A Classic Coastal Wedding at Shining Tides

As Seen on Loverly

Jessica Dodakian & Doug Willis | Mattapoisett, Massachusetts

 

Jessica Dodakian and Doug Willis’s summer wedding at Shining Tides Weddings by the Sea was a refined coastal celebration with a bold, modern edge. Set along the harbor in Mattapoisett, just south of Boston, this waterfront YMCA venue offers sweeping ocean views while supporting local summer campers—adding heart and meaning to an already beautiful location.

Photographed by Caroline Winn Photography, the day reimagined classic Cape Cod style in a way that felt timeless, vibrant, and deeply personal. Every detail was thoughtfully layered, creating a celebration that felt elevated without ever feeling traditional or expected.

 

A Fresh Take on Coastal Elegance

Beneath a romantic sailcloth tent, the design came to life with warm fall-inspired tones, natural wood tables, and organic textures throughout. Hand-dyed silk elements softened the space, while dramatic ombré florals by Fleur Events brought movement and visual impact. Pops of pink and gold added warmth and personality, beautifully reflecting Jessica’s vision for a wedding that felt romantic, modern, and unforgettable.

With planning and design by Elizabeth Lutz Events & Design, the entire day flowed seamlessly, with every element working together to create a cohesive and intentional guest experience.

The Wedding Cake: A Floral Showpiece

For the cake, Artisan Bake Shop created a three-tiered buttercream design inspired by the florist’s own wedding cake—a meaningful reference that tied the design story together. Finished with a modern cascading installation of fresh flowers in Jessica’s bold color palette, the cake served as both a statement centerpiece and a sweet ending to the celebration.

Set against the harborfront backdrop of Shining Tides, the cake blended classic craftsmanship with contemporary floral styling, perfectly echoing the couple’s coastal yet modern aesthetic.

 

A Celebration by the Sea

From the serene waterfront views to the layered, thoughtful details, Jessica and Doug’s wedding was a beautiful example of how coastal weddings can feel both classic and fresh. Their Shining Tides celebration was timeless, joyful, and unmistakably personal—an unforgettable summer wedding with lasting elegance.

 

The Color Palette

Pictured above: Jessica & Doug’s wedding color palette

Jessica and Doug’s color palette was a bold yet refined blend of coastal and fall-inspired hues. Vibrant pinks and soft blush tones were balanced with warm terracotta, golden amber, and muted neutrals, while deep green grounded the palette and tied it back to the natural waterfront setting. The result was a palette that felt romantic and elevated—colorful without being overwhelming—and perfectly reflective of their modern, coastal vision at Shining Tides.

Vendor Team

  • Wedding Venue: Shining Tides Weddings by the Sea
    https://www.shiningtidesweddings.com

  • Wedding Planner: Elizabeth Lutz Events & Design
    https://www.elizabethevents.com

  • Wedding Photographer: Caroline Winn Photography
    https://www.carolinewinnphotography.com

  • Wedding Florist: Fleur Events
    https://www.fleurevents.com

  • Wedding Cake & Dessert: Artisan Bake Shop
    https://www.artisanbakeshop.com

  • Caterer: Russell Morin Catering & Events
    https://www.russellmorin.com

  • Wedding Dress Designer: Ines Di Santo
    https://www.inesdisanto.com

  • Stationery: Pink Polka Dot
    https://www.pinkpolkadot.com

Meredith Rousseau

Classically trained pastry chef, scratch baking in Southeastern Massachusetts.

https://artisanbakeshop.com
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