Who to Book First: A Guide to Your Wedding Vendor Timeline

Congratulations! You’re engaged, you’ve shared the news with your inner circle, and now the "big picture" planning begins. One of the most common questions I hear from couples is: "Where do we even start?"

The order in which you book your vendors can make or break your planning experience. To help you navigate the process, I’ve put together a prioritized list of who to book and why.

1. Wedding Planner and/or Coordinator

If you want someone to help you design the entire event from scratch, hire a Wedding Planner first. However, if you're doing the heavy lifting yourself but want someone to execute the details, you’ll want a Wedding Coordinator.

Pro Tip: Even if you’re a DIY pro, a Coordinator is your insurance policy for a stress-free day. They act as the point of contact for all other vendors, allowing you-and your family-to actually enjoy the celebration. They also keep the timeline moving so we don't miss that perfect sunset light for your portraits!

The Wedding Planner: Your Strategic Partner

Think of a planner as your project manager from day one. They are with you for the long haul (usually 12+ months).

• What they do: Help you find a venue, manage your entire budget, source and vet all vendors, handle design and aesthetics, and attend all your meetings.

• Best for: Couples with busy professional lives, those planning a destination wedding, or anyone who feels overwhelmed by the thousands of tiny decisions involved in a wedding.

The Wedding Coordinator: Your Logistics Expert

A coordinator (often called a "Month-of" or "Day-of" coordinator) usually jumps in about 4-8 weeks before the wedding.

• What they do: They take the "baton" from you. They review your vendor contracts, create the master timeline, coordinate the rehearsal, and are the "boots on the ground" on the wedding day to handle any fires so you don't have to.

• Best for: The DIY couple who enjoys the planning process but wants to actually be a guest at their own wedding.

Why I Love Both as a Photographer

From my side of the lens, having either a planner or a coordinator is a game-changer.

• Planners ensure the visual design is cohesive, which makes for stunning, "editorial-style" gallery images.

• Coordinators ensure we stay on schedule. If the hair and makeup run 30 minutes late, the coordinator adjusts the flow so we don't lose your precious portrait time!

2. The Venue

Your date isn't "real" until you have a contract with a venue. Because popular venues book up 12-18 months in advance, securing your location is the first major domino to fall.

Pro Tip: Before you sign, ask about the "Plan B" for rain. As a photographer, I always look for a venue that has a beautiful indoor backup option with plenty of natural light, just in case!

3. Wedding Photographer and Videographer

Once you have your date and venue, your next call should be to your photographer! (That’s where I come in!). Unlike a catering company that can handle multiple weddings a day, a photographer can only be in one place at a time. If you have a specific visual style you love, book your photographer early to ensure they are available for your date.

Pro Tip: Book your engagement session as soon as you book your photographer. It’s the best "test drive" for your wedding day, helping you get comfortable in front of the camera before the big event. Bookings of The Celebration and beyond include a complimentary engagement session. You can add an engagement session to The Vow and The Celebration for $200. More information can be found on my Wedding page!

4. The Wedding Dress

It can take 6-9 months for a dress to be ordered and altered. Starting this process early ensures you aren't paying rush fees or settling for something off the rack that isn't your first choice.

5. Officiant

Whether it’s a religious leader, a judge, or a close friend, ensure the person marrying you is legally able to do so and available for your ceremony time.

6. Band or Wedding DJ

Great entertainment is the heartbeat of a reception. Like photographers, the best DJs and bands book up quickly, so get them on your calendar early.

Pro Tip: A great DJ does more than play music—they manage the "flow" of the evening. Look for someone who is comfortable making clear announcements so your guests always know when it's time for cake, dances, or the grand exit.

7. Hair and Makeup

If you have a specific artist in mind whose work you love, reach out soon. You'll also want to schedule a trial run well in advance of the big day.

Pro Tip: Always schedule a trial run on the same day as your engagement photos or bridal shower. You’ll get to see how the makeup looks on camera and how well it holds up throughout a busy day.

8. Caterer

(Note: Many venues provide in-house catering. If yours doesn't, this should move up higher on your list!) Food is one of the biggest parts of your budget, so you’ll want to start tastings and menu planning early.

Pro Tip: Don't forget to "feed the vendors!" Most caterers offer a discounted "vendor meal." Ensuring your photographer and DJ are fed at the same time you are means we’re fueled up and ready to go the moment the dancing starts.

