A Modern, Elegant Farm Wedding

Posted on March 7, 2023

High school sweethearts, Nicole and Kyle, recently tied the knot with a modern, elegant farm wedding at Isham Family Farm in Williston, Vermont. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, the couple declared their love for one another in an intimate ceremony that was filled with joy, laughter and super sweet details. From the beautiful mountain backdrop for their ceremony to the stunning first look photos, Nicole and Kyle’s special day was truly a magical celebration of their commitment to each other.

Special Details Made this Elegant Farm Wedding Even Sweeter

Nicole and Kyle are high school sweethearts who graduated from Mount Mansfield Union High School. It was important to the couple to tie in elements throughout the day that shared their story with their guests.

In their vows, both highlighted that they “grew up together” during their 8.5 years of dating and also incorporated their favorite date night activity (margaritas and tacos – yum!) by having a margarita seating chart and family-style Mexican feast.

We also want to highlight one of the sweetest and most sentimental details of the big day. Sadly, Nicole’s grandfather passed away two weeks prior to the wedding. He was a wedding photographer/videographer, and Nicole reserved his seat at the wedding with one of his beloved cameras. The couple’s wedding photographer, Bridget, thoughtfully proposed she take some wedding photos with it, too. The snap shots will undoubtedly be cherished photos for the entire family for generations to come.

First Look at Shelburne Farms

The couple decided to head to Shelburne Farms for their first look. Not only is this a gorgeous spot on Lake Champlain, but it was a nod to the numerous weekends the couple have spent at the Lake’s shores. It was another special detail the couple wound into their day to make it feel even more personal and unique to their love story!

Outdoor Summer Wedding at Isham Family Farm

Isham Family Farm is a historic 108 acre farm in Williston, Vermont. The beautifully restored barn and charming mountain views were the perfect quintessential Vermont backdrop to the couple’s big day.

(Worth noting: The Farm is a working farm that can easily become a part of your lifetime of celebrations beyond your wedding! Many couples come back with their growing families to pick berries in the summer, select pumpkins in the fall, or to cut their own family Christmas Tree around the holidays.)

Congrats Nicole and Kyle!

Wedding Vendor Team

Venue: Isham Family Farm, Photographer: By Bridget Photography, Videographer: Samuel Gauthier, Wedding Planner: Ehmann Events, Rentals: Vermont Tent Company, Florist: Petals Floral Design, Caterer: The Hindquarter, Bar Service: Fluid Bar Service, Cake Bakery: Sweet Simone’s, Dessert Table: Kingdom Sweets, Band: Silver Arrow Band, Convertible Rental: Country Boy Classics, Guest Transportation: Affordable Transportation, Hair: Beauty By Chelsey, Makeup: Emily Tobi, Dress: Hinterland Bride

Your Next Read:

Looking for another summer wedding? Check out this Boho Wedding at Lareau Farm Inn or this Joyful Summer Wedding at The Inn at Grace Farm.

Want another real wedding post? Check out any of these.

Can’t Miss Burlington Wedding Weekend Activities

Posted on February 28, 2023

Are you looking for a wedding experience that is unique and special? Look no further than Burlington, Vermont! This beautiful city offers couples the perfect mix of outdoor beauty and urban amenities to make their Vermont wedding unforgettable. With picturesque mountain views, vibrant cityscapes, and the backdrop of Lake Champlain, Burlington is an ideal destination for couples seeking a one-of-a-kind wedding experience all weekend long.

We recently sat down with Sabiha Mujkić , ECHO’s Event & Retail Specialist, to map out the perfect Burlington wedding weekend itinerary. We know these ideas will help you have an unforgettable celebration!

A Unique Burlington Wedding Venue

One of our favorite Burlington wedding venue is ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. A staple for families throughout the green mountain state, ECHO is a science and nature museum located right on the Burlington waterfront.

This one-of-a-kind venue offers a pristine lakefront location and breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Adirondacks outside, and sparkling aquariums and elegant spaces for ceremonies, dining, and dancing inside.

“Our team takes care of every detail from start to finish and makes it our priority to support as many local businesses during the process,” says Sabiha. “For example, we work with Sugar Snap catering, who offers delicious and original farm to table catering.” Think: Vermont made cheeses at cocktail hour, signature drinks with maple syrup, and lots of Vermont beer options at the bar.

Plus, you and your guests get exclusive access to the entire museum for your event, which is a truly unique experience!

And, a wedding at ECHO directly supports Vermont communities and education, which is something to feel good about!

A Burlington Wedding Weekend Itinerary

Burlington is Vermont’s most bustling city, with a variety of activities to choose from. In fact, there are so many things to do in the Queen City that it’s almost impossible to list them all, but here are some of our top recommendations!

Burlington Wedding Activities for Nature Lovers

It’s no secret that Vermont is beautiful all four seasons! That also means that there is always something to do outdoors.

Spring & Summer Activities

The crown jewel of Burlington is Lake Champlain, which you can paddle board, kayak, sail or swim in. You can also take a scenic bike ride alongside the lake on the famous Burlington bike path. (North Star Sports offers both regular and electric bikes in case you can’t bring your own.) This is a great idea for guests looking to explore more of Vermont’s natural beauty at their own pace.

