If you’re dreaming of an outdoor engagement session that combines natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and a touch of adventure, VINS (Vermont Institute of Natural Science) in Quechee might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for! Nestled in the heart of Vermont, VINS offers a mix of scenic forest trails, wooden boardwalks, open meadows, and even live bird exhibits. It’s a place where nature lovers can feel totally at home, and it served as the perfect backdrop for this couple’s romantic engagement session. We love these images from Vermont wedding photographer, Jennifer Meade, of the Sepia Sisters, and can’t wait to share all the details with you below.
A Serendipitous Engagement Session at VINS
Jessica and Tyler are the definition of laid-back love: carefree, spontaneous, and always up for an adventure. For their engagement session, they stumbled upon the VINS Center by chance, and it ended up being the perfect backdrop! Their photographer, Jennifer of Sepia Sisters, wrapped up their photos just in time before a torrential downpour rolled in. (Talk about lucky timing!) The couple will be tying the knot at the charming Quechee Inn, which is just a quick 5 minutes down the road. We can’t wait to see Jessica and Tyler’s relaxed, joyful energy shine on the big day!
Why Vermont Makes a Great Outdoor Engagement Location
Feeling inspired by Jessica and Tyler’s engagement shoot? How couldn’t you?! Vermont is full of incredible spots for an engagement shoot, and VINS is just one example of how the state’s natural beauty sets the stage for unforgettable memories. Whether you’re drawn to mountain views, lakeside serenity, open fields, or woodland trails, Vermont has it all.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing your outdoor engagement shoot location in Vermont:
1. Seasonality
Vermont’s landscape transforms dramatically with each season. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers; summer means lush forests and golden sunsets; fall is famous for fiery foliage; and winter offers dreamy snow-covered scenes. Think about what vibe you want your photos to have, and plan accordingly.
2. Accessibility
Make sure the location is accessible for everyone involved, including your photographer! Some of Vermont’s most beautiful spots require a little hike or walk, so be prepared with proper footwear or a backup plan in case the weather turns.
3. Permits & Privacy
Some public parks or protected lands may require permission or a small fee to shoot. (For example, when I had my engagement shoot at Shelburne Farms, I had to fill out an application and pay a small photography fee.) It’s always a good idea to check ahead so you’re not caught off guard. And if you’re looking for a quieter shoot with minimal foot traffic, aim for a weekday or early morning session!
4. Personal Connection
Let’s say you’re not sure where to have your photos done. If you have a special spot in Vermont that holds meaning, like the trail you first hiked together, a favorite ski slope, or the place you got engaged, that emotional connection will shine through in your photos and is a great place to start as you brainstorm!
Other Outdoor Vermont Engagement Shoot Ideas:
Shelburne Farms – beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks
Waterbury Reservoir – ideal for couples who want a little adventure and romance. It also happens to be near Ben & Jerry’s!
- Colchester Causeway – there is truly no other spot like it
Camel’s Hump, Mount Mansfield or Mount Philo – for stunning mountain backdrops
The Northeast Kingdom – wild and scenic, with gorgeous backroads and fields
Any small-town Main Street or covered bridge – because you can’t go wrong with a classic. Our favorite towns? Burlington, Middlebury, Stowe, Queechee, and Manchester!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your engagement session should reflect who you are as a couple and Vermont offers endless opportunities to do just that. Whether you’re walking hand in hand through the forest at VINS, sharing a kiss at the edge of a field, or twirling under a maple tree at sunset, the Green Mountain State is ready to set the scene!
Your Next Read:
Planning your engagement shoot but aren’t sure where to start? Check out this master planning guide, complete with photos from my own Vermont engagement shoot.
Want more engagement shoot inspiration? Check out any of these.
