A Glamorous & Relaxed Winter Engagement Photo Shoot at Wild Sugar Homestead

Posted on April 11, 2023

Sure, we’re biased, but we stand by the idea that Vermont is the ideal location for a winter engagement shoot no matter where you’re getting married. Take Stephanie and Chris for example; this couple is tying the knot in Massachusetts but still traveled to Vermont for their winter engagement photo shoot!

The couple booked a “Sugar Shoot” at Wild Sugar Homestead in Newbury, Vermont, a unique offer that includes a one night stay at the Homestead and a one hour engagement session with owner and photographer Hallie Jade Pictures. (How fun is that?!)

We love the mix of looks in their gallery: part laidback, classic New England (the couple did meet at Dunkin Donuts, a New England staple, afterall!) and part rock and roll glamorous! Stephanie’s dramatic (and stunning) dress is a great reminder that engagement pictures are a wonderful time to get out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve always dreamed of wearing!

Check out both of their looks below!

Vendors:

Location: Wild Sugar Homestead, Photographer: Hallie Jade Pictures.

Your Next Read:

Curious to see more of Hallie’s photography work? Check out her snaps from this beautiful DIY elopement.

Want even more engagement photoshoot ideas? Check out any of these.

Best of 2022: Just Married Moments

Posted on January 24, 2023

Can you believe this is our final installment in our Best of 2022 series?! It’s been an amazing year, and we can’t think of a better way to wrap things up than a look at one of our favorite parts of any wedding: those precious just married moments.

Editorial Picks for Just Married Moments

The emotions of being pronounced newlywed is unparalleled, and while many of these features could fit under several categories, we think this important moment deserves to be celebrated in it’s own right! Check out our editorial picks for the best just married moments of the year, and see who you picked for your favorite in our Readers Choice Awards below!

Smiles & Sunshine

Everything about this moment at Sterling Ridge Resort is bright and sunny: the weather, the traditional Bengali wedding attire, the sunflower wedding arch by Flower Power VT, and of course, the couple’s beaming smiles.

Photo: Elizabeth Rogers Photography

Cruisin’ Together

These two outfitted their old military style jeep with a “just married” sign, and took off for a drive together after the ceremony. You can feel that just married excitement in this clip!

Film: EightZero2 Productions

Party Parade

Following their ceremony at Inn at Weathersfield, this couple led their guests in a parade to their reception! This is such a fun way to get the party started!

Photo: GarrenTee Photography

Sunset Dip

This photo is all romance! The couple stole away for some evening portraits, and the groom practically swept his bride off her feet! Won’t lie, we’re swooning a bit.

Photo: Love Wins Photography

The Flip

This couple walked into their Mansfield Barn ready to start the party with a very impressive flip and a shot! Talk about a memorable, fun entrance! We can only imagine how fun the rest of the night must have been!

Lifted High

One of the most iconic moments at a Sugarbush Resort is the “Just Married” private chairlift ride after your ceremony! It’s an amazing opportunity to soak in the day privately with your partner, and get some killer photos!

Photo: Oliver Parini Photography

The Aisle Kiss (Readers Choice Winner)

This couple was so excited to be married, they barely made it to the end of the aisle before stealing another kiss! Too sweet!

Photo: Courtney Cania

Sparkling First Dance

NJOY Weddings & Events planned this stunning Indian wedding celebration, which featured one of the most epic first dances we’ve ever seen! Sparklers and smoke surround the elegant couple, but they only have eyes for each other…this just married moment is straight out of a movie!

Photo: Virdee Films

Arriving in Style

This couple arrived to their Farmhouse Flowers VT in style on a motorcycle complete with streamers! We love this fun, unique entrance!

Wildly in Love

I love the expressions on their faces following their Wild Sugar Homestead ceremony! You can just feel their “oh my gosh, we did it!” excitement. Such a beautiful moment of pure joy.

Photo: Hallie Jade Pictures

Romance in the River

This couple stole away for a private moment during their Lareau Farm Inn wedding to explore the area together. It’s a great reminder to take a few minutes on your wedding day with just your partner to check in, soak it in, and steal a kiss!

Photo: Colette Kulig Photography

Confetti Blast

This post-ceremony confetti blast at ECHO is one of the most epic we’ve ever seen! The colors, the applause, the passionate embrace…we’re giddy just looking at it!

Photo: Sam Simons

Streaming Love

This couple ran through a tunnel of streamers after their ceremony, resulting in some huge smile and amazing photos! This is a great, unique alternative to a flower toss!

