When Apple and Nick reached out to me about photographing their winter wedding at the Smith Farms Garden venue, I knew we were in for something truly special. As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I’ve seen many beautiful celebrations—but this one had a magical blend of intimacy, surprise, and natural charm that stood out.
Set against the backdrop of a crisp winter day, their wedding unfolded outdoors, just steps away from the venue’s signature white cottage. Snow blanketed the ground in delicate patches, creating a soft glow that seemed to highlight every thoughtful detail. Add in a joyful gender reveal moment during the reception, and this day was as unforgettable as they come.
The Venue: Smith Farms Garden in All Its Winter Glory
Smith Farms Garden is a gem of a venue in the heart of Connecticut. Known for its picturesque white cottage, the space feels like a storybook come to life. In the warmer months, it’s filled with lush greenery and flower gardens. But in the winter? It transforms into a peaceful, quiet escape—the perfect setting for Apple and Nick’s celebration.
The quaint white cottage made a cozy focal point for portraits and candid moments throughout the day. Guests were welcomed with warm drinks and soft blankets, a thoughtful touch that added comfort to the outdoor gathering. The venue’s natural beauty made my job as a Connecticut wedding photographer so easy. Every corner of the property offers a backdrop worth framing.
Details That Made It Personal
Apple and Nick’s style was a beautiful mix of classic romance and modern simplicity. The floral arrangements—soft pink and white blooms—added a lovely pop of color against the winter landscape. The florals carried through everything: from Apple’s bouquet to the tablescapes and even the cake display.
Apple wore a long-sleeved gown with delicate lace details, perfect for the chilly weather. Nick kept things timeless with a charcoal wool suit and a pale pink boutonniere to match the florals. Their son, dressed to match his father, nearly stole the show during the ceremony with his speech.
One of my favorite parts of the day was the quiet moments before the ceremony. As a photographer, these in-between moments—Apple lacing up her boots, Nick helping their son tighten his tie—are where the heart of the story lives.
Saying “I Do” in the Snow
The ceremony was held just outside the cottage, under a simple wooden arbor adorned with blush and ivory flowers. Chairs were arranged in a semi-circle, encouraging an intimate feel despite the open air. The guests bundled up and sipped on mulled cider, the steam rising in soft curls as vows were exchanged.
The light snow flurries during the ceremony felt like a blessing—soft, beautiful, and fleeting. As Apple and Nick said their vows, their daughter clutched both their hands. It was such a moving moment and a reminder of how deeply rooted their love already is.
A Gender Reveal to Remember
After the ceremony, just when guests thought the surprises were over, Apple and Nick shared one more piece of their love story—they were expecting their second child. But the moment wasn’t just an announcement. It was a gender reveal, planned with the kind of elegance that matched the rest of the day.
The cake, beautifully decorated in white buttercream and topped with fresh florals, held the secret. As they cut into the cake, a burst of soft pink spilled from the center—another baby boy! The cheers, the happy tears, and the clapping made for some of the most emotional and joyful photos I captured that day.
As a Connecticut wedding photographer, I love when couples choose to incorporate unique and meaningful moments into their day. The gender reveal wasn’t just fun—it was a reflection of their growing love and family.
Warmth in the Cold: A Cozy Outdoor Reception
You might wonder how an outdoor winter reception works in Connecticut, but with some creativity (and lots of heaters), it was beautifully done. Long farm tables were arranged under a clear-top tent, draped in twinkle lights and greenery. Pink and white flowers adorned every surface, bringing the garden feel into the winter setting.
Guests dined on hearty seasonal fare—roasted root vegetables, braised short ribs, and warm rolls fresh from the oven. The toasts were heartfelt, and laughter echoed throughout the tent. The air was crisp, but the energy was warm.
Portraits at Golden Hour
Just before sunset, we snuck away for some portraits around the property. The fading light bounced gently off the snow, giving everything a golden, dreamy glow. The white cottage, now lit from within, served as a charming backdrop. These quiet moments allowed Apple and Nick to breathe, laugh, and soak it all in before heading back to celebrate.
These images—intimate, romantic, and filled with warmth—are some of my favorite from the entire season. It’s in these moments that you really see the bond between two people, especially as they step into a new chapter as both spouses and parents.
Why Winter Weddings Work
Winter weddings often get overlooked, but Apple and Nick proved just how magical they can be. There’s a serenity that comes with a winter setting—fewer distractions, more intention. The soft lighting, the closeness of guests, and the beauty of snow-covered landscapes create an experience that’s hard to match.
If you’re planning your own wedding and looking for something a little different, a winter celebration at a venue like Smith Farms Garden might be just the inspiration you need. As a seasoned Connecticut wedding photographer, I can say with confidence—there’s something incredibly romantic about embracing the off-season.
Final Thoughts
Apple and Nick’s wedding was more than just a beautiful day—it was a celebration of family, growth, and love in its most genuine form. From the winter florals to the gender reveal, every detail was full of intention and heart. Reach out here to check my current wedding availability!
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