Best of 2023: Just Married Moments

Posted on January 22, 2024

There is a unique magic found within ‘just married’ moments. It’s a magic derived from months, (sometimes even years!) of planning and anticipating this celebration. These captivating moments, forever frozen in time, serve as intimate glimpses into pure joy, boundless love, and the promising start of a shared journey.

Today, we’re thrilled to share our team’s curated selection of “just married” moments that stole our hearts.

But the excitement doesn’t end there! After you’ve seen our picks, it’s over to you to vote for your favorite in our Readers Choice Award below. 

Wrapped in Love and Traditions

This bright and beautiful wedding was full of Lithuanian wedding traditions! We love this photo of the newlyweds and their guests during their reception.
 

Cruisin’ In Style

Photo proof that motorcycle entrances at weddings should totally become a thing. This couple arrived to their reception in style!
 

Champagne Showers

If you’ve followed our ‘Best Of’ series before, you know our team loves a good champagne pop! (We had a whole category devoted to it last year.) This couple and their crew was clearly bubbling with excitement and we’re loving it.
 

The Gang’s All Here

One of the most special parts of your wedding day are the people who come to celebrate you! When will you ever have all of your favorite people in one place again? That being said, we love a good group photo at weddings and this one at The Grafton Inn was too sweet not to share!
 

Picture Perfect Perspective

When going over photo ideas with their photographer, this couple had the idea of capturing their first kiss as Mr. & Mrs with their guest’s reactions in the background – and what a fantastic idea it was!
 
Venue: Quechee Inn

On Cloud 9

We just love the pure joy in this photo! This couple is flying high on cloud 9.
 
Venue: Snow Farm Vineyard

First Dance Magic

A little sparkle, a little greenery and full attention on the bride and groom. What a beautiful image captured on this couple’s first dance!
 
Photo: Esra Y Photography
Venue: The Equinox Resort

Soaking In Newlywed Bliss

We highly recommend taking time on your wedding day to soak everything in, just the two of you. This couple did just that on the calm waters of Lake Bomoseen.
 
Venue: Lake Bomoseen Lodge

Blooms & Bubbles

Can’t choose between flower petals or bubbles as you make your way back up the aisle? Why not both!? The smiles here say it all.
 

A Timeless Treasure

This oil painting artfully captures the romance of this couple’s wedding day! Painted by Hope Sharp Art throughout the day, this piece added a joyful element of surprise and elegance for guests to observe- and is now a treasured heirloom for the couple to enjoy for years to come!

Whimsical Wedding

Blooms bursting with color, ribbons and a perfectly timed gust of wind… need we say more? We love this couple’s colorful and romantic vision!
 
Photo: Great Blue Photo Co.
Florals: Oak & Bee 

Bubbling with Excitement

After this couple exchanged their vows, their guests showered them with bubbles, creating a magical and heartwarming moment.
 

S’more Love

The campfire pit at this couple’s wedding ended up being a popular spot for guests to hang out throughout the night. When the crowd cleared, these newlyweds snuck in some one on one time to enjoy the fire and to roast marshmallows together!
 
Venue: Mad River Barn

Walking Into Forever Together

Rolling mountains, lush aisle markers and radiant smiles – it’s hard to pick our favorite element of this wedding. From the aisle to eternity! 
 
Venue: Kelly Way Garden 

Love, Laughter & Happy Ever After

After 3 years of rescheduling their celebration due to the pandemic, these grooms officially tied knot! Something truly special is that the couple led their own ceremony and it was full of love and tons of laughter! 
 
Photo: Moho Photo

A Romantic Recap

We bet this couple can’t help but fall in love over and over again when they watch their wedding recap video! A beautiful celebration perfectly captured.
 
Venue: Old Gray Barn

Fairytale Twirl

We’ll never pass up a photo of a beautiful bride twirling in her dream dress. A moment like this is one so many of us a dream of, a true fairytale feeling!
 

Let’s Get The Party Started

This photo screams “We did it! Now let’s get this party started!”  We guarantee this couple’s contagious enthusiasm evolved into an unforgettable evening of partying.
 
Venue: Mad River Barn

Grooms & Blooms

These joyful grooms were more than ready to tie the knot on this stunning summer day! We’re also crushing on the ceremony’s  beautiful florals, reflecting the couple’s love in full bloom.
 
Photo: Alex Paul Photography

Taking a Shot of Love

Nervous on your wedding day? A little bit of liquid courage doesn’t hurt! This image made us giggle and we’re sure those of you who have already planned a wedding can relate to it!
 