9. Florist

Your florist will help define the aesthetic of your day. Once you have your venue and your dress, you’ll have a better idea of the floral "vibe" you’re going for.

Pro Tip: If you have a tight floral budget, ask your florist how to "repurpose" your ceremony arrangements. Those beautiful aisle markers can often be moved to the head table or the bar for the reception!

10. Invitations

Save the dates usually go out 6 months before the wedding, and invitations follow at the 2-3 month mark. This gives you time for custom design and printing.

11. Wedding Rings

Don't leave the rings until the last minute! You'll want time to shop around, get sized, and allow for any custom engraving.

12. Transportation and Accommodation

Finally, make sure you and your guests have a place to stay and a way to get around. Setting up hotel blocks early is a huge courtesy to your out-of-town guests.

A Final Tip from Clover and Pine Photo

While this list is a standard guide, every wedding is unique. If a specific florist is your "must-have" more than a specific DJ, feel free to swap the order! The goal is to build a team of vendors that you trust and who make you feel confident, taken care of, and above all else, excited.

Ready to cross #3 off your list? Click here to check my availability for your date!

2026 Dates: What’s Booked, What’s Pending, and What’s Still Available

As I head into the 2026 wedding season, my calendar is officially starting to take shape-and I wanted to share a quick update for couples who are currently planning ahead.

I’m incredibly grateful to already have a mix of booked weddings and pending inquiries for 2026. Each year, I’m reminded how early many couples begin dreaming up their celebration, and it means a lot to be trusted with documenting such meaningful days.

What “Booked” and “Pending” Means

When a date is booked, it’s fully reserved and no longer available.

When a date is pending, I’m actively in conversation with a couple and holding that date temporarily while details are finalized.

Because of this, availability can change quickly-especially for popular months like late spring, and fall.

Current 2026 Availability

At this point, I have minimal Saturdays available throughout August, September, and October.

Booked dates:

June 6th

June 8th

June 20th

July 26th

August 4th

August 8th

August 22nd

August 29th

September 5th

September 12th

September 26th

October 3rd

October 10th

October 17th

Pending dates:

August 15th

Planning Ahead

If you’re considering a 2026 or 2027 wedding in Southern Vermont or New England, and feel a connection to my work, I highly recommend reaching out sooner rather than later-even if your plans aren’t fully formed yet. A conversation early on can help determine whether your date is open and if we’re the right fit for each other.

I’m always happy to set up a consultation call or video meeting to talk through your vision, your timeline, and what coverage might make the most sense for your day.

Let’s Connect

If you’d like an updated look at availability or want to start the conversation about your 2026 wedding, you can get in touch through my contact page or by clicking here. I’d love to hear all about what you are planning.

Thank you, as always, for your continued trust and support-it truly means everything to be entrusted to capture one of life’s most important moments for my clients.

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com

802.380.7657

A Lifetime in the Making: Ken & Michele’s Westmoreland, New Hampshire Elopement | January 1, 2026

Some love stories don’t follow a straight line. Some take decades, detours, and growth before finding their way home.

Ken and Michele share an intimate moment after exchanging vows in Westmoreland, NH

Ken and Michele have known each other for most of their lives. Their mothers worked together years ago, back when they were children, long before either of them realized they were already part of each other’s story. One of their earliest shared memories comes from that time: children playing in a parking lot while waiting for their moms, and Ken sitting in the car, wishing he could join. Even then, they were in the same place, just not quite together yet.

They reconnected as teenagers without initially remembering they had known each other before. Once they did, that childhood memory came rushing back. Michele was “the brat” who got to play outside while Ken had to sit in the car. It is a small, almost funny moment, but one that quietly ties their lives together from the very beginning.

It was 1995. Michele had just turned sixteen and Ken was seventeen when they began dating, and two years later they were married. Like many couples who find each other early in life, they were still growing and learning who they were, both individually and together. Their marriage ended in divorce in 2000, and life carried them in different directions for a time, though their connection never fully disappeared.

Over the years, they reconnected and remained part of each other’s lives. Through friendship, shared history, and steady support, their bond deepened into something even stronger than before. They did not simply fall back in love. They chose each other again with clarity and intention.

On Christmas in 2020, Ken proposed. Michele said yes without hesitation.

When it came time to plan their wedding, they decided to elope, keeping the day focused entirely on themselves and their commitment, without outside expectations.

