Anna is a New Hampshire based editorial and wedding photographer, creating intentional, moment-driven imagery throughout New England and beyond.

This coastal New England wedding in Rye, NH is a celebration I keep coming back to. There’s something extra meaningful about choosing a wedding location based on your own history rather than just a beautiful view. For Emma and Jack, getting married in Rye was the perfect sequel to their engagement session earlier in the year, on Star Island.

Coastal Rye, NH wedding by Anna Solo Photography.

On their wedding day, Emma and Jack were able to look across the water and see the island where Emma spent her summers working as a Pelican (the name for the people who staff this totally off-the-beaten-path piece of New Hampshire!). It was a full circle moment that made the whole day feel grounded in the salt air and rocky shores that Jack too has come to love.

The Portaits

Emma and Jack really wanted their photos to reflect the unique soul of the Seacoast. We started the day with a first look in downtown Portsmouth before hopping on a trolley to explore. The historic brick buildings, cute cafes, and quiet gardens were our backdrop, and allowed us to capture playful, timeless, and relaxed portraits. Their ceremony at South Church followed, which is a grand and joyful space that we love to work in.

One of my favorite moments is contained in two frames captured by Brittney of the couple ringing the church bell together after their ceremony, totally unaware of her presence. It’s filled to the brim with raw joy and exhilaration, and it’s precisely these types of moments that we keep our eyes wide open for. The sound of the bells echoed through the streets of Portsmouth right before they walked out to huge fanfare from their friends and family.

The Style

The fashion was another highlight, mostly because it was so personal. Emma’s gown was designed by Loulette Bride, the same dressmaker who made her mother’s wedding dress years ago. The light layers flowed beautifully whenever she moved. Jack looked great in a classic navy tux. Emma bridesmaids chose a mix of solids and patterns and no two dresses were exactly alike. It is so like Emma to let each person’s personality shine, something that we noticed throughout the day.

The Celebration

The reception at the Seacoast Science Center further embraced Emma and Jack’s love of the New England coast. A clear topped tent kept the New Hampshire sky visible all night, the sound of the ocean and the occasional seaplane flying over completing the picture. Every detail felt intentional, from blue vintage goblets and sea foam napkins to hand painted oyster shells incorporated in the place settings. Guests had the chance to visit the center’s touch tanks, coming face-to-face with sea urchins and starfish native to the waters just a few feet away. As the sun started to go down, we escaped to the rocks for golden hour portraits.

Beyond the aesthetic, Emma and Jack really prioritized the spirit of their guests and incorporated them meaningfully. Friends read lovely quotes and lit candles during the ceremony. Jack’s uncle did a surprise Elvis impersonation, belting out “Blue Suede Shoes” to a cheering crowd. Both moms got ready with Emma and her girls, already friends as well as family. Grandparents broke it down on the dancefloor. These are the authentic, fun, emotional memories that we work to preserve and that we get to witness as part of the inner circle that we’re so grateful to be a part of, if only for a weekend.