Swiftwater Cellars Wedding in Winter | Lauren & Michael
From the very beginning of my career as a professional wedding photographer, I have dreamed of a winter wedding full of snow. Over the years, I have photographed many winter weddings, but for some reason – the snow never came. So when this Swiftwater Cellars wedding came around, and the snow with it, I was personally ecstatic.
With snow, I think everything becomes beautiful. Everything becomes serene. Romantic. Gorgeous. Tranquil. And I think all of these are the traits of an amazing, memorable wedding day.
For this particular wedding at the Swiftwater Cellars resort and wedding venue, Lauren and Michael rented out vacation properties nearby to get ready in. They were about 5-10 minutes away from one another, and the vibe of each property was similar, yet different enough. And both were big enough to make it a weekend party with their closest friends and family – exactly what they wanted when they set out to plan the perfect winter wedding.
From the plaid details in her bridesmaids PJs to his high-class tux-look, no details were overlooked.
Simply put, I loved every detail of this Swiftwater Cellars wedding. I say, bring on the snow.
One thing that I think is quite unique and OUTSIDE of their wedding day was one simple fact.
One thing happened on this particular day that every photographer has nightmares about.
And I knew it was going to happen. I knew it. But… I risked it. All to get “the shot.”
My camera broke. Caput. Dead.
It was all for those gorgeous outdoor photos in the snow. And because the snow was falling a bit “wet” (the weather wasn’t cold enough to have dry snow), the moisture got into my camera and fried the sensors. So yes, that quick outdoor session you will see below cost me about $3,500 (the cost to replace my camera). And for those of you wondering, I never told the bride & groom. Why? Because I had backup equipment with me, and I didn’t want to stress them out. After all, it’s their wedding day, and they don’t need to hear my problems. Haha. My goal as a wedding photographer is one thing: To help couples have the most amount of fun on their wedding day as possible while capturing gorgeous photographs. That’s it. So, me sharing the fact that a camera broke doesn’t serve that goal. And that’s why I always carry backups with me. That way, I plan for the worst case scenario (like this one) and hope that it never happens. But, photograph enough weddings and you’re bound to experience quite literally everything that could come up. It all comes with 10 years behind the camera.
Anyways!
I loved this day, I loved the snow, I love these photographs, I love this couple, and I had an absolutely wonderful time. I love winter, so if you are thinking about getting married in the snow somewhere – please book me. I truly love it. It’s one of my favorite things to do.
These winter wedding photos are one for the books. And I hope there are many more to come just like it. If you’re thinking of a winter wedding, use the contact form on my website and get in touch with me today!
For more of their gorgeous Swiftwater Cellars wedding day, just keep on scrolling.
It was FREEZING and the wind was blowing super strong. I think their facial expressions say it all.
Popping red lip against a black & white attire? PERFECT. Love it.
The photo below is what ultimately cost me $3,500. They are in the covered area. I am out there in the thick of it. Camera exposed to the elements ever so slightly, but because of the wind coming in at a near-horizontal motion, there’s no protecting it. They are getting married once, and these are the photographs that they are going to cherish for FOREVER. So, what’s the big deal. Just do it. And so, it was done.
Love this series. Totally reminds me of a movie set. And LOVE her expression. Priceless.
Real wedding day tears. <3 Pure happiness and joy.
Uhmmm… YUM. I will take 10, please.
The ceremony site within the barn at Swiftwater Cellars. Beautiful. See how hard the snow is falling just outside the windows? Beautiful.
Final moments bustling the dress and only lit by a cell phone. Yes. Double yes.
Looking for more inspiration for gorgeous weddings, elopements, and engagement sessions? I got you. Check these out:
