Recent weddings with the best CT wedding photographers blog.
Nothing captures summer romance like a Connecticut orchard wedding surrounded by blooming trees and golden sunlight. See authentic moments from a recent summer celebration, plus essential venue details for planning your perfect CT orchard wedding.
Read MoreNestled in East Haddam, Connecticut, Gillette Castle State Park offers a whimsical stone castle backdrop perfect for intimate elopements. See real photos from a recent CT elopement shoot, plus essential permits and planning tips for your adventure wedding.
Read MoreAs a Connecticut small wedding photographer, capture intimate micro-weddings with candid, natural style at venues like Chamard Vineyard, Eolia Mansion, or cozy backyards. Focus on meaningful connections, personalized details, and timeless images that tell your authentic love story without the stress of large celebrations.
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Eloping in Connecticut is one of the most magical ways to celebrate your love. Whether you’re saying your vows on a cliff overlooking Long Island Sound, in a romantic vineyard, or under the golden leaves of a fall forest, the last thing you want is to forget something important. That’s where a well-thought-out elopement packing list comes in!
As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the little details—like a handwritten vow book or an extra pair of comfy shoes—make the day smoother and the photos even more meaningful. Here’s your ultimate guide to what to bring for your intimate wedding adventure.
Eloping gives you freedom, but it also means you don’t have a huge team behind you to double-check the little things. The right elopement packing list ensures you’re ready for anything—rain, chilly winds, or that one pen you’ll need for your vows.
As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I’ve seen couples thrive when they come prepared. So let’s dive in.
The non-negotiables:
Pro Tip: Handwritten vow books not only keep your words safe—they look stunning in flat lay detail shots.
Keep your look flawless while staying comfortable:
Pro Tip: Pack a mini sewing kit, safety pins, and a lint roller. Small fixes make a huge difference.
For outdoor vows, be ready for all conditions:
Pro Tip: Connecticut weather can change quickly. Planning for both rain and shine keeps stress low and smiles high.
These extras add depth and personality to your gallery:
Pro Tip: Small details create big storytelling moments and make your elopement photos feel unique to you.
The behind-the-scenes heroes:
Pro Tip: Keep everything in one backpack or tote to stay organized and stress-free.
Your Connecticut elopement should feel relaxed, adventurous, and completely your own. With this packing list, you’ll have peace of mind knowing everything is covered—so you can focus on the joy, the vows, and the adventure of it all.
As your Connecticut elopement photographer, I’m not just here to capture the big moments, but also the quiet details—the cozy blanket wrap, the laughter under umbrellas, and the first sip of champagne. If you’re ready to create your own unforgettable elopement story, I’d love to be part of it.
If you're dreaming of a small wedding in Connecticut that feels personal, scenic, and effortlessly romantic, Chamard Vineyard in Clinton should be on your radar. Tucked along the Connecticut shoreline, this vineyard combines French countryside vibes with New England charm—and it's a dream location for a micro wedding or elopement.
As a Connecticut wedding photographer who specializes in small, candid celebrations, I've found Chamard to be one of the most photogenic and relaxed venues for couples who want something beautiful but not overdone.
Unlike larger, high-traffic venues, Chamard feels like your own private oasis. The vineyard rows, pond, and tree-lined driveways give you plenty of space to breathe, wander, and celebrate without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for elopements or weddings with 10–50 guests.
Chamard’s stone buildings, charming Bistro, and cozy wine cellar give you a setting that feels both elegant and comfortable. Whether you're hosting a small dinner party-style reception or a garden ceremony, the venue strikes the perfect balance between elevated and laid-back.
Chamard isn’t just a wedding venue—it’s also a working vineyard and bistro. That means your guests can enjoy local wines paired with chef-curated meals, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s a foodie-friendly venue that doesn’t require you to bring in outside catering.
While vineyard weddings often get the spotlight in fall, Chamard shines in every season. Spring wildflowers, summer greenery, golden fall light, and even cozy winter elopements in the Bistro—this is a venue that adapts beautifully to whatever vibe you’re going for.
As someone who focuses on Connecticut wedding photography, especially smaller, candid weddings, Chamard has everything I love in a venue: natural light, rustic textures, romantic vineyard views, and quiet corners for private moments.
The stone archways, soft golden light near the vines, and intimate Bistro interiors create a variety of backdrops—all within a short walk from each other. It's easy to capture portraits, family moments, and those blink-and-you'll-miss-them emotions that make small weddings so special.
