Planning Your Dream Wedding: A Comprehensive Checklist

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey filled with joy, anticipation, and a bit of stress. To help you stay organized and ensure nothing is overlooked, we've created a comprehensive wedding planning checklist. Follow these steps to make your big day unforgettable!

12-18 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Set Your Budget: Determine how much you can spend and allocate funds to different aspects of the wedding.

2. Create a Guest List: Start drafting a list of guests to get an idea of the number of attendees.

3. Choose a Venue: Research and book the venue for your ceremony and reception. For info on booking at The Highgate Manor, click here.

4. Select a Date: Decide on a wedding date that works for you and your close family, as well as your venue.

5. Hire a Wedding Planner: If you need professional help, now is the time to hire a wedding planner.Some venues, like the Manor, handle a lot of planning for you. You can also check out Green Mountain Gatherings to plan your wedding!

9-12 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Send Save-the-Dates: Notify your guests to mark their calendars.

2. Book Vendors: Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, and entertainment. (Some suggestions for our area include Dragonfly Florals, MTS Entertainment, Portrait Gallery Photography, and Bakes By Emily.There are a lot more suggestions on our social media pages. Plus stay tuned for future wedding vendor shows and blog posts about local wedding themed businesses.

3. Shop for Attire: Begin shopping for your wedding dress, groom’s attire, and outfits for the bridal party. You can find great jewelry at Eaton’s Fine Jewelry, and great wedding gowns and tux’s at Divine Treasures.

4. Register for Gifts: Create a wedding registry for your guests.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Plan the Ceremony: Decide on the order of events, readings, and music.

2. Order Invitations: Choose and order your wedding invitations.

3. Arrange Transportation: Book transportation for the wedding day.

4. Book Accommodations: Reserve hotel rooms for out-of-town guests.

3-6 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Send Invitations: Mail out your wedding invitations. Check out this article from The Knot on wedding invites.

2. Plan the Honeymoon: Book your honeymoon and ensure your passports are up to date.

3. Order Wedding Rings: Choose and order your wedding bands.

4. Finalize Menu: Confirm the menu with your caterer.

1-3 Months Before the Wedding:

1. Attend Dress Fittings: Go for final fittings for your wedding attire.

2. Create a Seating Chart: Plan where your guests will sit during the reception.

3. Finalize Details: Confirm all details with vendors and make any last-minute adjustments.

4. Write Vows: If you’re writing your own vows, start drafting them now.

1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding:

1. Confirm RSVPs: Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded.

2. Prepare Payments: Organize final payments for vendors and tips for service providers.

3. Pack for the Honeymoon: Start packing for your post-wedding getaway.

4. Relax and Enjoy: Take some time to relax and enjoy the moments leading up to your big day.

The Day Before the Wedding:

1. Rehearse: Attend the rehearsal dinner and go through the ceremony rehearsal.

2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Rest up for your special day!

Following this checklist will help you stay organized and reduce stress as you plan your wedding. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey and celebrate the love you share with your partner. Happy planning!

History of the Highgate Manor

The Highgate Manor, located in Highgate, Vermont, is a historic site with a rich and intriguing past. The Manor, built in the early 19th century, has been a witness to various significant events and changes over the years, making it a fascinating subject for history enthusiasts.

The construction of Highgate Manor dates back to 1818, commissioned by Captain Steve Keyes, a prominent figure in the area. The Highgate Manor's architecture reflects the Federal Victorian style, characterized by its elegant symmetry, classic proportions, and decorative elements. The Manor was built along with The Manor Mayfair, which was located directly across the green, The Manor Annex, and a brand new dance hall. This hall was billed as the largest and best dance hall in the North. Benny Goodman and other stars of the Big Band Era regularly performed in the Manor’s ballroom. Initially, The Highgate Manor served as a private residence for Captain Keyes and his family, but it soon became a central hub for social gatherings and community events when The Manor Mayfair burnt down. During the period of the Civil War, the Manor was also used as a stop on the Underground Railroad, with tunnels running from under the house to the river.

