A Wedding Ceremony at the Shelburne Free Public Library.
The day before my 35th birthday this past year on December 13th was a wonderful day. I was invited to capture a small wedding ceremony at the Shelburne Free Public Library. I learned that day that it was the first wedding ever held there, which made the day feel even more special.
Founded in 1854, the library is a true gem of Shelburne. The stones used in its construction were reportedly gathered from all over the rural community, stockpiled over years until there were enough to build it. I could feel that energy in the walls as the staff member told me stories about the library's history. I arrived early and while I listened to stories, the staff member showed me photography books throughout their shelves. I got to mentioning that I published a book at the end of 2023 about the Appalachian Trail and she mentioned they would purchase my book to have a copy in their collection!
I hadn’t met Suzanne and Sarah before this day. A mutual friend linked us together, and from our first conversation, I felt an immediate connection! Both artists, both warm and grounded, they carried a creative energy that felt familiar. With just twelve guests, their ceremony was intimate and deeply personal, the kind of gathering where every face matters and every word lingers.
When Suzanne and Sarah arrived for set-up, they put on Gillian Welch music. I laughed and said, “I was just listening to this on the way here.” Another moment that made me feel like everything was meant to be!
There’s something extraordinary about a December wedding, especially when it snows. And it did. Soft flakes fell outside the historic windows in the quiet streets. It was stillness that only winter can bring.
Suzanne and Sarah will be celebrating again this summer, and I’m delighted to say I’ll be there to capture that day too. Winter gave them a slow, intimate beginning. Summer will bring light, more faces, and a different kind of joy. I feel so grateful I was invited into both seasons of their story.
