It was one of those rare October weekends in Connecticut when the air was warm and the light was golden, letting us hang on to the last bits of summer. Andrew and Emma’s wedding at The Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, Connecticut was relaxed, joyful, and full of genuine connection, it simply felt like THEM.

The celebrations began at New Park Brewery, where close friends and family gathered for their favorite IPAs and bites. Guests explored the brewery, passing the vintage shops, raising a glass to the couple before the big day. Emma’s brother gave a speech that had us all reaching for a tissue. Photographing the rehearsal dinner is always an honor. It is a very special night with just the family and it gives me a window into what is important to capture the next day. I could immediately see how close these families are. It made me even more determined to capture their reactions during the most important moments of the wedding day, knowing how much that would mean to Emma and Andrew.

The morning of the wedding started with an AMAZING gift from Emma’s (the bride’s) sister, a painting of The Hill-Stead, done in an impressionistic style reminiscent of the Monet pieces inside the museum. Then, after a quick toast of tequila (in true stylish Emma fashion), the day officially began.

Arriving at The Hill-Stead Museum, the scene felt almost surreal. The historic estate, framed by autumn color, was glowing. Before the ceremony, Andrew and Emma exchanged private vows under a maple tree- a quiet, emotional moment that set the tone for the day.

The guests took their seats overlooking the farmland of the Hill-stead estate. During a heartfelt speech from their mom, their puppy Cal gave one small bark — his sweet way of joining in the celebration. Throughout the day, Andrew and Emma’s kindness and intentionality shone through. They laughed, hugged, and took time to greet every guest, making everyone feel a part of their story.

When the dance floor opened, guests waved handkerchiefs with Cal (their puppy’s) face printed on them — using them as props, headbands, and celebration flags. It was pure joy from start to finish.

What I loved most about photographing Andrew and Emma’s Hill-Stead Museum wedding was how fully they lived every moment. Their love set the tone for a day that was as GENUINE as it was beautiful. If you’re planning a wedding, think of these photos as a little notebook on how to live your day — not just pose for it. The moments you truly feel, move through, and experience are always the ones that photograph best. That’s what we love to capture, and we’d be so honored to do the same for you.

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