If you're planning a small wedding in Connecticut and want a setting that’s romantic, peaceful, and authentically New England, Chamard Vineyard in Clinton might be exactly what you're looking for. Whether you're envisioning a quiet elopement among the vines or a joyful dinner with your closest family and friends, this vineyard offers a one-of-a-kind experience that never feels too big or too small—just right.
And if you're looking for a photographer who specializes in capturing the heart of small weddings in a natural, story-driven way—I'd love to connect and hear more about your plans. Let's chat.
Looking for a Connecticut wedding photographer who captures real, unscripted moments? You’re in the right place. I specialize in photographing weddings just like this one—sunny, love-filled days where laughter, happy tears, and genuine connection take center stage.
This summer wedding was everything you’d want from a Connecticut celebration—warm weather, golden light, and a couple whose love radiated through every frame. From the quiet getting-ready moments to the epic dance floor moves under string lights, every second was a story worth remembering.
I don’t do stiff poses or forced smiles. I’m all about the in-between moments:
Candid wedding photography captures your day as it truly felt—so you can relive it over and over again.
Connecticut Has the Perfect Summer Wedding Vibes
Whether you're getting married at a rustic barn in the countryside, a coastal venue with an ocean breeze, or a cozy backyard surrounded by loved ones, Connecticut has no shortage of gorgeous backdrops for your wedding. And summer? It’s the season of golden light, outdoor ceremonies, and barefoot dance floors.
Planning Your Wedding in CT? Let’s Talk
If you're planning a Connecticut wedding and want someone who will capture your day authentically—with all the love, chaos, and magic that makes it yours—I'd love to hear your story. I’m based in Connecticut and travel throughout the state for weddings and elopements.
You bring the love. I’ll bring the camera (and maybe a few tissues for the teary-eyed moments).
nterested in Booking Your Connecticut Wedding Photographer?
Let’s make some photo magic. Contact me here to check availability or learn more about my candid wedding photography approach.
Connecticut Wedding Venue | March Farm
DJ | Butch Gray
Caterer | The Art of Yum
Wedding Planner | Atlantic Events
Cake | Trew Sterling (man of honor)
Crafting a day that's authentically yours, surrounded by the natural beauty of New England.
Elopements have evolved from secretive ceremonies to intentional celebrations of love. Today, eloping means choosing an intimate, meaningful experience that reflects your unique relationship, free from the pressures of traditional weddings. It's about prioritizing what matters most to you as a couple.
Connecticut offers a diverse landscape, making it an ideal backdrop for your elopement:
Start by imagining your perfect day. Consider:
Select a location that aligns with your vision. Research permit requirements and accessibility. Some popular spots include:([Shell Creek Photography][1])
To legally marry in Connecticut:
Consider hiring professionals who specialize in elopements:
Incorporate elements that reflect your relationship:
As a dedicated elopement photographer, I'm here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your day is as unique as your love story. Let's connect and start planning your unforgettable Connecticut elopement.
There’s something truly magical about a quiet, windswept shoreline — and Hammonasset Beach State Park is one of the most breathtaking spots in Connecticut to say “I do.” I recently had the honor of capturing an intimate beach elopement here, and it was the perfect blend of simplicity, beauty, and emotion.
If you're dreaming of a Connecticut beach elopement, keep reading for inspiration, tips, and a peek into one of the most heartfelt ceremonies I've ever photographed.
Located in Madison, CT, Hammonasset Beach offers over two miles of sandy shoreline, stunning sunsets, and peaceful spots away from the crowds. Whether you're planning a sunrise ceremony with your toes in the sand or a sunset vow exchange with seagulls flying overhead, it's an ideal backdrop for couples who want a relaxed, nature-filled wedding day.
On this particular afternoon, the couple chose a quiet stretch of beach for their Connecticut elopement ceremony. With the sound of waves behind them and nothing but blue sky above, they exchanged heartfelt vows with just a few close loved ones present.
They brought handwritten vows, a small bouquet, and the biggest smiles — proof that you don’t need a big guest list to have a big love story. The natural beauty of the beach did most of the decorating, and the soft light made for some incredibly romantic portraits.
As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I focus on real moments. I love capturing the laughter, the wind in your hair, the sandy feet — the things that make your day feel completely you.
Hammonasset offers a variety of photo spots beyond the shoreline, including grassy dunes, walking paths, and a scenic boardwalk — all of which we took full advantage of to create a relaxed, documentary-style gallery.
