freedom acres: mt. kearsarge, new hampshire
Venue: Private Residence in Wilmot, NH , Freedom Acres
Tent and Rentals: Exeter Events & Tents and New England Country Rentals
Florist: Sorella Flower Company
Catering: Culinary Destinations Catering by Luca’s Cafe, Keene NH
Ceremony Musical Performance: Michaela McClain
First Dance Musical Performance: The Fillmore Duo
DJ: Zeke Stern, Murray Hill Talent
Bakery: Tarte Cafe & Bakery, Andover NH
Hair and Makeup: Shear Innovations, Georges Mills, NH
Wedding Gown: Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaids Dresses: Bari Jay
Men’s Suits: Michael Kors
Groom’s Preparations: Follansbee Inn, North Sutton, NHS
2nd photographer: Carey Hough Photography
When I first spoke with Hallie and Jeff on the phone, I could tell right away they are a smart, laid-back, fun couple. I was smitten as they described their upcoming wedding in Wilmot, NH at her family’s home. And then when I learned of the amazing history of this homestead known as Freedom Acres, I was blown away. What a New Hampshire history gem! While this home had always just been a happy home to Hallie and her family, its fascinating past goes back to World War II and and two very determined women to carve a life for themselves in what was then pretty much wilderness. These two veterans of the Women’s Army Corps built their little home on the side of Mt Kearsarge, not knowing much of anything about building or survival. Learning as they went along, they eventually carved out a small DIY home and began a “Taste of the Wild” jams and jellies business, gathering their fruits from the wild berries around them. Eventually this business grew into a notable tourist attraction in New Hampshire, attracting 45,000 tourists a year to their home and jelly shop in Wilmot. An article in Reader’s Digest declared Freedom Acres a New Hampshire Legend. I was beyond impressed that Hallie and Jeff wanted to incorporate this home and past into their wedding and revisit its former life of a community landmark that it once was.
bride’s preparations
groom’s preparations
Meanwhile, Jeff and the guys were getting ready just down the road at the Follansbee Inn.
first look & portraits
I loved their first look. They approached each other with big bunches of white balloons in front of them to hide their view, until they moved them aside for the big reveal!
ceremony
Hallie and Jeff were married at 4:30 at her childhood home, overlooking the gorgeous mountain views from their yard. They handmade the arch using wooden beams from the original house on the property, giving nod to the heritage of the Freedom Acres site, and the large planters that flanked either side were designed just for the occasion. A beautiful musical performance was given by their good friend Michaela McClain. Hallie’s sister provided a few minutes of levity with a hilarious speech usually reserved for toasts at the reception, and she kept everyone laughing with anecdotes and insights about Hallie and Jeff.
reception
Love, laughter, friends and family were the order of the day, as both sides of the family gathered from near and far (lots from very far) to party with the couple and get to enjoy New Hampshire for a getaway vacation. The beautiful sights and details just go on and on……
Did I tell you the prettiness just keeps going?
Thank you, Hallie and Jeff, for including me in your day. Your fun attitude, amazing DIY spirit, and hospitality to your guests by sharing so much of yourselves was the basis of my inspiration for photographing your wedding. It was an absolute pleasure, and one I will remember for a long time.
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