Elena and Aaron chose to get married in the beautiful estate of GreatHorse, a premiere golf course spanning many acres. On site, they have a beautiful venue overlooking the Connecticut River Valley. The began getting ready in the upstairs bridal suite. Everyone was so relaxed and happy, we knew then and there it was going to be a perfect day. After getting dressed, we separately took golf carts over to the bridge, where they were to have their first look. It was such a touching moment, where the couple read heartfelt vows to each other.

After a few photos by the waterfall, we headed back up to the ceremony site. We took wedding party and family photos overlooking the stunning valley with the leaves in full color of reds, oranges and yellows. The couple then tucked away as guests began to arrive. The sunset was on full display as they walked down to the aisle for the ceremony. The brilliant golden sun cast an incredible glow on the altar. With a kiss, they were wed to great cheers from the crowd!

The cocktail hour began inside, with beautiful décor. It was an unseasonably warm October day and they had the doors open to view the stars and the moon rising over the valley. Everyone then moved inside the reception space. The party really got started and everyone had a splendid time dancing and celebrating the couple. Such a beautiful day to remember and we are so thankful to have been a part of Elena and Aaron's wedding day.

Starting Gate at GreatHorse Wedding drone photo

HOW THEY MET

Elena and Aaron met when they were 15 and 17, respectively, while working at their hometown’s summer camp as camp counselors. Elena had the BIGGEST crush on Aaron after seeing how good he was with his campers, but she was too nervous to make her move. Even after her flirtatious attempts at wooing him by spraying him with the water hose, Aaron was not taking the hint. To hurry things along, Elena’s sister (and MOH) Jenna took matters into her own hands. Jenna told Aaron “my sister likes you” and Aaron asked for Elena’s number so that he could annoy Elena about it, which is very on-brand for him. The rest is history!

HOW THEY GOT ENGAGED

Aaron proposed to Elena on October 16th, 2022. He planned a double-date picnic with Elena’s sister Jenna and Jenna's boyfriend Donny on the lawn at Harkness Memorial State Park. It was a beautiful day and a beautiful place to lay out in the sun with wine and charcuterie.

After they were done snacking, the guys went back to the car to “put the food away” while Elena and Jenna walked around taking pictures with the beautiful scenery.

When the guys got back, Jenna and Elena were taking pictures on the beach. Aaron joined Elena for some pictures by the water. At one point Aaron had to take Elena’s hands to prevent her from figuring out that he had tucked the ring box behind his back against his belt. Before she knew it Aaron was down on a knee asking her to marry him!

This was not the only surprise of the day, because right after Aaron proposed, his sister Kathryn and Elena’s childhood best friend Maya popped out from behind the bushes - they had been there the whole time taking pictures!

After exchanging hugs and showing off the ring, the friends parted ways. Aaron told Elena he needed to pick something up at his parents’ house on the way home, and when Elena opened the door to the house she was surprised to see all of her local loved ones inside to surprise her!