Best of 2022: Champagne Pop Photos

Posted on January 23, 2023

If you’ve been following along on Instagram this year, you know this to be true: champagne pop photos had a moment in 2022. These fun photos were the must have engagement and wedding shot of the year! Below is our editorial picks featuring our favorite champagne pop photos to celebrate the year of popping bottles!

Check them out and see who you’re toasting as your favorite in our Readers Choice Awards below.

Bright & Bubbly

Is there any combo more fun than confetti and champagne?! This bridal squad is ready to get the party started at the Wilburton Inn.

Photo: Swoyer Photography

Fall Foliage & Fizz

The entire wedding party lined up to cheer on the couple as they popped a bottle, and the spray is epic! The bridal bouquets by Fleur Du Nord Farm and rolling mountains at Sterling Ridge Resort served as the perfect backdrop for this fun moment.

Photo: K. Lenox Photography

Smoke & Spray (Readers Choice Awards Winner)

This couple’s backlit portrait is one of the most unique I have seen! I love the mix of the groom’s cigar smoke as the bride pops a bottle – definitely a fun, unique take on this photo opp!

Photo: GarrenTee Photography

Champagne Showers

Is that rain? Snow? No, it’s an epic champagne pop! In addition to this amazing spray, I love the wedding party’s enthusiasm!

Photo: Jess Rene Photos

A Sparkling Send Off

This adventurous bride took matters into her own hands! The couple had planned a sparkler exit, and on a whim, she grabbed a bottle and showered the crowd! It was a welcome surprise on this hot summer night!

Wedding Film: Beyond Bliss Films

The Private Toast

Noted: add “private forest toast” to your wedding itinerary. This couple shared an intimate cheers as newlyweds, and it’s a great reminder to take a moment alone to soak everything in during your big day!

Photo: Photos by Kintz

Cheers O’Clock

Sarah Judith Events helped this bride and groom plan every detail of their elegant wedding day, including this amazing champagne pop moment!

Photo: Adam Michaels Photography

Bubbling with Excitement

Nothing says ‘congrats’ like a little bubbly! I love this wedding morning champagne toast at Lake Bomoseen Lodge with the bridal party, complete with silver streamers and matching robes.

Photo: Lindsey Vann Photography

Champagne Kisses

Champagne always makes for a fun photo prop, but this couple took it to the next level for their engagement shoot by jumping in the lake with a bottle! Priceless!

Photo: Allison Macy Photography

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Check out our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide for more inspiration and actionable tips (plus spreadsheets you can use to get organized immediately) to plan your dreamy Vermont wedding!

Best of 2022: Reception Details

Posted on January 19, 2023

Pour yourself a beverage and settling in for some incredible inspiration! These couples included beautiful, inspiring, and downright fun reception details for their 2022 Vermont weddings. (You’ll want to steal these ideas for your Pinterest board for sure.)

Below are the editorial picks the best reception details; give them a look and scroll to see your (two!) favorites in our Readers Choice Awards below!

The Sit Down Stunner

We would love to pull up a seat and admire this tablescape Jaclyn Watson Events helped design for this stunning Topnotch Resort wedding. It’s full of color, depth and gorgeous details.

Photo: Rodeo & Co

The Love Language

This is one of the cutest, most unique dinner menus I’ve seen! The cheeky message “Food is our Love Language” adds a fun element on this elegant tablescape at Farm Road Estate.

Photo: Jenna Brisson Photography

Chopped (Readers Choice Awards Winner)

Want to give your guests a unique experience? How about an axe-throwing competition?! That’s exactly what this couple did for their Mansfield Barn wedding!

Photo: Juniper Studios

Ring Ring (Readers Choice Awards Winner)

This couple greeted their guests will an interactive drink wall; guests rang one of the bells and a server’s gloved hand popped through a frame with a personal glass of bubbly! This is such a fun twist on a champagne welcome that Sara Judith Events helped to bring to life.

Photo: Adam Michaels

The Foodies

This couple had a delicious, farm to table BBQ dinner for their Silhouette Hill reception, and even got involved themselves! Yum!

Photo: Sasha Israel

Bouncing for Joy

The matching heart sunglasses … the white bounce house… everything about this reception screams FUN! A bounce house is an unexpected, fun reception addition that will be enjoyed by guests of all ages!

Photo: Jess Rene Photos

Leave a Message

In lieu of a tradition guestbook, this couple opted for a voicemail guestbook. This is such a fun interactive idea for guests, and allows you to capture personal audio from your loved ones!

Photo: Hannah Photography

Love You Stowe Much

This punny neon sign is just one of the many thoughtful details from this Stowe wedding planned by NJOY Weddings & Events. This would be such a fun detail to take pictures with during the reception, and to decorate with at home post-wedding bliss!

