“You don’t just become a mother-in-law,” Sydell says in the book, rather you grow into the role, and if you want to be part of your daughter-in-law’s life, you have to invite her and her family into yours.

Wedding photographers have seen just about everything, so we asked them to share their thoughts on capturing the magic of Island celebrations. Here’s their best shot.

Focus on the love, carpe diem, and personalize your celebration.

A creative, spiritual ceremony; Choosing a first-dance song; and a black-tie affair, with no black tie.

So many artistic decisions go into planning weddings, actually including art can be a way to personalize celebrations.

Advice for outdoor weddings.

Hopefully I won’t be the groom in another wedding. My experience makes me wiser, but enough is enough already.

Island caterers are indispensable for feeding the wedding crowd, but they can also be helpful in providing food for a more intimate brunch the next day.

1. You can’t drive to the Island.

The only way to get to the Vineyard is by boat or plane, so make travel arrangements early.

We suggest that people leave their cars behind because parking here is limited and traffic hectic – especially during the popular wedding months of June through October. There are a number of transportation options – to the Island and around the Island – so check our website (www.mvislandweddings.com) for specifics.

2. The waiting period for a license.