DIY Wedding at the Overlook at Geer Tree Farm

It was an emotional day, documenting Marissa and Harold’s Fall DIY wedding at The Overlook at Geer Tree Farm. The tears started early; during their first look, Marissa found herself crying and couldn’t seem to stop. (You can see her mom coming over at some point to help dab her face amidst the expected pleas of, “Don’t let me ruin my makeup!”) From there, we were off to the races.

Marissa and Harold are not a cookie cutter couple (and thus, they were such a joy to work with). They are outspoken about their politics, brash about what they believe to be right and wrong, intentional as hell about their day while also being complete stoner procrastinators who may or may not have waited ’til the last minute to write their vows. They are a study in contradictions, and so was their wedding.

Their ceremony was perhaps the most snot-filled, ugly cry ceremonies I’ve ever seen–and that is SAYING something. And I think that’s because their vows were so distinctly honest. Generally, wedding vows are a somewhat lofty or romanticized version of who we are (and hope to be) as a couple. For Marissa and Harold, however, their wedding vows took the form of confessional meets therapy session meets journal entry. We got a REAL window into their inner worlds, their strengths and weaknesses, and their fears. The bride and groom told the truth. They got choked up. They made damn near everybody cry with their vulnerable truth-telling.

The rest of the wedding was a by-product of that cathartic outpouring of realness. Their DIY, book-inspired décor offered a physical embodiment of their community: quirky, smart, thoughtful people being true to themselves. The huge tent glittered in a completely gorgeous, blue-purple sky. And the moon was full and hanging just beyond the horizon–spectacular and unforgettable. (Also, the Plan-it Vicki team was great.) If you’re looking for an unusual outdoor wedding venue with beautiful views, I recommend checking out The Overlook at Geer Tree Farm. A little off the beaten path, and an unforgettable location.

Venue: The Overlook at Geer Tree Farm
Wedding Planner: Plan-it Vicki
Photographer: Cate Barry Photography
Second shooter: K Godfrey Photo