The Best of Both Worlds — Private Vows + A Wedding Celebration
You know I love a couple up for an adventure! While many of my couples choose an elopement because it’s intimate and flexible, there’s also something special about celebrating with your full community.
The best of both worlds? Sharing your vows privately ahead of time and then having the big celebration. That’s exactly what Alli and Mike did for their Vermont wedding at Mountain Top Resort — and it was the perfect balance of adventure and connection.
A Quiet Morning in the Mountains
Alli and Mike wanted a private, meaningful way to celebrate their love before stepping into their wedding day with family and friends.
So, the morning before their ceremony, they met me at the Deer Leap Trailhead — a short but beautiful two-mile trail in Killington — just before sunrise. We had the trail completely to ourselves.
They chatted, laughed, and stole a few kisses between sips of hot coffee. When the sun crested over the mountains, they exchanged vows surrounded by the golden morning light.
Afterward, we made the most of golden hour with portraits that captured their connection — peaceful, joyful, and full of anticipation for the day ahead.
Why Share Your Vows Before the Wedding Day?
There are so many reasons couples choose to share their vows privately ahead of their wedding. First, you get that elopement-style intimacy and the joy of celebrating later with everyone you love. A private vow reading is a moment just for the two of you — quiet, intentional, and completely focused on the promises you’re making to each other.
It can also help ease any nerves about public speaking during your ceremony; by the time you’re standing in front of your guests, you’ve already had that meaningful moment together.
And finally, it’s just epic! Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, you can plan your timing around the best light — without the wedding day rush.
How to Plan a Private Vow Reading
If this idea speaks to you, here’s how to make it work:
- Plan ahead: Think about your schedule — the day before your wedding often works best, but consider what else you need to accomplish that day (ex. setting up a venue, last minute errands, etc.).
- Choose a location: Maybe it’s near your venue, where you’re staying, or a trail you love. (I’d love to help you find a great spot!)
- Dress for the moment: You don’t have to wear your full wedding look — something comfortable and “you” is perfect. (And you might not want to get your “main” outfit dirty!)
- Pick your golden hour: Morning light in Vermont is just as magical as sunset, and it frees up the rest of your day.
Alli + Mike’s Vermont Wedding at Mountain Top Resort
After their sunrise vow reading, Alli and Mike spent the rest of the weekend surrounded by loved ones at Mountain Top Resort — celebrating, dancing, and soaking in every moment.
When to Plan Your Sunrise or Sunset Vows in Vermont
Golden hour — that dreamy, glowy light we all love — happens just after sunrise and just before sunset. The exact timing changes with the seasons, but here’s a general idea of when to expect it in Vermont:
- Winter: Sunrise around 7:00–7:30 AM, sunset around 4:15–5:15 PM
- Spring: Sunrise between 5:00–6:30 AM, sunset between 6:00–8:00 PM
- Summer: Sunrise around 4:45–5:30 AM, sunset between 8:00–8:45 PM
- Fall: Sunrise between 6:00–7:00 AM, sunset around 4:30–7:00 PM
(Times vary depending on exact location and weather, so always check your specific date with your photographer!)
I love that Alli and Mike took the time to craft a wedding that was completely their own — and that I got to be a part of it.
If you’re planning a Vermont wedding of your own and want to add a little adventure into the mix,
I’d love to help you make it happen!
