The NH White Mountains are a special place for me. Some people like warm weather, beaches and the ocean. Some like mountains, lakes and the woods. I fall into the latter category so whenever I get to shoot a wedding in the mountains it makes me feel good inside. 

The Mountain View Grand up in Whitefield, NH is a super hotel with panoramic views over the mountains and that's where Kim and Alex chose to have their big day. 

The views are spectacular but the hotel itself is something to behold. It dates back to 1865 and has a long history of housing weary travellers from all over. Along with the Mount Washington Hotel it sits in my mind as one of the most iconic hotels in the state. I think few would argue with that.

The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and change on a dime. Luckily it was beautiful for Kim and Alex's big day! 

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Love on a Mountain

I was a little nervous going into this wedding as I had only spoken to Kim over the phone before the day. I like meeting my couples in person before their wedding but sometimes it's not possible or they're comfortable with the situation as it is.

When I arrived at the girl's suite everyone was busy getting ready. Right away it was clear to see what a stunning bride Kim was. I started with shooting her dress and some other details then captured the usual getting ready process. Kim's two sisters were her maids of honor. The guys got ready in a room near the Presidential Ballroom. I had Kyle with me second shooting capturing them.

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Kim and Alex didn't do a first look but Kim did want to do one with her dad so we set that up right before the ceremony. Her dad and I had a nice chat later on as we are both avid Formula 1 racing fans. 

The ceremony was out in front of the hotel by the arbor. With Kim and Alex's bridal party being quite large they were seated during the ceremony. A light cloud cover rolled in towards the end which made the lighting fantastic. 

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Both backdrops are a must capture at the Mountain View Grand. There's the obvious vista that lies beyond the golf course but the hotel itself can't be passed up. After family and bridal party photos we got some great shots of the couple before cocktail hour finished. They had hired an awesome bluegrass band and didn't want to miss it. This gave me a bit of a time crunch for formal photos but Kim and Alex didn't want to go too crazy with pictures so it worked out well.

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The reception took place in the Presidential Ballroom which sits alongside the main hotel. Bridal party intros followed by the first dance were a blast. Kim's dad really took the time to embarrass her during toasts. He really pulled out all of the stops that had people in tears laughing. I think Alex learned some new things about his new bride too! 

When the dancing began we were treated to a dance solo from a Michael Jackson fan to Billy Jean but everyone got in on the party and had a great time to cap off the day. I hope you enjoy some photos from their celebration!