Photo: Hannah Photography

A Cheeky Farewell

The bride’s makeup, courtesy of Jennifer Perellie, was the only thing left on for this late night, naked pond dive! It’s a cheeky, very fun, and (we’re guessing) refreshing way to end a wedding night and celebrate the start of the next chapter!

Photo: Carl Heyerdahl

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Best of 2022: Wedding Dogs

Posted on January 18, 2023

Your wedding is a time to celebrate with those you love – including your pets! We love dogs at weddings, and hope these moments inspire you to include your pup in your big day.

Keep reading below for our editor’s picks for Best of 2022, and see who you voted for as your favorite in our Readers Choice Awards!

Cutest Cork Thief

This little pup quite literally stole the show during the couple’s engagement shoot! We’ve never seen a cuter thief than this one.

Photo: Allison Macy Photography.

Furever in Love

A beautiful, sunny day at the very dog-friendly Phineas Swann Inn & Spa makes for a perfect wedding, and this canine duo approves!

The Party Animal

Check out that smile on this dog, lounging at its owners feet while they share a cheers at their wedding bar. It’s clear that this party pooch is ready to stir up some fun!

Photo: Blooming Photo Company

The Loyal Companion

This whimsical wedding at Wild Sugar Homestead included a sweet companion walking the bride down the aisle, making one of the biggest moments of the day even more memorable!

Photo: Hallie Jade Pictures

On the Run (Readers Choice Awards)

Cheddar the dog was thrilled to be included in his parent’s big day. His “my-humans-just-got-married” excitement is contagious!

Photo: Kate Seymour Photography

Petal Pup

This sweet pup came dressed in style to match the bride and groom! Decorated dog collars and leashes are always in style, and this pup beautifully rocked one.

Photo by Jenna Brisson Photography

Rolling in Love

This Dog of Honor could hardly contain their excitement that their humans were getting married, and began rolling around (with a huge smile!) during the start of the wedding ceremony. Pure happiness!

Photo: Keith MacDonald Photography.

The First Love

Our bonds with our dogs run deep! This bride took a moment to acknowledge their special relationship on her wedding day, complete with a “I loved her first” sign and an adorable tutu that matches her bridal bouquet.

Phoot: Margaret Michael Photography

At Attention

This attentive pooch cracks me up! The little paw propped up on the table? The ears cocked forward listening to a speech? Absolutely priceless!

Photo: Hannah Photography

Suited Up

Further proof that everyone looks great in a tux! This dapper dog matched the groom (who wore a McNeil & Reedy tux) during this wedding at the Grafton Inn.

Photo by: Mountain Hearts Photography

All Dressed Up

This pup’s green velvet dress is too cute! Equal parts elegant and excited, this special guest was picture-ready for her owner’s winter wedding.

Photo: Juniper Studios.

Puppy Kisses

Nothing beats a sweet kiss from your pup, especially when it’s after your beautiful ceremony at Sugarbush Resort!

Photo: Morgan Provost

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BEST OF 2022: Wedding Venues

Posted on January 17, 2023

Despite being a small state, there is no shortage of amazing wedding venues across Vermont. From mountain retreats to lakeside spots, there truly is something for everyone here. We’re rounding up the best Vermont wedding venues to help you find your perfect “I do” location!

Check out our editorial picks for the best wedding venues in 2022, and vote for your favorite in our Readers Choice Awards below!

The Equinox

The Equinox is located in the beautiful town of Manchester, Vermont and has no shortage of sweeping, majestic mountain views. Showcased here is the venue’s picturesque Pond Pavilion, which is located at the foot of Mt. Equinox.

Photo: Jaclyn Schmitz

Sugarbush Resort

If you love Vermont for skiing or snowboarding, then you’ll fall head over heels for Sugarbush Resort! This quintessential Vermont wedding venue, located in Warren, is breathtaking all seasons. The Resort offers several options for gathering spaces and plentiful onsite accommodations.

Photo 1: Juniper Studios

Photo 2: Oliver Parini

Wilburton Inn

The Wilburton Inn is nestled on 30 acres of pure romantic and historic charm! This venue is perfect for couple’s looking to provide guests with a weekend-long celebration. Their ceremony site boasts sweeping views, and the unique marble courtyard is the dreamiest setting to dance the night away.

Photos: Swoyer Photography

Hildene

Step straight into a fairytale at Hildene. The formal gardens of the Lincoln Family Home are the perfect backdrop for taking photos and sweeping views of the Taconic and Green Mountains are hard to beat. This is one of Vermont’s most elegant, historic and timeless venues!

Photo: Michelle Lange Photography

An Affair by the Lake

An Affair by the Lake, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, is truly stunning. Along with uninterrupted lake views, this venue also offers a ceremony gazebo, large lawn for a tented reception, and elegant Inn on site for select guests.

