best dress

The growing trend of a more relaxed wedding has turned many New Hampshire venues with barns, farms, and historic inns into prime destinations for couples who are ready to say “I do.”

Don Bilger, who owns Whitney’s Inn in Jackson says they have seen a tremendous increase in the last four to five years. When Bilger took over Whitney’s in 2007, they were doing about five weddings a year. Last year, they did 45. He says that a lot of people “want a rustic barn. They like the idea of a casual setting and a casual wedding, and they also like the idea of having their guests spend the whole weekend here.” Jackie Caserta, Innkeeper at the Inn at Valley Farms in Walpole, has seen a similarly strong demand for country weddings. “People have changed the way they look at things,” she says. “A lot of people are scaling down in size because they want something that’s more intimate.”

Pictures: www.sheindressau.com

Traditionally, weddings lasted for a few hours and took place in a rented hall, but that definition is being turned upside down. As Heather Salter of Bishop Farm in Lisbon puts it, “A grand ballroom is nice, but it doesn’t have the texture and uniqueness that a barn has.” She says that what attracts a lot of people to Bishop Farm is “the contrast between modern and historical.” Playing off the deep tones of old barn wood, glistening chandeliers hang from the ceiling, creating a stunning effect when guests enter. Bilger thinks that’s one of the most appealing aspects of a barn wedding. He says that planning a laid-back event “doesn’t mean that you have to give up the elegance of it. There’s something inherently elegant about a barn anyhow.” With its four levels and two stone fireplaces, the Barn at Whitney’s Inn, which dates back to 1842, certainly provides a sophisticated atmosphere for receptions.

There are also plenty of ways for the bride and groom to enhance the space so their personal style shines through. Salter says, “I think that everyone comes in with their own unique flavor.” Couples who opt for barn weddings often add to the rustic feel with burlap runners, mason jars, votive candles, and homemade signs. Bilger notes that at Whitney’s Inn, most people “leave the barn as a surprise at the end… When you walk in, you really get the ‘wow’ factor.” After having the ceremony and cocktail hour outside, opening the doors to the barn and welcoming guests creates a spectacular effect.

In addition to providing a dramatic backdrop for brides and grooms, these kinds of wedding venues offer a plethora of other perks. For instance, at the Inn at Valley Farms, brides can handpick flowers for bouquets and arrangements the morning of the wedding. Couples can also include foods grown right on the property in their menus.

“We are growing our own meats and vegetables here, and they can incorporate that into their wedding,” Caserta says. Being able to book on-site accommodations is another big plus that lots of New Hampshire venues offer.

“Our whole goal is just to make people relax. They can take over the whole property,” Bilger says. While playing lawn games, hiking, or talking around the campfire, guests have time to connect and be together.

Because guests often arrive at destination weddings before the big day, couples can also involve the special people in their lives more fully. Caserta says, “Think about your guest list, what the special qualities are of your guests, and how they can participate.” From playing live music to making a homemade wedding cake, contributions from family and friends can make the big day that much more memorable. Salter explains that when people leave Bishop Farm, she wants them to head home thinking about all the wonderful memories they made and all the great conversations they had. She says, “We always try to nurture the moment.” And what moment could be more wonderful than two people coming together for always.

More info: http://www.sheindressau.com/a-line-wedding-dresses