Melissa and Zane’s Manchester wedding was the perfect blend of personal history, autumnal beauty, and heartfelt celebration. Surrounded by the vibrant fall foliage of Vermont’s Green Mountains, the couple chose Wilburton Inn for its cozy charm and deep family ties. Vermont wedding photographers, Hannah Photography, beautifully captured every moment, from the couple’s joyful first look on the estate steps to their unforgettable night of dancing under candlelight. Read all the details below!
A Proposal in Their Favorite Vermont Escape
Melissa and Zane’s connection with Manchester began long before their wedding day. The town has been their favorite escape from New York City, and it became the backdrop for their engagement on a rare, warm October afternoon. Zane found a picturesque, foliage-filled spot to propose, and the couple celebrated with an intimate evening at a local bar, exactly as they had envisioned. Manchester also holds a special place in their families’ hearts, from Zane’s mother’s 50th birthday at the Wilburton Inn to Melissa’s parents’ wedding at Equinox Resort. With so much history rooted in this town, it felt only natural to return for their own celebration!
Surrounded by vivid fall foliage and a sophisticated charm,Wilburton Inn served as the perfect wedding destination for Melissa and Zane’s autumn “I do.” Deep in Manchester Village, Vermont, The Wilburton is a truly majestic destination resort found on a 30-acre hilltop estate. Built in 1902, the venue boasts two turn-of-the-century mansions, vacation homes, romantic suites, and a marble celebration pavilion perfect for weddings.
Personal Touches That Made It Their Own
The wedding day began with getting ready, surrounded by loved ones in The Wilburton’s stunning estate. The bridal party was pampered by True Vermont Beauty and surrounded by all things pink, ruffly, and pretty. Meanwhile, Zane enjoyed some time to relax with friends (golden eye masks included) before donning his bow tie for the day ahead. Melissa wore a stunning beaded gown paired with sheer white gloves as the couple shared a first look in the Inn’s bar and stepped out onto the estate’s grand steps for photos with the stunning fall foliage.
Guests gathered in a tent on the marble pavilion as the ceremony began. Despite the first truly cold and rainy day of fall, the atmosphere was warm with love and the help of the tent’s heaters. The space was designed to mirror the season’s energy: moody, autumnal tones with deep maroons and romantic reds, carried through the florals, taper candles, and linens. Instead of traditional tables, one long table ran the perimeter of the tent, fostering intimacy and connection. Melissa and Zane exchanged vows beneath a simple yet elegant chuppah draped with deep red velvet and vines, surrounded by beautiful florals from Bramble & Bloom, before sealing their marriage with a kiss.
The reception carried the couple’s playful spirit, from sunglass escort cards (that later made great props at the photobooth and dance floor!) to cocktail napkins featuring engagement photos. Our favorite detail? Heart-shaped cakes, complete with sweet messages on top, were baked by Sweet Birch Bakery and set on each table when it came time for dessert. Candlelight glowed as friends and family toasted the newlyweds, while Young Love & The Thrills filled the tent with music that had guests on their feet all night long.
Every detail reflected Melissa and Zane’s vision of a day that felt authentic, easy, and celebratory. Their talented team of vendors helped bring this dream to life, with The Wilburton going above and beyond to make them feel like family and ensure that the couple could be fully present. From the breathtaking design to the unforgettable dancing, it was truly a night to remember.
Congratulations, Melissa and Zane, on your special day!
Vendors
Venue and Catering: Wilburton Inn, Photographer: Hannah Photography, Band: Young Love & The Thrills, Rentals: Columbia Tent, Photo Booth: Saratoga Photobooth, Floral: Bramble and Bloom, Hair & Makeup: True Vermont Beauty, Cake: Sweet Birch Bakery.
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