Readers Choice Awards

Now that you’ve seen our editorial picks for the best ‘just married’ moments of 2023, it’s your turn to pick your favorite! Vote between now and January 27 for your favorite to crown the Readers Choice Winner. 

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Best of 2023: Vermont Wedding Venues

Posted on January 18, 2024

Ready to go on an adventure? Today we’re traversing across the state to highlight Vermont’s most captivating wedding venues! In our small but mighty state, you’ll find everything from serene lakeside settings to majestic mountain retreats, ensuring a perfect spot for every couple’s “I do.” Get ready to discover the venue where your love story will take center stage!

But the excitement doesn’t end there! After you’ve seen our picks, it’s over to you to vote for your favorite in our Readers Choice Award below. 

ECHO

Echo, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is such a special venue! Located in Burlington, not only does it have sweeping views of beautiful Lake Champlain, but it is also a museum (which couples and their guests have full access to), making it the perfect spot for an all-ages event.
 
 

The Essex Resort & Spa

The Essex Resort & Spa provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding along with deluxe accommodations and fun adventures your guests will never forget! (Like a late night jumpt into the resort’s pool!)
 
 

The Mansfield Barn

The Mansfield Barn is a beautifully renovated 150-year-old barn with unique charm and modern amenities. For couples looking for a rustic location that is still easily accessible to bigger towns like Burlington or Stowe, this venue is in the perfect location!
 
Photo: Portrait Gallery

The Inn at Grace Farm

The Inn at Grace Farm is located in Fairfax, Vermont and is the perfect setting for a private celebration! From the moment you arrive and settle into your accommodations, the property becomes your private estate to enjoy with loved ones all weekend long. It also has on-site accommodations for up to 32 guests.
 
Photo: Coryn Kiefer Photography
Florals: Tipsy Tulip Designs

Sugarbush Resort

Sugarbush Resort  is a picturesque wedding venue set in Vermont’s majestic Mad River Valley. The Resort offers several options for gathering spaces, onsite accommodations and activities no matter the season. We also love the iconic “just married” chair lift!
 
Photo 1: Birke Photography

Mountain Top Resort

Mountain Top Resort is simply stunning no matter the forecast, as shown by the video of an indoor ceremony and photo of an outdoor ceremony here! Located in idyllic Chittenden, Vermont guests will be left feeling like they visited a postcard.
 
Photo: Cassi Claire Photography

Grand Isle Lake House

Grand Isle Lake House has views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, onsite accommodations and more, making this wedding venue is a relaxing, lakeside oasis! This venue truly shines in the spring, summer and fall!
 
Photo: The Light and Color
 

The Barn at Boyden Farm

The Barn at Boyden Farm is a historic wedding venue nestled along the Lamoille River Valley, complete with a charming hayloft event barn, post & beam ceremony site and an outdoor patio area overlooking 54 acres. It’s a true slice of Vermont living!
 
Photo: Jessica Lyn Photography

Equinox Resort

No matter which of the Resort’s ceremony and reception venues you choose, The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa is a romantic, sophisticated backdrop for your celebration. It’s the perfect balance between historic charm and modern amenities, located in Manchester.

Photo: Coryn Keifer Photography

Inn at Mountain View Farm

Tucked away in the beautiful North East Kingdom, The Inn at Mountain View Farm is the perfect place to celebrate the adventure of a lifetime! Couples enjoy access to the 440 acre historic farm estate, the lovingly restored barn, and access to the acclaimed Kingdom Trails.

Photo: EmberPhoto

Grafton Inn

Known for its timeless village setting and beautiful surrounding mountains, The Grafton Inn is a top choice for couples dreaming of a romantic, storybook-like Vermont wedding venue. With several dreamy event spaces and elegant dining options, it’s the perfect place to start your happily ever after.

Photo: Courtney Cania

Weatherhead Hollow

Weatherhead Hollow is a romantic wedding venue located in Guilford, perfect for a serene wedding weekend. Creative couples have the opportunity to bring their vision to life utilizing the venue’s 10,000 square foot barn, guest cottages and rolling mountain views.

Photo: Anne Taylor Photography

Sterling Ridge Resort

Sterling Ridge Resort is a unique log cabin resort nestled in the mountains of Jeffersonville. With two, beautiful outdoor ceremony spots, on-site cabin lodging, and spectacular views across the property, guests enjoy a full weekend-long Vermont experience!

Photo 1: Isora Lithgow Creations

Photo 2: Ben Hudson Photography

Soule House & Carriage Barn

The Soule House and Carriage Barn, located in Fairfield, is an intimate, rustic wedding venue filled with charm. Couples enjoy exclusive weekend access to the barn and spacious grounds, to add their own personal touch. There’s also a home so the wedding party can stay conveniently stay on site. 

