Lena & Hunter

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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.”

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.

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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