Lena & Hunter
Lena Savelyeva & Hunter Shaffer on September 14, 2018
By Tracie Seed | Newport Wedding magazine 2020
Chicago is the backdrop for many tales, but none sweeter than the love story of Canada native Lena Savelyeva and North Scituate–born Hunter Shaffer. They first met when Lena was coaxed out of bed by their mutual friend (her roommate) to spend a Saturday night on the town. After she put on her party clothes, she entered the kitchen where her friends were waiting, and Hunter was struck by Cupid’s arrow, falling “in love at first sight.” After a six-month long-distance courtship, the couple took a trip to Nantucket, where, after a day of hiking and biking, Hunter popped the question in front of a picturesque lighthouse. A 13-month engagement culminated in a Roaring Twenties Great Gatsby–themed wedding at Glen Manor House in Portsmouth.
“We chose Newport County for its undeniable beauty and proximity to the ocean. It is also where we had the best time when we were dating.”
- Lefebvre Photography
- Lefebvre Photography
1920s or Bust
As a nod to the Roaring Twenties, Something Different Cake Couture provided sweets adorned with cream, black and shimmering gold 1920s designs. The cake was topped with a personalized art deco–inspired piece featuring the couple’s beloved dachshund.
Better than Daisy Buchanan
Lena said “yes to the dress” at Kleinfeld’s in New York City. Her Reem Acra “Leonora” gown featured an A-line silhouette, embroidered lace and a sweetheart strapless bodice. She complemented her attire with gold and rose gold beaded bridesmaid gowns from Badgley Mischka and Donna Morgan.
A Floral Affair
“Flowers were the most important element,” says the bride. The bridal bouquet was comprised of burgundy and champagne florals, including dahlias, Red Velvet amaranthus, and Tess Garden and Black Bacara roses, along with touches of green foliage. The elegance continued with gold candelabra-based centerpieces adorned with crystals, pearls and ostrich feathers. The final touch was the couple’s initials rendered in roses and hung on the venue’s front door.
Where Are They Now?
After a romantic honeymoon in the Maldives, the couple returned to Providence, where Lena is a senior manager of financial operations at Wayfair, and Hunter is director of research and innovation at Blood Centers of America.
- Lefebvre Photography
- Lefebvre Photography
- Lefebvre Photography
- Lefebvre Photography
Vendors
Photographer: Lefebvre Photography
Ceremony Venue: Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, Providence
Reception Venue: Glen Manor House
Bridal Gown: Kleinfeld Bridal
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Rent the Runway
Hair and Makeup: Ali Lomazzo Beauty
Flowers: Sayles Livingston Design
Caterer: Tom’s Market Catering
Cake: Something Different Cake Couture
Tuxedos/Suits: Nordstrom Men’s Store and Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations: Minted and Etsy
Rehearsal Dinner: CAV, Providence
Bridal Party Transportation: Princess Rolls-Royce Limousine
Reception entertainment: Narragansett Soul; CF Dominicana Cigar Catering
Videographer: Yours Truly Media
Wedding Night Stay: Renaissance Providence Hotel
Guest Accommodations: Marriott Providence, The Providence Biltmore
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