The Ultimate Packing List for Your Connecticut Elopement

romantic beach elopement in new England

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.

Why You Need a Packing List

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.

adventure elopement in new England

Ceremony and Legal Must-Haves

The non-negotiables:

  • Marriage license (filed in the Connecticut town where you’re getting married)
  • Officiant (or plan for self-solemnization or a friend-officiant)
  • Vow books and pens
  • Rings (with a secure ring box)

Pro Tip: Handwritten vow books not only keep your words safe—they look stunning in flat lay detail shots.


Wedding Attire and Accessories

Keep your look flawless while staying comfortable:

  • Wedding dress or outfit (in a protective garment bag)
  • Veil, shawl, or jacket (for unpredictable New England weather)
  • Comfortable shoes for exploring
  • Jewelry and meaningful heirlooms

Pro Tip: Pack a mini sewing kit, safety pins, and a lint roller. Small fixes make a huge difference.


elopement photographer connecticut

Adventure and Weather Prep

For outdoor vows, be ready for all conditions:

  • Cozy blanket or wrap (also doubles as a photo prop)
  • Clear umbrella (they photograph beautifully in rain)
  • Hiking boots for trails and rugged spots
  • Hand warmers for fall and winter elopements

Pro Tip: Connecticut weather can change quickly. Planning for both rain and shine keeps stress low and smiles high.


Personal Touches for Stunning Photos

These extras add depth and personality to your gallery:

  • Bouquet and boutonniere (fresh or dried florals both work well)
  • Champagne or sparkling cider for a celebratory toast
  • Picnic basket with snacks (cheese, fruit, chocolate)
  • Keepsakes like letters, heirlooms, or a favorite blanket

Pro Tip: Small details create big storytelling moments and make your elopement photos feel unique to you.


connecticut elopement photographer

Practical Essentials

The behind-the-scenes heroes:

  • Phone charger and portable battery
  • Makeup touch-up kit (powder, lipstick, blotting papers)
  • Water bottles to stay hydrated
  • Mini first aid kit and blister band-aids

Pro Tip: Keep everything in one backpack or tote to stay organized and stress-free.


Final Thoughts

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.

Contact me here to book today

Why I Love Photographing Small Weddings at Chamard Vineyard in Clinton, CT

chamard vineyard wedding ceremony

A Coastal Vineyard with Charm and Character

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.


Connecticut micro wedding photographer at vineyard
ct small wedding photographer - first looks
Small and intimate wedding photos Connecticut

What Makes Chamard Vineyard Ideal for Micro Weddings?

1. A Peaceful, Secluded Atmosphere

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.

2. Rustic Elegance That Feels Authentic

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.

3. Great Wine and Farm-to-Table Cuisine

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.

4. Year-Round Beauty

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.


Connecticut small wedding photographer
micro wedding photographer in Connecticut
intimate wedding photography Connecticut for small weddings

Why Chamard Vineyard Is a Photographer’s Dream

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.


Tips for Planning a Micro Wedding at Chamard Vineyard

  • Check availability early: The Bistro and vineyard space are popular for private events year-round.
  • Ask about weekday weddings: Smaller weddings are often a perfect fit for weekday or off-season dates, and you might get more flexibility.
  • Keep your guest list focused: Chamard is ideal for intimate weddings with your closest people—this isn't a 200-guest ballroom, and that's what makes it special.
  • Plan your timeline around the light: Golden hour in the vineyard is unreal—talk with your photographer about when to sneak away for portraits.

Final Thoughts

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.

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Bride walking down isle at small and intimate wedding ceremony
Micro wedding at Chamard Vineyard
Chamard Vineyard wedding ceremony
Connecticut Small Wedding Photographer
Bride and Groom kiss during small wedding ceremony at Chamard Vineyard
Small and Intimate wedding Photographer in Connecticut
"Sit anywhere that makes you smile" wedding reception sign
Intimate wedding reception candid photography
Connecticut candid wedding photographer
Children hugging grandpa during wedding reception
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First dance at Chamard Vineyard wedding
Bride and Groom share first dance in barn at Chamard Vineyard

Candid Summer Wedding in Connecticut – Real Moments, Real Love

Candid wedding photographer Connecticut

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.

bride and groom with their dogs on wedding day

A Summer Wedding to Remember

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.