Photo: Golden Door Photo

Talta Lodge

Tälta Lodge is one of Stowe, Vermont’s newest wedding venues and conveniently located near lots of outdoor activities, perfect for adventure loving couples. Highlighted here is a timeless summer wedding by Sara Judith Events. Everything about this day at Talta Lodge was customized to perfection for the bride and groom, and showcases what’s possible at this beautiful venue.

Film: Beyond Bliss Films

ECHO

Complete with sparkling views of Lake Champlain, ECHO is truly a unique and modern wedding venue. It’s one of the most memorable wedding venues in Vermont (think: fish tanks & exhibits inside and Adirondack mountains views outside!) and is one of only a few venues directly on the Burlington waterfront.

Photo: Michael Tallman

Farm Road Estate

Farm Road Estate is a historic and romantic wedding venue and inn nestled on 32 acres in West Dover, Vermont. A quintessential Vermont wedding destination, uniquely suited to host Pinterest- ready weddings and large events all year round!

Photo 1: Abigail Jean Photography

Photo 2: Jenna Brisson Photography

The Essex Resort & Spa

The Essex Resort and Spa is the perfect destination for couples looking for deluxe accommodations and Vermont charm. Featured here is a garden party themed summer wedding filmed by Kasaydia Wind Media. The couple’s big day was ethereal, personal and sweet, with the Essex being the perfect backdrop!

Maquam Barn

Maquam Barn and Winery in Milton, Vermont can be easily descirbed in one word: romantic! The venue is a working winery with a magnificent, newly constructed barn, and sweeping vistas to backdrop couple’s ceremonies.

Photo: Katie Jean Photos

Lake Bomoseen Lodge

Lake Bomoseen Lodge is nestled in the Taconic Mountains on Vermont’s largest inland lake, gorgeous Lake Bomoseen. the venue includes multiple ceremony locations and on-site accomodations. We’ve seen weddings from all four seasons held here, each breathtaking in their own right!

Photo: Lindsey Vann

Inn at Grace Farm

The Inn at Grace Farm provides couples with a private estate experience for their Vermont celebration. With three ceremony sites, a stunning reception barn, and comfortable on-site accommodations, Grace Farm is a truly magical place to celebrate.

Photo: Photos by Kintz

Sleepy Hollow

Step into a storybook at Sleepy Hollow Inn! Shown here is the venue’s pavilion, a cozy and romantic space in the winter. I’m swooning over the flickering candles framing the aisles.

Photo Credit: Cait Fletcher photo

Silhouette Hill

Silhouette Hill checks all of the boxes when it comes to hosting a quintessential Vermont wedding in the county. They provide a serene, picturesque backdrop for couples looking to customize their big day.

Millstone Hill

Millstone Hill is complete with gorgeous views, a beautiful event barn, and a Bed and Breakfast. For couples looking for a real Vermont feel and charm, this quaint and romantic venue is it!

Lareau Farm Inn

Lareau Farm Inn is a classic Vermont farmhouse venue in Waitsfield, Vermont. Celebrations sprawl from the pavilion onto the expansive lawn, which lends even the most elegant of wedding an intimate vibe. As the home of Vermont-famous, American Flatbread, they also offer catering, including that famous (and ridiculously delish) wood-fired pizza.

Photo 1: MoHo Photo

Photo 2: Hannah Photography

Farmhouse Flowers

Farmhouse Flowers VT is blooming with beauty! As the name suggests, this gorgeous venue is nestled among the lush flower gardens, from which the team crafts stunning wedding floral arrangements and bouquets. The timber frame reception barn is equally lovely.

Photo: Desirae Jean Photography

Sterling Ridge (Readers Choice Awards)

Sterling Ridge Resort is a log cabin resort hidden in the mountains, providing a unique, private space for couples to celebrate with loved ones for an entire wedding weekend. This is an absolutely beautiful backdrop for nature lovers!

Photo: K. Lenox Photography

Wild Sugar Homestead

Wild Sugar Homestead is a stunning, rustic wedding venue perfect for couples who want to create a unique, DIY wedding experience in a place that showcases all of Vermont’s natural beauty. And fun fact: its owners, Hallie and Erik (pictured), were also among the first couple to get married here!

Photos by Jessica Dantowitz and second shooter Miranda Photo Co.

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Best of 2022: Wedding Style

Posted on January 11, 2023

This year like never before, couples slayed their wedding photos in style. From elegant, timeless looks to one of a kind outfits, Vermont couples came dressed to impress!

Check out the style inspiration below in our editor’s picks for Best of 2022 Style, and scroll to see who you voted for your Readers Choice Awards pick!

