An Intimate Salem Waterfront Wedding at Finz Restaurant

There’s something timeless and magical about a wedding on the waterfront. Recently, I had the honor of photographing a small, intimate wedding in historic Salem, Massachusetts, a city rich with charm and coastal beauty. The couple chose the perfect setting for their celebration: Finz Restaurant, a local favorite nestled right along the harbor.

A Celebration by the Water - This wedding was as intimate as it was heartfelt. Surrounded only by their closest family and friends, the couple exchanged vows with the Salem waterfront as their backdrop. The gentle sounds of the harbor created a calm, romantic atmosphere, and the energy of the city added just the right touch of vibrance.

Finz provided an elegant yet relaxed setting, where guests could enjoy the cozy atmosphere and sweeping water views. With the golden light reflecting off the harbor, every moment felt like it belonged to a New England love story.

Portraits by the Friendship - After the ceremony and celebration, we stepped outside for portraits by the Friendship of Salem, the historic ship docked at Derby Wharf. The tall masts, polished wood, and open water created a stunning maritime backdrop for the couple’s photos. There’s something so symbolic about capturing wedding portraits near a ship—adventure, journey, and partnership all tied together in one scene.

We also took a quiet moment by the dock for the couple to read their vows again privately. With only the sound of the waves and the crisp ocean air around them, it was one of the most moving parts of the day—a reminder that the most powerful moments often happen in the simplest settings.

Why Salem is Perfect for Intimate Weddings

Salem is a city steeped in history and coastal charm, making it a wonderful location for weddings of all sizes. For couples who want to blend New England seaside beauty with a vibrant city atmosphere, Salem offers the best of both worlds. From waterfront venues like Finz to iconic landmarks like the Friendship, there’s no shortage of breathtaking backdrops for wedding photography.

This wedding was a beautiful reminder that love doesn’t need to be extravagant to be extraordinary. The couple’s decision to keep things simple and focus on what mattered most—each other and their family—made their day unforgettable. Photographing their celebration along the Salem waterfront was a true honor, and I’m grateful to have been part of such an intimate and heartfelt occasion.