Justine and Andrew’s wedding at Brewster Academy was a colorful summer fête overlooking the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. The couple met in New England and visited the lake together for the first time after dating for two months. One year later, Andrew proposed at the summit of Mount Percival with a custom-designed ring set with his grandmother’s diamond. Lake Winnipesaukee was visible in the distance!

Justine and Andrew are busy working professionals who knew hiring a wedding planner would be crucial to enjoying their engagement. They inquired about our full planning and design services, and we jumped at the chance to work with them! When it was time to choose a wedding venue, the couple knew they wanted to stick close to the lake that held such a special place in their hearts. We suggested Brewster Academy, where we previously planned Caroline and Brian’s summer wedding. They fell in love with the location, so we wasted no time booking a date in August 2023!

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at Brewster Academy

Justine and Andrew’s wedding ceremony was outdoors on the Palazzo Field at Brewster Academy, overlooking the shimmering lake. They stood beneath a simple birch archway adorned with coral and dusty blue flowers and exchanged handwritten vows before an intimate gathering of loved ones. To protect everyone from the sun, we provided paper parasols for use during the outdoor portions of the day. These practical yet beautiful shades are one of our favorite ways to enhance the guest experience at an outdoor wedding!

The couple’s ceremony featured personalized music choices and readings that made it feel even more meaningful. Guitarist David William Ross opened the proceedings by playing a few of their favorite songs, including The Beach Boys’ “God Only Knows” and Ray LaMontagne’s “You Are the Best Thing.” Then, the couple and their family members processed to classic love songs “All You Need is Love,” “Harvest Moon,” and “Bless the Telephone.” Following an introduction from their officiant, a close friend read an excerpt from The Amber Spyglass by Phillip Pullman, one of their favorite novels. Then, two friends read the poem “Sonnet 17” by Pablo Neruda to introduce the exchanging of vows.

Colorful Summer Wedding Tables

Justine and Andrew’s tented wedding reception also overlooked the lake and featured a colorful design perfect for summer. Light blue linen runners imbued the farm-style tables with simple elegance, while orange dahlias in bud vases added pops of vibrant, contrasting color. Gold cutlery, votives, and candle holders made the finishing touches. Meanwhile, each place setting featured a botanical menu card matching the couple’s invitation suite and a custom wood-burned coaster to take home.

Working with Justine and Andrew to plan and design this lakeside wedding was a pleasure! If you and your partner are interested in planning a wedding on Lake Winnipesaukee, we cannot recommend Brewster Academy’s facilities highly enough. The Palazzo Field is a dreamy location for an outdoor ceremony and reception, and the Pinckney Boathouse is the perfect place to get ready or host a cocktail hour. Inquire today and learn more about working with us to plan your wedding at this stunning location!

Vendor Team

Planning and Design: Events by Sorrell

Venue: Brewster Academy

Photography: Christina Richards

Catering: Mezzanine Catering

HAMU: Debony Salon

Tabletop Rentals: Peak Event Services

Guitarist: David William Ross

Cocktail Music: Gatsby Gang Jazz Band

Reception Music: Aaron Denny Productions

Tent and Toilet Rental: Lakes Region Tent & Event

Transportation: Adventure Limousine