Connecticut wedding ceremony in peach orchard
Joyful newlywed moment walking down the aisle—candid wedding photography in Connecticut at its best.
candids during Connecticut wedding ceremony

Why Candid Wedding Photography Matters

I don’t do stiff poses or forced smiles. I’m all about the in-between moments:

  • That quick glance between you and your partner during the ceremony
  • Your grandma’s emotional hug right after “I do”
  • The spontaneous laughs during the toast that caught you by surprise

Candid wedding photography captures your day as it truly felt—so you can relive it over and over again.

Connecticut orchard wedding photographer
Outdoor summer ceremony photographed by a Connecticut wedding photographer specializing in natural, documentary-style images.

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.

Small wedding photographer Connecticut
Bride and Groom at March Farms in CT
peach color wedding details
Connecticut bride in peach orchard
Connecticut bride and groom with their dogs on wedding day
Naturally posed wedding photographer Connecticut
Connecticut wedding photographer natural poses
wedding party with dogs in orchard
cocktail hour yard games
Fun, energetic dance floor shots from a summer wedding—perfectly candid moments captured by a CT wedding photographer.
Wedding reception details with garden florals and string lights—photographed in a candid style by a CT wedding photographer.

Connecticut Wedding Venue | March Farm

DJ | Butch Gray

Caterer | The Art of Yum

Wedding Planner | Atlantic Events

Cake | Trew Sterling (man of honor)

Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Connecticut

Connecticut elopement photographer at the beach

Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Connecticut

Crafting a day that's authentically yours, surrounded by the natural beauty of New England.

What Is an Elopement?

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 elopement photographer at the beach

Why Choose Connecticut for Your Elopement?

Connecticut offers a diverse landscape, making it an ideal backdrop for your elopement:

  • Coastal Charm: Exchange vows on serene beaches like Hammonasset Beach State Park.
  • Woodland Whimsy: Say "I do" amidst the lush greenery of Topsmead State Forest.
  • Historic Elegance: Opt for venues like Gillette Castle State Park for a touch of history.
  • Seasonal Splendor: Enjoy vibrant fall foliage or blooming spring gardens.
CT elopement photographer at the beach

Planning Your Connecticut Elopement: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Envision Your Day

Start by imagining your perfect day. Consider:

  • The type of setting you desire (beach, forest, urban).
  • The season that resonates with you.
  • Activities you'd like to include (hiking, picnicking, etc.).

2. Choose the Right Location

Select a location that aligns with your vision. Research permit requirements and accessibility. Some popular spots include:([Shell Creek Photography][1])

  • Wickham Park: Known for its beautiful gardens.
  • Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park: Offers coastal views and historic architecture.
Beach elopement photographer in Connecticut

3. Understand Legal Requirements

To legally marry in Connecticut:

  • Obtain a marriage license from the town clerk in the town where the ceremony will occur.
  • No waiting period; the license is valid for 65 days.
  • An officiant is required, but witnesses are not.

4. Assemble Your Vendor Team

Consider hiring professionals who specialize in elopements:

  • Photographer: Captures the essence of your day.
  • Officiant: Leads the ceremony.
  • Florist: Provides bouquets and decor.
  • Hair & Makeup Artist: Helps you look your best.
Elopement wedding ceremony in Connecticut on the beach

5. Personalize Your Ceremony

Incorporate elements that reflect your relationship:

  • Write your own vows.
  • Include a meaningful ritual.
  • Choose music that resonates with you.

Tips for a Memorable Elopement

  • Embrace the Unexpected: Weather and unforeseen events can add uniqueness to your day.
  • Stay Present: Focus on each other and the commitment you're making.
  • Document the Journey: Capture moments leading up to, during, and after the ceremony.

Ready to Plan Your Connecticut Elopement?

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.

Contact me to begin your elopement journey

Hammonasset Beach Elopement | Intimate Connecticut Wedding Photography

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.

Why Elope at Hammonasset Beach?

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.

A Beautifully Simple Elopement

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.

Connecticut Elopement Photography at the Beach

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.

Planning Your Beach Elopement in CT

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.

Ready to Elope at the Beach?

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.

Why Micro Weddings in Connecticut Are Perfect for Beautiful, Candid Photography

Bride and groom get married in small intimate wedding ceremony in Connecticut

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.

What Is a Micro Wedding?

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.

bride and groom enjoying their wedding reception and cocktail hour
Connecticut vineyard wedding photographer

Why Choose a Micro Wedding in Connecticut?

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.

The Benefits of an Intimate Wedding for Photography

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.

wedding at Gouveia Vineyards

My Approach to Photographing Micro Weddings

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.

Planning Your Connecticut Micro Wedding?

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!

Connecticut wedding at Gouveia Vineyards

Planning a Small Wedding in Connecticut: Venues & Tips | Rebecca Lynne Photography

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.