Michele found me through a Facebook post seeking a photographer for their elopement in Westmoreland, New Hampshire. Since Westmoreland is only about fifteen minutes from me, I commented that I was available, and I am incredibly grateful that simple connection led me to them.

On January 1, 2026, Ken and Michele exchanged vows during a quiet, deeply meaningful elopement at the gazebo on the common in Westmoreland. The day was calm, intentional, and full of emotion, centered entirely on their love and the life they have built together. It was one of the coldest days so far this winter, but somehow they made it feel incredibly warm.

It was an honor to photograph their elopement and document not just a wedding day, but the culmination of a lifetime of shared history and devotion.

Ken and Michele’s elopement is a reminder that love does not need to be loud to be powerful. Sometimes the most meaningful weddings are the ones rooted in real life, real growth, and choosing each other again and again.

Thank you, Ken and Michele, for trusting me to capture such an important chapter of your story.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

I can’t wait to hear from you.

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657

Engagement Session Style Guide | What to Wear for Your Photo Session

I’m so excited to be working with you and can’t wait to capture your love during your session!

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous before your photos - I totally get it. Even I sometimes still get butterflies when I’m the one in front of the camera!

I also know how overwhelming all the little details can feel when planning your engagement or couples session. From what to wear to where to go, there’s a lot to think about, but don’t worry, you’re in great hands. That’s exactly why I put together this helpful style guide. You’ll find tips and inspiration to make planning easier and to help you feel confident and excited going into your session.

Engagement sessions are some of my absolute favorites. They’re the perfect excuse to get dressed up, spend some intentional time together, and just enjoy each other’s company. You’ll laugh, snuggle, and maybe steal a few dozen kisses along the way, and by the end, you’ll have a beautiful gallery full of genuine moments and timeless memories to look back on.

Whether this is your engagement session or simply a way to celebrate your love story, I’m here to make the experience fun, stress-free, and authentically you.

Your engagement or couples session is such a special opportunity to showcase your personalities and your love story. You can choose a location that’s meaningful to you, maybe where you had your first date or a favorite spot you love to explore, or we can go somewhere completely new and adventurous. I love making your session feel like your own date night, fun, relaxed, and full of genuine connection.

There’s a lot to think about when planning your session, and since I get asked many of the same questions, I’ve put together this Engagement Session Style Guide to walk you through everything you need to know. Inside, you’ll find outfit inspiration, ideas for including your pets, location suggestions, and plenty of tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to have fun in front of the camera.

Whether you’re planning your engagement session in Southern Vermont or a cozy couples photoshoot anywhere in New England, I’m here to make it easy, meaningful, and true to who you are.

At Clover and Pine Photo, I love helping couples feel relaxed, confident, and completely themselves in front of the camera. Choosing what to wear for your engagement or couples session can feel like a big decision, but don’t stress, I’m here to make it easy and enjoyable. I’ve created this Engagement and Couples Session Style Guide to help you plan your outfits with confidence, so you can focus on what really matters: being present with the one you love.

Whether your session takes place in Southern Vermont, across New England, or anywhere your story unfolds, these tips will help you look and feel amazing in front of the camera while creating timeless, romantic images you’ll treasure forever.

Be Comfortable and Confident

The most important thing you can do is wear something that makes you feel like you. If you’re comfortable and confident in your outfit, it will absolutely shine through in your photos. Confidence photographs beautifully every time.

That said, this is a special occasion, so don’t be afraid to dress up a little. You don’t need to go formal, but choosing something a bit more elevated than your everyday look helps make your session feel even more special. For women, a soft, flowy dress always photographs beautifully, adding movement and a romantic touch. For men, a linen shirt, button-up, or well-fitted polo looks timeless and complements almost any setting.

When you feel great in what you’re wearing, you’ll move naturally, smile effortlessly, and your connection will take center stage.

Why You Should Coordinate, Not Match

One of the most common questions I get is whether couples should match their outfits and my answer is always the same: coordinate instead! Matching outfits can feel flat or overly staged, while coordinating tones and textures creates depth and visual harmony.

Choose colors that complement each other instead of matching exactly. If one of you wears soft neutrals like cream, beige, or taupe, the other might go for muted greens, warm browns, or subtle blues. These natural tones look stunning against the soft, earthy backdrops we often find in Vermont and throughout New England.

When your outfits work together without blending into one another, your final images will feel effortless, balanced, and beautifully cohesive.

