Rachel & Eric | New England Backyard Wedding | Connecticut Wedding Photographer

Rachel and Eric were married at a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Eric’s family home in Glastonbury on October 16, 2021. The forecast predicted rain, but instead the rain held off until late in the evening just as we were finishing their reception photos at the Gastropark in West Hartford. It turned out to be the most beautiful warm October day as the leaves were just beginning to change into golden hues. The entire wedding day was an intimate and welcoming family occasion from start to finish. Backyard weddings are a blessing.

Both Rachel and Eric started the day together at their home with a cozy family breakfast before getting ready for the big day. Eric was dressed upstairs in their bedroom as Rachel’s hair and makeup was done down downstairs in the living room. When Eric was dressed and ready to go, he snuck outside so that Rachel wouldn’t see him in his suit and drove to his family home where the ceremony was being set up in the backyard. It is so beautiful to think that they will always have these cherished memories right in their own home. Many wedding days begin in a hotel due to the distance between home and the venue, but it is extra special to have these unforgettable moments take place in your own home.

Brody wasn’t getting all of the attention this day.

A makeup stand and impromptu hair salon were set up right in the living room by the very talented Sophia and Sara of Kiss and Makeup.

I love how Rachel’s “something blue,” were her shoes.

Eric’s mom, Linda, was a very proud mother of the groom.

Rachel’s mother, Patty, had the honor of buttoning Rachel’s gown. As a wedding photographer, one of my favorite moments at the weddings I attend is when the gown is fastened.It signals a big change in the energy of the day and creates an anticipation for the ceremony to come.

Eric waited outside by the ceremony archway to catch his first glimpse of Rachel as she walked around the corner to the ceremony in the backyard. This is my favorite way to do a first look; a casual and natural moment of pure joy.

The ceremony was officiated by Eric’s father, Dan. He customized the most heartfelt ceremony for his son and daughter-in-law.

The ceremony began with a very special “ring warming” ceremony. Dan announced that the box with the wedding bands would be passed around to each person at the ceremony. Each guest was to hold the ring box and warm it with positive thoughts and prayers for the happy couple.

The ceremony included very special readings by Rachel;s mother, Patty, and Eric’s mother, Linda. What I loved most about this intimate wedding ceremony was that each sibling and grandparent also did a reading. It was a beautiful moment shared by the entire family. I have seen many wedding ceremonies, but this was the first time I witnessed a ceremony designed with the entire family to take part in.

Something more weddings need; a large group photo.

I photographed Raymond’s wedding a few years ago. He is Rachel’s cousin’s husband and also the talented custom woodworker who designed and created the beautiful arch for the ceremony, the signs and donut stands, and the customized corn hole boards for Rachel and Eric’s wedding.

Being lifted in a chair was not Rachel’s idea of a good time, but she was a great sport.

At the end of the reception the entire party piled into a big yellow bus and made their way to the Gastropark in West Hartford for the after party.

Congratulations Rachel and Eric! I’m so happy for you both. It was truly wonderful celebrating your wedding day with you and your family. I hope you have the best Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Please leave well wishes in the comments below for Eric and Rachel and please support the wedding vendors that made their wedding so amazing. I have attached links to their social media pages below.

Photography: Courtney of Live Lovely Photography

Wedding Planner: Abby of The Little Planner

Bridal Party:

Matrons of honor: (sisters of the bride) Jen Mortimer and Stacy Soliman

Bridesmaid: (sister of the groom) Lianne Blinn

Best Man: (Best friend of the groom) Pat Shroeder

Groomsmen: (Friend of groom Tyler Diamond and (brother of the bride) Dan Kramer

Wedding Gown & Bridesmaids dresses: Mariella Creations

Tux and mens suits: Mens Wearhouse

Hair and Makeup: Kiss and Makeup

Caterer: Max Catering and Events

Tent Rental: Taylor Rental