In the neighboring town of Colchester, the bike path turns into the Causeway, a path that runs through Lake Champlain with unforgettable views on both sides. If you’re feeling up for it, the path goes all the way up to the Champlain Islands, where orchards, like Hackett’s, and wineries, like Snow Farm Vineyard, are waiting to be explored. (Spoiler alert: It’s worth it!) Just be sure to check the ferry schedule as you’ll need to take a quick ride between the Causeway and the Islands.

A quick car ride will get wedding guests to some incredible hiking options in the area, such as Oakledge Park and Red Rocks, both located in Burlington’s South End. These parks are also great spots for swimming in the summer.

In Burlington’s New North End, the Intervale Center has scenic community gardens and walking paths to explore. The Intervale holds a weekly concert series in the summer, complete with food trucks.

For something truly unique, you can book a private charter boat to take you and your loved ones around the Lake. Sabiha shares that while most couples take advantage of ECHO’s lakefront views for their ceremony, some couples opt to have a private wedding ceremony out on the lake before celebrating their larger reception at ECHO. This can be an amazing beautiful, and intimate experience for a couple looking to do something unique!

Fall Activities

If you’re looking for a manageable peak to conquer, Mount Philo, located in Charlotte, Vermont will do the trick. This hike is gorgeous all year round but especially in the fall. On your way to this state park, you’ll also drive through the towns of South Burlington and Shelburne, which are both filled with their own charm! There are also lots of craft fairs that take place throughout the state during this time of year, filled with tons of local makers!

Winter Activities

If you’re visiting in the winter, pack your layers and suit up because we don’t hibernate here! There is something truly beautiful about freshly fallen snow. From ice skating to cross country skiing, snowshoeing or skiing and snowboarding – there’s plenty of activity within Burlington, or only a short distance away. Some of Vermont’s best areas and mountains to explore are less than an hour away from Burlington. We suggest checking out Leddy Park, Cochran’s ski area (yes, that famous Olympic family!), Smuggler’s Notch, Stowe or Bolton Valley.

Afterwards, warm up with hot chocolates or maple lattes on Church Street Marketplace! (More on this iconic spot below!)

Burlington Attractions for Food, Beer, and Entertainment

Burlington is a dream destination for foodies, music fans, and beer lovers!

Truly there are too many restaurants to name in a single article. Burlington is foodie paradise, with new locations opening all the time! One resource we recommend for checking out local options (and finding out about new spots) is Love Burlington.

For beer, one of our favorite pockets of Burlington, is Pine Street, which is home to Zero Gravity, Burlington Beer Company, Citizen Cider and Queen City Brewery. Pine street is also home to Burlington’s Farmer’s market, which takes place every Saturday in the spring, summer and early fall. There’s also Truck Stop on summer Fridays, complete complete with rotating food truck vendors and live music.

Foam Brewers and Spot on the Dock are two more can’t miss spots in the summer, offering unparalleled views of the lake and yummy refreshments. For a unique evening, hit up the arcade bar Archives. Or check out Lincoln’s or Deli 126, two speakeasies, each with their own charm!

Looking to catch a show? Burlington has excellent entertainment available year round, from the Vermont Comedy Club, to the The Flynn Theatre, or Higher Ground.

Church Street Marketplace

Of course, no trip to Vermont is complete without a walk on Church Street, Burlington’s pedestrian only street, filled with local boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants. It’s home to the Burlington Jazz Festival and Festival of Fools events in the summer, and decorated oh-so-dazzling for the holidays come winter. It’s truly a must-see for every Burlington visit!

Getting to Burlington

There are a few travel options when it comes to arriving or leaving Burlington, Vermont, making it a great spot for a destination wedding! The Burlington International Airport (BTV) is Vermont’s largest airport, serving northern New England and offering commercial, private and charter flights. (If you’re used to very large and bustling airports, this one may be a breath of fresh air!)

Burlington is also easy to get to by car. Interstate I-89 will help most New Englanders and New Yorkers make their way back home. Lake Champlain even has boat ferries that can transport you across the lake and over to upstate New York, which can cut down on driving times depending on your destination.

Planning Your Dream Burlington Wedding

We hope these ideas get you as excited to explore Burlington as we are! Thank you to Sabiha and the team at ECHO for sharing insights for this article. You can learn more about ECHO in the vendor guide.

How to Have a Dry Wedding

Posted on January 6, 2023

Cheers, you’re getting married! But, what if your preferred beverage to cheers with is alcohol free? It’s totally possible to have a fun dry wedding if you don’t want alcohol at your event. It’s also possible (and encouraged in 2023) to have a “traditional” wedding bar that is intentionally inclusive to non-drinkers and includes delicious, amazing non alcoholic or mocktail options for everyone to enjoy.

No matter your reasoning for abstaining from alcohol, we have some tips for creating a wedding bar that will serve up a good time, alcohol not included.

Continue reading for our tips on having a successful dry wedding, and to learn about our favorite, elevated non-alcoholic beverage options made here in Vermont!

Worried About How Guests Will React to a Dry Wedding?

If you’re considering hosting a dry wedding, your top concern is likely how guests will react. First, like any choice with your wedding, it’s up to you and your partner. This is your day and it’s up to you both how you want to celebrate.

That said, because drinking at weddings is very common, we recommend communicating that it will be a dry event. If your community isn’t big on drinking, or if it’s known you and your partner don’t drink, it likely won’t be a very big surprise in the first place.

If your wedding is larger, or if you think it’ll be a surprise, share that you won’t be serving alcohol on your wedding website. Something simple like “We will be serving a variety of our favorite mocktails and nonalcoholic beverages at the reception.” Keep it upbeat; you don’t need to apologize!

