Take Me to Church...Landing!
I feel like I'm one of the luckiest photographers around to book the couples that I do. Kelly and John epitomize the type of people that are not only amazing to work with, but just great people to be around in general.
I had photographed their engagement session just a few months prior at Lake Massabesic and right away they were great together. There's typically a warming up period as we all get comfortable with each other but these two were easy. Their love for each other showed and they had no problem looking natural for the camera because they just were. I knew wedding day would be awesome with these two and I wasn't wrong!
They chose Church Landing at Mill Falls to tie the knot. It's a popular venue in Meredith, NH right on Lake Winnipesaukee. It was a glorious September day and I had my trusty second shooter, Kyle with me to help capture the day. I met up with the girls getting ready while Kyle started covering the guys.
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Kelly and John opted to do a first look so we decided to set that up down on the docks near the gazebo. John was really excited to see his bride for the first time and it's not like you couldn't tell! The look on his face said it all. Kelly was truly stunning. I always give the couple a minute to take each other in before moving on with photos. I love first looks as it allows us to budget more time for photos, but for the couple, it really gives them a private moment together before things get hectic.
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Prior to the wedding Kelly's dad had been in touch with me about planning a surprise for them. Since she was a kid they used to take the boat out on the lake and it was something special that he wanted to do for them on their wedding day. Right next door to Church Landing is the EKAL Activity Center where you can book to take rides out in a pretty awesome antique boat. I coordinated the timing with EKAL and tried to hide the secret plans as best as I could. However, as soon as we started heading in that direction Kelly knew what was happening. Still, they were really excited to head out on the boat as was I. I don't get to photograph awesome couple's on classic watercraft very often so I was all about it!
We had to keep an eye on the time but we managed to get some great shots before getting some photos with the bridal party.
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In the warmer months the ceremonies are outside under the tent. The backdrop is the lake so it's a great spot. Kelly's dad proudly walked her down the aisle and handed her off to John. They had decided to do a wine blending ceremony which is something I don't see too often. There was fun, laughter and some happy tears while the two become official :)
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Of course, couple's always create their own wedding day to suit who they are and what they like but it was a first for me seeing all the tables named for the different houses in Game of Thrones! I loved this. As a fan myself it made me smile! They opted for a small wedding cake on top of a cupcake tower. Again, cupcakes are a popular way to go.
After introductions they enjoyed their first dance followed by a few words from both dad's and then their maid of honor and best man. After this it was time for dinner and festivities. The photo booth was a big hit that everyone seemed to get involved with. After dinner there was a fun game of musical chairs then Kelly and John made the lucky participants dance to win the money that had previously been collected from the guests for the eventual winner. It was really funny to see people really get into it!
It was a great wedding to be a part of and I'm happy to share some photos of their day!
