First Look at Fort Foster

The View at Pepperrell Cove

The View at Pepperrell Cove is a beautiful little restaurant wedding venue right on the water in Kittery, Maine. Two floors of event space allow couples to customize their wedding day, and in Christina and Will’s wedding, they chose the first floor for their ceremony. The upstairs space with 180 degree picture windows provide a stunning vista over the ocean.

Thank you, Christina and Will, for trusting me with this very special day. There is truly nothing like Maine in the summertime. It’s one of my favorite places!

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Make that Getting Ready Room BIGGER!

There is never enough space during the getting ready process. The bride, all her bridesmaids, makeup artists and hair stylists and allllll their stuff, mothers, visitors, videographers, bags and bags and bags of stuff…… it all fills a room or house very quickly. You need to book the biggest room the hotel has. A standard room will absolutely not work. As a photographer, I need space and distance and above all else, I need natural light from windows. I need space to set up your flat lay, in a nice uncluttered area with good light and neutral colors. So it’s a big ask. Think of a large space you can use, and make it even bigger.

I’m not here to call out any places, but I can think of a few venues and hotels where the bridal suites were pretty tough because they were cramped, with few windows and filled with artificial lights.

Get That Wedding Cake Away from the Plastic Tent Wall

Wedding cakes are beautiful!! Even the little cutting cakes that are so popular right now. These cuties need their own moment. They seem to usually be placed off to the side in the tent, just on a table next to the plastic tent wall. Let that baby shine! It needs to be on a cute little table in its own space, with a nice background. Even just for a few minutes, for the photos. I also prefer that clients do not cut their cake right up against the plastic tent wall. We could do a much better background. Move the cake out into the center of the floor if you must.

Which brings me to my next and related point……

Put the Desserts out in the Daytime

This is the tip that makes me the most sad. It is the most disappointing thing when the fabulous dessert display gets set up after it’s gotten dark outside. Why? Because then I have to photograph the desserts with flash and that is absolutely heartbreaking as a food photographer. My entire career as a food photographer has been based around making food look its best with natural light, and that simply will not happen when the beautiful desserts get put out after dark next to a plastic tent wall. All you get with flash next to plastic is a black background reflecting wrinkly flashy plastic.

You have hired a food photographer for your wedding, so let me do what I do best with regards to your desserts display.

(I also love to have time to photograph your appetizer display especially if it’s an elaborate one! However that doesn’t always work out because I have to also be doing your family photos at the same time. Too bad I can’t be in multiple places at once.)

Do you see a theme here? Basically anything beautiful worth photographing should not be next to those plastic tent walls.

Invest in One Fantastic Bridal Bouquet

Maybe you’re not doing the full florist thing, with bridesmaids bouquets, boutonnières, centerpieces, ceremony arrangements, garlands, etc. I’m seeing a bit more artificial flowers lately. I totally get it. I would, however, encourage you to do one thing with real flowers: a gorgeous bridal bouquet. Make that investment in that one beautiful accessory, and you can use it all day long in sooooo many of your photos.

• I can style the bouquet in your getting ready photos
• You’ll be using it in all of your portraits
• You can place it on your sweetheart table for decoration
• Its uses are endless

With well-chosen flowers and colors it can pull your entire look together and will be well worth the money for the impact it has on your photo gallery.

Turn Bistro Lights On Even During the Day

If your venue has any kind of bistro lights, twinkle lights, etc, please turn them ON as soon as you get there. Whether they are around or inside the tent, or if they’re strung among the tree branches, turn them on! I have no idea why, but it seems like venues don’t usually turn them on until it starts to become dusk. Trust me, those lights do show up in photos even in broad daylight and they add so much to the ambiance of the photos. Why wait to turn them on?

The Bedford Village Inn is a great example of a place with fantastic bistro lights and they keep them on from the very start of the day. The result is magical.

The Flat Lay: Let Me Photograph Your Accessories

Please, please let me photograph your accessories during the getting ready part of your day, and give me enough time to do it. And please have all your materials gathered before I get there, so I don’t have to spend valuable time going around asking people and looking for them.

In my wedding magazine that I provide couples upon booking, I outline the things I’d be looking for when I arrive for the getting ready. So I’m always surprised when I get there and they are asking me what I need. I don’t think people read the magazine I created for them! That does make me sad. But it’s very clear when a bride has read it because she is very prepared.

Mrs. Boxes are a beautiful way to showcase your ring(s) and they come in a wide range of colors to match your theme. I love when brides provide a Mrs. Box to go with their photos. And if you don’t have one, just ask me because I have a small collection. I love flat lays so much that I even invested in some Mrs. Boxes for my clients’ photos. Let me know what your colors are and I can bring one for your ring shots.

