Like I've mentioned before, weddings at places like The Preserve at Chocorua in Tamworth, NH are really taking off in this region and across the country. Fading are the days of receptions in generic hotel ballrooms and event centers. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy to shoot weddings just about anywhere but customization of a couple's big day is becoming more and more of a thing. As a photographer it makes me happy and less stressed going in knowing that I've got more to work with as far as backdrops go. 

The Preserve is amazing and Amanda and Shannon had the whole property to themselves for their wedding day. It's a big property with a main house, barn and several cabins for family and guests. 

Amanda and her girls got ready at a house at the back of the property while Shannon and the guys got ready at a smaller cabin nearer the barn.

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Love and a Ball

The girls really popped in their bright blue dresses and Amanda's shoes tied the color in nicely with her awesome wedding dress. The guys were in tan suites with blue ties. 

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It was a beautiful summer day. The ceremony was set up outside in front of the main house overlooking the hills. Amanda's dad walked her down the aisle. This was a dad whose love for his daughter was written all over his face. Some of my favorite shots from this wedding were of him and Amanda together. I had my trusty second shooter Kyle with me so we had every angle covered. Despite Amanda initially putting the ring on Shannon's right hand everything went without a hitch. It's a whirlwind of a moment so I think we can cut her some slack! :)

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Right from the beginning Amanda had to have a photo on this old couch which the owner had brought out that morning. I have to say I don't blame her! Not only did it fit in with their color scheme, it's just a cool thing to have outside and use for photos. It's things like this that really help customize the photos. There was also some old broken down farm equipment in the field that added a different element for the bridal party photos. 

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Shannon is a college basketball coach so a big part of their theme was basketball. They had a ball for their guests to sign and even his wedding ring was basketball themed. 

They had little pies along with their cake for dessert. The rest of the lighting and decor was very warm and inviting. For me, barns are tricky to shoot in as its all wood walls and ceiling. As I like to use flashes I usually have to get a bit more inventive when it comes to how I set things up. A second level is great for putting strobes and angling them down towards the dance floor. It's a bit trickier when you need to get photos on the ground level under the balcony but you just do your best to adjust on the fly.

The evening was a great party and it looked like everyone had a great time. I learned a couple of months later that this barn had burnt down! I don't know the story but I know a new one is being built and should be ready for this season. It means more knowing we got some nice photos in here before it was no longer. I'm sure the new barn will be bigger and better!