Now that winter has unofficially arrived here in Maine, earlier than expected, the wood stove is roaring and its getting dark early. And finally I have time to take a breath and reflect on this past season’s barn weddings at the camp. As we embark on engagement season and are booking weekly tours, I can’t help but think back to Courtney and Ninad’s barn tour last summer. Courtney and Ninad didn’t just tour. They drove from Boston and stayed in our lakefront cabin for a weekend with Ninad’s parents. I was so excited to have them actually experience the camp life in peak season and get a real feel for our fun filled property, and for us! And then when they decided to book their Maine camp wedding for the following June, the real enthusiasm began.
Everything about this June wedding was over the top refined, yet these two were the coolest and sweetest people you could meet. Always smiling, Courtney and Ninad arrived Wednesday and spent the next few days prepping for their guests’ arrival. They rented a camper which was delivered to one of our lakeview campsites and set up for them, so cool right? Their guests and family stayed on site in our waterview cabins, which are situated side by side creating the perfect glamping hangout, each with their own fire pits and picnic tables allowing for mingling between activities. Our pavilion served as the perfect setting for both their laid back rehearsal dinner with awesome Bonfire, as well as their post wedding day Brunch.
When Saturday arrived, the wedding day, Ninad got ready in the rental camper, while Courtney got ready in the ultimate bridal suite, the lakehouse. The first of the two ceremonies (yes that’s right I said two) took place in the morning by the lake. This was the first time we had the privilege to host a Hindu ceremony, and we were blown away by the detail, the vibrant colors, and the obvious planning that went into it. So many traditions and cultural components created a truly awe inspiring ceremony.
Courtney wore an ornate, colorful sari while henna was applied to her hands during part of the ritual. The Mandap, a sacred wooden structure which stood on the deck overlooking the lake, was draped in gorgeous florals courtesy of Shelleys Florist. Additional draping and lighting created an atmosphere of love where family and friends gathered to witness Ninad and Courtney participate in the sacred Hindu rituals. The weather was absolutely perfect, with the warmth of the sun showering guests, and the sunlight glistening perfectly off the lake, creating a magical setting.
Soon after the first ceremony concluded, a crazy wind and rain storm hit! Of course Courtney and Ninad remained calm, cool and collected. I have to say, Courtney is a rock star. The process of getting ready for one wedding ceremony is enough for any bride but Courtney managed to exude pure radiance not once, but twice. She looked stunning as she emerged from the lakehouse in her elegant white dress, with impeccable hair and makeup and, of course, her sweet smile. The rain stopped just in time for the second ceremony, an American ceremony that took place at the top of our lush field overlooking the barn. Guest transportation to the top was a bit tricky with the mud and our 6 seater electric golf cart. (The John Deere gator may have been the better choice but not very stylish!) The field ceremony was truly everything a June wedding in Maine should be with the tall green grass, peachy and pink hues, and a chandelier bejeweled arbor. Ninad and his groomsmen sported gray suits with pink bow ties, while his grooms women wore lovely blue-gray dresses, with everyone coordinating and looking stylish. The bridesmaids wore simple, coordinating pink dresses that matched their bouquets perfectly. After the ceremony, the guests made their way downhill, to the barn for the reception.
Courtney and Ninad’s meticulous choice of vendors created an ambiance which truly represented them. The details of their charming barn reception included tasteful farm tables from Marshall Event Rentals, and a dramatic, elaborate gold cake topped with the cutest minis of Courtney and Ninad by the talented Lisa of Cakes for All Seasons. Simple greenery and spring florals, designed by Shelley and her team, draped the farm tables creating a classic look. The enchanting white drapery at the entrance, and throughout the barn, accented with chandelier lighting, transformed the space thanks to Maine Event Design and Décor. Nik Shukla’s day of coordination combined with top notch music by Aaron Topfer created smooth and seemless transitions throughout the day. Mouth watering hors d’oeuvres and entrees, provided by Bliss Caterer , left guests feeling satisfied. And thankfully all of it was captured by the amazingly talented Julie of Julie K. Gray Photography for all of us to enjoy! What a wonderful wedding weekend!
Cheers to Courtney and Ninad!
(All photos included in this Blog, except for cabin photo, are courtesy of Julie K Gray Photography)