It was a beautiful sunny Friday afternoon when Yelena and Dave tied the knot in a simple civil ceremony at Portland’s City Hall. While there were only around 75 guests, it was enough to pack the place, certainly more than most City Hall services. After a receiving line on the City Hall steps that must have looked like a political event with all of the sharp dressed travelers, you would be forgiven for mistaking it for a meeting of the UN general assembly!

David and Yelena’s guests traveled from far and wide to celebrate this day. Over a dozen countries were represented including Russia, Germany, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Israel and more! After the ceremony the guests began filtering into Portland Maine’s own Press Hotel where a colorful buffet and full bar awaited including the couples signature cocktail, the Apothecary. They are both pharmacists, so it was perfect for them. They even had it available in Prescription strength and Over The Counter (Alcoholic and non alcoholic respectively)

Soft jazz filled the air as guest mingled, laughed and swapped stories and memories of the bride and the groom. guests began finding their seats and the newlyweds snuck in with their bridal party who were all family members. We introduced them to Hello by Dragonette. There was a thoughtful toast and thank you by the newlyweds, salads were served, and many toasts followed including a sweet thank you from the mother of the bride and and a charming rendition of Sunrise, Sunset by the grandfather of the groom.

After dinner the dancing began with everyone joining David and Yelena on the dance floor to Tata Simonyan’s Anapati Arev an upbeat, fun Armenian Song, right into the Hava Nagila. Photographer Tom Couture did an amazing job keeping on top of all the action as it unfolded.

They danced to everything from Whitney Houston to Russian and Armenian favorites, and we had an amazing night. They capped it off with, appropriately enough, “We are the world”, and indeed, that night we were. The energy was electric, the guests were warm and friendly, and Impeccably dressed. It was an absolute joy to be a part of  your wedding David and Yelena.  As local Portland Residents, I know we will be seeing each other again. I wish you all the best in this amazing journey you are embarking upon.

~Mike