Patterns and Textures That Work

When it comes to patterns, less is usually more. Busy prints can distract from what matters most - the connection between you two. If you do love a pattern, stick with something subtle and minimal, like soft florals, delicate stripes, or simple plaids.

Textures, on the other hand, are your best friend when it comes to adding depth and visual interest to your photos. Think cozy knits, lace, linen, or a softly layered look. These small details photograph beautifully and bring warmth and richness to your images. Adding layers, like a light jacket, shawl, or cardigan also gives you flexibility and variety during your session.

At the end of the day, your engagement or couples session is about celebrating your connection and creating memories you’ll look back on for years to come.

The best outfit is one that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself.

So take a deep breath, have fun planning, and get ready for a session that feels as natural, heartfelt, and beautiful as your love story.

Choosing the Best Colors for Your Skin Tone

When planning your outfits for your engagement or couples session, choosing the right colors can make a big difference in how your photos look and feel. The colors you wear should complement your skin tone and help you stand out beautifully in front of the camera.

If you have fair skin, slightly darker or richer tones tend to photograph best, as they add warmth and contrast without overpowering you. If you have deeper skin tones, lighter or neutral shades can make your features pop and bring a natural glow to your photos. The key is to create contrast between your skin and your clothing as this keeps the focus on you, where it belongs.

If you’re unsure what colors flatter you most, there’s an easy way to find out. You can head to Google and ask, “What colors look best on someone with [your skin tone, hair color, and eye color]?” It will give you ideas for shades that enhance your natural features and others to avoid. Try it for both of you before your session so your outfits complement each other perfectly!

Dressing for the Seasons

Each season in New England brings its own kind of magic, and the colors you choose can make your photos feel even more timeless and romantic. Whether you’re surrounded by fresh spring blooms, golden fall leaves, or sparkling winter snow, dressing for the season helps you stand out against the backdrop and keeps your images beautifully balanced.

As a Southern Vermont photographer, I love when couples wear tones that contrast gently with their surroundings. If you’re taking engagement photos in the winter, deeper colors can pop against the snow. In the summer, lighter tones feel bright and natural against the greenery. The goal is to make sure you are the focus of your images and not to blend into the background.

What to Avoid:

Neons: Avoid neon’s completely as they can cast color onto your skin and the skin of your partner.

Busy and high-contrast patterns: Loud plaids, large checks, and bold, high-contrast stripes can be distracting and may cause a moiré effect.

Small, repetitive patterns: Tiny dots, small stripes, and fine patterns can appear distorted or create a strobing effect on camera.

Intricate designs: Houndstooth and certain other small-scale patterns can also be problematic.

Logos and Brands: Stay away from visible logos, graphics, or text, as they are distracting and can date your photos. Trends change quickly.

Here are a few of my favorite color palettes for each season:

Winter: Deep or teal blue, maroon, hunter green, dusty pink, red, gold, and mauve. These rich tones look stunning against snowy landscapes or bare trees.

Spring: Pastel shades of green, yellow, pink, or blue, cream, and white. Light, airy colors reflect the freshness of the season and pair beautifully with blooming florals.

Summer: Periwinkle, lavender, bright greens, pale blue, mauve, bright or blush pink, and shades of yellow. These colors are timeless and look beautiful in sunlit fields or by the water.

Fall: Beige, cream, brown, burnt orange, maroon, bright or mustard yellow, and deep greens. These cozy, earthy hues photograph perfectly with autumn foliage and warm evening light.

In-Home Sessions: Muted colors that complement your home’s decor, soft neutrals like cream, beige, or taupe and denim always work best. They keep the focus on your connection and emotion rather than your surroundings.

Ladies Hair, Makeup, and Outfit Tips for Your Engagement or Couples Session

First things first, let’s talk undergarments. Choosing the right foundation for your outfit is key, and it’s something that can make or break the look of your photos. I recommend nude-colored undergarments whenever possible, and strapless options if your outfit requires it. Since I cannot easily edit out visible straps or lines in your photos, planning ahead is the easiest way to ensure everything looks polished and seamless.

Now, let’s move on to the fun part: your hair and makeup! The best advice I can give you is to be yourself and to feel comfortable in your look, not just cozy, but radiant and confident. Think about how you would style yourself for a special occasion like a wedding, a holiday dinner, or an anniversary celebration. You want to feel like your absolute best self without experimenting with a brand-new hairstyle or makeup trend on session day.

