THE WEDDING OF ALYSSA & ANDY

August 12, 2017 Boston, Massachusetts

By Carol K. Dumas

Alyssa Bogdanow and Andy Arens wanted a wedding in the heart of Boston, but in a unique setting. What could be more unusual than New England Aquarium?

“It’s not like we’re ‘fishy’ people,” says Alyssa, although the reception would inevitably include some aquatic details. The decision to host their nuptials at the aquarium ultimately boiled down to a desire for a conveniently located waterfront setting that also offered a sizable event space. “We wanted an outdoor ceremony,” says Alyssa. ”The aquarium overlooks the harbor. They had a tent out back that could fit a ton of people.”

The wedding day began at The Langham, located in downtown Boston, where both the bridal party and groomsmen prepared for a day of celebrating. Wanting to take in the city prior to their event, Alyssa and Andy walked to Post Office Square and eventually to Christopher Columbus Park to take pre-ceremony photos. Coincidentally, and on par with their nautical reception location, there was a fish-themed art installation on display at the park. As the couple continued on towards their reception along Boston Harbor, a street musician played “Here Comes the Bride” as passersby cheered. The couple got another ovation from an oceanic onlooker during the wedding service. At just the right moment, a seal surfaced from the harbor with a bark, adding a dose of comedy to the ceremony and prompting their rabbi to respond with, “Amen!”

Following a night of dancing at their tented reception, the newlyweds, with family and friends in tow, paraded into Faneuil Hall with sparklers to continue the festivities. “The reaction [when we arrived] at the bar was fun,” remembers Alyssa, adding, “though it paled in comparison to the reaction of the hundreds of people as we spilled out onto the street at 2 a.m. when all the bars in Faneuil closed. It was an out of body experience!”

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