Throughout the 19th century, Highgate Manor saw several ownership changes, each bringing its own unique touch to the property. One of the most notable owners was Dr. Henry Baxter, who purchased the Manor in the late 1800s. Dr. Baxter was a well-respected physician and a key figure in the local community. He held his medical practice at the Manor, and his medicines, Dr. Baxter’s Mandrake Bitters and Baxter’s Lung Balm, sold all throughout Vermont. He also owned and managed several businesses in Highgate including furniture, drug and grocery stores, and H.W. Baxter & Co. Under his ownership, the Manor was expanded and modernized, including the addition of a grand ballroom that hosted numerous social events, dances, and gatherings.

The 20th century brought more changes to Highgate Manor. During the Prohibition era, the Manor allegedly served as a speakeasy, attracting visitors from far and wide, most notably including Al Capone himself. Stories of secret tunnels and hidden rooms where alcohol was stored and served have become part of the Manor's lore, and while the Speakeasy Bar is no longer there, you can still see the tunnel that led down to it from the ballroom. In the mid-20th century, the Manor was taken over by Philip Schmitt and was turned into an exclusive vacation resort with a seafood restaurant, further cementing its status as a local landmark.

In later years, the Manor served as a schoolhouse and a residential spot. The Highgate selectboard voted to use the Manor ballroom as classrooms to alleviate crowded school conditions. Graduation ceremonies were hosted here as well.

The manor is also rumored to be haunted, with tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena adding to its mystique. Many of Dr. Baxter’s children did not live past the age of ten and died of strange illnesses. The town’s people believed that the good doctor was using his children for experiments and that after their death they have since remained in the house to this day. Some also believe that the ghost of Al Capone still visits the tunnel of the speakeasy. This lore appeals to many paranormal investigators.

Unfortunately, during the 2008 recession, the owners of the Manor were arrested on charges of mortgage fraud, and the Manor fell into abandonment and disrepair until it eventually sold at auction. Rich Wilkens and Lisa Wells then owned the manor from 2009-2023, and started some restoration.

Sharone Perlman bought the Highgate Manor in 2023 and opened it back to the public after a lot of restoration. Though things have been updated, many original pieces are still present in the house - including chimneys, floors, and doors from it’s original construction. The landscaping has been redone in a beautiful way, including a restoration of the gazebo that has been there for over 100 years.

Today, The Highgate Manor stands as a testament to the rich history of Highgate, Vermont. It is a popular destination for tourists and history buffs, offering a glimpse into the past with its preserved architecture and storied past. Mostly, it serves as an event venue - from weddings to ballroom dances, a theatre camp, baby showers, wellness retreats, classes, and many more events that bring the community together. You can see any upcoming events on our Events Page. The Highgate Manor's enduring legacy continues to captivate and inspire those who visit, making it a cherished piece of Vermont's heritage.

To view more images of the Manor, click here. Party rental details for the Manor can be found here, and to view our wedding packages, you can click here. Stay tuned for more stories of the Manor and it’s owners in future blog posts, and thank you for supporting this beautiful piece of Highgate History.

Spring Weddings: Embracing the Beauty of the Season

Spring is a magical time of year, full of renewal and vibrant colors, making it a popular choice for weddings. If you're considering a spring wedding, it's important to weigh the pros and cons and gather some creative ideas to make your day truly special. Let's dive into what makes spring weddings unique and how you can make the most of this beautiful season.

Pros of Spring Weddings

1. Beautiful Blooms: Spring is known for its stunning array of flowers. From tulips and daffodils to cherry blossoms and peonies, you'll have a wide variety of fresh, colorful blooms to choose from for your bouquets, centerpieces, and decorations.

2. Mild Weather: Spring typically offers mild and comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The pleasant temperatures can help keep your guests comfortable and happy.