Photo Credit: Sincerely Liz Photography
Flowers: Narrow Path 

Topnotch Resort

Topnotch Resort is a premier wedding venue that blends the gracious charm of a ski lodge with the luxurious amenities of a world-class resort. Located in Stowe, the Resort specializes in tented weddings. On site lodging is available for guests, as are a variety of activities, adding to the fun.

Photo: Danielle Allendorf

Wilburton Inn

The Wilburton Inn is majestic, historic estate. The mansion is the centerpiece for a full weekend celebration with an outdoor ceremony on the grand lawn and receptions on the romantic Vermont Marble Pavilion Tent. Onsite lodging is available with many amenities. 

Photo: GarrenTee Photography

Maquam Barn & Winery

Distinguished by its magnificent barn and working winery, Maquam is a one of a kind Vermont wedding venue. Guests enjoy sweeping mountain views from every aspect of the wedding day, from ceremony to a final cheers on the covered patio. 

Photo: Colette Kulig Photography

Trapp Family Lodge

Nestled in the picturesque town of Stowe, Vermont, Trapp Family Lodge takes inspiration from the von Trapp family’s Austrian roots and offers luxurious lodging and stunning vistas that are perfect for your special day!

Photo: Jenna Brisson Photography

Readers Choice Awards

Now that you’ve seen our picks for the best Vermont wedding venues in 2023, it’s time for you to vote! We’ll share your top picks for each category at the end of the month.

 

Planning Your Own Vermont Wedding?

Snag your copy of our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide  inspiration, advice & guides to plan your very best Vermont wedding! During this month the guide is on sale for only $20.24! 

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A Sweet and Sentimental Spring Wedding at The Grafton Inn

Posted on June 6, 2023

On a beautiful June day, Jed and Deborah finally got to say “I do” at the wedding of their dreams. Their celebration had been postponed due to the pandemic (check out those cheeky cocktail napkins in the gallery!) and the anticipation of the day made everything that much sweeter. The long awaited wedding was held at the beautiful Grafton Inn in Grafton, Vermont and Hannah Photography captured the memories; check out the gallery below!

A Romantic Wedding Venue in Grafton, Vermont

The Grafton Inn is a romantic, full-service wedding venue. Known for its timeless village setting and beautiful surrounding mountains, Grafton is a top choice for couples dreaming of a storybook, authentically Vermont wedding day.

The Grafton Inn features 45 individually-decorated rooms in a combination of suites and guests houses, blending its historic atmosphere with modern amenities. During the wedding weekend, guests can indulge in inclusive amenities like morning coffee service, seasonal activities at the outdoor center, use of the fitness center, and daily afternoon refreshments in the main lobby. 

A Sentimental Wedding Worth The Wait

Jed had been ribbed time and again for not proposing to Deborah on a visit to Paris in 2018. When he finally did pop the question a few months later, as the sun set over Lake Champlain, he bent down on one knee in front of a miniature Eiffel Tower he brought along in his backpack. Deborah  said “yes” before he even got the ring out of his pocket. 

Despite the many setbacks and changed wedding dates caused by the pandemic, the couple’s commitment to celebrating their love never wavered.  After a long wait (728 days, to be precise) Jed and Deborah finally got to exchange vows surrounded by loved ones.

Meaningful Wedding Details

Deborah was a classic bride in her  beautiful lace gown from Fiori Bridal Boutique. For accessories, she attached a gold locket with a photo of her sister inside to her bouquet. Deborah lost her sister quite early in life, and wanted to make sure she could have her sister be with her in spirit as she walked down the aisle.

During the ceremony, Deborah and Jed chose to play Josh Groban and Sara Bareilles’ version of “Both Sides Now” to honor family members who had passed – and released butterflies during the song to remind everyone that love always remains, even as it changes form.

(Related: How to Honor Loved Ones at Your Wedding)

For one more unique touch, the couple hired Hope Sharp Art to paint a live wedding portrait. Guests truly enjoyed watching the painting come to life as Hope worked throughout the reception.

View even more sweet and sentimental details from Jed and Deborah’s big day below.

Vendors:

Venue: The Grafton Inn, Photographer: Hannah Photography, Videographer: New England Creative, Florist: Fast Pony Flowers, DJ: Evan LeCompte, Vocals: Peter Miles, Live Wedding Painter: Hope Sharp Art, Wedding Dress: Fiori Bridal Boutique .

