Zukas Hilltop Barn Wedding

A couple stands in the greenhouse at their November wedding at Zukas Hilltop Barn in Spencer, Massachusetts

Gabrielle & Nate’s Wedding at Zukas Hilltop Barn | Spencer, Massachusetts

Gabrielle and Nate had been together for ten years before they got married.

Ten years! By the time they were exchanging vows at Our Lady of Mt Carmel in Taunton, they’d already figured each other out completely. Gabby and Nate headed straight into their wedding day with no nervousness, no “oh my gosh we’re doing this”. They already made a unit, their wedding day just made it official!

It was one of the chillest wedding day I think I’ve ever photographed. And I mean that as a massive compliment

Getting ready: Southbridge Hotel

Gabby and Nate got ready at the Southbridge Hotel surrounded by their favorite people, and the whole morning just felt relaxed. There was never a hint of chaos or anxiety. When you’ve been with someone for a decade, I think even your wedding morning knows how to take a breath.

The ceremony: Our Lady of Mt Carmel, Taunton, MA

The warmth in that room was palpable. Ten years’ worth of people who watched this couple literally grow together… showing up to watch them make it official. Gabrielle in her gown, Nate in his suit, rings exchanged, done! Husband and wife, like it was always just a matter of time, because it was.

The venue: Zukas Hilltop Barn, Spencer, MA

Zukas is such a fantastic venue. Perched on a hilltop in Spencer with a giant, rolling field and a November sky that turns dramatic right around sunset. The barn itself is warm and charming, but the real exciting stuff is outside. There’s a greenhouse that’s an absolute dream for portraits, and a tree swing surrounded by open fields that is both whimsical and completely natural-looking in photos.

We used both. Obviously. Gabrielle and Nate laughed through basically all of it, which is exactly the energy you want at a tree swing on your wedding day. They weren’t performing for the camera, they were just enjoying themselves!

That’s the thing about couples who’ve been together a long time. They’re not trying to look like they’re in love. They just are.

The reception

Dancing, friends, family, a hilltop barn in November, what else do you need? The whole night had the same energy as the morning: easy, warm, completely unselfconscious. My favorite kind of reception to photograph!

FAQ: Weddings at Zukas Hilltop Barn, Spencer, MA

What makes Zukas Hilltop Barn a good wedding venue? The combination of the barn, the greenhouse, the tree swing, and the hilltop views gives you a lot of variety in one location. November light over those fields is moody and golden and dramatic all at once.

Is the greenhouse available for wedding photos? Yes, and it’s one of the best portrait spots at the venue! The light in there is soft and really flattering, and it photographs beautifully in any season.

What’s the tree swing situation? It’s surrounded by open fields with great sunset views, and it makes for really natural, playful portraits, especially for couples who aren’t super into posing. Gabrielle and Nate basically just played inon it and I pointed my camera at them. Easy.

What’s the best time of year to get married at Zukas? Every season has something going for it, but fall and early winter are particularly special. The fields, the hilltop views, the barn lights inside… it all comes together really nicely when the air is crisp.

Are you available for weddings in Spencer, MA? Yes! I love shooting in central Massachusetts. Get in touch here and let’s talk about your day.