It really took me back; watching models Olivia and Eric walk on the battlements of Fort Ticonderoga. The juxtaposition of her Vera Wang gown to the row of 18th century cannon’s reflected the power of history propelling the promise of the future.

Bigler Productions was asked to participate in a destination spotlight shoot for WellWed Magazine featuring Fort Ticonderoga. When I first got the call I was really excited to shoot at the Fort; I had been there before with my wife a few years back, but had never had the entire fort closed off for a wedding shoot! It truly is an amazing, one-of-a- kind wedding venue. Additionally, their exclusive caterer is none other than Mazzone Hospitalities’ Mansion Catering, so you know the food and service is going to be the best.

The day began by touring the grounds with planner Lisa Light (Destination Bride), Sue Baker (Mazzone Hospitality) and photographers Matt & Jamaica (Matt Ramos Photography). As we investigated all the nooks and crannies of this historically rich fort our models were in hair and makeup with the talented Alayne Curtiss (Make Me Fabulous).

(Photography by Matt Ramos Photography)

Fort Ticonderoga is a venue that offers true diversity; there is so much more to this place than an old retired fort. We began the shoot by traversing the Kings’ Garden. A long pathway, lined with trees leads into the garden creating an idyllic sanctuary for an outdoor ceremony. Next we ventured into the walled garden, it was nothing short of breathtaking. There is endless variety in the nooks and locations to shoot photos and video (Fort Ticonderoga is a photographer & videographer’s dream). Nestled at the end of the Kings Garden is an old, rustic, white house that acts as a heartbeat to the history of the entire place. Surrounding the Kings Garden is an orchard which begs for an evening stroll. As if that were not enough, there is a garden, complete with a greenhouse on the north side that is sure to impress anyone who walks through it.

(Photography by Matt Ramos Photography)

We headed back to the fort after we finished our shoot at the Kings Garden. On the way back we stopped outside the wall of the fort to capture the amazing table set up that Experience had created. They had combined rich colors to accentuate the deep history of the location managing to pull together a floral arrangement and just the right accents to keep with the atmosphere. The table seemed to have been set for royalty. The rain started to lightly sprinkling which made the Experience crew fly even faster as they broke down the crimson and olive table setting. Within minutes they transformed the bare table into a white masterpiece with a cake, that seemed to have emerged from nowhere. It was impressive to watch the Experience team in action.

We then made our way into the newly constructed Mars Center. This wing of the fort looks identical to the rest of the 18th century fort, but hidden inside are all the 21st century accommodations and comforts anyone would want for their wedding. The ability to stand outside on battlements that were used during the French and Indian War then step into the air-conditioned hall with all its modern comforts, truly makes this location a must consider for any wedding.

We finished our shoot on the top of Fort Ticonderoga, over looking the southern end of Lake Champlain. It was impressive to see these young models dressed to the nines walking among the ancient cannons. A special thanks to Angela’s Bridal for the stunning gowns worn by Grace and Olivia. Our male model, Eric had the difficult task of escorting these lovely ladies throughout the day. Eric was outfitted in a classy tux thanks to Anthony Commisso’s Tuxego.

I can’t wait to return to this amazing venue for a wedding. It is the perfect location for a couple that is looking for something unique and truly memorable for their wedding. The memories created within the historical masterpieces of this location will only add to a couple’s dream wedding expectations. It truly has it all.
– Dave Bigler (Bigler Productions)