The last three words any New Englander wants to hear at this point are “Snow is beautiful!”. Then again, it may be, “More snow coming”. But seriously, snow is beautiful and makes for absolutely magical photos. It’s probably one of my favorite weather conditions for portraits.

We had the privilege of photographing Alyson and Chris’ wedding on Valentine’s Day this year. We previously photographed her sister Kara’s wedding in 2011 at the Andover Country Club. Alyson and Chris’ ceremony and reception were at the beautiful Barn at Gibbet Hill in Groton, MA. The red barn and the rolling hills are a stunning back drop for a New England wedding.

Anyone who plans a winter wedding in New England realizes that there’s always a chance of snow but one can never be certain. When I met with Alyson and Chris for their on-site visit, it was pretty obvious to me that Alyson REALLY wanted to take some photos outside and was hoping the weather would cooperate. Most of our clients are pretty adventurous and I was equally enthusiastic about outside portraits in the snow. We planned for a first look on the deck just outside the front doors and would take some group portraits along the front sidewalk. Fingers crossed!

The day of the wedding, it began snowing in the early afternoon. It didn’t stop until mid-day the following day and left well over a foot in most areas. The snow for the first look and bridal party photos couldn’t have been more perfect. We worked quickly so as to avoid frostbite, but also took enough time to capture as many moments as we could in the magical snow.

The ceremony was held indoors in the rustic setting of the barn. Alyson and Chris had a great backdrop at the front made out of wooden step-ladders.  Following the ceremony, we took the family formal photos (with lots of familiar faces) in one of the lofts of the barn.

The one thing I noticed throughout the day was the way Alyson looked at Chris. She didn’t just glance at him. It was like she was absorbing each moment with him – locking them into the archives of her brain that she would never forget. Love is an amazing thing.

Wishing you both many joyful Valentine’s Day celebrations!

Vendors:

Venue: The Barn at Gibbet Hill – Groton, MA

DJ: Ernie & Chris of Locomotion DJ Productions – Dracut, MA

Invitations: MLC Designs – Baltimore, MD

Florist: A Whole Bunch Flower Market – Burlington, MA

Wedding Dress: Madeleine’s Daughter – Portsmouth, NH

Officiant: Tara Cucchiara – Leominster, MA

Seamstress (alterations): Cheryl’s Formal Dress Alterations – Portsmouth, NH

Transportation: Russo Limousine – Boston, MA

Cake: Konditor Meister – Braintree, MA