3. Seasonal Freshness: Spring brings an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce. This can inspire a delicious and vibrant menu for your wedding, featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

4. Picturesque Settings: The natural beauty of Spring provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. Lush greenery, blooming flowers, and clear skies can make your wedding album truly breathtaking.

Cons of Spring Weddings

1. Unpredictable Weather: While spring weather is often mild, it can also be unpredictable. Rain showers and sudden temperature changes can pose challenges for outdoor events. If you’re a Vermont resident (or live somewhere with similar climate), this can really vary so make sure to have indoor and outdoor ceremony options.

2. Allergies: Spring is notorious for allergies due to pollen. This can be a concern for both the couple and their guests, potentially causing discomfort for those with sensitivities.

3. High Demand: Spring is a popular wedding season, which means venues and vendors may be in high demand. This can lead to higher costs and limited availability.

4. Insect Activity: As temperatures rise, so does insect activity. Be prepared to deal with bugs, especially if you're planning an outdoor wedding.

Now if the cons are scaring you a bit, remember that every season will have good and less-good aspects. When choosing your wedding date, these things are important to look into, but it ultimately you should pick a day that is meaningful and/or fits your schedule and guest availability as much as possible.

Now, let’s talk Spring Wedding Planning! There is truly so much you can do from themes to decorations, and everything in-between. For example, you can really embrace the season by choosing a garden or botanical venue/decor. The natural beauty of the setting will enhance the overall ambiance and provide a picturesque backdrop for your ceremony and reception. If weather permits, an outdoor ceremony can be truly magical in the spring. Consider having a backup plan, such as a tent or indoor space, in case of rain. You can also take advantage of the abundance of spring flowers by incorporating them into every aspect of your decor. Use floral arches, hanging installations, and flower-lined aisles to create a whimsical and enchanting setting.

Another great part of Spring is the colors. Incorporate soft pastel colors into your wedding theme. Shades of blush, lavender, mint, and pale blue can create a romantic and fresh atmosphere that complements the season.

Spring is a time of growth - which means fresh fruits and veggies- perfect for wedding catering! Design a menu that highlights the best of spring produce. Think fresh salads, asparagus, strawberries, and light, refreshing cocktails. This not only adds a seasonal touch but also ensures your guests enjoy delicious, fresh flavors.

You can incorporate the Spring season from the beginning to the very end of your special day. Send your guests home with spring-themed favors, such as packets of flower seeds, mini potted plants, or handmade soaps with floral scents. These thoughtful gifts will remind them of your special day and spread the joy of the season.

While all seasons can be great for a wedding, Spring weddings offer a unique blend of natural beauty and seasonal charm. By incorporating creative ideas using fresh florals, foods, bright colors, and more, you can plan a wedding that captures the essence of this lovely season. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant blooms, fresh scents and flavors, or picturesque settings, a spring wedding can be a truly unforgettable celebration.

To book your Spring wedding, consider the beautiful backdrop of The Highgate Manor. We offer indoor and outdoor wedding options, floral arrangements, and more. Spring is right around the corner. If you’re worried that you can’t plan a wedding in time, lets us help you take care of the details! We have hosted weddings planned in as little as a few weeks! Check out this article on quick wedding planning by Hitched. It provides great insight on how to plan a wedding in 60 days. You can also utilize this 90 day wedding checklist by Here Comes the Guide.

Here’s to rebirth and warmer weather! Happy Spring!

Cover photo from Wedding Spot

10 Things Every Couple Should Know Before Their Wedding

Planning a wedding is an exciting yet overwhelming experience. To help ease the journey, here are the top 10 things every couple should know before getting married:

1. Communication is Key: Open and honest communication with your partner is essential. Discuss your expectations, dreams, and concerns to ensure you're on the same page. This should include conversations about budget, guests, and other details of your wedding day. Of course, it goes without saying that you should discuss other aspects of starting your lives together too, like kids, marital roles, living choices, etc.