I am finding lots of brides lately who are not interested in giving me these things to photograph and that makes me sad. You have hired a photographer skilled in creating these flat lay shots, so let me do what I do best. It’s a great way to start the day off with creating gorgeous styled photos with items that will not be available for the rest of the day. Let’s do it!

In Conclusion

As I mentioned, nobody really asks me what I think about things, so this unsolicited advice is completely unasked for. However, I have so much experience with wedding photography and I have so much information and opinions to share. I encourage clients to use me! Ask me, pick my brain. I’m always happy to share ideas and methods that make the day easier for you and me both, and result in a better photo gallery.

If the past few years have taught me anything, it’s that I want to sell everything I own and go live in Portsmouth. I am so inspired by its history, its culinary scene, and the scenic beauty. So when I get an inquiry about a wedding date for a Portsmouth location, I drop everything and try to see if it can fit into my calendar.

Getting Ready at Residence Inn at Portwalk Place

I’ve been telling clients for years about what makes a great getting-ready interior space. You simply need natural light, neutral colors, and no competing artificial lamps. You need ample room for everyone to move around, and you need to minimize clutter. This is not an easy feat when you have multiple women all carrying overnight bags, and there are hair and makeup artists in the room. But somehow, Eliza’s crew made it look effortless.

Eliza chose the Residence Inn at Portwalk Place to get ready, and it was the perfect location in downtown Portsmouth. It also met all of the photo criteria. And the results? Absolutely beautiful. Eliza was prepared and had all her accessories ready for me in a little container, so I didn’t have to spend valuable time looking for them and gathering them. She even included a Mrs. Box in her wedding color which made styling her jewelry and invitations a breeze.

By the way, I do have a selection of single-ring Mrs. Boxes in a few different colors that I can bring to style your jewelry for the photos–just ask!

Ceremony at Gov. John Langdon House

One of my favorite organizations for stunningly unique and gorgeous properties is Historic New England. They have eight properties throughout New England available for wedding rentals. The Langdon House in Portsmouth is an incredible Georgian residence from 1784.

Eliza and John’s ceremony in the back garden was the epitome of summer leafiness, and they were surrounded by golden sunbeams.

Unforgettable Wedding Photos at Portsmouth’s Waterfront

Portsmouth is of course known for its recognizable landmarks. It’s no wonder that every wedding couple loves to have their photos taken in places that reflect the beauty and character of the city. After their ceremony, Eliza and John walked through downtown to the waterfront where we took some amazing photos. The blooms at Prescott Park were looking spectacular from such a rainy summer, and I can’t remember ever seeing it so lush.

Reception at Cool & Swanky Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club

At the time of Eliza and John’s wedding, Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club was a newly opened venue, and it is stunning. It’s cool and swanky, and the perfect venue to dine and dance the night away.

Things I loved?

• The brick bar area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Portsmouth that faced the gorgeous sunset,
• the architectural details of the historic venue,
• the incredible lighting provided by an in-house lighting technician, and
• the impeccably-timed dinner service which was served with efficiency and precision.

Vendors that Made This Day Special

• Wedding Coordinator: Lauren Wilson Events @laurenwilsonevents
• Ceremony Venue: Governor John Langdon House @historicnewengland
• Reception Venue: Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club
• Videographer: Vibe Wedding Films @vibemediaproduction
• Photographer: Erika Follansbee Photography @erikafollansbee
• Band: Atlantic Shakes
• Rentals: Peak Event Services @peakeventservices
• Hair: SweptUp Styles
• Makeup: Jordyn Klegraefe @klegartistry
• Florist: Studley’s Flower Garden

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Cocktails on the Front Lawn

After arriving at The Fells from the wedding ceremony, guests enjoyed a fantastic cocktail hour on the front lawn of the estate. The late September weather could not have been more perfect, and guests mingled while we wrapped up family photos and wedding party portraits.

This massive bridal party was a joy to work with, even though we had to walk all over the large estate to find the best photo spots.

One of my favorite moments of the whole day was photographing Marissa in the upstairs area of the main house. The light is so perfect in that room, and these quiet moments gave us a nice break to make these beautiful bridal portraits.

Reception Under the Pavilion at The Fells

The pavilion at The Fells looked so gorgeous with all the table settings and florals completed.

Finally, as night came, the entertainment, dinner, and speeches were a highlight of the evening. Vincent King Live kept the guests dancing and having a fantastic time.

