On February 8, 2025, Genevieve Cohen and Gary Thompson celebrated their love in the warm, rustic beauty of The Barns at Wesleyan Hills in Middletown, Connecticut. Their wedding was a heartfelt celebration full of love, laughter, and joyful moments captured flawlessly by the team at Red Bank Studio, offering both wedding photography and cinematography services.
Our day began at the Marriott Courtyard Hartford Cromwell where both Gennie and Gary got ready in anticipation of their big moment. Starting with the bride at 10:30 AM and then capturing Gary’s final touches at 11:00 AM, our photo and video teams documented everything from the intricate details—like invitations, rings, and bridal shoes—to the candid, emotional shots of finishing touches.
An Elegant Ceremony at Saint Sebastian Church
The couple chose the timeless Saint Sebastian Church in Middletown for their 1 PM ceremony. Surrounded by family and friends, the ceremony included two meaningful readings, a gospel, and a homily—lasting about 45 minutes. Although communion was not part of the service, the ceremony radiated spiritual warmth. Gennie and Gary also considered exchanging personal vows on video, adding a deeply emotional layer to their day.
Following the ceremony, extended family portraits were taken at the church, ensuring no cherished relative was left out. Among them were three sweet little ring bearers, whose final participation would be decided closer to the big day.
Romantic Portraits at The Barns at Wesleyan Hills
The celebration continued with a romantic session at 3 PM at The Barns, showcasing the couple’s genuine love against the backdrop of sweeping willow trees and rustic barn charm. With a bridal party of 9 bridesmaids and 11 groomsmen, as well as their immediate family including both sets of parents, a grandmother, and young children, the session was a blend of posed elegance and organic candid joy.
As a trusted wedding photographer and wedding cinematographer in New Jersey and the tri-state area, Red Bank Studio ensured every precious interaction was artfully captured, while coordinating timing to keep everything flowing seamlessly before cocktail hour.
Celebration in Full Swing: Reception at The Barns
Cocktail hour began at 4 PM, giving guests a taste of what was to come. The main reception kicked off at 5 PM in the elegantly rustic barn. The décor, enhanced by lush arrangements from Flowers by Danielle, gave the venue a dreamy, romantic vibe.
The evening unfolded with first dances and parent dances, skipping the usual speeches and bouquet/garter traditions, allowing more room for dancing and connection. The reception flowed with a dance set curated by Pop Philly of EBE Talent, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
The cake cutting, held quietly off to the side, was a sweet moment shared by the couple without pulling attention from the dance floor. While there were no speeches, the emotional atmosphere and nonstop dancing told the story of a celebration deeply felt and joyously lived.
Our team at Red Bank Studio was honored to document this day, ensuring Genevieve and Gary would have timeless imagery and films that encapsulate the essence of their love story.
Vendors Featured:
• Venue: The Barns at Wesleyan Hills
• Ceremony Location: Saint Sebastian Church
• Getting Ready Location: Courtyard by Marriott Hartford Cromwell
• Florist: Flowers by Danielle
• Band: Pop Philly – EBE Talent
• Coordinator: The Day Of – Joanna Fertig
• Photography & Videography: Red Bank Studio
Wedding team:
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