In the quiet corner of the last green valley resides one of the most loving homes one could imagine. A beautiful two story house set on a back country road, a family so warm and welcoming that you instantly feel like one of the bunch, and a timeless history of gatherings, celebrations, and memories. The Parker residence played a part in all three of the siblings big days, the most recent being the youngest who flew home from his Air Force Base to have a backyard wedding at his childhood home.
As the groom and his groomsmen got ready in his family home, the bride and her girls prepared for their day in a beautiful suite at the Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center in Massachusetts. The smell of hairspray filled the air as I made my way into the room. In matching embroidered flannel shirts, the girls bustled around getting their finishes touches done. Before getting dressed, I had them all gather in the adjoining bedroom where they each took turns sharing their favorite memories of the bride.
Laughter erupted throughout the room as they took a walk down memory lane.
When it was time to get ready, the bride slipped into her gorgeous lace covered dress, put on her rhinestone studded cowgirl boots, and clipped her pearl necklace into place. Before heading out, she picked up her one of a kind wood carved flower bouquet.
I met with Reverend Dr. Susan J. Foster at the East Woodstock Congregational Church to discuss the ceremony that was quickly approaching. Only a stone's throw away from the Parker home, this church was the site of both the grooms sisters beautiful ceremonies in years past.
Friends and family gathered to celebrate the joining of two beautiful souls in the big white church that overlooked scenic Woodstock. Rev. Dr. Foster's ceremony was filled with thoughtfully chosen bible verses read by loved ones, words of love and devotion, and memories of the grooms youth.
After the ceremony, the party made its way over to the Parker residence. Elle Goslin set the mood by serenading guests with acoustic love songs.
Members of the wedding party were announced in by Mazzone Brothers Productions as they made their way to the dance floor. When it was time for the newlyweds to join them, the crowd grew loud with cheers of joy.
The bride and groom shared their first dance together as Mr. and Mrs. as all in attendance looked on lovingly.
A delicious buffet was served, heartwarming toasts were made by those closest to them, and the bride and groom fed each other cupcakes. The anniversary dance revealed the grooms grandparents, The Arnold's, as the longest married couple at the reception. Their smiles revealed just how in love they have been all these years, giving hope to future generations.
The sun began to set on that gorgeous June day and I saw an opportunity I could not pass up. I stole the couple from their party and we made our way across the street to a big open field. I gave the bride and groom a moment to enjoy each others presence on their big day, snapping some photos to freeze the moment in time.
At last it was time for the guests to let loose and get their groove on. To say this bunch enjoyed themselves is the understatement of the year.
Thank you so much to Seth & Kate Parker for allowing me to capture your big day. It is an absolute honor to have been able to photograph all three Parker siblings weddings and something that I will never forget. Your family has always been so wonderful to me and I could not thank you enough for everything you do. I wish you nothing but love and good health for many years to come.
June 15, 2019 - Parker Homestead Woodstock, CT - Seth & Kate Parker