UMass Club Wedding with City Views and Gender-Affirming Style
Sophie (she/her) and Sheranda (he/they) planned a wedding that reflected who they are – culturally, personally, and in how they move through the world. From walking down the aisle with both moms to swapping gendered traditions for something more inclusive, the day was designed to feel affirming for everyone involved. Held at the UMass Club, with skyline views, tropical flowers, and a fog-filled first dance, it was a celebration rooted in love, style, and community.
What inspired you to choose the UMass Club in Boston for your wedding?
We wanted something that felt scenic but was still indoors. Once we saw the panoramic views from the UMass Club windows, we knew it was the one. The city skyline, the water, the height – it felt like celebrating in the sky.
You mentioned blending cultures was a priority. How did you do that?
We incorporated traditional Jewish elements like the Chuppah, the Seven Blessings, and breaking the glass. It was really meaningful to bring those rituals into the ceremony.
Sheranda: I’m Jamaican, and while there aren’t specific wedding traditions, we still found ways to represent my culture. We used a color palette of white, black, and gold with greenery to reference the Jamaican flag, included tropical flowers in our florals, and served grapenut ice cream from Crescent Ridge Dairy, our favorite, while getting ready.
What were some of your favorite moments from the wedding day?
Our first dance was everything. We danced to “Lovin’ You” by Minnie Riperton, and we had a dry ice effect from Entertainment Specialists that made it look like we were literally dancing on a cloud. That moment was pure magic.
The Hora was amazing, too! We went full-on party mode with One Step Ahead from Wilson Stevens as our band. The energy was unreal, and we barely left the dance floor.
How did you make the day feel gender-affirming and inclusive?
Our wedding parties were mixed-gender and everyone wore what felt right for them: gowns or suits, no rules. Sheranda walked in first, then our wedding crew, then my niece and nephews (who got Ring Pops as thank-you bribes). I had both my moms walk me down the aisle. We also asked vendors to call us “the newlyweds” and skipped gendered titles altogether.
We lit a candle in memory of family and trailblazers who made queer, interracial, and interfaith marriages possible. That moment grounded the ceremony in something bigger.
Who were your standout vendors?
Nicole Chan Photo & Video was amazing. We wanted someone who could capture not just posed shots but the joy of our community, and Nicole totally got that. She and her team were kind, organized, and so easy to be around.
Orly Khon Floral also blew us away. They worked in our colors with pale pinks and dark accents and even used tropical flowers as a nod to Jamaica. They nailed that mix of elegant and playful.
What did you wear, and how did you choose?
I found my gown at Allegria Bridal. It was romantic but modern, exactly what I was hoping for. Sheranda had a custom-designed suit from 9Tailors, black with a gold lapel. It was bold but classic, and so them.
We both had hair and makeup done by Charlotte Phinney & Company, who made getting ready feel like a total treat.
Did you do anything fun to prep for your first dance?
Yes! We took lessons with Liz Nania from Out to Dance. She was amazing and helped us feel confident for our big moment. And with the dry ice on the floor? We felt like we were floating.
Did you DIY anything?
We designed and assembled our wedding favors ourselves. We had mini honey jars that said “Meant to Bee” and bottles of hot sauce labeled “Thanks for Spicing Up Our Day.” People loved them!
Photography and Videography by Nicole Chan Photo & Video
Band One Step Ahead from Wilson Stevens
Cake Konditor Meister
Dance Lessons Liz Nania from Out to Dance
Dress Allegria Bridal
Florist Orly Khon Floral
Hair & Makeup Charlotte Phinney & Company
Ice Cream Crescent Ridge Dairy
Officiant Milestones By Miri
Special Effects & Photo Booth Entertainment Specialists
Suit 9Tailors
Venue UMass Club