In Vogue

This unbelievably chic couple looks like they stepped out of the pages of Vogue. Jennifer Perellie created a sophisticated look for the bride that complimented their unique elopement style perfectly.

Photo: Illume by Paul Reynolds

Timeless Beauties

This couple’s style is as elegant as it is timeless! His black tux, from McNeil and Reedy and her embellished gown from Fiori Bridal, are stunning choices for their wedding at The Essex. (And if the arbor by Tipsy Tulip Designs looks familiar, it’s because it was a pick for the best florals of 2022!)

Photo: Amy Demos Photography

The Two for One

Just look at the ruffles on her skirt – how can you help but soon?! This Veilmonté Bridal Showroom gown had a surprise though; not only was it perfect for a romantic ceremony but the skirt detached revealing a sleak, ready-to-dance reception dress. Amazing.

Black Beauty

This bride was determined to show off her darker style in her wedding attire, and she nailed it! Her black lace top and dip dyed skirt combo are stunning. (She even painted her nails black to match!)

Photo: Madison Anne Studio

Shades of Green

Jaclyn Watson planned this stunning wedding which featured shades of green from the wedding party to the decor. This bridal party totally nailed the mismatched look with their coordinated green dresses. I especially love how their bouquets kept in the same green and white palette, perfectly complimenting the style.

Photo: Kelsey Regan Photography

Classy and Classic

I love this timeliness look by Fawn MUA! The subtle makeup and lush lashes compliment her traditional gown and beaded veil perfectly. Perfection.

Photo: Rob Springs Photography

The Winter Wow

This is what happens when your wedding party not understands the assignment but completely rocks it. From the goggles to the boots to the fur shawls, this wedding party has the après party look locked down!

Photo: J uniper Studios

Black and White Beauties (Readers Choice Awards)

The bride’s beaded black suit is truly unlike anything I’ve seen before; I’m obsessed! Add to that her beloved in a stunningly elegant white gown and the wildly lush bouquets by M’s Wedding Flowers and I’m rendered speechless. Their entire look is a showstopper!

Photo: Colette Kulig Photography

The Cape Sweep

This glamorous couple works in theatre, so it came to no surprise to planner Odyssey Events that they understood drama! The bridal cape adds an unparalleled sense of drama and elegance to their classic look.

Photo: Savannah Brown

Wild and Wonderful

Photographer Hallie Jade got married this year at Wild Sugar, the venue her and husband own and maintain. I love their colorful style – from her veil to their wedding party…it’s a little wild, and totally wonderful.

Photo: Jessica Dantowitz (Miranda Photo Co., second shooter)

Modern Love

I love the contrast between the clean, modern lines of the space (how cool is that metal arbor?) with the lush, colorful flowers by Yanique Events. Designed by Ehmann Events, this look is so fresh and lovely!

Photo: Isora Lithgow Creations

Radiant in Red

The bride wore a stunning red sari for her Sikh marriage ceremony, known as the ‘Anand Karaj’, meaning blissful union. This grand, multi-day event was planned by NJoy Weddings & Events. From the rich colors to her sparkling jewels to her natural excitement, this bride is positively radiant!

Photo: Virdee Films

The Getaway Look

I love this bride’s feathered jacket for the most perfect getaway outfit! It adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to their sparkler exit.

Photo: Idena Beach Photography

French Fête

This couple’s celebration was inspired by classic French culture (they even shared their first dance to a classic French song!). The bride wore an off the shoulder gown, and the groom wore a white tux jacket. The elegant style was mirrored by their decor, including the lush florals by Anaphora Flowers. Each detail provided the perfect ambience for their intimate fête.

Film: Eightzero2 Productions

Nailing It

I love this close up shot of the bride’s bedazzled nails. The design is fun and glitzy, and the neutral color palette keeps it sophisticated. Hands down, a great look!

Photo: Jess Rene Photo

Dark and Dreamy

This couple embraced their dark side with a color palette that was both dreamy and dramatic! It’s a great choice for their emotional fall wedding (just try to watch their vows without crying).

Film: Kasaydia Wind Media

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Venue Spotlight on Wild Sugar Homestead

Posted on October 6, 2022

Do you envision breathtaking mountain views when you think of your wedding day? Have you been looking for a wedding venue that provides a stunning, blank canvas you can use to bring your DIY vision to life? Are you hoping to host close family members and friends on-site for a quintessential Vermont wedding weekend? Wild Sugar Homestead in beautiful Newbury, Vermont checks all of those boxes (and so much more!)