Photo: Amy Bennett Photography

Marvelous Mushrooms

This couple played off the natural beauty of Lareau Farm Inn with these unique handmade mushroom table details, wild flowers, and mismatched vases. The overall effect is earthy, boho and beautiful!

Photo: Madison Anne Studio

Botanical Beauty

This seating chart by Blossoming Bough is truly stunning! We love the mix of botanical prints, wildflowers, antique library trays, and seed favors. Absolutely gorgeous!

Photo: Abigail Grey Photography

Under the Lights

We would love to be on outdoor dance floor at Lake Bomoseen Lodge, and by the looks of it, so did the guests! Destinations Found helped create a dreamy dance oasis under the trees with a canopy of lights for this lovely reception.

Photo: Sixpence Studios

Love Won

This couple included a bold, rainbow colored Love Wins sign for their wedding reception, which made for a perfect, super fun photo backdrop! Based on their smiles, we think it’s clear: love has won these two over!

Photo: GarrenTee Photography

Loved this post?

Check out our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide for more inspiration and actionable tips (plus spreadsheets you can use to get organized immediately) to plan your dreamy Vermont wedding!

Best of 2022: Wedding Style

Posted on January 11, 2023

This year like never before, couples slayed their wedding photos in style. From elegant, timeless looks to one of a kind outfits, Vermont couples came dressed to impress!

Check out the style inspiration below in our editor’s picks for Best of 2022 Style, and scroll to see who you voted for your Readers Choice Awards pick!

In Vogue

This unbelievably chic couple looks like they stepped out of the pages of Vogue. Jennifer Perellie created a sophisticated look for the bride that complimented their unique elopement style perfectly.

Photo: Illume by Paul Reynolds

Timeless Beauties

This couple’s style is as elegant as it is timeless! His black tux, from McNeil and Reedy and her embellished gown from Fiori Bridal, are stunning choices for their wedding at The Essex. (And if the arbor by Tipsy Tulip Designs looks familiar, it’s because it was a pick for the best florals of 2022!)

Photo: Amy Demos Photography

The Two for One

Just look at the ruffles on her skirt – how can you help but soon?! This Veilmonté Bridal Showroom gown had a surprise though; not only was it perfect for a romantic ceremony but the skirt detached revealing a sleak, ready-to-dance reception dress. Amazing.

Black Beauty

This bride was determined to show off her darker style in her wedding attire, and she nailed it! Her black lace top and dip dyed skirt combo are stunning. (She even painted her nails black to match!)

Photo: Madison Anne Studio

Shades of Green

Jaclyn Watson planned this stunning wedding which featured shades of green from the wedding party to the decor. This bridal party totally nailed the mismatched look with their coordinated green dresses. I especially love how their bouquets kept in the same green and white palette, perfectly complimenting the style.

Photo: Kelsey Regan Photography

Classy and Classic

I love this timeliness look by Fawn MUA! The subtle makeup and lush lashes compliment her traditional gown and beaded veil perfectly. Perfection.

Photo: Rob Springs Photography

The Winter Wow

This is what happens when your wedding party not understands the assignment but completely rocks it. From the goggles to the boots to the fur shawls, this wedding party has the après party look locked down!

Photo: J uniper Studios

Black and White Beauties (Readers Choice Awards)

The bride’s beaded black suit is truly unlike anything I’ve seen before; I’m obsessed! Add to that her beloved in a stunningly elegant white gown and the wildly lush bouquets by M’s Wedding Flowers and I’m rendered speechless. Their entire look is a showstopper!

Photo: Colette Kulig Photography

The Cape Sweep

This glamorous couple works in theatre, so it came to no surprise to planner Odyssey Events that they understood drama! The bridal cape adds an unparalleled sense of drama and elegance to their classic look.

Photo: Savannah Brown

Wild and Wonderful

Photographer Hallie Jade got married this year at Wild Sugar, the venue her and husband own and maintain. I love their colorful style – from her veil to their wedding party…it’s a little wild, and totally wonderful.

Photo: Jessica Dantowitz (Miranda Photo Co., second shooter)

Modern Love

I love the contrast between the clean, modern lines of the space (how cool is that metal arbor?) with the lush, colorful flowers by Yanique Events. Designed by Ehmann Events, this look is so fresh and lovely!

Photo: Isora Lithgow Creations

Radiant in Red

The bride wore a stunning red sari for her Sikh marriage ceremony, known as the ‘Anand Karaj’, meaning blissful union. This grand, multi-day event was planned by NJoy Weddings & Events. From the rich colors to her sparkling jewels to her natural excitement, this bride is positively radiant!

Photo: Virdee Films

The Getaway Look

I love this bride’s feathered jacket for the most perfect getaway outfit! It adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to their sparkler exit.

