An Intimate Vermont Elopement at Owl’s Head Mountain in Groton, Vermont

An Intimate Vermont Elopement at Owl’s Head Mountain in Groton, Vermont

“Forests will always hold your secrets, for that’s what forests are for. To separate and hide things. To protect, to comfort, to hold, to envelop, to demonstrate, to slow down, to hold, to teach. Go to the trees to explore your questions and dreams. Go to the trees to desire and seek. The world will listen as you walk, watch, soften, and breathe.”

— Victoria Erickson

The Scene: Owl’s Head Summit, Groton Vermont — Groton State Forest

The People: These two lovebirds reached out to me in early January asking for availability and disclosing that they’d be dreaming up their own unique ceremony to celebrate their marriage. They agreed that the images could be shared with the world, but also asked that I  keep their real names private when doing so.  To respect their wishes I’ve omitted both of their names here and on my blog post/social media shares. I am honoring their request, and hope if you recognize them that you do the same <3

The Setting: A warm and surprisingly still snowy February afternoon, 40 degrees, an hour or so before sunset.

The Details:  These two described their relationship as empowering, supportive, and adventurous.  I couldn’t agree more after witnessing this sincere and intimate ceremony at the summit of Owl’s Head.  The whole experience enveloped exactly who I imagine they are in their daily lives as well – genuine, outdoorsy, fun, and authentic humans.  They drew inspiration for their ceremony from old world traditions, modern day herbal remedy culture, and personalized it with a mixture of their own personal favorite belongings and treasures.

My husband (assistant for the day) and I parked at the trailhead, hiked up to the summit with the couple and their pup, and then witnessed one of the most intimate, genuine and heartwarming ceremonies I’ve seen so far as a wedding photographer.  As I write this, I’m just feeling pretty grateful to have been a part of this one. Some of my favorite details from the day were: her handmade bouquet and boutonniere from local white pine and cedar boughs she found near their home, as well as the various personal trinkets they brought to the summit with them, including wedding photos from each of their respective parents’ wedding days long ago. They even thought to bring a sheepskin blanket for their pup to hang out on so he wouldn’t get too chilly.

And now, I’ll let the images tell the rest of the story <3

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“Let us get lost together in the wilderness of our hearts.”

The End <3