2. Set a Realistic Budget: Weddings can be expensive, so it's crucial to set a budget early on. Prioritize what's most important to you and allocate funds accordingly to avoid unnecessary stress. You can also hire a wedding planner or go through a venue that includes other aspects of the planning with their wedding packages (i.e. florals, catering, photography, etc). If you are planning to have your wedding at The Manor, you can view our wedding packages here.

3. Plan Together: Involve your partner in the planning process. It’s both your day, and making decisions together can strengthen your bond and ensure the wedding reflects both of your personalities. You can go over all details together, or divvy up tasks to lighten the load.

4. Choose Reliable Vendors: Research and select reputable vendors who align with your vision. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and meet with them to ensure they understand your expectations. If you follow our blog, we will be posting about local vendors periodically. You can also find posts about local vendors on our social media pages from our recent Bridal Party at the Manor.

5. Stay Organized: Use a wedding planner or digital tools to keep track of tasks, appointments, and deadlines. Staying organized will help you manage the myriad of details involved in planning a wedding. Many brides and grooms will create wedding binders to organize their ideas as well. Check out this article from Brides.com for top wedding planning tools of 2025.

6. Take Care of Yourself: Amidst the planning, don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental health. Exercise, eat well, and take breaks to relax and recharge. Check out our blog post on wellness here. (If you are local, you can try out a Vinyasa Yoga session by Awaken Yoga or a relaxing Sound Bath by Hummingbird Harmonics).

7. Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Despite meticulous planning, things might not go exactly as planned. Stay flexible and be prepared to adapt to any changes or challenges that arise. You can create a wedding survival kit to help with big-day mishaps. The Knot has a great survival kit checklist here.

8. Focus on What Matters: Remember that the wedding is just one day, but the marriage is for a lifetime. Focus on building a strong foundation for your future together rather than getting caught up in the details of the event.

9. Enjoy the Process: Wedding planning can be stressful, but it should also be enjoyable. Take time to savor the moments, celebrate small victories, and make memories along the way. It can be a fun collaborative activity for you and your partner to bond as you start your lives together.

10. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or a wedding planner. Having a support system can alleviate stress and make the planning process more enjoyable. Plus it gives you a great opportunity for you and your partner to create your “village” that will carry into the rest of your lives.

Of course, there is a lot more that goes into planning a wedding, but by keeping these tips in mind, you can navigate the wedding planning process with greater ease and ensure your special day is everything you’ve dreamed of. Enjoy the journey and cherish the moments leading up to your big day! And of course, stay tuned on our blog for more wedding tips!

Wellness Retreat Recap

This past weekend, The Highgate Manor hosted a transformative Wellness Retreat for the community centered around the theme of self-love. This was a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy some peaceful relaxation and rejuvenation. Attendees were treated to a rejuvenating morning that included Vinyasa Yoga and a deep guided meditation by Awaken Yoga and a Sound Bath by Hummingbird Harmonics. Each practice was carefully curated to help participants reconnect with themselves and cultivate a deeper sense of self-compassion.

Vinyasa yoga, known for its fluid movements and synchronized breathing, provided the perfect start to our journey. As we moved through each pose, we were encouraged to focus on our breath and set personal intentions. The physical practice of yoga served as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care and honoring our physical well-being.

Next, we delved into deep meditation sessions that guided us inward, encouraging self-reflection and mindfulness. The theme of self-love was woven throughout, with prompts to explore our inner beings and cultivate a kinder, more compassionate relationship with ourselves. By the end of the session, participants reported feeling more grounded, present, and connected to their bodies.

One of the most unique experiences of the retreat was the sound bath. As we lay comfortably on our mats with our cozy blankets, the soothing sounds of crystal bowls, gongs, and even beautiful singing washed over us. The sound bath was designed to promote deep relaxation and healing, using vibrations to balance our energy centers. This allowed us to release pent-up stress and emotions, leaving us with a profound sense of peace and clarity.

