Photos by Janelle Brooke
On a beautiful June evening in East Hampton, hamptonBRIDE welcomed some of the East End’s most talented wedding photographers for an intimate gathering unlike any other. Hosted at the iconic Baker House 1650, the Aperitivo Photographers Soirée was designed as an opportunity to slow down, connect, and celebrate the creatives who so often spend wedding days capturing everyone else’s stories.
Set against the backdrop of one of the Hamptons’ most storied properties, guests arrived to discover an atmosphere that felt equal parts European garden party and East End summer evening. The historic estate’s lush grounds, elegant architecture, and timeless charm provided the perfect setting for photographers to step out from behind the camera and experience the beauty for themselves.
The evening began with a welcome aperitivo hour featuring thoughtfully curated bites, conversation, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with familiar faces while meeting fellow photographers from across the region. Guests explored the property’s many hidden corners, toured the inn’s beautifully appointed rooms, and experienced firsthand why The Baker House has become such a sought-after destination for intimate weddings, celebrations, and wedding weekends.
A true highlight of the evening was the private tour of Baker House 1650 led by owner Antonella Bertello. Her passion for the property was evident in every room, as she shared the rich history, thoughtful restoration, and timeless details that make Baker House one of the Hamptons’ most distinctive destinations.
Guests explored the beautifully appointed guest rooms, elegant gathering spaces, and peaceful grounds while gaining a deeper appreciation for the estate’s character and craftsmanship. Antonella’s warmth and genuine hospitality made the experience feel incredibly personal, offering photographers a rare opportunity to experience the property through the eyes of the person who has so thoughtfully preserved its legacy.
Among the estate’s most meaningful features is its extraordinary copper beech tree, a living symbol of love that feels especially fitting for a wedding destination. What appears today as one magnificent tree actually began as two separate trees that, over time, grew together into one. Their intertwined trunks have become a beautiful metaphor for marriage, representing two lives joining together while remaining deeply rooted. Standing beneath its sweeping canopy, it’s easy to understand why so many couples are drawn to exchange vows or capture portraits here. The tree is more than a breathtaking backdrop. It quietly tells a love story of its own.
A standout feature of the evening was the beautifully curated tablescape by Ace Party & Tent Rental. Their signature serpentine tables created an effortless flow throughout the garden, perfectly complementing the timeless elegance of Baker House 1650. Layered with vintage china, thoughtfully selected glassware, and refined tabletop details, the design felt both sophisticated and inviting.
One of the evening’s most memorable touches was the collection of vintage stemware, allowing each guest to select their own unique glass upon arrival. No two were exactly alike, adding a personal and conversational element to the experience while celebrating the charm of beautifully collected pieces. It was a simple detail that perfectly embodied the spirit of the evening: intentional, welcoming, and effortlessly stylish.
The entire setting demonstrated how exceptional rentals can do more than furnish a space. They can transform it while enhancing the character of a historic property and creating an atmosphere guests won’t soon forget.
Beyond the cocktails and conversations, the soirée served as a reminder of what makes the East End wedding community so special. While photographers often work alongside one another throughout the season, rare are the opportunities to gather simply as colleagues, collaborators, and friends. The evening created space for meaningful connections, creative inspiration, and conversations about the evolving wedding industry.
Throughout the event, photographers were invited to capture the property through their own unique lens, creating a collection of imagery that showcased both the beauty of The Baker House and the distinct artistry each photographer brings to their work. Guests also enjoyed professional headshots, podcast interviews, and behind-the-scenes content opportunities designed to spotlight the talented individuals who help bring wedding weekends to life.
For hamptonBRIDE, the evening represented more than a networking event—it reflected our ongoing commitment to building a connected, collaborative community of wedding professionals across the Hamptons, Montauk, and the North Fork. The relationships formed behind the scenes ultimately elevate the experience for every couple planning their celebration on the East End.
