The Proposal...
The proposal was amazing! We were on our first day of vacation in the Azores, hiking along a volcanic crater rim. Dylan suggested that we walk around the rim away from the crowds to a lookout of the caldera. As I got busy taking pictures of the gorgeous view, I heard him rummaging in his backpack. When I turned around, he was down on one knee! I don’t think he even got the full “will you marry me?” out before I started yelling “YES”! Later, I found out that the spot we ended up getting engaged at was a backup location. When we had gotten to the original location, I just managed to inform him that I was “hangry” as he was reaching for the ring, so instead he grabbed a sandwich out of his bag and waited for the next beautiful view! Meant to be, right?
The Venue...
I grew up in Jeffersonville, VT and had a very special connection to the mountains there. When we saw The Barn at Smuggler’s Notch, we knew it embodied the bright and fun nature of our own relationship. Plus, the owners are incredibly accommodating and were willing to help us with every little aspect of the day.
Fav Moments...
I was able to view the procession of the bridal party from inside the Barn as they walked across the lawn and I loved watching the bright smiles from our guests. When I stepped out on the lawn, it felt as though everything except Dylan dropped away. The whole ceremony was a blur of smiles, teary eyes, and laughter. After the ceremony, I loved the private moments we shared as we had photos taken; it felt so surreal to finally have those rings on our fingers!
The strongest memory that keeps returning to me months later is the late-night dancing to “Shout”. When I requested the song from the band, the lead singer said he didn’t know all the lyrics. To my surprise, 5 minutes later they started playing it with the lead literally singing the lyrics from a tablet. Every single guest was out on the dancefloor jumping up and down, singing along at the top of their lungs. My new husband and I were surrounded by such joy and love, it is something that I will always cherish.
Wedding Advice...
First and foremost, utilize the support of your family and friends. They want to help and can alleviate so much of the pressure. I would not have had any of the beautiful details on our wedding day if not for my mom. Plus, both Dylan and I have incredibly supportive friends that were willing to listen to us talk incessantly about wedding plans and share in our enthusiasm. Trust in your friends and family - they’ve helped to get you to this point in your life, so this day is for them too.
Also, be sure to give yourself moments to pause and appreciate the love that surrounds you on this special day. I have heard time and time again, that your wedding day seems to go by in a flash. I know that to be true, but I am so glad that I took a few moments to stop and look around at my new husband, our loved ones, and the beautiful setting we were in. Breathe it in and realize that the reason you are there is to start a new life with this wonderful person at your side.
WEDDING VENDORS
PHOTOGRAPHER: Coral Compass Photo Co. || VENUE, CEREMONY, RECEPTION, REHEARSAL DINNER, & BAR SERVICES: The Barn at Smugglers' Notch || CATERER: Cast Iron Catering || FLORALS: Botanica Florals || INVITATIONS: Costco || MUSICIANS: A House on Fire || CAKE & CUPCAKES: North Country Cakes || WEDDING GOWN DESIGNER: Maggie Sottero Kirstie || WEDDING GOWN STORE: Needleman’s Bridal || EVENT RENTALS: Vermont Tent Company || HAIR & MAKEUP: Essence Salon & Day Spa || SPA SERVICES: Lotus Day Spa || WEDDING REGISTRY & GIFTS: Zola Company || Accommodations: Sterling Ridge Resort || TRANSPORTATION: Bert's Boats & Transportation