Thinking about your own beach wedding in Connecticut? Here are a few tips to help you plan:
Choose a weekday or sunrise/sunset time to avoid crowds.
Keep it simple — a lightweight dress, sandals, and a bouquet that can handle a little breeze are perfect.
Consider permits — depending on your group size or setup, the park may require a permit for ceremonies or professional photography.
Work with a photographer who knows the area and can guide you to the best light and least crowded locations.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, meaningful way to tie the knot, Hammonasset Beach elopements offer the perfect setting. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous ceremony or a carefully curated beach wedding, I’d love to help you document your story.
Reach out to start planning your Connecticut elopement photography experience today.
The Beauty of Intimate & Micro Weddings: Why Small Guest Lists Make for the Best Wedding Photography
If you’re planning an intimate or micro wedding in Connecticut, you’re in for something truly special. With a smaller guest list, your wedding day becomes more personal, relaxed, and filled with authentic moments—exactly what I love to capture as a wedding photographer.
This intimate wedding Gouveia Vineyards in Wallingford, Connecticut is a wonderful example of small weddings in CT.
A micro wedding typically includes fewer than 50 guests, allowing couples to focus on the experience rather than logistics. Unlike an elopement, which is often just the couple and an officiant, a micro wedding still retains the feel of a traditional wedding—just on a smaller, more intentional scale.
Connecticut offers stunning locations for intimate weddings, from charming coastal venues to secluded forest retreats and historic estates. Whether you envision a backyard wedding in Litchfield County, a seaside vow exchange in Mystic, or a cozy barn wedding in the countryside, a micro wedding allows you to fully embrace these beautiful backdrops without the stress of managing a large crowd.
As a documentary-style wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the candid, unfiltered moments that make your wedding day uniquely yours. With a smaller guest list, there’s more space for:
Genuine Interactions – With fewer guests, you’ll have more meaningful moments with each person, creating heartfelt images that tell your love story.
Creative and Relaxed Portraits – A micro wedding offers more time and flexibility for couple portraits, allowing us to explore unique locations and capture stunning, stress-free shots.
A Focus on Emotions – The joy, the laughter, the happy tears—these are the moments that shine in intimate weddings, and I love preserving them through my lens.
I believe your wedding day should feel like an adventure, not a photoshoot. My approach is laid-back and fun—most of my couples tell me that working with me feels like hanging out with a friend! My goal is to document your wedding day as it unfolds naturally, capturing genuine smiles, spontaneous laughter, and all the little details that make your celebration one-of-a-kind.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who will document your day with authenticity and creativity, I’d love to be part of your celebration. Whether you’re eloping in the woods or hosting a cozy backyard wedding, I’ll be there to capture every beautiful moment.
Let’s connect and chat about your wedding plans—reach out today to book your date!
More and more couples are choosing small weddings — and honestly, they’re some of the most meaningful and joyful celebrations I get to photograph. Connecticut offers amazing small wedding venues that let you have a stylish, heartfelt day without the overwhelm.
More time with each guest
Less stress (and often less expense)
Freedom to splurge on things you truly love (like amazing photography!)
The Lace Factory (Deep River) — Industrial chic meets riverfront romance
The Webb Barn (Wethersfield) — Rustic elegance surrounded by gardens
The Inn at Mystic — Coastal charm with ceremony options indoors and out
Winvian Farm (Morris) — A luxury countryside retreat for unforgettable intimate weddings
Saltwater Farm Vineyard (Stonington) — Vineyard views + modern architecture
Focus on Your Guest List: Invite only the people who light you up.
Prioritize Experience: Think great food, a relaxed timeline, cozy vibes.
Choose Vendors Who Specialize in Intimate Weddings: (I’m a big fan of small wedding days that feel intentional and real!)
If you're planning a small wedding in Connecticut, I'd love to help capture every beautiful, emotional moment. Reach out here to learn more about my small wedding photography packages!
If you're planning an intimate elopement in Connecticut, you're likely looking for something deeply personal, romantic, and free from the stress of a traditional wedding. But here’s one thing you absolutely don’t want to overlook—your photographer.
As a Connecticut elopement photographer who specializes in candid photography, I believe the best moments aren't posed—they're lived. And when you're eloping, every quiet glance, every spontaneous laugh, and every unscripted moment matters.
