I had the pleasure of meeting Meaghan and her Mom Carol on a warm January day. I was so intrigued to hear about Meaghan’s plans for her special day at Whiteface Hollow that would have Lord of the Rings inspired touches throughout. To be completely honest, I had no idea what to expect around how this theme would be carried throughout. I was thrilled to see inspiration photos that looked pretty & classy but had a touch of personality as well.
As we all know, 2020 hasn’t been the easiest year for wedding planning. This was no different for Meaghan & Nate. We moved forward with locking in details and making plans, all the while holding our breath that this wedding would be everything they wished for, even if some of the details might look a bit different.
The world cut us a break and July 18th couldn’t have been a more perfect day – the brilliant sunshine and warmth was exactly what was needed. That morning, while Nate & his groomsmen got ready nearby at a family home in Meredith, NH, Meaghan and her bridesmaids were busy getting glammed up courtesy of Jo Louise Beauty. To say they all looked stunning is an understatement. Meaghan sparkled in a gorgeous dress she found at Alexandra’s Boutique that looked like it was designed specifically for her.
While the wedding party departed for the ceremony that was held at St. Charles Borromeo, I was busy putting the final touches on their reception décor. I loved that they choose to do both practical (personalized hand sanitizer) and fun (mini s’mores kits) favors for their guests. They added a sweet touch to the place settings, but the real showstopper was the floral work done by The Fuchsia Peony. Greenery elegantly hung from the beams, and proved beautiful as a centerpiece draped over the farmhouse tables with tons candles on top of wooden slabs mixed throughout. There were vintage Lord of the Rings books, signage, and table names that came from locations in Middle-earth to tie in their theme.
Guests made their way back to Whiteface Hollow mid-afternoon for cocktail hour were they took advantage of the beautiful weather outside as they enjoyed beautifully presented hors d'oeuvres created by Curt’s Caterers and delicious cocktails served with a smile from DeeLuxe Bartending. Kate & Mike from MKD Photography & Alex from Something Blue Creative took full use of the amazing venue grounds with it's vineyard and mountain views to capture special moments of the bride & groom with their wedding party and family. Right before we opened the barn doors for the big reveal, Meaghan & Nate had a few private moments in the space to reflect on their day.
Then it was time to kick things up a notch! From the moment the newlyweds were introduced, Daniel from Platinum Celebrations played fantastic tunes. While dining on a delicious meal from Curt’s Caterers, guests laughed (and got a little teary!) as they listened to toasts from Meaghan’s Dad (complete with a poem) and the MOH and BM. I have to say – it’s the first time in all my years that I’ve heard that the groom is good in an animal crisis! All eyes were on Meaghan & Nate as they cut into their beautiful cake and shared sweet moments dancing with their parents. Afterward, they, along with all their guests kept the dance floor packed until the last song – a mash-up of Timber and Old Town Road by Pitbull and Lil Nas X.
Meaghan and Nate – it was such a pleasure getting to know you and your families over the past year. To quote Colleen, “I hope you live happily ever after, for the rest of your days”. xo
A huge thank you to Kate & Mike from MKD Photography for the amazing photos!