As I looked through the photographs from Mikey and Sam’s Owl’s Nest Wedding in Thornton, New Hampshire, I just can’t help but think about how kind-hearted the people that we work with are.

These two both work in public service fields – Sam is a nurse and Mikey is a police officer. They have hearts made of gold, I’m sure have been through a lot this year in this pandemic.

Sam + Mikey are so commitment to take care of one another and everyone they meet, and this was the sentiment that resonated throughout the day. After meeting their parents, it was no surprise. I was so touched by the kindness of both of their parents + everyone they chose to surround themselves with.

Owl’s Nest has accommodations right on site, and the cottages and houses that everyone got ready in was beautiful – so much natural light! Sam’s best friend Ally is like her sister, they’ve grown up together and have a ton of history. Actually, Sam pretty much described all of her sweet bridesmaids as close as sisters. This moment with the bride and her besties is one of my favorite parts of the day. We treat it a little different from most photographers and it becomes a really special moment that I hope they all hold onto along with the photographs. Side effect is usually laughs and hugs…and sometimes tears too, sorry mama!

Sam is so close with her parents and her brothers. She planned a special moment with them on the front porch of their cottage before she headed out to exchange private vows with Mikey during their first look.

One thing that really caught my attention from the entire day was how much love and affection both Mikey + Sam’s parents have for one another. I’ve never seen parents of the bride or parents of the groom hug + kiss more than this wedding. I loved seeing it and I can’t help but think that this is the future that Sam + Mikey will have together.

During their first look they exchanged personal vows. This gorgeous mountaintop location was guided by Amy, the coordinator at Owl’s Nest.

The staff under her leadership was absolutely fantastic to work with. Even though I’m sure they’ve had an extra volume of weddings this year, everyone had a smile on their faces and seemed genuinely happy to be a part of this day.

Back to the personal vows. A few of our couples have chosen to exchange personal vows during their first look this year, and I have to say I absolutely love this! It’s such a private moment between just the two of them, where they are comfortable to say things that they may not have the nerve to say in front of 100 or so of their family and friends. 

Meet Murph, their fur baby and first love.

Their officiant was Sam’s uncle, she’s so close to him and he planned something very sincere. He took it very seriously and did a fantastic job creating a very personal wedding ceremony for their marriage. Cocktails on the lawn & reception in the tent immediately following.

The tent was one of the most gorgeous I’ve ever seen and I love the detail along the top of the posts.

The florals by Mellow Botanical and all of the details by Emma B really came together. It was simple, cohesive and complementary to the mountain venue they chose.

The rest of the night was so much fun. So much dancing, thanks to the music guy DJ James of Meritage Entertainment, so many laughs, toasts + happy moments to celebrate this incredible couple.

Sam + Mikey congratulations! We’re so happy to be a part of this day. Enjoy the highlight and know there’s so much more to come, including your film trailer next week!

Here is their epic wedding vendor team:

Wedding venue: Owl’s Nest

Planner: by Emma B

Officiant: Steven

DJ: DJ James of Meritage Entertainment

Photography + Videography: The Ewings!

Flowers: Liz of Mellow Botanical

Cake: Lara Vanasco of My Friend’s Bakery

Wedding Gown: Madeleine’s Daughter

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Makeup Artist: Cynthia Klocek MakeUp & Skin

Hair Stylist: Meghan Sullivan of New Leaf Salon & Spa