East Haddam, Connecticut
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Rachel and Spencer’s wedding day at Smith Farm Gardens was truly the perfect day. After a week of record-breaking heat, and a rainy forecast for the weekend, they were gifted with a perfectly overcast, 75-degree summer day — ideal for an outdoor celebration. We all like to think it was their sweet pup Quinnah, who sadly passed away just a few weeks earlier, watching over them and making sure everything was picture perfect for her sweet parents.
These two have the kind of love story that spans years and campuses! They first met in the spring of 2015 at the University of Connecticut’s West Hartford campus. That fall, they both transferred to the Storrs campus and ended up living down the hall from each other. For Spencer, it was love at first sight. Rachel, however, needed a bit more convincing… and after a little time (and a lot of persistence), they officially started dating in the summer of 2016.
Nearly eight years later, Spencer proposed during a beach day at his brother’s house in Westbrook, Connecticut. While they had always envisioned a Martha’s Vineyard wedding — Rachel’s family has had a house there for generations — Spencer wanted to spare everyone from making two trips to the island. So instead, he proposed on the beach just two minutes from his brother’s house, surrounded by a secret crowd of friends and family ready to celebrate the moment. After walking Rachel down a beach path lined with shells, candles, and roses, Spencer got down on one knee and asked her to marry him, after she said “no” (at first!) and then “yes!” about ten more times. Her stunning round solitaire diamond, set in a six-prong platinum band, is timeless and classic — just like her mom’s, and exactly what she’d always dreamed of.
When it came to planning their wedding, Rachel and Spencer were inspired by their original vision of getting married on Martha’s Vineyard and hosting an elevated backyard party. While the island holds deep meaning for them, they quickly realized that logistically it wouldn’t be the right fit. Then they found Smith Farm Gardens — offering the exact vibe they had envisioned, right in the heart of Connecticut. It was the first and only venue they toured, and it was love at first sight.
Their wedding day was filled with thoughtful moments and so much love. The beautiful, historic farmhouse made for the perfect backdrop as they shared an emotional first look in front of the house. Portraits around the property followed, capturing the lush gardens, charming architecture, and sweet stolen moments between the two of them. They exchanged vows in the romantic sunken garden, before dancing the night away with family and friends beneath a stunning sailcloth tent.
Rachel and Spencer are two of the kindest, most genuine people I’ve had the pleasure of photographing, and it meant the world to me to be a part of this special chapter in their story. Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Adams!
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Vendors:
Photography: Jill Sahner Photography
Planner: Rachael Mary Weddings
Venue: Smith Farm Gardens
Videography: Films by Caleb
Hair & Makeup: Larissa Lake & Co.
Florals: Kellie Rose Florals
DJ: MJ Photography & DJ
Invitations: Line Avenue Calligraphy
Catering & Cake: Emily’s Catering Group
Gown: Paloma Blanca, Alexandra’s Boutique
Bridesmaids Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu
Groom’s Attire: Suitsupply, 3DM Lifestyle
Groomsmen Attire: Generation Tux
Table Rentals: CT Rental Center
Wedding Bands: Baribault Jewelers
Transportation: Specialty Transportation
Accommodations: Inn at Middletown