Vendors for this Wedding at The Fells

Wedding Planner: Kagem Chic Designs
Venue: The Fells (John Hay Estate), Newbury NH
Photographer: Erika Follansbee Photography
Florist: Illume Floral Studio
Catering and Cake: The Refinery
Bartending: Dee Luxe
Band: Vincent King Live
Videographer: Epic Filmmakers
Rentals: Lakes Region Tent & Event
Dress: Essence of Australia
Hair: The Bridal Bar
Makeup: Kerri Herlihy Makeup Artist
2nd Photographer: Christine Tilley

See More Weddings at Historic Estate Venues

Barn at Bull Meadow Ceremony

It would be hard to imagine a more perfect October day for an outdoor ceremony. Their Wednesday afternoon wedding took place on a sunny 70 degree day with the fall colors shining brightly.

After the ceremony we had plenty of time for family photos and lots of portraits of the bride and groom.

Their intimate wedding with family members only finished up with a sweet little reception and cake cutting.

Bedford Village Inn Reception

Two nights later, Megan and Blake held their wedding reception at the Grand at Bedford Village Inn. Their Charolais Room was the perfect space to hold such a beautiful reception that welcomed family and friends.

The Charolais room looked beautiful in pink uplighting provided by DJ Mitch NH, and the tables were elegantly set to welcome the guests.

Megan’s favorite décor item was the donut wall showpiece featuring a huge display of gorgeous donuts in different flavors.

Megan and Blake got to enjoy lots of mingling and visiting, great appetizers and signature cocktails, as well as some special dances with parents all before sitting down to a beautiful BVI dinner.

Vendors

Ceremony Venue: The Barn at Bull Meadow
Ceremony Catering: City Moose Cafe
Reception Venue: The Charolais Room in The Grand, The Bedford Village Inn
Reception DJ: Ben at DJ Mitch NH

SEE MORE FROM THE BEDFORD VILLAGE INN

They took advantage of my small wedding package which includes just me as the photographer, and with only two hours of coverage it was the perfect amount of time for couple portraits, family portraits, the ceremony, and a little coverage afterwards.

The ceremony was held in the private dining room upstairs at the Bedford Village Inn and it was set up simply and beautifully for this small event.

Sara and Cory, thank you so much for having me be part of your special day.

Wait: There’s More!

Bridget and Patrick were married on September 18, 2021 in Wolfeboro NH at the First Christian Church, with a fantastic waterfront reception held on the lake at Laughing Loon. Laughing Loon is a sought after private camp that is perfect for weddings. Bridget and Patrick sadly had to reschedule from their original 2020 date, but luckily everything worked out for them to just push the date back by a year. And what a fantastic celebration it was! From a classy raw bar cocktail hour on the banks of the lake, to a fun toes-in-the-sand tented reception with entertainment by a live band. And just wait until you see their fantastic arrival into the reception on an antique wooden speedboat!

Bridget started the morning with a “Mimosas and Memories” party with a bunch of old friends while the girls were doing hair and makeup. It was a great way to invite friends over to hang out before the day got off to a big start. The main house at Laughing Loon is huge and perfect for hosting lots of parties. Then photography started for the day and we were off to the races.

Meanwhile, at the same time, Patrick and his groomsmen were getting ready in an enormous house that his family rented nearby in Wolfeboro.

Church Wedding in Wolfeboro

Bridget and Patrick had a lovely wedding ceremony in an old fashioned New England church. Guests were shuttled in for this quick ceremony, and we took just a few photos outside when it was over. Then everyone was whisked off to Laughing Loon!

Cocktail Hour at Laughing Loon, Arriving by Speedboat

Immediately after the ceremony, transportation began bringing guests back to Laughing Loon for the cocktail hour. Mindy and her crew were hard at work making sure everything was ready for them. The bar was set up on the beautiful back patio of the main house, and the lake was just steps away.

There was even an incredible raw bar with oysters, tuna, and shrimp Bridget is a huge oyster fan!

Meanwhile, back at the church, Bridget and Patrick walked through downtown Wolfeboro towards the docks where they would meet the captain of the Millie B. This is an antique reproduction wooden speedboat available from the New Hampshire Boat Museum. They enjoyed a brief cruise around the lake before heading over to Laughing Loon where the captain took us on some dizzying high speed turns. What an absolutely incredible way to make an entrance to their reception!

Their videographer was able to get some incredible drone footage as we pulled away from the dock in downtown Wolfeboro.

Tented Reception at Laughing Loon

After cocktail hour, when the tent opened to guests to take their seats, they were greeted with this sweet and beautiful namecard display. Every person and couple had their own escort card tucked into a little vase with a small flower. The whole display was so cute. I can’t imagine how long it took to collect all those little bottles–everything from bud vases to old perfume bottles. Such a great idea!

