wedding
Choosing the Right Restaurant Venue
When selecting a restaurant for your wedding reception, consider these factors:
- Does the space reflect your style and story?
- Can the restaurant accommodate your guest count comfortably?
- Does the menu offer options that excite you and your guests?
- Is the atmosphere already aligned with your vision?
Timeline and Logistics Considerations
Restaurant weddings require different planning than traditional venue celebrations. Consider:
- The restaurant’s regular operating hours
- Any setup and decoration time needed
- Coordination with regular staff
- Space for traditional wedding moments such as your ceremony or a first-dance (if opting into such formalities)
Working with Restaurant Staff
Remember that restaurant staff may not be experienced with wedding-specific traditions. Plan to discuss:
- Timeline management
- Service style preferences
- Photography arrangements
- Music preferences or space for entertainment
Adding Personal Touches
While restaurants may have decor limitations compared to traditional wedding venues, there are many ways to personalize your celebration:
- Bring in your own cake
- Incorporate meaningful decorative elements such as centerpieces or a guest book
- Create custom menu cards
- Plan special toasts or other moments
- Customize your menu selections
Planning Your Own Restaurant Wedding in Boston
Hosting your wedding reception at a restaurant like Tony and Elaine’s offers a unique blend of intimacy and authenticity. While the experience differs from traditional wedding venues, the charm lies in its simplicity. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Cost Considerations
Restaurant weddings can prove to be more budget-friendly than traditional venues, but it’s not always the case. You can expect to typically pay for:
- Food and beverage minimums
- Cake cutting/ plating fee (if bringing in outside desert)
- Any additional time needed for set up or break down
- Special service requests
- Staff gratuities
- Room rental/ buyout fees
Ceremony Options
Consider these ceremony locations if your venue doesn’t have the time or space for you to exchange your nuptials onsite:
- Dearly Studio for an intimate, retro style non-denominational chapel setting
- Boston City Hall for a civil ceremony
- Local churches or religious venues
- Outdoor spaces in Boston’s parks
Sam and Winston’s celebration at Tony and Elaine’s proves that wedding receptions don’t need traditional wedding venues to be meaningful. Their choice to embrace the restaurant’s authentic charm while adding personal touches created an unforgettable and delicious celebration. Whether you’re planning your own micro wedding or seeking an alternative to traditional venues, let their story inspire you to create a celebration that truly reflects your journey together.
Looking for more restaurant wedding inspo? Be sure to read and learn more about other restaurants in Boston that will be a great spot for you to host your micro wedding!
And if you’re in the market for a wedding photographer who knows the ins and outs of hosting and photographing a restaurant wedding in Boston, look no further! Click here to view even more of our portfolio and reach out to inquire about having us photograph your day!
Vendors for this Boston Micro Wedding
Ceremony Venue – Dearly Studio
Reception Venue – Tony & Elaine’s
Florals – Rococo Floral Co
Cake – Buttercream Boston
Dress – Bumpsuit
Rings – David Yurman
