As a New Hampshire wedding photographer, I’ve noticed that a lot of couples LOVE the look of mountaintop wedding photos, or wildflower field wedding photos, but also have their hearts set on having a big traditional wedding with friends and family. Many couples think you can only have one or the other though and assume they have to choose between the two. But that’s actually not true! So today I thought I’d share a few suggestions on how to have a wedding in nature even if you’re having a traditional wedding (and not eloping).
These are my favorite ways that you can incorporate the beauty of New Hampshire while still celebrating with everyone you love 😊
How to Have a Wedding in Nature Even if You’re Not Eloping
1. Choose a Venue With Nature Views
There are lots of venues that have stunning nature views built right in! So depending on your vibe, you could look for a venue with mountain views, or views of a lake or field. Choosing a venue like this allows you to have the best of both worlds. If you’re looking for mountain views, some great options in New Hampshire are the Omni Mount Washington (including their new facility Rosebrook Lodge), or Castle in the Clouds.
{Need help choosing what season to get married in in New Hampshire? Check out this post!}
2. Have a First Look and/or Private Vows in a Scenic Location
Depending on where you plan your ceremony and reception, it’s often possible to find a scenic location on-site or nearby for your first look! A lot of couples choose to read their vows privately to eachother too during the first look, so being in nature makes that moment extra special (and picturesque!). This is a great option if your venue itself isn’t quite set in nature as much as you’d like it to be.
These two did private vows at Beaver Brook Falls in Colebrook, NH!
3. Have a Day After Photoshoot
This is a great option to incorporate nature into your wedding! A day after photoshoot is where you get dressed back up in your wedding attire (or different looks if you want!) and we go to a scenic location for an adventurous newlywed session. I LOVE this idea because you’re still on the post-wedding high, but all the stress is totally behind you!
My couple Krista and Colin opted to do this because the weather actually took a turn on their winter wedding day, so we weren’t able to get as many outdoor nature photos as they had hoped for. I took them to the Rocky Gorge Scenic Lookout and a secret spot off the Kancamagus :) It was a blast! You can see more here.
4. Elope Privately, and Then Celebrate!
Similar to the day-after idea, you could do a day-before session in nature, and actually elope while you’re at it! We could do a hike to somewhere special with a trusted friend or family member as your officiant, and have an incredible experience in the mountains or forest while you officially tie the knot.
Come just in hiking clothes or change into wedding attire once we arrive at the viewpoint - it’s completely up to you! And in New Hampshire, you don’t need a witness to your ceremony, so it could just be us and your officiant. Then, have your big bash with your friends and family later!
5. Have Your Engagement Photos in Nature
Finally, if these ideas for having your wedding in nature aren’t possible, try doing an engagement photo session at a stunning location instead! I have so many favorite spots, but these are some favorites from the White Mountains: Nikki + Ryan, Sam + Kevin, and Sarah + Talia.
New Hampshire Wedding Photographer
Hopefully these ideas have given you something to think about! There are so many ways to get creative with your wedding day. And the most important thing to remember is that it is YOUR day - so you can make it as traditional or out of the box as you want!
Looking for a New Hampshire photographer who loves nature? I’m your girl!! I’ve been exploring NH (the White Mountains especially!) my whole life, and I love being able to share this expertise with my couples. Reach out to me here, and I’ll be in touch right away! I can’t wait to meet you :)
