REAL WEDDINGS-February 2014
Photographs by Emily Delamater
September 7 | North Yarmouth

Although Melissa grew up in Maine, she and Jef met in Atlanta and lived most recently in Philadelphia before moving “home” to take over the family business. They wanted to raise their son Ellis around family, in a place with a slower pace of life, where a kid might get away with playing barefoot all summer. Jef and Melissa held their intimate wedding at the Barn on Walnut Hill, which provided the perfect rustic template for their elegant coral and turquoise-colored celebration. Jef is a former executive chef, and the pair have an appreciation for food that is evident in their menu! In addition to a pig roast, they served late-summer tomato salad, braised shortrib, kale and apple salad, roasted Maine potatoes, and local green beans. A highlight of the night for Jef and Melissa was watching Ellis having such a great time, playing and dancing with friends and family.

“WE WANTED TO BE 100 PERCENT SURE WE WOULD HAVE A CHANCE TO TALK TO AND CONNECT WITH THE PEOPLE THAT WERE THERE.”

Why…

focus on the reception? “The ceremony, at least the formality of it, was not a huge issue for us. We already feel like a family and are not at all religious. We wanted it to be meaningful and were glad we had Melissa’s uncle officiate.”

that venue? Since many friends and family were coming from out of town, Melissa and Jef wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to reconnect. They loved the Barn on Walnut Hill because of the attached farmhouse where some guests could stay. A lot of special events happened around the wedding day—a pizza dinner and late night at the bonfire, and a multi-course rehearsal dinner prepared by Jef and his best man.

that seating at the ceremony? The couple had everyone grab a drink and sit wherever they felt comfortable. Likewise, guests were welcome to take a seat of their choosing at the reception.

that dress? Melissa wanted a slim-fitting dress so that she could easily stoop down to pick up her son.

Click for a full list of resources from the 2014 Wedding issue.