(Note: if you’re planning to provide extensive non alcoholic options in addition to a traditional alcohol bar, there’s no need to call this out on your website.)

Secondly, there are plenty of ways to make your wedding fun! 2021 Vermont bride Jessica shared that while they had some alcohol at their wedding, it was largely a dry event. “It’s entirely possible to enjoy a wedding celebration without drinking!” says Jessica. “It helped me stay very present throughout the wedding, and I was really able to enjoy every detail.”

The team at TÖST, the Vermont company behind delicious, sparkling non alcoholic beverages, agrees. “There are plenty of ways to celebrate your wedding without alcohol. The rise in delicious, celebratory non alcoholic options in the past couple of years makes it easier than ever to host a sober wedding.”

The Importance of Offering Non Alcoholic Options at your Wedding (Even if You Drink)

Even if you plan on hosting a “traditional” alcohol bar, we highly recommend offering a variety of non alcoholic options. “Lots of people enjoy alcohol and alcohol-free beverages together, so having options for people to make their own decisions can be a successful strategy,” says the TÖST team. “Over 80% of non-alcoholic beverage purchases are made by people that drink, and 58% of global consumers are drinking more non alcoholic beverages in the last year alone.”

Those numbers tell us that it’s important to provide a variety of ways to celebrate. We strongly encourage couples to think beyond soft drinks and offer more options such as signature mocktails and elevated non alcoholic beverages (our picks below).

Tips for a Successful Dry Wedding

Communicate Expectations with Guests

As mentioned, our first tip is to communicate with guests that no alcohol will be served. This sets the expectation ahead of time so nobody is surprised on the day of the event.

While you don’t need to justify your decisions, if you feel called to share more information behind your choice, you can. Jessica said that was helpful in her planning process. “Alcohol will come up a lot during your planning process. It’s popular for a lot of people, but it may not be a part of your story as a couple, and that is ok,” she says. “Communicating that will help loved ones and friends get a better understanding of where you are coming from and what to expect on your wedding day.”

Communicate Expectations with Vendors

Alcohol often works its way into other aspects of the day, such as ceremonial rituals and photo opportunities. Communicate with your vendors about your plans so they are on board with your vision. Be sure to chat with your DJ (or whomever is emceeing the event) if you’re skipping toasts or to avoid any popular songs that promote drinking, such as “Shots”. Also speak with your clergy member or officiant about alternatives for any ceremonial alcohol if needed (ex: an alternative for Communion wine).

Offer Delicious Non Alcoholic Drink and Mocktail Options

It’s 2023 – a “dry bar” does not have to mean a boring one! There are so many delicious, elevated non alcoholic drink options to choose from – including several made right in Vermont!

In addition to a variety of beverages, we suggest working with your catering team to create a signature mocktail or two. Like a traditional bar, this can be a fun way to showcase your personal tastes. Want some inspiration? Check out the TÖSTED Cranberry Apple and TÖSTED Grapefruit Fizz.

We also recommend providing real glassware, a variety of garnishes, and the other “extras” you’d anticipate seeing at a wedding for your non alcoholic bar. They truly elevate the beverage experience!

Offer a Variety of Other Activities

Lastly, a wide range of activities to keep guests busy and engaged keeps anyone’s mind off of drinking. Think: lawn games, a great DJ, a late night fire pit with s’mores, a bounce house, an ice cream truck, etc.

Our Recommended Vermont Non Alcoholic Beverages

Vermont is known for delicious craft brews, so it should come as no surprise that our little state makes a ton of delicious non alcoholic options as well. Our Vermont-made favorites include:

TÖST

Zero Gravity’s Rescue Brew Club

Citizen Cider’s All Times Sparkling Cider

Shacksbury’s Mountain Tonic

Cheers to Hosting a Dry Wedding On Your Terms

Whether you choose to not drink because of health, religion, or personal reasons, hosting a wedding that honors that choice is completely possibly with a little planning. There are so many delicious, celebratory non alcoholic options to choose from which can create a fun dry bar experience – or enhance a traditional wedding bar. No matter what’s in your glass, we hope that you feel inspired and empowered to choose options that allow everyone to participate in your wedding.

End of Year Survey 2022

Posted on December 15, 2022

Can you believe that 2022 is nearly over? This is one of the most exciting times of the year for us here at Vermont Weddings for a few reasons. The first is our Best Of Vermont Weddings series; it’s like a little time capsule that highlights the very best celebrations and details from the year. I’ll have more details on that very soon — and, I’ll need your help!

End Of The Year Reader Survey

The second reason we get excited for the end of the year is our annual survey. Your support is what makes Vermont Weddings possible, so I want to check in and make sure we’re creating content that you love.

If you have a few minutes, please complete the survey below (or click here to open it in a new tab). I read each and every response, and I use your feedback when planning for the following year. Your input influences the stories we publish on the blog and updates we make to our website.

For taking time to do this survey, you’ll be entered to win a gift! Three lucky readers will get a little special something from me as a thank you for your time and honest feedback.

Most importantly, I want to wish you and your family a happy, healthy holiday and new year. Thanks for sharing your celebrations with us, and allowing us to be a part of your special moments!

How to Create Free Online Save the Dates

Posted on December 8, 2022

The date is set and your wedding venue has been secured! Now it’s time to start gathering a guest list and thinking about your Save The Dates.

