Caitlin and Kidder’s lakeside wedding in Vermont was bursting with personality, adventure, and artistic charm. From spontaneous jumping into the lake and wood-fired pizza to a tandem bike entrance and a grand fireworks finale, every detail showcased their creativity and spirit. Amanda’s stunning photography captured it all—the big emotions, the tiny details, and the electric energy of a day no one wanted to end.
Location: Shelburne, Vermont, United States
Style: Romantic, Whimsical, Vibrant
Time of planning: 1,5 years
Number of guests: 150
Setting: Backyard
Season: Summer
Caitlin and Kidder’s journey began in South Boston, where their shared passion for the outdoors, skiing, and tandem bike rides led them to an unbreakable bond. Their proposal was just as adventurous—Kidder surprised Caitlin during a weekend getaway to Block Island, where, after a scenic ride to the North Lighthouse, he got down on one knee.
Wanting to celebrate their love in a place close to their hearts, they chose Vermont—a state that had shaped their lives since childhood—as the perfect backdrop for their wedding. From childhood ski trips at Sugarbush to summer adventures on Lake Champlain, Vermont, represented a shared sense of home and adventure for them both.
Inspiration
The couple envisioned a lakeside formal wedding with a summery twist—colorful, fun, and a true reflection of their personalities. Drawing inspiration from the whimsical cinematography of Wes Anderson films, they incorporated a vibrant palette into every detail, from florals to attire.
Their love for Italian summer flavors inspired the menu, featuring wood-fired flatbreads, salmon, and fresh seasonal vegetables. As a playful touch, they ensured ice cream was a must-have, complementing their floral-adorned cake. The florals, arranged by Kidder’s aunt, brought a lively burst of color to the day, while Caitlin’s artistic talent shone in every handcrafted detail, from painted ribbons to illustrated reception signage.
Getting Ready
Caitlin and her bridesmaids got ready at the charming Blind Tiger Inn in Burlington, where soft morning light set the scene for an emotional first look with her father. She had always dreamed of a wedding dress that felt fun, and she found the perfect one—a floral eyelet gown with custom puff sleeves that added a playful, romantic touch.
For the ceremony, she paired it with an Italian-style mantilla veil, its intricate lace flowing beautifully down the cathedral aisle. Her shoes, with oversized blue bows, tied into the bridesmaids’ dresses while also serving as her “something blue”. As a personal touch, she wore a gold necklace designed by Kidder himself, featuring their birthstones—a pearl for him and an aquamarine for her—along with classic pearl earrings.
Her bouquet was filled with sentimental details, including a wooden heart hand-carved and painted by her grandfather, a treasured Valentine’s Day gift. To make it even more personal, she painted an ivory ribbon with colorful, playful designs, wrapping it around the stems.
Caitlin’s makeup by Jennifer Perellie was bronzed and radiant, with a touch of the warmth and sweat that came with the joyous July celebration. Her hair by Jubilance Salo evolved throughout the day in the heat, but it didn’t stop her from hitting the dance floor, dominating the limbo, and soaking in every moment of fun.
Kidder, deeply involved in the wedding planning, embraced a bold fashion choice—a deep teal suit that stood out beautifully against the Vermont scenery. His waterski-embroidered loafers and scrimshaw cufflinks, a gift from Caitlin, added personal details that spoke to his adventurous spirit.
Ceremony
The couple exchanged vows at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Burlington, a cherished family church where Kidder’s parents, sister, and many relatives had celebrated their own weddings. The ceremony was officiated by Abbot Thomas O’Connor, a meaningful presence in Caitlin’s life. Adding a deeply personal touch, he wore a wooden cross necklace handcrafted by Caitlin’s grandfather, a treasured gift from years past.
The couple infused the traditional Catholic mass with symbolic details that reflected their love story. During the ceremony, special gifts were placed on the altar, including books, stuffed animals, and a toy boat with oars, each representing key aspects of their journey together. Caitlin, known for her artistic touch, designed the ceremony programs herself, featuring a beautifully illustrated crest that mirrored their wedding invitations.
