New England offers a lot of beautiful venues for wedding photographers but castles!?? Come on... Not many places make me salivate over the possible photo ops like Searles Castle does in Windham, NH! A true castle inside and out complete with a courtyard, tall stone walls to keep the bad guys out, towers and more! If you're looking for a unique place to tie the knot I'd say go and take a look at what Searles Castle has to offer.

I met Stephane and Matt last year for their engagement session in Portsmouth, NH. Right away you could see the love between them. Although a little nervous at first they warmed up after a bit and I knew we would have some fun on wedding day. May is a beautiful time of year and luckily the weather cooperated. The girls arrived and went right up to the bridal suite which is one of the best around. Lots of space, a big couch and even a sun room at the back. The guys were across the hall in another room. 

The ceremony was off site at St. Patrick's Church in Pelham, NH so we headed over once everyone was ready to go. With Stephane's African heritage there was quite the dress worn by a lot of the guests. Bright colors and even brighter personalities! Everyone was excited and extremely prepared with their cell phone cameras! As a professional wedding photographer I cringe a little when I see the phones come out but at some point it just has to be embraced. It is now, undeniably, the world we live in! 

After the Catholic mass we headed back to Searles Castle for photos then it was time to party! The reception at Searles is in a big tent in the courtyard. I like tented receptions as it's easier to bounce light and keep things looking soft and clean. Stephane and Matt had a large guest count which made for an even more lively celebration. I got to see some traditions that were new to me like money being thrown on them for their first dance and even the parent dances later on. I wish I had cash thrown at me at my wedding! 

Everyone had a great time and Stephane even got to toss her bouquet out of the stone tower in the courtyard! Certainly a first for me but that's why it's so great to see couple's making their weddings unique to them. 

I hope you enjoy some photos from a super Searles Castle wedding!

Castle Front Doors Wedding Dress Bridesmaids Stephane Bride necklace Groomsmen antics Candid guys prep St. Patrick's Church Here Comes the Bride Bride Processional Rings Almost I'do's Just Married A kiss Outside the Church A walk at the castle Bride and Groom in Tower Bridal Party Bridesmaids bouquets The Grounds The Cake Head Table Macaroons The rings Introductions First Dance Cutting the Cake Father and Daughter dance African Traditions Party Time Bouquet Toss