While these notices aren’t required, they are widely popular and very helpful for out of town guests who will need to make travel plans. According to the Emily Post Institute, Save the Date cards are typically sent four to eight months prior to the wedding, but up to a year for destination weddings. That’s a wide range, and we would definitely recommend erring on the side of caution by giving your guests as much notice as possible.

Electronic Save the Dates have become increasingly popular in recent years. These provide the same information a traditional, printed card, but have some unique benefits.

Continue reading to learn more about online Save the Dates to see if one is right for you, and how to create your own!

Printed vs. Online Save The Dates

Benefits & Downsides of Printed Save The Dates

If you’re looking to go a more traditional route, printed save the dates are the way to go. (Who doesn’t love receiving something special in the mail?) Sending a postcard or magnet are two popular options our team has seen in recent years. With your wedding months away, it can be really fun to have something tangible to remind you and your loved ones of the fun ahead.

On the flip side, printed save the dates will require a bit more budgeting than a virtual save the date. Think: design costs (if any), printing costs, and postage will be are all things to be mindful of.

Benefits & Downsides of Electronic Save The Dates

Virtual save the dates are a great option if you don’t really need a save the date, but want one anyway, or want to reduce paper waste. Additionally, they are also a way to cut back on your budget so that you can make room for something else! Last but not least, online save the dates save you time. Planning a wedding is a big undertaking; a virtual save the date saves you time stuffing envelopes, writing out addresses and going back and forth to the post office — all you need are email addresses!

There are a few downsides we’d like to point out here for virtual save the dates. It’s possible that not every one of your guests will be tech-savvy. Thankfully, you will have your formal invite headed their way at a later time, but it may not hurt to check in with your grandparents to make sure they have your wedding date saved on their calendar. Some guests may also find virtual save the dates unprofessional or too informal.. and to that we say, it’s your day! How you want to inform guests is up to you as a couple (as is every other detail of your big day).

How To Create Your Own Online Save The Date For Free

Now that you know a bit more about electronic save the dates, it’s time to create one! You can use a website like Paperless Post, but be aware there may be costs involved with certain templates or sending to a large list size. Here’s a step by step guide (and video) on how to create a customized virtual save the date for free (or at least, super cheap).

Login into a free design program like Canva or PicMonkey.
Search “Invitation” or “Save The Date” to view templates already in the platform.
Customize the one you like most with your information, wedding colors, fonts you like, etc. This is also a great spot to incorporate some of those swoon-worthy engagement photos you have!
Download your design and save it to your computer. Then, head to your email inbox and start crafting a brief message to accompany your beautiful save the date image.

Final Tips

It will be easiest to have everyone’s email address before sending out your save the dates. If you plan on having a wedding website on a platform such as Zola, there are options to send wedding guests a link to a contact form that will collect their best email address that you can easily pull from. You can also compile a list in an Excel or Google sheet.
Before sending your save the date, make sure you include some text to avoid getting trapped in the dreaded spam folder. It can be helpful to reiterate details like the date, location, and that there is a “formal invitation to follow”. You can also link to your wedding website if you have one. Don’t forget a friendly signature from both of you!
Blind carbon copy (BCC) everyone on the email and don’t forget to include your own email address to see the finished product!

Now that you know the differences between printed and online save the dates, it’s time to start working on the option that is best for you. We can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Your Next Read:

Looking for more tips? Check out this post about engagement ring insurance.

Want even more advice for all things wedding planning? Check out any of these.

Meet Vermont Wedding Planner Rachel Vitagliano Events

Posted on November 30, 2022

Planning a wedding is a big time commitment. If you’re looking to reduce stress and hand off certain tasks to a professional, a Vermont wedding planner like Rachel of Rachel Vitagliano Events is a great person to add to your team!

Benefits of a Wedding Planner

Wedding planners and day of coordinators can help you with so many components of your big day such as: budgeting, scheduling, and organizing vendors. Not only that, but they are a treasure trove of industry knowledge and can offer ideas, support, and advice during every step of the wedding planning process.

We recently sat down with Rachel to learn more about wedding planning and how she got her start in the industry. Read on for swoon-worthy wedding photos and Rachel’s advice!

How did you get into wedding planning?

Since I was a little girl, I dreamed of being a wedding designer or planner and as I got older that dream, unfortunately, took a back seat.

Since high school, I’ve been in the food, customer service, management, and hospitality industry (10 years in total). My previous job, however, just wasn’t a good fit for me!

I like to think I got a lucky break when one day I was scrolling through Indeed a Wedding Coordinator position opened up at a local Vermont resort! I immediately jumped on it, and now here I am! After gaining so much valuable experience, and creating so many relationships with couples and vendors, Rachel Vitagliano Events has finally come to life!

How would you describe your wedding planning style?

One word: FUN! Whether you have a planner or not, you’re bound to get stressed out by something, no matter how amazing that planner is! My hope is that with any stress aside, your wedding planning experience will be fun and unique to you!

What inspires your work?

Seeing that glow and excitement on a couple’s face when they enter their reception space! That’s what makes this career so special and inspires me to always go above and beyond for each and every couple.

Any special tips for couples for choosing a wedding planner?

It may sound obvious, but choose a wedding planner or coordinator you truly connect with. Seriously! The planner or coordinator with the most 5 star reviews isn’t always going to be the best fit for you. Chat with different planners, ask about their personal lives, and make a genuine connection! After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time with them!