Some helpful tips for hair and makeup:

• Natural, neutral tones always photograph beautifully. Soft, subtle makeup enhances your features without overpowering your face.

• Wearing your hair down typically looks best in photos, but choose a style that feels natural and reflects your personality.

• Less is more. Simple, classic looks often age the best in photos and allow your expressions and connection to shine.

• Don’t forget about your nails! A fresh manicure or simply removing chipped polish will keep the details in your photos looking clean and polished.

If your session takes place outdoors, remember that you’ll truly be in nature. There may be bugs, dirt, or even the occasional animal or goose - it’s all part of the adventure! We’ll be standing on grass, gravel, or uneven surfaces at times, so heels may be tricky at times. Choosing footwear that allows you to move comfortably is key while still feeling stylish. I suggest a cute boot or a shoe with a block heel.

Men’s Outfit and Styling Tips for Your Engagement or Couples Session

Think about fit and comfort first. Clothes that fit well will make you look sharp and feel confident, whereas items that are too tight or too loose can create distractions. A well-fitted button-up shirt, a crisp polo, or a lightweight sweater paired with nice pants or dark jeans is always a safe and stylish choice. If your session is outdoors, consider layering with a blazer, jacket, or vest as layers add depth and texture to your photos while keeping you comfortable in varying temperatures.

• Make sure you choose colors that complement your partner’s outfit and coordinate with the sessions setting. Avoid overly bold patterns or logos.

• Your clothes should be clean and wrinkle-free. Remove items from your pockets that may create awkward lines and consider swapping everyday accessories for your nicest watch and cufflinks

• For grooming, make sure your facial hair is trimmed and your hair is styled in a way that feels natural to you. Your nails should be clean and tidy.

Finally, remember that comfort equals confidence. The more comfortable you feel in your outfit, the more relaxed and authentic you’ll appear in your photos. Engagement and couples sessions are all about celebrating your connection, and when you feel confident, it shows. Your personality and your love story will be the true stars of every frame.

Last-Minute Tips and Tricks

To ensure your session goes smoothly and you feel confident in front of the camera, here are a few extra reminders:

• If you wear glasses, keep in mind there may be glare, especially if they are not anti-glare lenses.

• Steam or iron your clothes ahead of time to avoid wrinkles. Try on the outfits you plan to wear beforehand so you can make sure you love the way you look in them and make adjustments as needed before your session.

• Brush your teeth so your smile looks bright and fresh, and so your partner enjoys all of the dozens of kisses you’ll be exchanging all throughout your session.

• Swap out everyday jewelry for your nicest pieces - think elegant watches, gold or silver rings, and subtle earrings. Remove casual items like rubber rings or your Apple Watch to keep your look polished.

• Clear your pockets of anything that may create bulk or lines in your outfit. I generally have enough space in my camera bag to hold on to your phones and wallets.

• Avoid wearing a hair tie on your wrist, as it can leave marks or be distracting in photos.

• Be aware that your shoes will be seen. Wear shoes that coordinate with your outfits.

Following these tips will help you feel prepared, confident, and radiant during your session. When you feel good, it shows and that confidence makes all the difference in capturing natural, authentic, and truly beautiful engagement or couples photos.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657

Tips for Feeling Comfortable and Confident During Your Engagement Photo Session | Southern Vermont and New England Engagements

My biggest piece of advice for any couple? Focus on your partner and not the camera. The best engagement photos happen when you’re simply enjoying each other’s company. I always tell my couples, if you like each other, that’s all anyone will see in your photos!

Your engagement session is all about celebrating your love and the life you’re building together. These photos don’t need to look like a fashion magazine spread (unless that’s totally your vibe). They should feel like you - real, relaxed, and full of connection.

Focus on Having Fun Together

The best way to feel natural in front of the camera is to do what makes you happy together. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:

Make each other laugh. Share your favorite inside jokes, talk about something funny that happened recently, or just let yourself be playful. When you’re laughing, you’re not thinking about the camera, you’re thinking about each other.

Reminisce about your favorite memories. Talk about your first date, your first trip, or that awkward moment that still makes you laugh. It brings genuine emotion to the surface — which always photographs beautifully.

Dream about your future. Chat about where you want to honeymoon, the home you’ll create together, or your shared bucket list. That excitement and joy will shine through every photo.

Play a game or do something active. If you’re worried about what to do with your hands, give them something to do! Bring a deck of cards, toss a baseball, or go for a walk with your dog. These little activities create natural movement and authentic moments.

