Lake Winnipesaukee Wedding || Liz and John
I was so excited for Liz and John’s wedding day! A sunny September Lake Winnipesaukee wedding is always something special, but this one felt even more personal right from the start.
Their venue was such a meaningful spot - Liz’s aunt and uncle’s campground that’s currently being lovingly renovated - and it made the whole day feel relaxed, intimate, and completely them. I got there a little early and took in the space, with Lake Winnipesaukee nearby and that late-summer sunshine filtering through… just one of those days you know is going to be a good one.
Liz and John are such a laid-back, quiet couple, and you could feel how grounded they were in each other all day long. They really just soaked everything in - staying present, staying close, and not letting anything pull them out of the moment. And of course, they had their sweet little dog by their side (which I absolutely loved), even sitting with them during the ceremony. Such a perfect, personal touch.
As the day went on, things flowed so naturally. Lots of hugs, laughter, and those in-between moments that make a wedding feel so full. When the night picked up, so did the energy, in the best way! Their friends and family definitely showed up ready to celebrate, and it turned into such a fun party.
There were so many great details woven throughout the day. A food truck for dinner (always a hit), and a big dessert buffet that was almost too pretty to eat (almost!). And their choreographed first dance - so special and so well done. You could just see how much joy they were having together.
This day really felt like the perfect mix of calm, meaningful moments and full-on celebration. I absolutely loved being a part of it!
I’ve asked the couple some questions about the wedding, their answers are throughout in italics.
How did you meet your partner and/or get engaged?
We met when I went to college in Western Mass, John is from the area and it was a dating app success story!
I love our engagement story! John and I had spoken about our future and knew we were planning to be each others forever. I had definitely dropped hints that I did not want a super public proposal and that I did not want a Christmas/holiday proposal. We were spending New Years with our close friends just hanging out and playing games. When the ball was about to dropped I noticed suspiciously everyone was standing on the other side of the room and right at midnight John said "Now that the holidays are officially over" and dropped done on one knee. It was super sweet and I loved being able to instantly celebrate with some of our good friends!
What is one suggestion you have for other couples who are planning their weddings?
Take a breath. Not everything will go 100% right no matter how well you plan. Prepare everything as best as you can but be ready for thing to change or for there to be hiccups and don't let it ruin your day!
Keep scrolling for this relaxed and joyful Lake Winnipesaukee wedding!
John and Liz had their first look on this secluded bridge above this little stream (or a creek as we say where I’m from :)). It was the perfect spot with the midday sun streaming in through the trees behind them.
I love how proactive you were with communication, you were on top of everything and asked all the right questions I wouldn't even think I needed to consider! I also love the candid style, it really allowed us to live in the moment and the pictures really captured those memories!
I think our biggest concern were really just that we are not posed picture people. I think our engagement session really put my mind at ease that we made the right choice. You made posing really easy and your prompts made for beautiful pictures.
The wedding party looks were perfect! The different colors of green for the the bridesmaids, and the less formal look for the guys with the vests.
So sweet!
Our wedding venue was super special to us as it is a campground that someone in our family owns. We do a big family reunion up there each summer so it will be special to return each year, hopefully keeping the memories alive. It allowed us flexibility and for many of our guest to stay on site, while also offering beautiful nature views!
I love the lake backdrop and how the trees frame the ceremony space here.
The ceremony was like the first big breath after holding it in anticipation all morning! I love that we included a ring warming, because it gave John and I a few minutes to look out into the crowd and take in all our loved ones in that moment.
Absolutely gorgeous!
A beautiful space under the tent - complete with a Taylor Swift inspired photo backdrop - with “It’s a Love Story” at the top.
I think most important for both of us was that we wanted to enjoy the day. Capturing the moment via our photographer and videographer were super important because we wanted to be able to look back on the day we knew would fly by! Something else that was important to us was making sure the day was enjoyable for our guest as well, we really tried to think about the logistics end to make sure things ran smoothly, especially as it was not a traditionally venue that takes care of some of those logistics.
I think the first dance was just so special for us. I love to dance and John is not so much of a dancer. It meant so much to me he took the time to learn and practice a choreographed dance. It was so fun and gave us a lot of quality time together leading up the wedding. I think it was also an unexpected surprise for our guests and wedding party!
Gotta love a sister’s toast for the laughs, tears and of course embarrassing stories.
Just a few minutes for some golden light photos with the lake and mountain in the background!
The absolutely amazing dessert buffet! I might’ve grabbed a cookie… or two. :)
What were your first reactions to the photos?
We couldn't believe the first sneak peak the next day! They were breathtaking and so nice to have them so soon. Once we got the full album I couldn't pick a favorite! Especially when looking at the party pictures, there are so many wonderful photos of our favorite people.
I always love a good anniversary dance!
This crew kept the party going all night long!
Love an outfit change during the reception!
Here are the vendors that made Liz and John’s wedding happen!
Florist: Brown’s Petal C0
Cake: Let Them Eat Cake NH
Planner: Britny Marsh from Beautiful & Timeless Events & Rentals
DJ: Brien Lafferty from Main Event Entertainment
Caterer: Big Bad NH
Officiant: JP Dave Nadeau from Main Event Entertainment
Bridal Shop: Aliber’s Bridal
Hair: J. Rose Collective
Makeup: Madeline Jude Beauty
Tent & Rentals: Lakes Region Tent & Event
Planning Your Own Lake Winnipesaukee Wedding?
If you’re planning a Lake Winnipesaukee wedding and are dreaming of something relaxed, personal, and surrounded by the people you love, this is such a beautiful example of how it can all come together so effortlessly. Weddings around the lake region have such a unique charm - especially when they’re this intentional, joyful, and full of heart. Check out these blog posts for more fun and relaxed weddings like this one!