What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?

The couple’s first dance! It’s such a special moment and even after seeing hundreds of them, I still get teary-eyed.

What’s your favorite thing to do in VT? / Local spot to visit? Etc.

Skiing, duh! If you’re near the Killington area, or just visiting, you HAVE to go to The Garlic for dinner! If you’re a pasta lover like me, you can thank me later!

If you weren’t a wedding planner what would you do?

If I wasn’t a wedding planner, I would love to be an interior designer!

What’s a fun fact about yourself?

I have two differently shaped thumbs. Wait, is that fun or weird?

Thank you Rachel! Learn more about Rachel Vitagliano Events in the vendor guide.

Meet Wedding Photographer Gabriel Confrey of Rowan Oak Studios

Posted on November 29, 2022

What everyone says is true: one of the best days of your life will be over in a blink of an eye. That’s why investing in an experienced wedding photographer to document it all is so important; their work is what will allow you to reminisce the big day over and over!

How to find your wedding photographer

When searching for a wedding day photographer it’s important to find someone who can support your vision. Someone that knows to put you at ease amidst the chaos. (and of course, someone who effortlessly captures all the details- big and small- that you’ll swoon over for years to come)

No one checks all of those boxes quite like Gabriel, the Vermont wedding photographer behind Rowan Oak Studios.

We recently sat down with Gabriel to learn about his photography style, favorite moments at a wedding, and everything in between. Continue reading to learn more about Gabriel and view the gorgeous, ethereal work Rowan Oak Studios is known for!

How did you get into wedding photography?

I started my professional life as a journalist (after attending Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism) following the threads of narrative that connect our day-to-day.

While I sought out in-depth profiles and investigative work, my first jobs relegated me to covering advertisers’ events and restaurant openings. Obviously disappointed, I looked for other avenues where I could engage with humans at a deeper level, and witness meaningful moments.

After stumbling into my first wedding clients while trying to fund a documentary project, then spending 4 hours talking like old friends in what was supposed to be a 30 min coffee meet-up, I was hooked.

How would you describe your photography style?

My style is calm and intentional, attentive and human-centric. It starts with trust and relationship building, which I view as indispensable throughout the wedding process. I don’t impose, I don’t make people into something they aren’t. I give them room to breathe and encourage clients to be themselves – whether that’s loud or subtle, expressive or reserved. I ask them to focus on how they feel, not how they look, and let me take care of the rest.

What inspires your work?

I draw inspiration from two main sources: my clients’ stories, and the world as I find it (intersections of environments, people and light). My best images have aspects of both, and allow clients to immerse in the memories of them – remembering the warmth of their partner, the breeze off the mountains, the sense of relief/joy/expectation for what was coming next.

Any special tips for couples for choosing a wedding photographer?

Set aside price, set aside logistics, and focus on personality. Find a photographer who makes you feel seen because a full day of deeply emotional moments is going to be uncomfortable if you’re being photographed by someone you don’t trust and who doesn’t know when to push the shutter, or drop the camera and lend a hand instead.

What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?

The first time I get the couple alone for portraits after the ceremony, they let out the biggest smiles of relief and realization. Seeing the looks on their faces gives me a feeling of aspiration for everything that comes next.

What’s your favorite thing to do in VT? / Local spot to visit? Etc.

I’m relatively new to VT and still discovering new spots daily. I’m very partial to several experiences as of late – Kestrel coffee for an afternoon of editing, Grand Isle’s farmer’s market for fresh produce, Green Mountain Nat’l for mushroom foraging…and when I need to just sit on a rock and stare at beautiful things, Red Rock point and Oakledge Park really fit the bill.

If you weren’t a wedding photographer what would you do?

It would be hard to replace the peculiar cocktail of client relationships, art, and world discovery that wedding photography offers, but I have branched out the past year into floristry, mushroom farming, and contract work as a researcher for an AV company, so who knows where’d I land!

What’s a fun fact about yourself?

I always struggle with this question! I think I have an undeniable compulsion to learn everything all the time (whether that’s fun, you be the judge) – how to juggle, fiddle, embroider, code…I’m endlessly fascinated by most things and can find meaning and value in even the most overlooked.

Thank you Gabriel! Learn more about Rowan Oak Studios in the vendor guide.

Meet Vermont Florist, Emily, of M’s Wedding Flowers

Posted on November 17, 2022

When you love what you do, it shows! We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Vermont wedding florist, Emily, the brains behind the beauty that is M’s Wedding Flowers.

Located in Moretown, Vermont, Emily works with couples of all budgets and wedding aesthetics. (Think: romantic to rustic to garden party… she covers it all!) M’s Wedding Flowers offers uniquely beautiful bouquets, centerpieces, arbors, and more for your special day. Read on to see Emily’s stunning work and learn more about her take on floral design.

How did you get into wedding floral arrangements?

I was fortunate enough to be hired at my local floral shop fresh out of high school. I worked there for a few years before going to school, where I studied plants and landscape architecture. Once I left school I worked for a landscaping company in Woodstock before switching back to floral when I was laid off for the winter. Once I got my hands back on floral arranging, there was no turning back!

How would you describe your floral arrangement style?

I love building natural bouquets that really show off the individual flowers. I also love working with unique florals, and I love to add fruits to bouquets.

What inspires your work?

The flowers themselves and each couple’s individual style. I love picking out the right flowers to bring a couple’s vision to life!

