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Vermont Wedding at the Essex Resort Spa | Vermont Wedding Photographer

Real moments. True-to-color edits. Timeless Vermont backdrops.

Planning a wedding at Essex Resort & Spa in Essex, Vermont? This classic New England resort has lush gardens, wooded trails, airy ballrooms, and cozy nooks for rainy-day portraits—perfect for an elegant celebration any time of year. I’m Inna, a Vermont wedding photographer based near Burlington. Below you’ll find real-world tips for the best photo locations, ideal timelines, and smooth logistics at The Essex—so you get relaxed portraits, candid moments, and natural, true-to-color images you’ll love.

Why couples love The Essex (quick highlights)

  • Ceremony + reception in one place (easy logistics)

  • Gardens, lawns, and woodline paths for portraits

  • Indoor options with big windows for soft light

  • Convenient guest rooms, spa, and dining on site

Best photo spots at Essex Resort & Spa

  • Garden paths & pergola: greenery, spring blooms, and filtered shade for portraits.

  • Great lawn & tree line: wide shots with Vermont vibes; ideal for wedding party photos.

  • Entry courtyard & stonework: clean architectural backdrop for first looks.

  • Ballroom windows/foyer: beautiful indoor light on rainy or winter days.

  • Wooded edges & trail nooks: moody, intimate frames for golden hour.

First look & ceremony ideas

  • Private first look: courtyard or side-garden (soft shade, minimal foot traffic).

  • Ceremony: lawn or garden for open shade; ask your coordinator to angle the aisle so sun is behind you 2–3 hours before sunset.

 

A sample timeline that keeps photos easy

  • Getting ready & details: 90 min

  • First look + couple portraits: 35–45 min

  • Wedding party + family: 30–40 min

  • Buffer before ceremony: 20 min

  • Golden-hour portraits: 10–15 min near sunset (I’ll pull you when the light peaks)

 

Rain plan that still looks gorgeous

  • Ballroom windows & covered entries for soft, directional light

  • Clear umbrellas + tree cover along the garden path

  • Quick 5-minute outdoor breaks whenever drizzle lets up

 

Seasonality notes

  • Spring: blooms in gardens; bring a shawl for evening chill.

  • Summer: shade + hydration; plan first look earlier to avoid harsh noon sun.

  • Fall: peak foliage late Sept–mid Oct—add 10-minute sunset break.

  • Winter: elegant indoor portraits; consider a faux-fur wrap and warm indoor first look.

 

What you’ll get with me
Natural, elegant, true-to-color photography; timeline help; calm direction for portraits; and a storytelling approach so the candids feel real.



Ready to plan your Essex wedding photos? → Inquire now

Frequently asked questions 

Do we need a first look here?

Not required, but it makes timelines smooth and lets you enjoy cocktail hour. We can still save 10–15 minutes at sunset for dreamy portraits.
 

Is there a good rain backup?

Yes—ballroom windows, covered walkways, and the foyer photograph beautifully. I also bring clear umbrellas.

How long do photos take?

Plan ~35–45 minutes for couple portraits + 30–40 minutes for wedding party/family, plus a short golden-hour session.
 

Can you photograph here in winter?

Absolutely. We use elegant indoor spots and pop outside briefly if weather allows.

© 2025 by Inna Chirko Photography | Wedding Photographer in Vermont | Vermont and New England Photographer | Photographer Burlington, VT | Burlington Wedding Photographer

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