I met Katie and Adam at Starbucks early one sunny Saturday morning. I was so excited to talk about their wedding at the Lake Shore Park Club in Gilford, NH. Once we had caffeine in front of us and I got the scoop on the vacation they just returned from (Europe – I was so jealous!), we got down to business.
I was thrilled to get to know more about Katie & Adam and learn what they were planning for their big day. What I remember most about that first meeting was how calm and confident Katie was. Lots of couples feel overwhelmed with wedding planning and get bogged down with details, but I could tell Katie knew exactly what she wanted for her day and how to make those dreams come true.
Lake Shore Park Club is in a private community. As I drove through the community, I passed mature trees and cute, well kept homes. I knew from that first impression of the property that they would have a beautiful day surrounded by even more beautiful scenery. Upon arrival, I found Katie getting ready at a family home near where they reception would be held. As she was mid-glam session (courtesy of Bridal Hair Experts), I had the pleasure of being shown around the property by the groom himself!
The pier where their ceremony was to take place was a short walk from where guests would arrive. Chairs had been provided by Lakes Region Tent & Event and the white looked beautiful against the dark wood of the pier. But the view was the real showstopper. The sun glinting off the blue of the lake and the mountains in the background was a sight not to be missed. In all my years of coordinating weddings, I’m not sure I have ever seen anything so beautiful.
When I entered the reception hall, it was as if an army of wedding elves had descended on the space. The room sparkled with twinkle lights hung from the ceiling, glittery gold tablecloths adorned the tables, and gorgeous centerpieces from Lotus Floral Designs caught my eye. As Jen and her team from Lakehouse Boutique Catering prepared the food & bar areas, and we set out cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake out of Boston, the space really came together. I loved that Katie & Adam used stemless wine glasses as escort cards that doubled as favors. And the vintage postcard guestbook will forever be one of my favorites.
Just prior to 5pm, guests arrived from The Margate Resort and The Marriott Gilford via transportation from Lakes Region Airport Shuttle. Despite an extremely windy day, guests beamed as Adam watched Katie make her way down the pier to him. The ceremony was filled with laughter and happy tears, and as I mentioned before, the sun shining on the water and the mountains in the distance provided guests with an amazing view.
After the ceremony, guests lingered on the pier to take in the scenery and snap a few photos. The cocktail reception was held on the front porch of the reception hall where guests mingled and enjoyed some healthy competition playing lawn games. Led by Wes from Boro Photography, the bride & groom took photos throughout the property as the sun made its descent.
The reception was lively from the beginning, but the party really started after dinner as Sugah Rush kicked it into high gear and had the dance floor packed from the first song. Guests definitely fed off of Katie & Adam’s love and energy and I’m sure there were a lot of people with aching feet the next morning!
Katie & Adam – I hope the happiness and love you felt on your wedding day continues to grow stronger as time passes. Thank you for allowing me into your lives during this special time. I wish you all the best. xo