Any special tips for couples for choosing/working with a wedding florist in general?

Have a good vision for your florals but be flexible in letting your florist guide you. Floristry is an art.

What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?

My favorite part of a wedding is getting to see the space transformed! It doesn’t matter how many times I’ve been to a particular venue, it always looks new and magical once everything is set up and in place!

What’s your favorite thing to do in VT?

My favorite things to do in Vermont are gardening, swimming in the river, bonfires, and playing around with snow photography.

If you weren’t a wedding florist what would you do?

I would probably be drafting landscapes and gardening!

What’s a fun fact about yourself?

I love to draw and sometimes draw out my bouquets before I build them for clients.

Thank you, Emily! Learn more about M’s Wedding Florals in the Vermont Weddings Vendor Guide.

Wedding Planning Dilemmas and How to Solve Them

Posted on November 10, 2022

Being engaged and starting the wedding planning process is not always as exciting as it’s portrayed on social media. *sigh*

Whether you’re struggling to find your perfect vendors, your guest list or budget is out of control, or you’re just feeling overwhelmed by the whole wedding planning thing … wedding planning dilemmas happen. Off days happen.

I felt it when planning my own wedding – and I’m here to reassure you that you are not alone in wondering: WHAT THE HECK? Isn’t wedding planning supposed to be fun!?!

Sometimes, even good things like planning your wedding can feel stressful. (And that’s completely normal.) When you’re ready for a reset, I got you. Keep reading for common wedding planning dilemmas and how to solve them.

When you're arguing with your partner over wedding details

Can this decision wait? Put it on the back burner and come back to it at a set time. (Even if it’s 20 minutes from now.)

One of the best pieces of advice I heard was to set a “wedding date night” with my partner. That way, I knew we’d have dedicated time to talk through questions and decisions…but we didn’t have to spend every night talking about wedding planning. It’s important to continue to have a life outside your wedding plans!

When you're feeling disorganized in your wedding planning

Set a timer for 5 minutes and write down everything in your brain right now. Then, look through your list and mark what absolutely must be done now, what can wait, and what can actually be ignored.

(Feeling like you need a bigger organization system overall? Check out our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide.)

When something goes wrong with your plan

Your DJ fell through, your mother-in-law handed you a guest list that’s 50 people long, and the forecast is calling for rain … it sucks. Honestly, sometimes the best thing to do is to feel through these feelings and allow yourself to grieve that some parts of planning aren’t going exactly how you wanted them to.

Showing yourself compassion isn’t the same as wallowing endlessly. By being kind to yourself, you can remind yourself that you’re capable and scrappy and able to problem solve.

When you're feeling overwhelmed making decisions

Put down your phone. Step away from Pinterest and Instagram. Put the bridal magazine away. It’s so easy to get caught up in a million visions for your day. Sometimes, you just need to reset.

My best advice is to pick a couple of trusted accounts and unfollow the rest. And, once you’ve made a decision, stop searching for other ideas or options. Move on and go celebrate your progress!

And when all else fails, please know that wedding planning isn’t all champagne and romance. It’s totally normal to have bumps along the way.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if you’re not having the perfect day. In fact, it’s on those days you might just take a break and get back at it tomorrow.

You can always turn to our Instagram or Facebook for help when you hit a wedding planning snag. And don’t forget about our Vendor Guide filled with knowledgeable wedding professionals who are more than happy to help navigate you through the wedding planning process!

Your Next Read:

Looking for advice from a bride who has already planned her wedding? Check out Wedding Planning Advice from an Expert

Want even more advice, tips, and tricks? Check out any of these.

Meet Vermont Makeup Artist, Fawn MUA

Posted on November 9, 2022

It’s every bride’s dream to feel pampered and beautiful on their wedding day. That’s why hiring a professional hair and makeup artist is an important task to add to your to-do list! We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Vermont wedding makeup artist, Fawn MUA, who has over 10 years of experience making brides look and feel their best!

Fawn has helped hundreds of brides step out of their normal routine and into something radiant and timeless for their big day. From an elevated all-natural look to radiant and sophisticated glam, Fawn works closely with each bride to discover their dream wedding day look.

Why is a Professional Wedding Makeup Artist Worth The Investment?

Wedding makeup is a whole different ball game than your typical day-to-day look. Experienced professionals, like Fawn, will help pull your entire wedding look together, know the right products to ensure all-day coverage, put you at ease, and most importantly- make you feel gorgeous!

Keep reading to learn more about Fawn and her beautiful work.

How did you get into wedding makeup? I have always been into makeup and products, I started doing weddings when I was working at a local salon and the stylists started referring me to their bridal clients, I ended up leaving the salon to stay home with my daughter and started to build my wedding business. How would you describe your style? I can do all types of makeup looks but I am known for soft and natural glam for bridal looks! What inspires your work? Each bride I get to work with! I truly love what I do. It’s an honor to be part of someone’s wedding day and seeing their reaction when they look in the mirror after I am finished glaming them, it’s just the best.

Any special tips for couples for choosing/working with a wedding makeup artist in general? Book your wedding hair and makeup professionals as soon as you can! I don’t think brides realize how fast we book up for the season, especially for popular dates. What’s your favorite moment during a wedding? My favorite part of a wedding is getting to see the bride’s first reaction to her wedding glam. A bride almost cried when she looked in the mirror because she loved her makeup look so much- it was so rewarding! I have kept in touch with her and also have become friends with many of my brides. What’s your favorite thing to do in VT? My boyfriend lives in Keene, NH so I am always driving through Vermont. I love Bennington, Manchester, and all of the country stores! If you weren’t a wedding makeup artist what would you do? I would love to own and manage a salon. What’s a fun fact about yourself? I am a car nerd! I love old, new, and expensive cars – you name it.