Why Choose a Small Wedding?

  • More time with each guest

  • Less stress (and often less expense)

  • Freedom to splurge on things you truly love (like amazing photography!)

Best Connecticut Small Wedding Venues

  • 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

Tips for Planning Your Small Connecticut Wedding

  • 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!)

backyard wedding photographer in Connecticut
micro wedding photography in the backyard of Connecticut

Closing Invitation

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!

Why Candid Elopement Photography in Connecticut Tells the Best Love Stories

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.

Why Elopement Photography 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.

Why Connecticut Is Perfect for Elopements

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

What Candid Elopement Photography Looks Like

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

How to Choose the Right Elopement Photographer in Connecticut

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.

Let’s Create Something Meaningful

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.

Get in touch to start planning your day.

How to Plan a Beautiful Elopement in Connecticut (With a Local Photographer’s Tips)

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.

How to Plan the Perfect Micro Wedding in Connecticut

Planning your Connecticut Micro Wedding

Planning a micro wedding in Connecticut? You’re in for a beautifully intimate and meaningful celebration. With a smaller guest list, you can focus on what truly matters—your love story, your closest family and friends, and a wedding experience that feels personal and stress-free. As a wedding photographer specializing in intimate weddings, I’ve seen firsthand how magical micro weddings can be. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect day.

What Is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding typically includes 50 or fewer guests. It’s smaller than a traditional wedding but still includes all the essential elements—ceremony, reception, and, of course, stunning photography. The beauty of a micro wedding is that it allows couples to prioritize experience over logistics and create a day that truly reflects their personalities.

Why Choose a Micro Wedding in Connecticut?

Connecticut is filled with picturesque venues that are perfect for small weddings. Whether you dream of a waterfront ceremony in Mystic, a charming inn in Litchfield, or a cozy backyard wedding, there are endless possibilities. A micro wedding lets you embrace these stunning locations without the stress of coordinating a large guest list.

Steps to Planning the Perfect Connecticut Micro Wedding

1. Choose the Right Venue

Micro weddings give you the flexibility to think outside the box when it comes to your venue. Consider:

  • Private Estates & Airbnb Rentals – Ideal for an intimate, homey feel.

  • Boutique Hotels & Inns – Offers charm and convenience.

  • Coastal & Outdoor Locations – Perfect for scenic, romantic backdrops.

  • Barns & Historic Venues – Add character and warmth to your wedding.

2. Keep the Guest List Small and Intentional

A micro wedding is about quality over quantity. Focus on inviting your closest family and friends who will make the day even more meaningful.

3. Personalize the Details

With fewer guests, you can allocate your budget toward meaningful details like custom décor, a gourmet dining experience, or unique entertainment options.

4. Create a Relaxed Timeline

One of the biggest benefits of a micro wedding is the flexibility in your schedule. With a smaller guest list, you won’t feel rushed, allowing more time for relaxed, candid moments and beautiful photography.

5. Hire Vendors Who Fit Your Vision

A micro wedding doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means choosing vendors who align with your style. Consider a personal chef, a live musician, or a documentary-style wedding photographer (like me!) to capture every authentic moment.

Why a Micro Wedding Is Perfect for Photography

As a wedding photographer, I love micro weddings because they allow for more intimate, unposed moments. With fewer distractions and a more relaxed atmosphere, I can focus on:

  • Capturing genuine emotions and interactions

  • Creating artistic, stress-free couple portraits

  • Documenting all the little details that make your day unique

Let’s Capture Your Micro Wedding!

If you’re planning a micro wedding in Connecticut, I’d love to help tell your love story through photography. Whether you’re having a cozy backyard celebration or a scenic coastal wedding, I’ll be there to capture every moment in a fun, natural, and heartfelt way.

Let’s connect and make your wedding vision a reality—reach out today to book your date!

Why Candid Wedding Photography is Perfect for Intimate Weddings

Why Candid Wedding Photography is Perfect for Intimate Weddings

When planning an intimate or micro wedding, every detail is intentional—your guest list, your venue, and the overall experience. But one of the most important aspects of your day is how it’s captured. That’s where candid, documentary-style wedding photography comes in. If you want photos that truly reflect the emotions, laughter, and natural beauty of your wedding day, candid photography is the perfect fit.

What is Candid Wedding Photography?

Candid photography is all about capturing real, unscripted moments. Instead of stiff poses or forced smiles, this approach focuses on genuine emotions and spontaneous interactions. Whether it’s a tearful first look, an inside joke shared between guests, or the way you and your partner glance at each other during the vows, candid photography preserves these moments as they naturally unfold.

