A Villa-Inspired Editorial at Fort Adams

This shoot was giving Florence Gucci Garden meets Hotel Villa Cimbrone—moody, bold, and a little unexpected. We brought that layered, romantic energy to Fort Adams in Newport, with dramatic florals and high-style moments against the venue’s historic stone.

Bridal Portraits: A Bold Look in a Justin Alexander Signature Gown

For bridal portraits, we leaned into modern drama with a Justin Alexander Signature wedding gown, styled by the team at Ivory, a Bridal Boutique. The look was paired with a sculptural calla lily bridal bouquet in rich plum tones by Avela Floral Design. A bold and editorial bridal look that still feels timeless.

The first look was one of those hold-your-breath kind of moments. Set against the rolling green hills of Fort Adams, it felt like we were in Tuscany. Then we turned toward the water and were met with that sweeping oceanfront view that could rival the Amalfi Coast.

The groom, styled by Slade’s Formalwear, kept things classic with a modern black tux, cropped just right for a fashion-forward touch. The whole look? Effortless, romantic, and a little editorial.

Ceremony with a View

Which brings us to the ceremony. It was giving Florence, Gucci Garden, and just the right amount of drama. We leaned into organic romance and sculptural blooms. Avela Floral Design brought in lush, whimsical arrangements that framed the aisle perfectly without ever feeling too polished. Custom natural spool chairs from PEAK Event Services lined the lawn, and Kadeema’s striped fringe umbrellas added that bold touch we didn’t know we needed.

It was romantic, fresh, and editorial without trying too hard.

Cocktail Hour Details

A draped linen sign by Brit Barry Design setting the tone for the evening. While Ocean State Oyster Co. brought a fun twist with their roaming caviar service, blending luxury with a bit of unexpected edge.

Reception Details

Then we dove into the reception space. Which unfolded in the Cascade at Fort Adams, a vaulted stone corridor with architectural nods to Villa Cimbrone. We leaned into the venue’s natural textures, letting the drama of the setting guide the design. Stone-carved table numbers, rich velvet chartreuse linens from Reverie Social, and swanky red velvet menu books by Brit Barry Design brought an elevated, moody energy to the space.

Honest Event Rentals and PEAK Event Services layered the tables with sculptural place settings, while Avela Floral Design draped the room in painterly blooms. It felt like a dinner party in an old-world villa, reimagined through a modern, editorial lens.

Sips & Sweets

Lastly, but equally as important the food and beverage details. A vintage mirror bar from PEAK Event Services anchored the reception space. It brought just the right amount of shimmer and structure to the layout. Guests grazed on a beautifully styled charcuterie table by Charcuterie Kreations. The spread featured elevated bites that paired perfectly with signature cocktails.

Instead of a traditional wedding cake, Mics Cakes and Bakes served individual plated desserts. Each guest received their own treat, adding a personal and playful touch to the evening.

This celebration was hosted, designed, and planned by Emerald Events, bringing together intentional design, layered storytelling, and immersive guest experience. It was beautifully documented by a dream team of creatives — Nicole Rae Photography, Andy Hansen Films, and For Her & Co.

WEDDING VENDOR TEAM:

Wedding Photographer: Nicole Rae Photography

Wedding Planning and Design: Emerald Events

florist: Avela Floral Design • venue: Fort Adams • rentals: PEAK Event Services Honest Event Rentals Reverie Social Kadeema Rentals • signage: Brit Barry Design • bakery: Mics Cakes and Bakes • hair: BLOOM Studio • makeup: Makeup Glam by Nikki • videographer: Andy Hansen Films • content creation: For Her & Co. • charcuterie: Charcuterie Kreations • roaming caviar: Ocean State Oyster Co. • brides attire: Justin Alexander Signature via Ivory, A Bridal Boutique • grooms attire: Slade Formalwear • lighting: Design Light Co. • invitation suite: Marsupial Papers • place cards: The Blushing Monarch • models: Corrie & Matt

Thinking Newport Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a bold, out-of-the-box celebration in a storied setting like Fort Adams, Emerald Events specializes in transforming historic spaces into one-of-a-kind wedding weekends. Newport offers old-world charm with an edge—let’s bring your vision to life in a way that’s anything but expected.