Family played a central role in the ceremony, making it even more meaningful. Kidder’s mother served as the Eucharistic minister, lovingly referred to as the “hostess” of the mass, while his young cousin charmed guests as the ring bearer.
“For Caitlin and Kidder, the ceremony was nothing short of magical,” shared the photographer. Walking down the grand cathedral aisle as husband and wife, they were overwhelmed with joy, deeply connected to one another, their families, and the cherished beginning of their life together.
Cocktail Hour by the Lake
Guests were welcomed to Kidder’s family property on Shelburne Bay for a lively cocktail hour under a sailcloth tent adorned with coastal-inspired linens. Custom cocktails paid homage to their roots—Caitlin’s included the “Cohasset Cosmo” and “Captain’s Spicy Margarita” — named after their beloved Bernedoodle. At the same time, Kidder’s selections, such as the “Shelburne Squeeze” and “Champ’s Choice,” reflected his Vermont upbringing.
The lakeside breeze, the clinking of glasses, and the buzz of conversation set the stage for an unforgettable evening ahead.
Private Moment
As the sun began to set, Amanda Van Schaik captured breathtaking portraits of the newlyweds along the shoreline, where they shared a quiet moment together before rejoining the festivities. The golden hour light and the serene landscape made for a stunning visual narrative of their love.
Amanda’s keen eye for candid, emotional moments ensured these portraits felt intimate and deeply moving. The black-and-white shots are pure magic—each frame felt like a timeless piece of art, capturing raw emotion in the most beautiful way.
Reception & Decor
The reception decor combined summery elegance with artistic charm—hand-painted bud vases, a floral-painted wooden bar, and a custom waterski sign reading “The Spillanes, Est. 2024.” The sailcloth tent, draped with greenery, framed breathtaking lake views, creating an atmosphere that was both inviting and effortlessly elegant.
Guests were treated to a feast of wood-fired pizzas, fresh Vermont produce, and an ice cream cart that added a playful element. The cake by The Goose Chase, decorated with dried florals, was both a stunning centerpiece and a sweet reflection of Caitlin and Kidder’s artistic vision.
The couple’s first dance to “Truly Madly Deeply” by Folk Lore was followed by a lively dance floor fueled by the energetic sounds of A House on Fire.
From Caitlin’s impromptu Irish step dance to the Dropkick Murphys’ “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” to an intense limbo showdown, the night was filled with unfiltered joy and laughter. Guests fully embraced the summer celebration, some even jumping off the dock into the lake, adding to the carefree, festive spirit.
As the evening ended, Kidder’s cousins and uncles surprised everyone with a spectacular fireworks display over the lake—a dazzling conclusion to a truly unforgettable celebration.
Before the night came to a close, Caitlin changed into a short dress and a chic headband, ready to dance until sunrise. The energy never faded as guests filled the dance floor, celebrating with non-stop music, laughter, and spontaneous moments of joy.
As a final send-off, Caitlin and Kidder rode into the night on their tandem bike, a nod to their love story and shared adventures, leaving their guests cheering as they pedaled away under the twinkling string lights.
Advice from the couple:
• Have fun—it’s your day! Things won’t always go exactly as planned, but letting go of the little hiccups allows you to fully embrace and enjoy the day.
• Live in the moment as much as possible. Take time to pause and soak it all in—whether it’s standing hand in hand at the altar, sharing a quiet moment together, or dancing your heart out with family and friends.
PHOTOGRAPHER Amanda Noel Photos | VIDEOGRAPHER Carbonate Media | HAIR Jubilance Salon | MAKEUP Jennifer Perellie Makeup | MUSIC A House on Fire | CATERING The Hind Quarter | CAKE The Goose Chase | TENT VT Tent Company | STATIONERY Caitlin Mavilia Art
