Zahra + Clayton’s Wadsworth Mansion Wedding

Some weddings stick with you not just because they’re beautiful, but because they feel exactly like the couple at the center of it. Zahra and Clayton’s day at Wadsworth Mansion was one of those. It was intentional, heartfelt, and full of the right kind of energy—just like them.

We met Zahra and Clayton at the mansion as they were wrapping up prep. They’d handled the hotel side of things earlier, so when we arrived it was straight into details: the rings, the invites, the keepsakes that tell the story. From there, it was easy to slide into portraits and candids—the kind of photos they told us they were most drawn to.

The First Look

Their first look happened right out front. No dramatic setup, no big stage—just Zahra walking up, a tap on Clayton’s shoulder, and the quiet shift when he turned around. Both of them teared up instantly. It was raw, emotional, and grounding in the best way. The kind of moment that makes you forget anyone else is standing there.

That emotion carried straight into portraits. The Wadsworth has endless backdrops, but what made these photos meaningful wasn’t the architecture—it was the way they looked at each other, still caught up in that first moment together.

The Ceremony

Guests gathered in the garden, framed by Rachel from The Floating Dahlia’s florals. Rachel kept things airy and natural, moving pieces from ceremony to reception so the design felt cohesive throughout.

The ceremony itself had the kind of rhythm that draws people in—personal, heartfelt, and full of emotion without ever feeling heavy. You could see it in the way Clayton squeezed Zahra’s hand, in the smiles across their families’ faces, in the laughter that bubbled up between vows. It had just the right pacing, with enough time to breathe in the moment but never dragging into formality. Clayton’s expression when Zahra walked down the aisle said everything anyone needed to know.

Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour on the patio came with signature drinks, passed bites, and a live cigar roller from Connecticut Cigar Co.That was a hit—people hovered just to watch, even if they weren’t smoking.

One of the standout details sat just off the patio: a creative envelope wall by Powerstation Events. Guests found their names on envelopes tucked neatly into the display, but inside wasn’t just seating info—it was handwritten notes. That little personal twist turned a functional piece into something interactive and meaningful.

Meanwhile, Zahra and Clayton slipped upstairs for a private dinner. Smart move. Ten minutes, a plate of food, and the first chance to say to each other: “We just did that.”

The Reception

Inside, Doro Catering & Events kept guests well-fed while candlelight and Rachel’s florals filled the ballroom. Once the formalities were done, it was all about the party.

From the first dance to the cake cutting, the evening felt personal and lighthearted. Then the floor opened up, and Mystic River Entertainment kept it packed. It was the kind of reception where people groaned at the idea of the night ending.

Why It Worked

What stood out most wasn’t the venue (though the mansion is a stunner) or the details (though those were on point). It was Zahra and Clayton. They’re the kind of couple who make each other’s lives easier in small, everyday ways—like backing each other up during stressful weeks or quietly knowing when to step in for one another. Those simple, steady qualities were woven into their wedding, giving the whole day a grounded, genuine feel.

They didn’t want stiff or staged. They wanted candids, movement, and photos with character. And that’s exactly what the day delivered.

Looking Ahead

After the wedding, they’re off to Thailand—ready for street food, adventure, and a little downtime before real life sets back in. And knowing them, “real life” will mean plenty more travel and plenty more laughter.

Shoutouts

A wedding like this doesn’t run itself. Irene + Co Events kept everything seamless—she’s the planner who makes hard work look invisible. And Rachel from The Floating Dahlia turned florals into design that felt organic to the space. Working with both of them is always a win.

Vendor Credits

Planning: Irene + Co Events
Venue: Wadsworth Mansion
Photography: Apollo Fields
Florals: The Floating Dahlia
Hair & Makeup: Joann Solomon Beauty
Catering & Bar: Doro Catering & Events
DJ/Music: Mystic River Entertainment
Cigar Rolling: Connecticut Cigar Co.
Rentals: Peak Event Services
Dance Floor: WT Rental & Services
Invitations: Polite Paper
Transportation: Elite Limousine CT
Escort Wall: Powerstation Events

Ready to Plan Your Own Wedding Story?

If you’re dreaming up a wedding that feels true to you—personal, intentional, and beautifully documented—we’d love to help tell that story. Get in touch with us at Apollo Fields to start planning photography that feels like you.