Share a drink or snack. Whether it’s your favorite local beer, coffee from your go-to café, or pizza from your favorite spot, food always adds comfort and personality to your session.

Use Pinterest for Inspiration, Not Imitation

Pinterest is amazing for gathering engagement photo ideas, but remember - those images are often styled shoots with models. Instead of trying to recreate them exactly, use them as inspiration. We’ll take the essence of what you love - the mood, the colors, the connection, and then we will make it your own.

Be Honest and Do What Feels Right

If something feels awkward, skip it! You’re not here to model, you’re here to make memories. Let your personalities shine, and don’t be afraid to tell me if something isn’t working for you. The more open we are, the more authentic your photos will feel (and we’ll know exactly what to avoid on your wedding day).

When we work together, I’ll give you gentle guidance - where to stand, what to do with your hands, but I’ll also step back and let you simply be. The magic happens in the in-between moments: the laughter, the glances, the quiet pauses.

And if you’re nervous about being in front of the camera for the first time, don’t worry. I’ll be with you every step of the way to help you look and feel your best.

Let the Moments Unfold Naturally

I love capturing genuine connection. During your session, I’ll encourage interaction and let you fall into your own rhythm together. I’m never going to stop you when you’re being adorable and super into each other, as those are the exact moments you’ll want to remember forever.

My goal is always to capture your love as it truly is; warm, joyful, and completely unique to you. So take a deep breath, hold onto your person, and just enjoy this time together.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657

Barbara & Justin’s Wedding at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Brattleboro, Vermont

Some weddings hold an extra special place in your heart, and Barbara and Justin’s day will always be one of those for me. Not only was this beautiful celebration the very first wedding I ever photographed, but Barbara also happens to be one of my best friends. Her trust in me to capture such an important day meant the world.

Barbara and Justin’s story feels like something out of a movie. They were high school sweethearts who reconnected years later, only to discover that their love had never truly faded. Watching them exchange vows surrounded by family and friends felt like witnessing a beautiful full circle moment filled with love rediscovered and stronger than ever.

Their wedding took place on August 20th, 2022, at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Brattleboro, Vermont. The venue was filled with laughter, happy tears, and the kind of joy that lingers long after the music fades. Barbara looked radiant in her gown from Pamela Moore Bridals, and her elegant hairstyle by Jen Wood of Studio 20 Hair Salon, both located in downtown Brattleboro, completed her timeless bridal look.

Every detail of their day reflected who they are, warm, down to earth, and deeply connected. It was the perfect way to begin my journey with wedding photography, and I couldn’t have asked for a more meaningful start.

To this day, I’m endlessly grateful that Barbara believed in me before I even believed in myself. Her wedding not only celebrated a lifelong love story but also sparked my own passion for capturing the heartfelt stories of others.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657

A Winter Engagement Session at Guilford Pond | Southern Vermont Engagement and Wedding Photographer

There’s something undeniably magical about winter in Vermont. The quiet stillness, the way fresh snow sparkles like diamonds, and how the cold air seems to make every embrace feel just a little bit warmer. Aubrey and Tyler’s engagement session at Guilford Pond in Guilford, Vermont, the day after Valentine’s Day, was the perfect reminder of just how breathtaking this season can be.

Aubrey and Tyler share a kiss with Guilford Pond behind them

Everything that day was blanketed in snow and ice, yet the world felt peaceful and full of light. The sky was a brilliant winter blue, and though it was only about 25 degrees at the warmest part of the day, Aubrey and Tyler’s love radiated so much warmth that it was easy to forget the chill in the air. The way they looked at each other could have melted even the coldest of hearts.

Wrapped up in cozy layers, they wandered along the frozen shoreline, laughing, holding hands, and stealing little moments together beneath the pale winter sun. There’s a special kind of intimacy that happens during winter sessions when you have to snuggle close just to stay warm, when the world feels quiet and still, and all you can hear is your own laughter echoing through the crisp air.

Honestly, any couple brave enough to plan their engagement session during winter is already amazing in my book. There’s something adventurous and deeply romantic about choosing this time of year when love stands out boldly against the calm, white landscape. I truly wish more couples would take the leap and embrace the beauty of a Vermont winter.

