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.
And while I did that, Marisa snapped a sweet picture of our families peeking out the window, trying to get glimpses of our first look.
I would love to tell you that I approached Greg as visions of our future swirled in my head, and the weight of the moment fully sunk in.
But instead I was just really, really excited to see him!
And, luckily, he was excited to see me too!
After we shared a moment, and took a few portraits, we brought in the rest of the gang for family photographs.
Then it was time to head off to the church and get married!
Now check out my post on our wedding ceremony!
~A
For all of my wedding-related posts, click here.
For all of my Vermont travel posts, click here.
Wedding Day Details
Hotel: Castle Hill Resort & Spa
Photography: Amy Bennett Photography
Hair and Makeup: Traveler Beauty Company
Florist: M’s Wedding Flowers
Wedding Dress and Veil: Monique Lhuillier
Rings: Erdman Jewelers
Earrings: Tiffany & Company
Perfume: Jo Malone
Cufflinks: Sally Clay
Bridesmaid Dresses: After Six
Flannel Shirts: American Eagle
Wooden Door Hangs: Company 52
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