Alright, lovebirds, picture this: the morning sun peeking through the curtains, a cozy suite with a view, and you and your partner getting ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Yup, we’re talking about getting wedding ready at The Goodwin Hotel in Hartford, CT. I highly recommend anyone get ready here for for wedding day. Book a stay here, or just walk by and admire the old world charm meets high style and modern vibes. Lexi and Jay chose to do things a little unorthodoxly and got ready TOGETHER.
However, don’t worry. We still managed to have amazing surprise elements for their magical first look with no spoilers. The idea of spending the morning of your wedding, just the two of you, is the bee’s knees. If you’ve been around for a hot minute, you know that I’m a huge proponent of a first look built in to your timeline. All I want is for you and your boo can make the most of your wedding day together. Why not just throw all tradition out the door, and spend the ENTIRE day together? I know it’s not right for everyone, but it was certainly the best course of action for Lexi and Jay. Their unseasonably cloudy June wedding day wouldn’t have been the same without getting ready at The Goodwin Hotel in Hartford, CT.
Honestly, who says you have to spend the morning of your wedding apart, wondering what your partner is up to? I mean yeah, tortured love is a thing in songs and movies, but is it really what you need on your wedding day? Think about it and get back to me. Imagine waking up in a beautifully designed suite, side by side, ready to start your new life together. No bridesmaids drama (we love you, but why the dramaaa?), no drunk groomsmen (again, we love you, but hello). It’s like a fairytale sleepover at The Goodwin Hotel with your best friend, only it’s your freaking wedding day.
A wedding day is simultaneously a marathon and a sprint. You’re filled with so much adrenaline all day, it’s hard to remember all the details, see all the people, and really enjoy the little moments through the day. Lexi and Jay did it right (imo) by starting the day off together, maximizing the time they had together before Jay left for his deployment with the army.
The Goodwin Hotel’s stunning interiors and industrial brick exterior provide a picture-perfect backdrop to capture one of my favorite moments during the wedding day. These snapshots will tell the story of your love in the most authentic way. We sent Jay downstairs for his portraits in The Goodwin Hotel Bar Piña and to hang out for a little bit while Lexi finished getting dressed with her mom. The excitement was palpable as Lexi and I headed down to meet up with Jay to reveal her final look. These two are known for their playful nature and the giggles they share. When Jay finally turned around they were like two kids in a candy shop in the way they wouldn’t stop giggling with each other. Their laughter was contagious as heck and made me giggle right along with them as I captured this sweet moment for them.
The Goodwin Hotel is a photographer’s playground. There are endless opportunities for unique portraits in the rooms themselves, throughout the hotel, and around the historic building. From the atrium filled with incredible natural light, to the deep red brick exterior, every corner awaits the snap of a shutter.
The Goodwin Hotel in Hartford CT was originally designed as an apartment building in 1881. Later it was converted into a luxury hotel. There is plenty of street parking, and a parking garage parallel to the hotel itself. If you don’t want to find parking after a long day on the down, stellar valet awaits to help you.
The building is SECURE. You cannot enter a room of the hotel without the expressed permission of the room guest. The hotel staff must supply a room key for entry. Walking through the hotel, every single person employed there was kind, friendly, and accommodating. Even though I was there as a photographer, I was so grateful to be treated so kindly! I highly recommend booking a staycation at The Goodwin Hotel Hartford, CT and treat yo’ self!
Amazing Vendor Team:
Hotel: The Goodwin Hotel Hartford CT Photographer: Wild Arrow Photography Hair: Larissa Lake and Co. // @Crystal_larissalakeandco Makeup: Larissa Lake and Co. // @Brittany_larissalakeandco