Thank you, Fawn! Learn more about Fawn MUA in the Vermont Weddings Vendor Guide.

How to Get More 5 Star Reviews

Posted on October 27, 2022

Today’s blog post is for all of my wonderful Vermont wedding vendors. When it comes to wedding planning, there are a lot of vendors out there for couples to wade through – and it can be extremely daunting if they don’t know where to start.

One of the best ways for couples to quickly identify who they want to work with is through reviews.

We’re breaking down how to get more 5 star reviews so you can stand out and attract more ideal clients. Reviews help couples determine if you’re legitimate, trustworthy, and in line with their values. (After all, who knows your work better than the couples who have worked with you?!)

However, if it feels awkward or time-consuming to ask clients for reviews, then keep on reading– this post is for you.

How To Ask For A 5 Star Review

I recommend sending an email to couples within 1-2 weeks after the wedding so the experience is top of mind. One thing to be aware of is that some couples may be on a honeymoon.

Save your email (sample script below) as a template. Gmail has this feature, and I’m sure other providers do too, so you can just tweak it for each couple – this also saves a lot of time.

Sample Email Script

Congratulations [NAME & NAME] on your wedding! What an amazing celebration. We are so excited to have been a part of your special day!

As you look back on your wedding, I have a favor to ask of you. I’ve had more couples finding me via Vermont Weddings and reading my reviews, so I’m putting more energy into increasing my 5-star reviews there.

Would you be willing to leave me a review? Your feedback is so helpful to couples in their wedding planning.

Here’s my direct link: [LINK TO YOUR VERMONT WEDDINGS PROFILE]

Thank you so much, [NAME & NAME]! If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Congratulations again!

[YOUR NAME]

If you have particular aspects of your business you’d like to highlight, you can mention those in your request too.

For example: “Could you include a comment about how quickly our team was able to accommodate the change of venue due to the rain? We want to highlight our adaptability for future couples!”

Honestly, it may feel a little funny at first but it’s WILDLY effective. Everyone is busy, and giving them language to work from is actually really helpful.

Reviews are not only great for potential clients, but also for supporting other vendors

One thing our members love about our Vendor Guide is the chance to meet and work with other professionals in the field. If you’ve had a great working relationship with a wedding vendor, consider leaving them a review! (and ask if they can do the same) Here are a few examples:

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with [VENDOR] for a few weddings. She goes above and beyond not only for her clients but also all the other vendors at the event to ensure the big day runs smoothly on all levels. No detail is overlooked! [VENDOR] has a unique gift, and those who get to experience it firsthand are richer because of it! “

“I am always put at ease when I learn that I will be working with [VENDOR] for a couple’s special day. [VENDOR] and their team provide some of the best [XX] out there. I cannot recommend their services enough.”

“Whenever couples ask me about photographers/florists/caterers/etc., [VENDOR] is always the first person I recommend. He really takes the time to learn about each couple and their vision. His attention to detail and creative eye are unparalleled. And the photos/flowers/food? Always breathtaking!”

As your new glowing, 5-star reviews come pouring in, here’s how to make the most of them:

Use them across your website or mailing list
Include them in your Welcome Guide or other sales materials
Screenshot them and share on Instagram or Facebook, Linkedin, or on your website.

We know you are amazing at what you do, and hopefully now you have the confidence to get more five star reviews to show it! Tag us on Instagram when you share your next glowing review!

Meet Vermont Wedding Caterer Pauline’s Restaurant (Plus, Learn Their Best Catering Tips!)

Posted on October 20, 2022

Crafting the perfect wedding menu can feel like a daunting task– especially if you’re stuck on where to start or are unsure of the right questions to ask during the planning process.

Luckily, our team sat down with the team at Vermont wedding caterer Pauline’s Restaurant and learned all things wedding catering!

From accommodating dietary preferences to details to consider when it comes to outdoor venues, this is post will not only make you hungry, but it’ll also be one you’ll want to bookmark and refer back to.

How can couples accommodate their guests’ dietary preferences in their wedding catering menus? What’s the best way to communicate those needs to a catering partner?

Try to communicate any dietary needs during the initial inquiry process, along with your budget!

There’s the big four: poultry, seafood, beef, and vegetarian/vegan. (With beef always being the costliest option) However, if you are trying to tighten your budget, it helps to have flexibility in terms of protein types and cuts, especially now with suppliers raising their prices.

Our off-site catering packages usually include 2-3 proteins standard, whereas our in-house events can accommodate 4, sometimes 5, without having to tack on additional fees. (Hosting your wedding at a restaurant allows you a wider selection of protein choices without breaking the bank, allowing more room for guest accommodation!)

We recommend that one of your options is gluten-free or vegetarian, especially if you’re looking at a larger guest list.

What suggestions do you have for vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free options for a wedding?

If a caterer sees your gluten-free or vegan menu request as a challenge, you’ve gone to the wrong caterer!

The right vendor will not only meet your needs, but will see it as a chance to get creative with their menu options! Usually, couples come to us because they’ve already dined in-person at our restaurant before and want that same Pauline’s experience at their wedding, so accommodating these requests are super easy.

