If you’re looking for a bold and creative wedding venue in Boston’s Seaport or Downtown District, Artists for Humanity (AFH) offers an unforgettable blank canvas. Nina and Bryan’s vibrant celebration brought this space to life with a “Funky Formal” dress code, disco balls, rainbow streamers, and handmade details that reflected their personalities and love story.
Whether you’re planning a wedding in Boston or simply dreaming of a day that reflects your unique style, this joyful, high-energy celebration is full of ideas to inspire.
Why They Chose Artists for Humanity for Their Boston Wedding
Nina and Bryan wanted a venue they could fully customize, and AFH’s urban-industrial space gave them just that. Located just minutes from Boston’s Seaport and South Boston neighborhoods, Artists for Humanity offers both flexibility and purpose.
“We loved that AFH supports youth in the arts. It’s something we really believe in,” Nina shared. “And we wanted a space we could completely transform into something that felt like us.”
With its wide open layout and floor-to-ceiling windows, the venue provided the perfect canvas for their retro, disco-inspired design vision.
A Rainy Boston Day with Stunning Portraits at Rowes Wharf
As their wedding photographer, I arrived ready for anything. The forecast was rain, and it poured for most of the day. But instead of letting the weather disrupt things, we made a quick plan and took portraits under the covered arches at Rowes Wharf.
This location gave us shelter and still allowed the Boston skyline to serve as a beautiful backdrop. Despite the cold and damp weather, Nina, Bryan, and their wedding party were in great spirits. Their joy and excitement for the day outshined the clouds completely.
A Maximalist Wedding Design Full of Color and Disco Vibes
Once guests arrived at Artists for Humanity, they walked into a full-on color experience. The couple brought their playful, bold vision to life with eye-catching details:
- Colorful streamers hung from the ceiling
- Tables were dressed in mismatched patterned linens
- Centerpieces featured bright florals and fresh fruits
- Disco balls covered the bar wall and hung above the dance floor
- Mirrored decor pieces added sparkle throughout the venue
When Nina stepped into the space for the first time, she lit up. Joe from Contagious Events had brought her vision to life, and the room was filled with vibrant, retro energy.
A Wedding Ceremony That Included Every Guest
The ceremony was simple but incredibly meaningful. Guests arrived to find small envelopes on their seats, each containing a piece of glass. After the vows, everyone was invited to add their piece to a unity bowl during cocktail hour. It was a symbolic way to include loved ones in the couple’s commitment.
This thoughtful detail helped set the tone for the entire day. Every element of the wedding was built around inclusion, joy, and community.
“Funky Formal” Fashion Brought the Celebration to Life
Nina and Bryan encouraged guests to dress in a style they called “Funky Formal.” Think sequins, glitter, bold prints, vintage flair, and lots of personality. Nina even created a Pinterest board to give guests visual guidance on the dress code.
Bridesmaids wore mismatched dresses in various styles and colors. Bryan and his groomsmen wore burgundy suits from Generation Tux. The colorful wardrobe choices added an extra level of energy and individuality to the day.
“I used to work in bridal,” Nina shared. “I’ve always loved how mismatched dresses look in photos. More importantly, I wanted everyone to wear something that made them feel good.”
Vintage Vow Books and Personal Details
Nina handcrafted their vow books using vintage wallpaper samples, one of her favorite DIY elements. It was a small but deeply personal detail that reflected her creative background and added to the overall charm of the ceremony.
Rather than including traditions that didn’t resonate with them, the couple focused on building a celebration that was authentic, heartfelt, and fun. Every element felt intentional and true to who they are.
Packed Dance Floor and Disco Energy All Night
The reception was a full-on party. A live disco band performed on stage, and guests filled the dance floor from the first song until the end of the night. Personalized colored glasses handed out during the reception added a fun and festive touch, and the disco ball installation overhead kept the room glowing.
The dance floor was packed with people in sequins, smiling and spinning under the mirrored reflections. It was a joyful, unforgettable night.
Final Thoughts from Your Photographer
As a Boston wedding photographer, I get to witness so many incredible celebrations—but Nina and Bryan’s day was one I’ll never forget. The atmosphere was joyful, the design was creative, and the love from every guest was absolutely undeniable.
Even with the rain, the couple stayed present, happy, and totally focused on what mattered. Their Boston wedding at Artists for Humanity proved that a little color and a lot of heart can turn any weather into the perfect day.
Planning a Boston Wedding in the Seaport or Downtown?
If you’re planning a wedding in Boston, especially near the Seaport District or Downtown, Artists for Humanity is a standout venue choice. It offers a modern, open space you can truly make your own, and it supports local youth in the arts!
Whether you’re dreaming of a funky, retro-inspired day or something uniquely yours, Nina and Bryan’s wedding is proof that creativity, color, and love are always in style.
Creative Team
Photographer: Sara Bishop Photography
Venue: Artists For Humanity, Boston Massachusetts
Planner + Designer: Contagious Events
Florist: Glass Onion Floral Design
Dress Designer: Madi Lane Bridal
Dress Boutique: Della Curva
Hair and Makeup: Leather and Lace Artistry
On Location Barber Service: Doorbell Barbers
Bridal Concierge: Christine Cornell
Groom’s Attire: The Grotto
Rings: Brilliant Earth
Groomsmen Attire: Generation Tux
Vow Books: Handmade
Catering: Gourmet Caterers Boston
Rentals: Party Rentals LTD
Cake: Yum Bunnies
Music: Booty Vortex
Ceiling Fringe Install: Simplistic Charm
Lighting Design: James Biller Lighting
If you liked this wedding, check out this Disco in the Desert Wedding!