Tucked away in Orange County, the Homestead boasts the most beautiful sweeping views of the White Mountains and historic charm. It’s the perfect for couples looking for a quiet venue in the Vermont countryside with freedom to bring their wildest dreams to life.

Owners Erik and Hallie (who just so happened to get married there themselves this past summer!) sat down with us to share more about their beautiful and one-of-a-kind Vermont property.

The space: What’s the vibe?

Wild Sugar Homestead is a bucolic Vermont dreamland!

Wild Sugar Homestead, which includes a large main house, party barn, and a converted milk house, sits on 70 acres of pure Vermont magic. With views of the White Mountains from Washington to Moosilauke, an apple orchard that overlooks the pond, and beautiful scatterings of carefully chosen plants (by nature or us!) all around you, it is hard to imagine wanting to be anywhere else while you are at Wild Sugar.

The house mirrors the landscape – there’s something to see and nooks to explore everywhere. The first walk-through is like being guided through a maze of Vermont “I Spy” items. 200 year old posts and beams? Check. Hand planed floorboards? Check. Copper tub? Check. Hand-cut nails? Check. Once you’re acquainted with the maze, there is a charming homeyness to the sprawl of the house. If the living room is too noisy (or not noisy enough) you can head to the den and hang out there. If the main kitchen is at capacity, there is another kitchen upstairs waiting for you. Wild Sugar not only has the ability to sleep 16, it has the ability for 16 people to live there for the duration of the wedding weekend without that claustrophobic feeling.

If you have more than 16 folks that you’d like to be on the property for the weekend, we have you covered. We have an almost unlimited capacity for tent campers in our backfield, just a 1-minute walk from the main house and party barn.

Additionally, the milk house which is right off of the barn, has been converted into a space to hang out with a small group and have a drink. It can also be used as a bedroom space where your 2 most introverted friends can stay (dibs on the milk house is a real thing).

The party barn is, as described, a great place to party. It has five “windows” cut into the south and west-facing walls that let in the breeze and some of the most golden mountain light we have ever seen. It can accommodate small dinners (under 90), dancing for up to 200, and it makes a great place to have a ceremony in the event of rain.

You can have your ceremony anywhere you’d like at Wild Sugar, but we have two main sites that are hard to beat. Site one is the mountain view. The highest point on property is an amazing place to take in the White Mountains. If mountains are your thing, this view will leave your mouth permanently agape. Plus, the walk up the field to the high point is so dreamy! Site two is the pond view. Nestled right in our old variety apple orchard and only a hundred feet from the house, this a great spot for a late summer / early fall wedding. Plus, it allows greater ease of access for folks with mobility issues.

The amenities: What’s included?

You will have complete access to the entire property and grounds for the duration of your stay. This includes lodging for 16 and unlimited tent camping (perfect for summer weddings!) We also offer flexible reservations; typically Friday through Sunday, but can also accommodate at least Wednesday through Sunday. Wild Sugar Homestead offers a variety of flexible packages to truly make your weekend unique. Think: design help, Sunday brunch, staff for the day of your wedding, a smoker/grill that can feed 200, pick your own flowers- and more!

The area: What is there to do during your stay?

Newbury is an incredible small town with a charming small town vibe to match. You are going to have to drive 30+ minutes for the big breweries and nightlife, but you only have to walk out the door to have access to Tucker Mountain Town Forest and its extensive trail system and 360-degree views of the White’s and Green’s. You only have to drive 8 minutes down the hill to spend some time with our friends at 4 Corners Farm (the best strawberries you have ever had, period.) You only have to drive 5 minutes to take a dip or go for a paddle in Hall’s Lake. And, you only have to drive 10 minutes to be in the charming little downtown of Bradford where you can get a coffee and anything else you need for your weekend. We love the liveliness of towns like Stowe or Burlington, but that’s not us. It’s quiet here, and it’s lovely.

The history: What’s the property’s story?

Wild Sugar Homestead was re-built in 1971 by Ray Clarke as his family home. Ray went on to have a very successful career renovating homes using reclaimed materials and 100+ year old building practices, which is exactly what he did at Wild Sugar. In fact, he made Better Home and Garden’s list of Top 10 Contractors in the U.S!

Also, while we (Hallie and Erik) are the owners of Wild Sugar, we were also the very first clients!

After our wedding, all we can really say is that spending a few days with your favorite people while you all do things in preparation for your wedding is like the greatest gigantic bear hug you could ever receive. It made every detail have purpose and every thought intentional. While it might seem like a lot of work, we would never do it any other way. Thank you to our loved ones for chipping in, it truly was the greatest part of our wedding.

Thank you, Hallie and Erik! Learn more about Wild Sugar Homestead in the Vermont Weddings Vendor Guide.