(See our previous blog post for more on the benefits of these practices).

As the retreat came to a close, there was a palpable sense of renewal and connection among those who attended. The combination of vinyasa yoga, sound bath, and deep meditation created a holistic experience that touched on the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of self-love. Attendees left The Highgate Manor with a toolkit of practices to continue their path of self-discovery and self-compassion. It was a profound journey inward that reminded us that self-love is not a destination but a continuous practice. By nurturing our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can cultivate a deeper sense of wholeness and well-being.

Thank you to everyone who came, those who led the event, and to Dragonfly Florals for providing roses for each guest to take home after the retreat.

If you missed this retreat, stay tuned on our event page for future Wellness events!

Making Time for Wellness

Making time for wellness is essential in our fast-paced lives. Prioritizing self-care can lead to improved mental and physical health, increased productivity, and a greater sense of well-being. Here, we explore three powerful wellness practices: Vinyasa yoga, meditation, and sound healing - all of which will be practiced at our upcoming Wellness Retreat at the Manor:

Vinyasa Yoga:

Vinyasa yoga is a dynamic and flowing form of yoga that synchronizes breath with movement. Unlike some other styles of yoga, Vinyasa doesn't follow a set sequence, allowing for creativity and variation in each class. This practice builds strength, flexibility, and endurance while promoting mindfulness and relaxation. The continuous flow of poses helps to increase heart rate, making it an excellent cardiovascular workout. Additionally, the focus on breath work helps to calm the mind and reduce stress.

Meditation:

Meditation is a practice that involves training the mind to focus and achieve a state of calm and clarity. There are various forms of meditation, including mindfulness meditation, guided meditation, and transcendental meditation. Regular meditation practice can reduce stress, improve concentration, enhance emotional health, and promote a sense of inner peace. It involves sitting quietly, focusing on the breath, a mantra, or a specific object, and gently bringing the mind back whenever it wanders. Even a few minutes of meditation each day can have profound benefits.

Sound Healing:

Sound healing is an ancient practice that uses sound frequencies to promote healing and well-being. Instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, and tuning forks are used to create vibrations that resonate with the body's energy centers (chakras). These vibrations can help to release tension, reduce stress, and promote a sense of deep relaxation. Sound healing sessions can be experienced in a group setting or individually and are often combined with other wellness practices like yoga or meditation. The soothing sounds can help to quiet the mind, balance the body's energy, and facilitate emotional release.

Incorporating these practices into your routine doesn't require a significant time commitment. Start with a few minutes of meditation each morning, attend a Vinyasa yoga class once or twice a week, or try a sound healing session to see how it affects your well-being. By making time for wellness, you invest in your health and happiness, creating a more balanced and fulfilling life.

If you were able to snag a ticket to our upcoming Wellness Retreat, you are in for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation, as well as connecting with like-minded individuals in a serene and peaceful setting. Whether you're looking to de-stress, recharge, or simply pamper yourself, this event is the perfect opportunity to focus on your well-being, escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and indulge in some self-care. We can't wait to see you there!

Welcome to the Manor

Hello, and welcome to the official Highgate Manor blog!

On this page, you will find wedding-themed content to prepare you for your big day, as well as some Manor history!

The Highgate Manor is a historic wedding venue and event space in Vermont. It has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s - including things like The Underground Railroad, a Speakeasy during the Prohibition, Al Capone, a schoolhouse, and now a wedding and event venue with monthly tours. The Manor also serves the community with AIrBNB options and rentals to small businesses to host their classes and events.

On the event page, you can find a variety of things happening at the Manor, and wedding dates are available for booking throughout the year! You can also book bridal and baby showers, parties, and more.

Please enjoy looking through the website, and stay tuned for our weekly blog posts!