Why Candid Photography is Ideal for Micro Weddings

Micro weddings create the perfect setting for documentary-style photography because they emphasize intimacy, authenticity, and connection. Here’s why candid photography works so well:

1. Authentic Storytelling

With a smaller guest list, your wedding is filled with people who truly matter to you. Candid photography captures the love, joy, and connections between you and your guests, telling a story that feels deeply personal and real.

2. Less Pressure, More Natural Moments

Large weddings often come with tight timelines and long lists of formal photos. Micro weddings, on the other hand, allow for a more relaxed experience. This means more space for natural interactions, unplanned laughter, and moments that make your wedding unique.

3. A Focus on Emotion

When you look back at your wedding photos, you want to remember how you felt on your special day. Candid photography captures these emotions—happy tears, belly laughs, heartfelt hugs—without interruption or posing.

4. Unobtrusive & Relaxed Photography Experience

Many couples feel nervous in front of the camera. With candid photography, there’s no need to worry about awkward poses or forced smiles. My approach as a photographer is to blend into the background, allowing moments to unfold naturally so that your photos truly reflect your day.

How I Capture Candid Moments at Your Wedding

As a wedding photographer, I take a documentary approach to capture the essence of your day. Here’s how I ensure your micro wedding photos are full of life and emotion:

  • I focus on real interactions, letting you enjoy your wedding without constant interruptions.

  • I use natural light and unique angles to create artistic, beautiful images.

  • I anticipate emotional moments, like a proud parent wiping away tears or the joy of your first dance as a married couple.

  • I encourage movement, laughter, and genuine connection so that your photos feel dynamic and real.

Let’s Capture Your Wedding Story

If you’re planning a micro wedding in Connecticut and want photography that reflects your love in the most natural and authentic way, I’d love to be a part of your day. My goal is to create images that bring back every feeling, every smile, and every unforgettable moment.

Let’s connect and chat about your wedding plans—reach out today to book your date!

Capturing a Beautiful Wedding at Stonehurst at Hampton Valley

One venue that truly stands out for its charm and elegance is as a Connecticut Wedding Photographer is Stonehurst at Hampton Valley. Nestled in the serene countryside of Hampton, Connecticut, Stonehurst is a breathtaking location that combines rustic charm with modern sophistication — a perfect backdrop for any couple looking to create lasting memories on their wedding day.

A Wedding Day at Stonehurst with Rebecca Lynne Photography

As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I’m always on the lookout for venues that provide natural light and picturesque scenery. Stonehurst at Hampton Valley ticks all those boxes and more! I recently had the honor of photographing a wedding at this incredible venue, and the day couldn’t have been more perfect. The couple’s love story came to life through the stunning surroundings, and I was able to capture moments that truly reflected the magic of their day.

One of my favorite parts of the day was shooting the ceremony in the forest, with lush greenery and the soft glow of the afternoon sun illuminating the scene. It’s moments like these that make being a wedding photographer so rewarding!

Why Choose Rebecca Lynne Photography for Your Wedding at Stonehurst

My goal as a wedding photographer is to provide couples with timeless images that capture the heart and soul of their special day. I believe in documenting real moments and raw emotions — everything from the quiet, intimate moments to the grand, celebratory ones.

When it comes to weddings at venues like Stonehurst at Hampton Valley, I know how to work with the natural beauty of the location to create stunning images that will last a lifetime. From perfectly timed shots of the couple during their first dance to capturing the grandeur of the venue, I ensure every detail is thoughtfully documented.

My approach combines artistic photography with photojournalistic style, ensuring that I capture both candid moments and carefully composed portraits. I always aim to blend into the background so that the focus stays on you, the couple, while still ensuring all those special moments are preserved. Whether you’re getting married in the beautiful garden or inside the stone barn, I’ll ensure your memories are beautifully captured.

What Couples Are Saying About Rebecca Lynne Photography

Many couples who have worked with me at venues like Stonehurst at Hampton Valley often mention how easy it was to feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. I prioritize creating a fun and stress-free atmosphere for the couple, allowing their personalities to shine through in each photo. It’s important to me that you not only enjoy your wedding day but that you look back at your photos and remember how it felt.

Contact Rebecca Lynne Photography

For couples planning a wedding at this stunning location, I’d love to be a part of your special day! As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing authentic, emotional moments in beautiful venues like Stonehurst. Let’s work together to create a wedding album that will help you relive your perfect day for years to come.

I can’t wait to work with you and make your wedding day memories last forever!