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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Connecticut Backyard Wedding Photographer

Backyard Wedding Ceremony and Reception in Connecticut

Backyard Wedding Photography in Connecticut: A Personal Touch to Your Special Day

These days, more and more couples are ditching the traditional wedding venues for something a bit more personal and cozy—backyard weddings. As a wedding photographer based in Connecticut, I've been lucky enough to capture some truly beautiful backyard weddings all across this gorgeous state. If you're thinking about having your wedding in a backyard here, you're in for something special. Not only do you get to tie the knot in a place that means the world to you, but you also end up with stunning photos that capture the heart and soul of your day. In this article, I'll share some thoughts on what makes backyard wedding photography so unique and how I can help make your day unforgettable!

Why Choose a Backyard Wedding in Connecticut?

Connecticut is home to some of the most picture-perfect settings for a backyard wedding. Whether you're nestled in a quaint New England town, surrounded by rolling hills, or near a peaceful lake, the natural beauty here is second to none. A backyard wedding lets you craft a truly custom experience that reflects who you are as a couple.
Why go for a backyard wedding? Here are a few reasons:

1. Personal Connection:
   Whether it's your own backyard, your family's home, or a friend's place, getting married somewhere that holds personal meaning makes the day even more special. It's already full of memories, and now you'll be making new ones there.

2. More Flexibility:
   From picking the perfect time of day to decorating however you want, backyard weddings offer a ton of flexibility. You're not stuck with a venue's schedule or rules. This freedom extends to your photos too, letting me capture the day as it naturally unfolds.

3. Stunning Natural Backdrops:
   Connecticut's landscape offers endless opportunities for beautiful wedding photos. Whether it's a garden, a rustic barn, or a backyard with breathtaking views, the scenery provides an authentic and stunning backdrop.

How to Get the Best Backyard Wedding Photos Capturing the magic of a backyard wedding is truly an art.

As an experienced Connecticut wedding photographer, I know how to showcase your love and the unique features of your venue. Here are some tips to make sure your wedding photos are just perfect:

1. Use Natural Light to Your Advantage
   Natural light is one of the best tools for capturing romantic and timeless wedding photos. Backyard weddings allow for more flexibility with lighting, and there's something magical about an outdoor ceremony or golden hour portraits. Tip: Plan your ceremony timing around the best light of the day, usually late afternoon or early evening, for photos that glow with warmth. We can also take advantage of early morning light if you're an early riser!

2. Highlight Your Venue's Unique Features
   Your backyard wedding might have stunning gardens, unique landscaping, or vintage architecture. Let's make sure to incorporate these personal touches into your wedding photos. If your family home has been passed down through generations, that connection adds even more emotional value to your photos. Tip: I love capturing the little details—whether it's your grandmother's antique chairs or a custom sign you've hand-painted. These elements can make for incredible shots that tell the story of your day.

3. Plan for Intimate Moments
   Backyard weddings often have a smaller guest list, which allows for more personal moments between you, your partner, and your guests. I'll focus on capturing those candid interactions—whether it's a quiet moment between the two of you in a secluded spot or a family member sharing an emotional toast. Tip: The smaller, more relaxed setting often allows for more emotional and genuine moments. Let's make sure to preserve those memories in your wedding photos.

4. Incorporate Your Personal Style
   Since you have complete control over your backyard wedding's design, your wedding photos should reflect your personal style. From florals to furniture, every detail adds to the atmosphere. We can capture the décor, from the delicate flowers in the garden to the cozy seating arrangement under the stars. Tip: Trust me to document every personalized touch—from the wedding arch to your handpicked florals or even the homemade favors you've prepared for your guests. These details will tell your unique story.

Tips for Planning a Successful Backyard Wedding

Planning a backyard wedding involves a bit more prep than a traditional venue wedding, but it's so worth it! Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Backup Plan for Weather: Connecticut's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always good to have a backup plan for your ceremony and reception. A tent can save the day, ensuring your photos stay beautiful no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

2. Power and Lighting: If you're hosting an evening wedding, lighting is key! String lights, lanterns, or even candles can add a magical touch to your photos. Make sure there's plenty of lighting to keep the atmosphere warm and inviting.

3. Consider the Space: Make sure there's enough room for your ceremony and reception, as well as space for me to capture the day. I'll work with you to choose the best spots for your photos, ensuring nothing gets in the way of those magical moments.

Why Hire a Connecticut Wedding Photographer for Your Backyard Wedding?

While it might be tempting to ask friends and family to take photos during your wedding, hiring a professional photographer ensures that the moments you cherish most are captured beautifully and consistently. As a Connecticut wedding photographer, my goal is to bring out the beauty in every detail of your backyard wedding, ensuring that your photos are as timeless as the memories they represent. I specialize in capturing the natural, organic beauty of outdoor weddings. Whether it's the soft golden hour light, the laughter shared with your loved ones, or those quiet moments between you and your partner, I'm there to document it all. Your backyard wedding in Connecticut deserves to be preserved in a way that feels as magical and personal as the day itself.

Ready to Capture Your Backyard Wedding in Connecticut? If you're planning a backyard wedding in Connecticut, I'd love to help you create beautiful, authentic memories that you'll cherish forever. Reach out to Rebecca Lynne Photography today.

Intimate Wedding Phototgraphy in Connecticut

CT Small Wedding Photographer

A warm Summer backyard wedding at David and Kelsey’s home in New Haven County.

Are you recently engaged and looking for Connecticut photographer for your intimate wedding or backyard wedding? Reach out to Rebecca Lynne Photography today. Connecticut Wedding Photographer Rebecca Lynne documents your wedding day with a natural and candid photography style, capturing the big and small moments of your wedding day in an honest way.

An Intimate Backyard Wedding in Connecticut | David + Kelsey

New Haven County Intimate Wedding

A beautiful late Summer backyard wedding at David and Kelsey’s Wallingford home.

David and Kelsey’s intimate backyard wedding came together beautifully. Their wedding day was put together with so many handmade and DIY touches from the bride and groom themselves.

Just as the ceremony was coming to an end, a few rain drops started to fall from the sky. Shortly after the clouds really opened up and the rain came down hard for a short period of time. The wedding day guests didn’t let that stop them for enjoying the evening. Everyone gathered under the tent, beautifully decorated with greenery and enjoyed their time together. When the rain cleared up, the bar was opened and some dancing begun.

Are you an engaged couple in Connecticut looking for a photographer for your intimate wedding or backyard wedding? Reach out to Rebecca Lynne Photography today. Connecticut Wedding Photographer Rebecca Lynne documents your wedding day with a natural and candid photography style.