A Romantic Barn Wedding at the Inn at Manchester in Manchester, Vermont

Seasonal blooms, a welcoming red barn backdrop and a mint-green doughnut cart lent Katie Stockton and Brian Neilsen’s summer fete a romantic yet laid-back vibe. “We love Vermont (Katie was born and raised in the Green Mountain State), so when we got engaged we knew that we wanted a rustic yet elegant summer Vermont wedding,” Katie says. “We loved the idea of doing an outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour—complete with great food and lawn games—and a barn reception.” With its views of the Green Mountains, forested acres and charming red barn, the Inn at Manchester proved to be the perfect pick for pulling off the couple’s vision. The ceremony took place on the lawn, where Katie and Brian exchanged vows under a birch arbor covered in textured greenery and full coral peonies. “We went the nontraditional route and hired a flower farm to do our florals. Most of our flowers were grown by our florist, so there was so much love and care put into each arrangement,” Katie says. The red barn played host to the reception, with long farm tables and twinkling strands of bistro lights creating a warm and inviting ambience. Lace table runners, brightly lit candles in gold holders and whitewashed planters overflowing with greenery, roses and peonies added a romantic touch to the tables, while panels of draped fabric suspended from the barn rafters dialed up the décor’s drama. After dinner, guests headed outdoors to make s’mores around the fire and nibble on warm apple cider doughnuts and maple ice cream served from a vintage horse-drawn cart. “Do a first look!” Katie advises. “It’s a very special moment between you and your partner before the chaos of the day ensues. It also allows you to attend your cocktail hour, which is a great way to catch up with guests instead of going table to table.”