Photo: Idena Beach Photography

French Fête

This couple’s celebration was inspired by classic French culture (they even shared their first dance to a classic French song!). The bride wore an off the shoulder gown, and the groom wore a white tux jacket. The elegant style was mirrored by their decor, including the lush florals by Anaphora Flowers. Each detail provided the perfect ambience for their intimate fête.

Film: Eightzero2 Productions

Nailing It

I love this close up shot of the bride’s bedazzled nails. The design is fun and glitzy, and the neutral color palette keeps it sophisticated. Hands down, a great look!

Photo: Jess Rene Photo

Dark and Dreamy

This couple embraced their dark side with a color palette that was both dreamy and dramatic! It’s a great choice for their emotional fall wedding (just try to watch their vows without crying).

Film: Kasaydia Wind Media

Loved this post?

Check out our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide for more inspiration and actionable tips (plus spreadsheets you can use to get organized immediately) to plan your dreamy Vermont wedding!

Indoor Engagement Session Ideas

Posted on October 11, 2022

Have you considered an indoor engagement session? These are amazing and often overlooked! As the weather turns colder in Vermont, this is especially a great idea to consider for your winter engagement photos.

Two of the biggest benefits of indoor engagement photos are that they are unique and not weather dependent.

While I love a Vermont scenic engagement shoot, your personality can really shine with your indoor location choice! Plus, an indoor shoot gives you more options for when you schedule your photos because you don’t have to worry about the weather.

Convinced? Here are some of my favorite indoor engagement ideas from Vermont photographers.

A Brewery, Wine Shop, Bar, or Coffee Shop

Head to your favorite brewery and cheers to saying “I do” over a brew or two! (Also, holding your mug is a great way to show off that new ring!) Plus, the industrial vibe is a great backdrop for your photos. Beer isn’t your thing? What about a wine bar or coffee shop?

Think about places that are meaningful to both of you as a couple. Years from now you can look back on these photos and remember all the times you spent there together!

Greenhouse for an Indoor Engagement Session

This is one of my favorite ideas! If you were dreaming of an outdoor shoot but the it didn’t work out, a greenhouse can give you that feeling without worrying about the weather. As a bonus, I’d pick out a new plant to bring home and grow to remember your shoot!

Indoor Engagement Session at the Arcade

If posed engagement photos aren’t your thing – head to the arcade! You can your partner can play around and just hang out together while getting some awesome photos. This is a great indoor engagement session idea for the any time of year.

This has been one of our most popular engagement blog posts to date at The Archives Bar.

Library or Bookshop

There’s something extra cozy and romantic about this idea! If you are both bookworms this is the perfect way to spend an afternoon while taking some unique photos. Stroll through an adorable downtown and roam in and out of bookshops and libraries.

Record Store for Your Indoor Engagement Session

Love music? Visit a record shop together – maybe you’ll find inspiration for your first dance song!

Your Home

I think couples often overlook their own space for their photos! Taking indoor engagement session photos in your own space has a lot of advantages.

First, you’ll be comfortable, and have access to your stuff to do activities you love like play guitar, make food in your kitchen, or mix up a drink. It’s also good way to include your pets (and then have put in another room if needed, without the help of another person).

Also, I think it’s really special to have part of your actual, daily life captured by a professional.

A Hotel Lounge or AirBnB

Make your engagement session a weekend away! Hotel lobbies and lounges can be stunning, and make for a great backdrop. You can also book a beautiful Airbnb for the weekend. This will be a fun weekend away and you get to make use of a beautiful interior.

Plan Ahead

If you want to take your pictures at a local business, it’s a good idea to call ahead and ask the manager if it’s okay beforehand. I’d say something like: My partner and I love [business name] so much, we’d love to take our engagement pictures on site! Is that something you allow? When would be a good time for you?

Going at a slower time will be less stressful for everyone; you can take your time taking photos without worrying about inconveniencing the business or random other patrons jumping into your shot. Depending on the location and their availability, they may even be able to open to you before/after hours so you can have the place to yourself!

And be sure to leave a tip to show your appreciation!

What do you think? Where would you plan an indoor engagement photo shoot?

Photographers Featured:

Isora Lithgow Creations, Jenna Brisson Photography, Jess Rene Photos, Keith MacDonald Photography, Kelsey Regan Photography, MoHo Photo

Your Next Read:

Looking for more Vermont engagement sessions? Read more here!

HOW TO HAVE THE BEST WEDDING MORNING

Posted on February 21, 2022

I had the best wedding morning. I woke up with my husband and spent the morning at my house hanging with my bridesmaids while we got our hair and makeup done, sipping champagne and catching up. (My husband went out for lunch and jumped in a swimming hole with his groomsmen – it was a very hot summer day!) It was relaxed, simple, and so much fun.

I’ve also been part of wedding mornings that were chaotic and stressful. Ones that left me feeling rushed, hungry, or a just little frazzled heading to the ceremony.