Your Next Read:

Looking for another Grafton Inn Wedding? Check out this dreamy spring wedding.

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

Best of 2022: Wedding Dogs

Posted on January 18, 2023

Your wedding is a time to celebrate with those you love – including your pets! We love dogs at weddings, and hope these moments inspire you to include your pup in your big day.

(Related reading: How to Include Your Dog at Your Wedding)

Keep reading below for our editor’s picks for Best of 2022, and see who you voted for as your favorite in our Readers Choice Awards! 

Cutest Cork Thief

This little pup quite literally stole the show during the couple’s engagement shoot! We’ve never seen a cuter thief than this one.
 
 
 

Furever in Love

A beautiful, sunny day at the very dog-friendly Phineas Swann Inn & Spa makes for a perfect wedding, and this canine duo approves! 

The Party Animal

Check out that smile on this dog, lounging at its owners feet while they share a cheers at their wedding bar. It’s clear that this party pooch is ready to stir up some fun!

Photo: Blooming Photo Company

The Loyal Companion 

This whimsical wedding at Wild Sugar Homestead included a sweet companion walking the bride down the aisle, making one of the biggest moments of the day even more memorable!
 

On the Run (Readers Choice Awards)

Cheddar the dog was thrilled to be included in his parent’s big day. His “my-humans-just-got-married” excitement is contagious! 
 

Petal Pup

This sweet pup came dressed in style to match the bride and groom! Decorated dog collars and leashes are always in style, and this pup beautifully rocked one.
 

Rolling in Love

This Dog of Honor could hardly contain their excitement that their humans were getting married, and began rolling around (with a huge smile!) during the start of the wedding ceremony. Pure happiness!
 

The First Love

Our bonds with our dogs run deep! This bride took a moment to acknowledge their special relationship on her wedding day, complete with a “I loved her first” sign and an adorable tutu that matches her bridal bouquet.
 

At Attention

This attentive pooch cracks me up! The little paw propped up on the table? The ears cocked forward listening to a speech? Absolutely priceless! 
 

Suited Up

Further proof that everyone looks great in a tux! This dapper dog matched the groom (who wore a McNeil & Reedy tux) during this wedding at the Grafton Inn.
 
Photo by: Mountain Hearts Photography
 
 

All Dressed Up

This pup’s green velvet dress is too cute! Equal parts elegant and excited, this special guest was picture-ready for her owner’s winter wedding.
 
 

Puppy Kisses

Nothing beats a sweet kiss from your pup, especially when it’s after your beautiful ceremony at Sugarbush Resort!
 
Photo: Morgan Provost
 
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A Timeless Spring Wedding at The Grafton Inn

Posted on November 15, 2022

When you think of a Vermont wedding do you imagine rolling green mountain views?  Small town charm? Something rustic, easygoing, yet timeless? If you answered, “YES!”, you will love learning more about Toni and Blake’s spring wedding at The Grafton Inn.

Nestled in Southern Vermont, Grafton is one of New England’s prettiest (and smallest) towns. Toni and Blake knew they wanted a classic, small-town New England feeling for their big day, and The Grafton Inn definitely provided it! Their photographer, K. Lennox Photography, loved capturing their special day.

A Beautiful Day Worth The Wait

Like many couples, Toni and Blake had to schedule and reschedule their wedding day due to the pandemic.  In the meantime, they welcomed their precious little girl, Lennon, to their family. Lennon served as their flower girl at their wedding, and wait until you see just how cute she looked!

While unseasonably warm for a spring wedding in Vermont (94 degrees!), the heat didn’t weigh down the happy couple or their wedding guests. The day was packed with laughter, dancing, and partying.

Blake and his Best man are co-owners of the distillery Copper Canon in New Hampshire. To incorporate this into the wedding, favors were from Copper Canon, a fun personal touch.

A Quintessential Vermont Wedding at The Grafton Inn

A perfect blend of rustic details and modern-day charm, the Grafton Inn is a quintessential Southern Vermont wedding venue and resort. Nestled between picturesque green mountains and Grafton village, this wedding venue is perfect for couples looking for an enchanting, timeless location.

VENDORS:

Venue: The Grafton Inn, Photographer: Kris Lenox Photography Cake: Kupcakes & Kindness  Florist: Susanne’s Wedding Floral Design Studio DJ: Nick of Get Down Tonight Entertainment Hair and Makeup: Haus of Beauty  Wedding Favors: Copper Cannon

Your Next Read:

Looking for another Grafton Inn wedding? Check out this Hygge Fall Wedding at the Inn.

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