Intimate Fall Elopement on Lake Champlain

WeddingsElopements

Mar 14

Meaghan and Matt went big for their small lakeside elopement on Lake Champlain this past fall. And by going big, I’m not talking flashy - they made the priority of their celebration all about being present with their closest friends and family, and making sure all the details intentionally contributed to that. From their cabin rental on the lake where everyone was able to stay in one place, to having their gorgeous lakeside portraits during golden hour give them a moment to take it all in, every detail of their day made their experience of getting married that much more special.

Lakeside Elopement in Colchester, Vermont

You might recognize these two from my guide on how to prep for engagement portraits. Meaghan and Matt are some of my favorite people to photograph - they start out just as nervous as anyone else I’ve photographed, but as soon as we start their style is playful and fun. I knew Meaghan’s sense of style and Matt’s enthusiasm would make for an amazing day, and it certainly lived up to my expectations.

The day started for me when I showed up to their rental cabin in Colchester as they were putting final touches on getting ready, and from there we arranged a quiet moment for the two of them to see each other for the first time during their first look. The wind was absolutely wild that day, which gave me loads of opportunities to get dramatic shots of Meaghan’s cathedral length veil, but it also meant we had to be really thoughtful about where we could take portraits without people getting blown away. But once their small ceremony started, officiated by a family friend (also someone whose elopement I’ve photographed!), none of those concerns mattered.

They exchanged their vows (along with some jokes) and immediately celebrated with friends and family back at the cabin. I of course stole the couple for portraits as the sun set over the lake, and I got that same goofy energy with something a little extra with their just-married excitement. The day ended with an exquisite dinner catered right in the cabin kitchen, with everyone seated together around one big table. I wish all my couples getting married get to have the kind of experience Meaghan and Matt created for themselves, it was truly special.

What’s even more exciting is we get to do it again next year when they host a bigger celebration for their one year anniversary. I can’t wait to show off even more images of these amazing people then!