Elopements are all about intention. Whether you're exchanging vows on a cliff overlooking the Long Island Sound or in the woods of Litchfield County, your elopement is a reflection of your unique love story. Documenting that with care and authenticity means capturing real moments as they happen.
Connecticut is full of hidden gems and scenic backdrops that are perfect for an intimate ceremony. Whether you're drawn to the rustic charm of a vineyard in the Connecticut River Valley, the serene beaches of the coast, or a quiet mountaintop overlook, there's something here for every couple.
Some of my favorite Connecticut elopement locations include:
Devil’s Hopyard State Park – for adventurous couples looking for waterfalls and forest trails
Harkness Memorial State Park – a dreamy oceanfront estate with formal gardens
Topsmead State Forest – for golden-hour photos in open fields and meadows
Candid photography isn’t about “taking pictures”—it’s about preserving feelings. From the way your partner looks at you when you read your vows, to the laughter during your first toast, every shot tells a part of your story.
Here’s what you can expect when working with me as your elopement photographer:
A relaxed, documentary-style approach—no pressure, just presence
A timeline that fits your day, not the other way around
A gallery filled with emotional, story-driven images that reflect you
When searching for a Connecticut elopement photographer, here are a few things to consider:
Style: Look for a photographer whose work feels real, raw, and emotional—especially if candid images speak to you.
Experience: Elopements require flexibility and creativity. Choose someone familiar with different CT locations and comfortable shooting in unpredictable settings.
Connection: Your photographer will be one of the few people with you on your elopement day. Make sure it’s someone who makes you feel comfortable and supported.
Your elopement deserves to be remembered in a way that feels true to you. If you're looking for a candid Connecticut elopement photographer who values real moments, I’d love to chat. Whether you're hiking to your ceremony spot or keeping it simple in your backyard, I’ll be there to capture it all—the big moments, the in-between glances, and everything that makes your love story one-of-a-kind.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, meaningful wedding day focused on just the two of you (or maybe a few loved ones), eloping in Connecticut might be exactly what you’re looking for. As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting love stories in cozy forests, waterfront parks, and charming historic towns across the state. Whether you’re planning a simple courthouse ceremony or a nature-filled adventure elopement, Connecticut offers a perfect mix of romance and scenery.
Why Elope in Connecticut?
Connecticut is the hidden gem of New England when it comes to elopements. You get a little bit of everything: ocean views, mountains, gardens, quiet lakes, and quaint towns — all without the overwhelming crowds. Plus, CT is easy to travel around in a single day, so you can hit multiple beautiful spots for your ceremony and portraits.
Best Places to Elope in Connecticut
Here are some of my favorite Connecticut elopement locations:
Harkness Memorial State Park (Waterford) – Sweeping lawns, ocean views, and a mansion backdrop.
Talcott Mountain (Simsbury) – For couples who love a short hike and panoramic views.
Elizabeth Park Rose Garden (West Hartford) – Especially stunning in early summer when the roses are in full bloom.
Gillette Castle (East Haddam) – A whimsical, fairytale-like location with history and charm.
Small Towns Like Essex or Mystic – Cobblestone streets, marinas, and cute B&Bs make these towns great for cozy elopements.
What You Need to Know About Eloping in Connecticut
Marriage License:
You can get a marriage license from the town where your ceremony will take place. There’s no waiting period, but it’s only valid for 65 days. You’ll need valid photo ID and both of you must be present to apply.
Officiant:
You can hire a justice of the peace or ordained officiant. Some couples bring a friend or family member who gets ordained online, which adds a personal touch.
Witnesses:
Connecticut doesn’t require witnesses for a legal marriage ceremony — perfect for true elopements!
Tips From a Local Elopement Photographer
Embrace the season: Fall foliage and spring blooms make stunning backdrops in CT. Winter elopements with snow can also be magical.
Plan for lighting: Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is the most flattering time for portraits.
Pack light: If you’re hiking or moving locations, bring only the essentials — your vows, rings, maybe a bouquet, and snacks!
Make it your own: Whether you want to say your vows barefoot by the water or in a vintage dress under the trees, elopements are all about freedom and authenticity.
Let’s Make Magic Together
Eloping is about celebrating your love in a way that feels right for you — without pressure, stress, or a giant guest list. As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I focus on candid moments, natural emotion, and creating an experience that’s fun and easy. I’ll help you find the perfect spot, recommend vendors, and guide you through every step of the day.
Ready to start planning your Connecticut elopement? Let’s chat and bring your dream elopement to life.
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