Shannon (Taylor) Faretra and Guy William Faretra

Date of Engagement: May 26, 2012 Date of Wedding: June 1, 2013 All photos Briana Moore Photography Ceremony and reception location: Laughing Loon, a private estate in Wolfeboro, NH Wedding Professionals: Florist: Private Weddings and Events Cake:  Wild Orchid Bakery, Dover, NH Ceremony Officiant: Captain Ken Barnes,  Rockland, ME Ceremony Music: Paul Warnick Trolley by Molly the Trolley/Wolfeboro Trolley, Wolfeboro, NH Makeup/Hair:  Katie Schopp Gown:  Maggie Sottero provided by Maggie Sottero Designs Lazaro gown purchased at Madeleine’s Daughter Groom and Brother of the Bride’s suits purchased from Jos. A Bank Catering: Ellacoya Barn and Grille  Gilford, NH Event Planner:  Private Weddings and Events, Meredith, NH DJ: Paul Warnick Tent Rental:  Lakes Region Tent and Event The location of the Shannon and Guy’s wedding ceremony and reception was at a beautiful lakefront private home. She says, “We knew choosing Laughing Loon would require us to bring in all of the vendors needed for the wedding. Mindy was able to provide us with the execution on the day of along with connecting us with some of the best vendors in the area.” Because Laughing Loon is a private location with great lakefront views, the couple also was able to spend time with friends, families, and even a beloved dog. “The five days surrounding our wedding on the property was like a mini vacation,” Shannon remembers. How did the couple choose the location? Shannon explains, “Guy’s family has been visiting the Alton area for years and have a home on the lake.  My family has been coming to Hermit Cove in Moultonboro for over 50 years. We got engaged on the lake and didn’t even consider getting married elsewhere.” The best part of the wedding day? Shannon says, “We will never forget the rainbow that shined over us during our first dance. This meant so much to us as a way to reflect on the loved ones that were with us in spirit that day, especially my father who suddenly passed the September before our wedding.” Shannon’s advice for other brides-to-be: “Enjoy your day and really wear your dress! Forget about the wrinkles, stains and other little things and focus on having a memorable time with your loved ones. Keep an open mind for what the day may bring.” The couple began planning the wedding three months after becoming engaged; it took about 10 months to get it all together. A special and unique part of the wedding weekend was the trash the dress photo shoot. Says Shannon, “I really wanted an artful look at my new husband and I in our wedding attire. I chose a tulle gown because I knew it would be fun in the water pictures. Tip: Swimming was a challenge so choose your location wisely!” Keeping their honeymoon local, the couple spent a week hiking, going for boat rides and taking in sunsets at Guy’s family lake house in Alton.