That’s why I know how helpful it is to have a plan for your wedding morning. It’s is the onramp to your wedding celebration, and the goal is a smooth transition that gets you ready and excited.

Read on for our best tips for a smooth, fun wedding morning!

1. Make a clear plan and timeline for your wedding morning

There are a lot of moving parts to your wedding morning, and a lot of emotion. Make a plan with your partner so you both feel good on your wedding morning. Consider the following:

What do you want to do the morning of your wedding? (Ex. wake up with your partner, do a yoga class with your wedding party)
What do you have to do? (Ex. hair and makeup, get dressed)
What do you realistically have time for? (Ex. if you have a 3pm ceremony and 8 person bridal party, that yoga class may not work, but you can wake up with your partner and enjoy a cup of coffee before splitting up to get ready)
Who do you want to be with you? (Your wedding morning can be emotional; choose to surround yourself with people who make you feel good. Maybe in addition to your bridesmaids, you really want your aunt there, for example. Many couples choose to get ready separately, but maybe you want to all get ready together!)

Once you know what you want from your wedding morning, you can draft a timeline to keep everyone on schedule. Your unique, final timeline will be created with your vendor team, but we have excellent templates to help you get started in our Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide. (Along with additional tips!)

2. Communicate your expectations about your wedding morning to everyone involved

I recommend sending an email to your wedding party a week in advance with all the details for your wedding weekend. If you need your bridesmaids to be at your hotel room to start hair and makeup by 7am, don’t spring that information on them at 10pm after your rehearsal dinner!

Consider:

Where do people need to meet? (Ex. your hotel room, your house, the venue, a salon)
When do you need them there? (This is where you’ll rely on your wedding day timeline)
What should they bring? (Do they need to bring everything they need for the wedding, or will you be going back to the lodging in between getting ready and the ceremony?)
Transportation – are you providing transportation? Is everyone responsible for their own?
What do you want them to wear? (It’s important to wear a loose neck or button-down top to avoid messing up hair and makeup)

Clear expectations help everyone feel confident!

3. Set the mood with music on your wedding morning

A fun playlist can help shake off the nerves (and sleepiness) and get everyone in the mood to celebrate! Check out our Spotify Playlists for some inspiration. We curated one specifically for your wedding morning. (Don’t forget to pack and charge a portable speaker.)

4. Pass out gifts on your wedding morning

If you’re planning to give gifts to your bridesmaids and groomsmen, the wedding morning is a great time to do this since you’re all together in a more intimate setting.

Check out our Gift Guide for dozens of unique, Vermont-made gift ideas for your wedding party. If you’re planning to gift something to wear on your wedding day (ex. jewelry, a tie) it’s a good idea to tell your crew not to worry about that item ahead of time so they don’t buy something else in preparation.

5. Take the classic wedding morning picture in matching pj’s with your bridesmaids

One popular gift for bridal parties that’s always a hit is matching pajamas! This also makes for a great photo opportunity. Pop some champagne, pile on a bed and snap your own cute picture with your bridal party. It’s a classic for a reason and still one of my favorite pictures from my own wedding.

6. Don’t Forget to Eat – Ideas for A Wedding Morning Breakfast and Lunch

Nobody wants to be hangry on your wedding day, so don’t forget to feed your crew and eat! Some easy ideas for a wedding morning breakfast that will fill everyone up: a bagel bar, a breakfast casserole (easy to make ahead of time), and a big fruit salad.

Depending on the timing of your ceremony, you’ll want to also provide lunch or at least some heavy snacks as well. Think: a hearty, mayo-free pasta salad or sandwiches.

A mimosa bar and coffee are always fun too!

If you’re getting ready and eating off site from your lodging, we recommend bringing your toothbrush, some mouthwash and some floss so you can freshen up after eating.

7. Do a trial run with your wedding day attire and accessories

Do a test run of everything you’re wearing on your wedding day before your wedding morning. We mean everything from your dress or suit to shoes, accessories, and undergarments.

You don’t want to find out your underwear pinches funny or have to Google “how to tie a bow tie” on the morning of your wedding.

Also, be sure to remove all the extra strings and tags from your clothes, like those pesky hanger loops on bridesmaid dresses or the suit jacket vent threads.

8. Shift your mindset on your wedding morning from “planning” to “celebrating”

Take off your wedding planning hat, and slip on your party hat (metaphorically speaking, or depending on your style, for real). Take a few minutes to admire yourself in the mirror after you’ve slipped on your dress or suit; play a special song and sit quietly; stage a dramatic champagne bottle pop while yelling “IT’S MY WEDDING DAY!” … whatever you need to do to ground yourself in the moment. You’ve done the planning and now the day is here – enjoy and celebrate!

We hope these tips help you start your wedding morning off right!