Our Wedding Day

When Greg and I first began planning our Vermont wedding, we picked a date that was two years out. It seemed far away at the time, but my dad wisely assured me that it would be here before I knew it. And he was right… about this one, specific thing.

I woke up on October 5, 2019, still not quite believing my wedding day was finally here. The concept of a wedding day had always seemed very weighty, because it is THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE. I figured I would be very introspective that day, absorbing how big of a deal each moment was.

But instead, I had so much fun! Greg and I were surrounded by people who love us, we were (and are!) confident in our future together, and there was lots of laughter and memories made. It was so relaxing, and wonderful, that it actually took awhile for it to sink in that this was actually my wedding day.

The morning began in the bridal suite, with my bridesmaids, my mom and me.

We hung out, getting our hair and makeup done while listening to worship music and laughing at the stylists’ stories of crazy experiences at other weddings.

The morning flew by, and before I knew it our hair and makeup were finished and it was time to get dressed!

My mom helped me slip into my gown.

And I completed my look with earrings that Greg gave me for my birthday this year.

And perfume that he gifted me on our first Christmas together.

My look was almost complete, I just needed one more thing…

My veil!

Amber was the veil expert, always making sure it looked perfect and helping me take it on and off throughout the day.

Although as it turns out, when it comes to a wedding veil, it really does take a village!

My bridal look was complete!

I took a few (well… actually, a lot!) of professional pictures with my bridesmaids: Amber, Marisa, Jenny, and Caitlin.

And we got a few snaps on the phone, too.

Meanwhile, Greg was getting ready with the gentlemen who were laughingly trying to tie each other’s bow ties.

As a final touch, Greg put on the cufflinks I’d given him for his birthday, featuring the coordinates of our wedding church and reception, as well as a romantic message engraved on the back.

Once everyone was ready, it was time for some special first looks.

Grandma Katie came in first, and immediately started crying when she saw me.

Through her tears she told me: “You look so beautiful.” And then, after a pause, added: “You look just like your grandmother!” which made us all laugh.

Grandma Barbie was next, a big smile on her face and tears in her eyes.

And in my eyes too.

And then we prepared for what was sure to be the most emotional first look of all.

My dad came into the suite and saw, for the first time, his little girl dressed up as a bride.

After sharing these special moments with my family, it was time for my first look with the man who I’d chosen to become my family, my soon-to-be husband.

I left the suite, walked through the Castle, and stepped out into the garden’s sunshine.