The Mountains of New Hampshire are near and dear to both Shauna and Jeff’s hearts. As children, long before they ever met one another they each took family trips up skiing in the winter, and hiking in the summer. There is a calmness and serenity found in the mountains, and they both felt it was the perfect place to wake up to on their big day.
Shauna + Jeff
September 15, 2012
Jackson, New Hampshire
Why a Mountain Wedding?
The Mountains of New Hampshire are near and dear to both our hearts. As children, long before we ever met one another we both shared so many wonderful family trips up skiing in the winter, and hiking in the summer; endless snowy mountain tops and a few months later, warm rushing steams and hidden swimming holes. There is a calmness and serenity found in the mountains, and we both knew it was the perfect place to wake up to on our big day.
Where did you find your inspiration?
All around! I began visiting the craft store on what seemed like a daily basis. New ideas were always triggered in those colorful aisles. I wanted to create a relaxed country feel with little details that really told the story of me and Jeff.
What were some personal details you incorporated?
A very special part of my day could be found tied around my bouquet. A locket containing two photos…my gramma and my Nan. Neither were able to be with me in person but they were at the center of my heart and I happily carried their smiles around in that locket all day.
Something borrowed… I was fortunate to borrow the wedding veil that my best friend was married in, along with her mother over thirty years earlier! Both women are incredibly special to me, and sharing their veil was a gift.
Your favorite moment of the day.
My very favorite moment of the day was sneaking off just after we had said I do! We climbed into the back of a vintage Rolls Royce and slowly climbed the winding mountain roads together…just us, as husband and wife. It hit me all at once that the man sitting next to me was my husband and I was overcome with joy!
Three things you’re glad you did.
- I am glad I picked Jeff to marry!
- I am glad we spent a good amount of time searching for the perfect photographer, the moments that were captured are so precious to me!
- I am glad we chose a country, mountain themed wedding…it was so relaxed and so much fun!
Anything you wish you hadn’t done?
If I had to pick something, I would say ordering a wedding cake. I didn’t ever really want a traditional cake to cut… I wanted a good old fashion pie. When it was time to cut the cake I was able to cut into an apple pie after all because a pal (that will remain nameless) had accidentally broken a mason jar of cold beer from a few rafters up in the barn all over the cake. Everything truly does work out exactly as planned!
What was the best piece of wedding advice you got?
To take a step back from all the energy, excitement, laughter, and dancing… to just soak it all in. Find a place away from it all to take a snap shot of the moment.
What piece of wedding planning advice do you wish you followed?
Worry less, no one knows if the napkin color doesn’t match the place cards…and they certainly don’t care!
Anything you wish you hadn’t worried about?
Yes, the weather! Although we were blessed with a beautiful sunny day that sparkled I realize after the fact that it could have been pouring and the good vibe of the day would be unhindered. All your favorite people in one place… rain or shine, it’s perfect!
Anything You wish you had known about sooner rather than later?
It is a great idea to number your RSVP cards. Inevitably someone is going to send you back a blank card…this will take the mystery out of who that may be.
How did you choose your vendors?
We made the trip from Boston several times up the mountains during our year of planning. A perfect excuse to head up to the mountains! We met almost everyone in person, allowing us to really connect with the people that would share our day. Jackson NH is so very unique…a tiny little town filled to the brim with the very best people. We were so fortunate that many of our vendors not only worked together but were great friends. It made recommendations from one vendor to the next very easy to accept and trust.
What is your very best advice to other mountain brides?
Head to the mountains ahead of your big day as soon as you can! Let the landscape, the peace, and the quiet calm you. The days leading up to your big day are filled with butterflies, joy, expectations, and of course some nerves…. Tap into the harmony of such a very special place and allow it to rest your mind and spirit. The day will be perfect, the bride will be beautiful, and love will be in that cool mountain air!
Jackson, NH Wedding Vendors
- Photographer: Spring Smith Studios
- Hair Stylist: Debony
- Floral Designer: Dutch Bloemen Winkel
- Event Venue: Whitney’s Inn//