What happens when you combine a Vermont barn wedding, a brass band, and a couple who fully embrace doing things their own way? Lisa and Karr’s wedding at Riverside Farm! The couple’s weekend celebration was filled with personal touches, an extended cocktail hour, and a second line parade that had guests dancing their way into the party. Every moment was beautifully captured by Kate McElwee Photography and we can’t wait to share all of the magic with you below.
A Setting That Captures the Essence of a Vermont Wedding
Set in the heart of the Green Mountains, Riverside Farm offers a setting that feels both deeply rooted in Vermont history and thoughtfully designed for modern celebrations. Once a working dairy farm, the property was transformed in the 1990s into a wedding and events venue, with its original barns and farmhouses carefully restored to preserve their traditional timber framing while seamlessly incorporating updated amenities. Today, the estate stretches across forests, open meadows, and sweeping mountain views, capturing that quintessential Vermont landscape that couples travel here to experience. With six event barns, a dedicated bridal suite, on-site accommodations, and multiple ceremony locations, couples can truly customize how their Vermont wedding unfolds.
Lisa and Karr’s wedding weekend kicked off in true Vermont fashion with an impromptu welcome lunch at Long Trail Brewing Company in Bridgewater Corners, Vermont, where early-arriving guests gathered, setting a relaxed and joyful tone for everything to come.Later that evening, Lisa and Karr included their dog, Olive, in pre-rehearsal portraits, a sweet moment that made what was to come feel even more special.
A Joyful Morning, A Meaningful First Look, and a Celebration That Led Straight Into the Party
The next day began with a calm, joyful morning as Wedlux Bridal Beauty and Jennifer Perellie pampered Lisa and her closest friends, getting everyone ready for the day ahead. The group was all smiles in their chic wildlife pajamas, soaking in those slow, getting-ready moments together. As Lisa stepped into her dress before the first look, a hilarious behind-the-scenes moment unfolded: her mom used her foot against Lisa’s back to help tighten the corset while friends laughed nearby. Lisa had no idea it was happening until she saw the photos later, making it an even more unforgettable memory!
One of the most memorable parts of the day unfolded just outside Riverside Farm’s iconic red barn. During their first look, Lisa and Karr exchanged something deeply personal: Lisa had written Karr a letter, while Karr gifted Lisa a journal he had been keeping since their very first date. It was quiet, emotional, and incredibly meaningful, a pause in the day that reflected the depth of their relationship.
As if on cue, the Vermont sun broke through just as portraits began, casting a warm glow across the landscape and perfectly complementing the natural beauty that makes Riverside Farm such a sought-after setting. Lisa and Karr’s ceremony struck a beautiful balance between intimate and celebratory. Officiated by their close friend Cat, it included heartfelt readings from loved ones, including Lisa’s cousin Jenn and Karr’s friend, Chris. In one especially moving moment, Chris invited everyone to close their eyes and simply take it all in, an intentional pause that allowed guests to fully feel the significance of the day. Adding a touch of sweetness, Lisa’s three-year-old nephew proudly took on the role of ring bearer.
And then came one of the most unforgettable highlights: instead of a traditional transition, Lisa and Karr led their guests straight into cocktail hour with a second line parade, brought to life by the incredible High and Mighty Brass Band. The energy was contagious! Guests were dancing, music filling the air, and the celebration flowing seamlessly from ceremony to party.
An Evening Filled with Music, Movement, and Meaning
Leaning into that sense of ease and connection, the couple opted for an extended cocktail hour, giving everyone more time to mingle, play lawn games, and soak in the setting. At one point, Lisa and Karr found themselves dancing together, just the two of them, as their favorite Grateful Dead songs played in the background. It was spontaneous, joyful, and completely authentic to who they are.
As the evening transitioned into the reception, anticipation built in the most fun way. Just before their grand entrance and first dance, guests joined in on a “clap, clap, stomp” chant (think We Will Rock You), filling the barn with energy and excitement. Their first dance was nothing short of special; the band had learned “They Love Each Other” by the Grateful Dead just for Lisa and Karr, making the moment feel deeply personal.
Lisa and Karr’s wedding is a beautiful reminder that when couples lean into what feels true to them, whether it’s a journal written over years, a parade to cocktail hour, or simply more time to connect with loved ones, the result is a celebration that guests will never forget.
Congratulations, Lisa and Karr, on your gorgeous wedding weekend!
Vendors
Venue: Riverside Farm, Photographer: Kate McElwee Photography, Catering: Vermont Farms Catering, Entertainment: High and Mighty Brass Band, Linen Rentals: The Linen Shop, Hair: Wedlux Bridal Beauty (Maddie and Lexie), Makeup: Jennifer Perellie, Transportation: Tri-State Transportation, Lighting: NE Lighting
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