If you are planning a vegan menu, your best bet is to consider vegetable-based meals that can stand on their own, like a classic ratatouille or a seared cauliflower “steak.” These dishes should also have a range of flavor profiles so you can accommodate a range of palates.

What do you wish couples knew about wedding catering?

There’s a common misconception that the most affordable route is to pick an outdoor venue like a park or a barn. One of the biggest unexpected expenses you can run into when it comes to catering is your equipment rentals, which significantly increase with these types of venues.

If your location doesn’t have an on-site kitchen (meaning any stoves, ovens, sinks, etc. on the property), you’re looking at possibly up to a few extra thousand dollars in equipment charges. (Food trucks are one way to remedy this, but it’s still likely that you’ll have to rent your own supply of plates, glassware, flatware, etc.)

You can also run into supply issues since most equipment providers have dates booked out very far in advance. Not to mention booking a restaurant or inn allows you to choose a plated dinner (as opposed to a buffet) for a much more affordable rate since they already have the staff and chinaware on site.

Few couples realize that booking a restaurant or inn as your venue truly does help provide one of the most hassle-free experiences!

How would you describe your culinary/ catering style in general?

I couldn’t talk about our culinary approach, especially in regards to wedding catering, without mentioning the sense of love and community that is felt in the restaurant.

The vibe at Pauline’s is sophisticated, yet unpretentious dining and the catering side is just an extension of that. You can tell just from entering the restaurant that there’s a lot of care put into the place and the food. Everything’s purposeful and intentional. It’s this rustic, kitschy little spot that most tourists and out-of-towners tend to ignore because it’s not downtown, but ask anybody with roots in Vermont and they’ll let you know about how special the place is.

Our culinary approach is all about high-end, locally-sourced cuisine that feels familiar yet exciting. It’s about sincerity, care for the quality of your work, and love for your community, which is why so many families see Pauline’s as the spot to celebrate every important occasion in their lives. The majority of our customers are regulars, so we see the same faces every year. We see kids grow up and families get bigger. The act of dining at Pauline’s in itself is a tradition that gets passed down from generation to generation, making it the perfect venue or caterer for a couple who really believes that marriage should be a celebration of unity and family.

What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?

That moment of relief! Mothers, bridesmaids, couples, etc. have been coming to us for over 45 years now, so we know how much stress, anxiety, and uncertainty comes with wedding planning. Whether it’s coordinating a bridal brunch, crafting up couples’ custom cocktails, or serving up a completely vegan wedding, it’s our job to make sure you can actually enjoy your event and have the best experience possible.

For us, there is no better moment during a wedding than seeing our customers letting go of all of their wedding planning anxiety and actually getting the chance to celebrate their occasion!

What’s your favorite thing to do in VT or a local spot to visit?

Going to the farmer’s market. We try to use local ingredients as much as we can in our cuisine and it’s important to support our partners both inside and outside of the restaurant. There’s nothing better than being able to go to the farmer’s market and find new products to work with or revisit our favorite stands. These small businesses are really the heart and soul of Vermont.

Forming a partnership both during and outside of work hours lets you form a better connection to the food and makes you more appreciative of all the care that goes into your work.

What’s a song that always gets you on the dance floor?

Suavemente by Elvis Crespo! We love a good merengue hit over at Pauline’s.

Thank you! Learn more about Pauline’s in the vendor guide.

Meet Wedding Florist Fleur Du Nord Farms

Posted on September 29, 2022

Love the idea of lush floral arrangements mixed with fresh greenery that compliment your special day? Then you’ll fall head over heels with wedding florist Fleur Du Nord Farm.

Located in Milton, Vermont husband and wife team Sam and Elena specialize in timeless wedding bouquets, boutonnieres, table arrangements, and more. Just as exciting, you can even visit their beautiful 11-acre farm yourself and pick your own stems.

Elena sat down with Vermont Weddings to share what got her into floral design, and what she loves most about weddings. Read on to learn more.

How did you get into wedding floral arrangements?

We started doing wedding florals when we grew and designed the flowers for our own wedding. We were able to do this after buying our 11 acre homestead in spring of 2021. Since then, we have been expanding the farm to a low us to grow flowers all season long.

How would you describe your floral arrangement style?

My style is classic, lush floral arrangements. We love to mix greenery and focal florals to add dimension and balance but not take away from the couple on their big day.

What inspires your work?

I am inspired by the seasons in Vermont as well as the couple’s personal style. I try to balance the two to create florals that match your and the environment where the event is.

Any special tips for couples for working with a wedding florist?

Wedding flowers work in the background to accentuate the venue and to draw the attention of the guests to the romantic moments. As a wedding florist we want to ensure that we are able to make your vision come to life while balancing your budget.

What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?

My favorite moment is watching the couple’s faces as they walk down the aisle. The emotion is so pure and beautiful.

What’s your favorite thing to do in VT?

We love going to Cold Hollow Cider in the fall and getting cider donuts with a hot cup of apple cider. There is nothing better.

If you weren’t a wedding florist what would you do?

Wedding floral design is only part of my career. When I am not working with flowers or tending to the farm, you can find me working in public health to improve the health of the perinatal population.

What’s a fun fact about yourself?

Although Sam and I love flowers, we love our cat, Pabst more!

Thank you, Elena and Sam! Learn more about Fleur Du Nord Farm in the Vendor Guide.