Brittney and James renewed their vows on August 21, 2021 at Smith Farm Gardens. I say renewed because they were one of my unfortunate couples who had to move their wedding date not once, not twice but three times (thanks Covid) before we finally were able to have their large celebration.
The couple decided to keep their second 2020 date and have a small, intimate wedding with immediate family only. This was the day they officially became husband and wife. The couple knew that a larger celebration with all of their friends was important to them so we turned the 2021 date into a vow renewal.
Smith Farm Gardens is one of my favorite venues in Connecticut. It has 15 acres of property that couples can use and a gorgeous 18th century farmhouse that you can stay in for the weekend with your bridal party! Every time I go to this venue, they have made even more improvements and offer more amenities for couples. A sailcloth tent is now a fixture on the property, a gorgeous fire pit surrounded by stacked logs, walking trails throughout the woods, permanent restroom trailers and so much more!
I was beyond excited to finally have a wedding come to life here. Brittney and James kicked the weekend off on Friday with a rehearsal and a casual rehearsal dinner at the house. You can't help but feel totally relaxed here once you are checked in.
Saturday morning began with hair and makeup in the bridal suite (which is one of the most beautiful suites I've seen!) and James and the guys played lawn games and hung out on the grounds. They both agreed that having a First Look to spend a few moments alone and also take their time with portraits around the property was a must!
They chose to host their ceremony with the white pillars of the farmhouse as their backdrop. Once the ceremony concluded, we directed guests to the side lawn to enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres as well as play the various lawn games they set up. With a property this expansive and this beautiful, it is natural for your guests to wander. And at Smith Farm, we highly encourage that!
The reception took place under a white sail cloth tent with several unique details the couple wanted to incorporate including a wedding cake that featured their pups and a photobooth in an old VW bus. All of their guests were blown away by the beauty of their venue and after two years of lockdown, were beyond excited to finally be able to celebrate with Brittney and James! This Smith Farm Gardens wedding was a beauty and a pleasure to plan!
Vendor Team:
Planning: Alyssa Jean Signature Events
Catering: David Alan
Venue: Smith Farm Gardens
Photographer: Jessica Brigham
Rentals: Tents Unlimited & PEAK
Cake: Alyssa's Cakery
Florist: McInernery's Flower Shop
DJ: Vivid Events
Video: Shutter and Sound
Beauty: Allure Traveling Beauty
Photo Booth: Chloe VW Bus
Transportation: Joshua's Limousine