Everyone should experience a wedding in Vermont at least once, and second shooting in Vermont for Shannon Grant made mine even sweeter. I’ve known Shannon as a colleague in the wedding industry since 2010. After all these years of friendship, joining her for this wedding was truly an honor.
Why I said yes to second shooting in Vermont
Shannon is a wedding and editorial film photographer who works across New England and beyond. Her work is fashion-forward, natural and full of life, and I’ve admired it for years. So when she asked me to join her for this wedding weekend, I didn’t have to think twice.
Second shooting is a different job than leading a wedding. My role is to support the lead photographer’s vision and cover the angles she can’t. With Shannon, that came easily. She is warm and calm, and she clearly loves her couples. That energy sets the tone for everyone around her. It helped us bring both her vision and the couple’s to life.
A colorful black tie wedding at River Road Farm
The couple married at River Road Farm in Manchester, Vermont, the bride’s childhood home. Shannon calls it a black tie affair with so much heart, and that’s exactly how it felt.
This was not your typical rustic farmhouse wedding. Instead of soft neutrals, the couple leaned into the bright colors of Vermont’s flowers and landscape. The day began with a classic gown and a timeless ceremony. Then the personality came out. Bridesmaids wore mismatched colors, and guests carried umbrellas that added even more color to every frame. For the reception, the bride changed into a dress covered in gems and sequins. Everyone fell in love with it, me included.
Lily of the Valley Florist and The Event Sisters filled every space with color. B&W Catering Co. fed everyone well, and Silver Arrow Band kept the dance floor full. At the end of the night, guests jumped into the warm pool under a clear Vermont moon.
Learning from a friend behind the camera
Second shooting reminded me that watching another photographer work is one of the best ways to grow. Shannon shoots film, so every frame is intentional. I loved seeing how she reads the light and guides her couples with ease. They never looked posed, just happy.
Exploring Manchester
Exploring is half the fun of second shooting in Vermont. Manchester is a charming New England town tucked between the Green Mountains, and it’s a world away from Orlando. The cool air and mountain views made me want to plan a return trip right away.
If you love a destination celebration, you’ll also enjoy this national park elopement in Wyoming. To see the whole day through Shannon’s lens, visit Shannon’s gallery of this Vermont wedding weekend.
Shannon, thank you for trusting me with your couple. And to the newlyweds, thank you for letting me be part of such a special weekend at home.