The tent was so beautifully decorated. With the florals from Fuchsia Peony, Mindy and her talented team brought this space to life. Laughing Loon is such a magical little beach right on the waters of Lake Winnipesaukee.

The reception included a number of speeches from brothers, maid of honor, and parents just before a wonderful meal served by Magic Foods Catering.

I thought it was so nice that both sets of parents came up for the cake cutting. I had never seen that done before, and it was so sweet.

The rest of the night was spent dancing to the high energy Silver Arrow Band! This band was incredible and kept the speakers blasting all night long!

Outstanding Vendor Team:

Month of Coordination- Mindy Rossignol of Private Weddings and Events
Catering- Magic Foods Catering
Florist- The Fuchsia Peony
Photography- Erika Follansbee
Videography- Doroga Media
Rentals- Lakes Region Tent and Event
Band- Silver Arrow Band (Providing ceremony, cocktail hour and reception music)
Cake- Youlove Bakery
Transportation- Molly the Trolley
Boat Transportation- Millie B
Bride’s Dress: Allure Romance-custom
Veil: Bel Aire
Bridesmaids: Wtoo by Watters
Groom’s Suit: Suit Supply
Groomsmen Suits: Suit Shop
Bridesman’s Suit: DKNY

Want more Laughing Loon? See Julia and JJ’s wedding, also from Private Weddings & Events!

Nicole and Devin were married on July 30, 2021 at the Wolfeboro Inn in Wolfeboro, NH. Their wedding was a bit of a 2021 unicorn because it was never rescheduled, and they were able to get the date they wanted right away. It felt like the old days, when you could just plan a wedding and it just happened the way it was supposed to. No postponements, no cancellations, just solid plans made with confidence. It was also my first wedding of the season where it didn’t rain. I loved it!

The Wolfeboro Inn is a lovely venue because everything is in one location, and the waterfront is just steps away from the hotel, and the large tent is right outside the door. Getting ready, ceremony, photos, and reception all take place in one of Wolfeboro’s loveliest spots on the lake.

Getting Ready in the Bridal Suite

From the start of the day, Niki became one of my favorite brides ever because she was so completely prepared for the getting ready photos. We knew we wanted to do some flat-lays with all her accessories and invitations, and she had everything gathered for me in a box. She included styling tools like matching ribbons and all kinds of things. It seems like a small thing, but detail photos take a bit of time to set up, and when the photographer has to go around the room finding shoes and jewelry it really takes up time that I could be shooting. It was absolutely amazing and her photos are so interesting because of it.

I just love perfume shots any time I can do them. Sometimes people whip through the perfume so fast that I can’t do it (and that’s not a shot you can do again or else you’ll have waaaaay too much perfume on). But of course Niki was prepared for this shot. Who can resist Lancome’s La Vie Est Belle as a scent that goes so easily from everyday to wedding day?

Meanwhile Devin was in another part of the hotel with his groomsmen getting ready. He had a lovely card from Niki to read, and a gift to open.

Any lake wedding at the Wolfeboro Inn must include lots of photos at the dock, and that is just where Niki and Devin had their first look and wedding party photos.

Wolfeboro Inn Ceremony

The Wolfeboro Inn has a nice garden area in between the hotel and the waterfront. It slopes down steeply from the parking lot, but it offers sweeping views of the lake and the mountains beyond.

Tented Reception at the Wolfeboro Inn

After the ceremony, the rest of the day was a whirlwind of more photos, eating, dancing, and merriment. Niki and Devin enjoyed every minute with all of their guests and the tent in the garden at the Inn looked so pretty.

Cocktail hour catering was provided by the Wolfeboro Inn and they created a very impressive charcuterie spread for all the guests.

The first dances and speeches were all beautiful and heartfelt.

What a spread! This fantastic cake was made by Courtney Couture of Mezzanine Catering. Along with the cake, the hotel provided a dessert assortment including brownies, chocolate covered strawberries, cannolis and tarts. With no detail spared, there were also s’mores kits for the firepit.

A beautiful sunset provided some sweet ambiance for a few more photos by the water, and then everyone danced the night away!

Venue & Catering: Wolfeboro Inn, Wolfeboro NH
Florist: Lyndsey Loring Design
DJ: Perfect Entertainment
Cake: Courtney Couture, Mezzanine Catering
Videographer: Fisher Video
Beauty: Styled for the Aisle
Bridal Shop: Marry and Tux
Dress: Morilee
Photographer: Erika Follansbee
2nd Shooter: Amanda Lowe

See More Weddings From NH’s Lakes Region