If you’ve ever dreamed of snowy fields, cozy coats, and that gorgeous blue winter light glistening on fresh snow, a winter engagement session might be exactly what your love story needs.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657

Your Ultimate Wedding Photo Checklist: Capturing Every Moment That Matters

Your wedding day is one of the most meaningful and emotional days of your life, and while every couple’s story is unique, there are moments that deserve to be remembered forever. I believe in capturing not just how your day looks, but how it feels.

That’s why I created a simple wedding photo checklist — to help you think about what moments matter most to you. You’re not required to want every item on this list, but it’s here as a guide to ensure nothing important slips through the cracks.

Getting ready

The excitement begins long before the ceremony. These quiet, joy-filled moments are some of the most heartfelt images of the day:

• Bridal gown, shoes, and bouquet on display

• Detail shots of accessories like earrings, necklaces, invitations, menus, and rings

• Hair and makeup being done

• The groom getting ready

• Bridesmaids and maid of honor helping each other prepare

• Groomsmen straightening ties and adjusting boutonnieres

• A quiet moment to read your vows once more before the ceremony

Pre-ceremony

Before walking down the aisle, there’s a mix of nerves and excitement that make for genuine, emotional photos. Some moments to consider include:

• Individual portraits of the bride and groom

• A first look with your partner or parents

• Detail images of the ceremony and reception sites

• Guests arriving and greeting one another

The ceremony

The moment you’ve been waiting for - saying “I do.” From the walk down the aisle to your first kiss as a married couple, I’ll be there to capture the joy, laughter, and happy tears that make your ceremony unforgettable.

Pre-reception

After the ceremony, we’ll take a few moments for portraits before the celebration begins:

• Full family portraits

• Wedding party group photos

• Portraits with parents

• Portraits together as a couple

• Photos of you signing your marriage license

Reception

Once the formalities are done, it’s time to celebrate. Your reception is where personalities shine and emotions flow freely.

• Your grand entrance

• Speeches and toasts

• Your first dance together

• Dances with parents

• Portraits with guests

• The dance floor fun

Traditions, religious, and cultural moments

Every wedding is unique, and your traditions make it truly yours. Whether it’s a bouquet toss, a cake cutting, or something deeply personal like a handfasting or glass-breaking ritual, I’ll document it all with care and respect.

Let’s tell your story

Your love story deserves to be told authentically, with warmth, emotion, and attention to detail. As a Southern Vermont and New England wedding photographer, I specialize in natural, bright, documentary-style photography and heartfelt storytelling that celebrates your connection.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657

A Look Back at Brittany and Maria’s Beautiful Autumn Wedding

Every so often I revisit past weddings I have photographed, partly to relive the magic of those days and partly because with a fresh perspective I sometimes find hidden gems that I did not notice the first time around. Recently, I revisited Brittany and Maria’s wedding gallery, and I am so glad that I did.

As I went through their photos again, I found and edited around forty additional images, some of which quickly became my absolute favorites from the entire day. It is amazing what a second look can do. There is something about the passage of time that allows you to see moments differently and notice quiet details, fleeting glances, and little expressions of love that tell the story all over again.

Brittany and Maria are two people whose connection is impossible to miss. The way they look at each other, the laughter they share, and the way they made everyone around them feel so welcome all reflected the genuine love and care they have for one another. Photographing couples like them is such a joy, and being part of their wedding day was an honor I will always be grateful for.

This wedding was especially meaningful to me because it was only the second wedding I had ever photographed. Choosing a photographer to capture one of the most important days of your life is a huge decision, and I still feel so thankful that they trusted me with that responsibility. Their confidence and kindness meant so much and helped shape the way I approach every wedding I photograph today.

Brittany and Maria were married on October 8, 2022, in downtown Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Their ceremony took place in the field beside the Millstream Community Center, surrounded by a beautiful waterfall and a quiet river that added the perfect autumn backdrop. The time and thought they put into every detail was so evident. The decor reflected their personalities perfectly, heartfelt, warm, and full of love. The golden autumn hues, soft light, and cozy atmosphere tied everything together into something truly magical.

Looking back through these images reminded me why I love what I do. Every wedding tells its own story, and every couple brings something unique to their day. Brittany and Maria’s celebration was a reminder that beauty often lies in simplicity, authenticity, and genuine love.

If you are planning your own wedding or family session in Southern Vermont, New Hampshire, or anywhere in New England, I would love to hear from you and chat about how I can help capture your story. I specialize in natural, bright, documentary-style photography with gently guided portraits.

Ready to tell your story? Please, get in touch!

cloverandpinephoto@gmail.com | 802-380-7657