Derek and Jill- Southern Vermont Wedding Photographer

So it took me a little longer to post this than planned, but I’m finally getting to it which is a big improvement on my blogging skills from last year!  I’m even going to do another blog post at the end of the week (shocker I know!)  So when I first arrived at the Equinox, I knew I had to take advantage of the beautiful weather we were having that day, even though it was a bit on the chilly side….

Lucky for me, the Equinox is the next town over so it wasn’t much a drive and I didn’t need to use mapquest for once (a photographers best friend along with my iPhone!)  To say that the Equinox is the perfect venue is an understatement.  And for this girl who values the old and historic, this location fits the bill!  When I arrived in Jill’s bridal suite (which is fab by the way….and huge!) this was the first thing I saw…..

beautiful right?!  I love classic and elegant……the dresses you can pass onto the next generation.  While Jill’s sister did her makeup a note arrived…..

and tears followed.  Derek and Jill chose to do a first look and I’ll tell you why I love a first look (seeing each other before the ceremony.)  Simply put- it’s a beautiful moment……and I get to capture it with my camera.  I know it’s tradition to wait until the ceremony, but opting to see each other before the ceremony is such a personal moment that the bride and groom can share with each other.

You’ve got to love that right?!  Why else do I love it?  It’s also a great time saver since you can have photos taken before the ceremony.  If you’re on a time crunch it’s a great option.  Even if you’re on a budget crunch it’s the way to go because you can have your formal portraits taken before the ceremony, have the ceremony, then go straight to the reception!  Their ceremony was directly across the street from the Equinox at the historic and beautiful First Congregational Church.

A group photo with all of their guests….

Back at the Equinox it was time for their first dance and of course the cake…

I just love the long table and feeling like you’re at home eating dinner with your family and those that mean the most….

We ended the evening with a few sparkles….

Thank you so much Derek and Jill for letting me capture your day!