If you’re dreaming of a waterfront wedding that feels timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic—Belle Mer in Newport, Rhode Island should absolutely be at the top of your list. With sweeping ocean views, clean modern architecture, and coastal luxury vibes, this venue brings that “wow” factor from the moment you arrive. And after photographing countless weddings here, I can confidently say: it’s one of the most breathtaking wedding venues in New England.

But don’t just take my word for it—Katie & Joe’s stunning black-tie celebration at Belle Mer is the perfect example of everything this venue has to offer. From heartfelt moments and romantic oceanfront portraits to iconic Newport scenery, their day was truly unforgettable.

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A Love Story Worth Telling

Every beautiful wedding begins with a love story—and Katie & Joe’s is one for the books.

They first met on December 10, 2016, on a freezing December night at an ugly Christmas sweater party. Katie’s friends convinced her to go, and it ended up changing her life. When a guy at the door was being rude, Joe quickly stepped in and made sure she felt safe and comfortable. From that moment on, he stayed by her side all night—an absolute gentleman.

After some Snapchat banter and a little encouragement from Joe to stay in Newport for a post-finals party, he finally made his move (with the cheesiest pickup line ever):

“Our faces are pretty close together—we should do something about it.”

…And somehow, it worked! Six and a half years later, here they are—together through college, post-grad transitions, long-distance stints, and career changes. As Katie puts it: “No one I’d rather tackle life with.”

Their relationship is filled with goofiness, sarcasm, unwavering support, and joy. Whether it’s watching Boston sports, going for walks with their pup (iced coffee in hand, of course), or taking the boat to the North End for date night, these two are effortlessly them—which made their wedding day feel equally authentic and full of heart.

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Why Belle Mer Was the Perfect Match

Katie & Joe’s vision of a black, white, gold, and light pink color palette paired beautifully with Belle Mer’s all-white, oceanfront aesthetic. The venue provided the ideal setting for everything they dreamed of: a romantic ceremony overlooking the water, sunset portraits along Ocean Drive, and a lively, light-filled reception space that reflected their modern, elegant style.

From the spacious bridal suite to the manicured lawn and reception area, every corner of Belle Mer was designed to impress.

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The Dream Wedding Day

• Getting Ready at the beautiful Newport Harbor Island Resort set the tone for an elegant, relaxed morning. The resort’s coastal charm and waterfront views made it a perfect backdrop for those quiet pre-wedding moments.

• The ceremony took place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a historic and sentimental setting filled with timeless beauty and tradition.

• Afterward, we headed to Ocean Drive and the Belle Mer grounds for the most breathtaking portraits. The light, the breeze, the joy on their faces—it was absolute magic.

• Guests were welcomed to signature cocktails and ocean views during cocktail hour, before heading into the grand reception space.

• From gold-accented tablescapes to a surprise drink cart from Bevi e Vivi, every element felt intentionally curated to reflect Katie & Joe’s personalities.

• The reception décor was a stunning blend of timeless elegance and coastal charm, featuring candlelit tables, lush floral centerpieces by Michelle Jeanne Floral Design, and custom signage from Something Borrowed Event Decor.

• As the sun began to set, we captured sunset portraits on the Belle Mer lawn, with soft golden light, ocean views, and quiet moments that perfectly reflected the joy and romance of the day.

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Vendor Dream Team

• Photography: Genevieve Photography
• Florals: Michelle Jeanne Floral Design | @michellejeannefloral
• Hair: Kauri & Co. | @kauriandco | @hairbykauri
• Makeup: Glamour Cosmetics | @glamourcosmetics_team | @glamourcosmeticsofficial
• Wedding Dresses: Anne Barge (Ceremony) | Bremelia (Reception)
• Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo via Bella Bridesmaids
• Men’s Attire: The Black Tux | @theblacktux
• Venue, Catering, Cake: Belle Mer – Longwood Venues | @longwoodvenuesanddestinations
• DJ: Meritage Entertainment | @meritagedj
• Videography: White Elm Films | @whiteelmfilms
• Signage: Something Borrowed Event Decor | @somethingborrowedeventdecor
• Marquee Lights: It’s Lit RI | @itslitri
• Drink Cart: Bevi e Vivi | @bevievivi
• Getting Ready Venue: Newport Harbor Island Resort

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Final Thoughts: Planning Your Own Newport Wedding at Belle Mer

Whether you’re local to New England or planning a destination celebration, Belle Mer truly has it all—panoramic ocean views, top-tier service from the Longwood team, and a blank canvas to bring your dream aesthetic to life.

Katie & Joe’s day was proof that when you combine a stunning venue, a couple full of heart, and a thoughtful vendor team, the result is unforgettable.

If you’re planning your own Newport wedding at Belle Mer, I’d love to connect and help you capture your love story in a way that feels true to you.
Let’s create something beautiful together.