Brick House at Shelburne Museum Wedding
Nestled atop a ridge with panoramic views of Lake Champlain, the Brick House at Shelburne Museum is more than just an architectural gem; it’s a portal to a bygone era, where every brick and beam tells a tale. As the former summer residence of Electra Havemeyer Webb, this elegant Georgian Revival home whispers dreamy stories of grand soirées and timeless love stories. Today, couples are writing new chapters in its storied walls, choosing the Brick House as the romantic backdrop to their wedding day.
On a deliciously warm early fall day, Debbie and Matt were married at the Brick House, and it was everything a Vermont wedding should be.
The first time I ever went to Shelburne was a few years back. A dear friend of mine lives in Vermont and when I went to visit her we spent several days on the banks of Lake Champlain, right next to the Shelburne Inn, sifting through rocks and laying by the water. It was a total treat to come back again as a wedding photographer, and I fell even more in love with this area and it’s wonderful history.
Shelburne Museum
Shelburne Museum, located in Shelburne, Vermont, is one of North America’s most diverse and unconventional museums of art, design, and Americana. Spread over 45 acres, the museum’s collection is housed in 39 distinct buildings, which include historic structures brought to the site, as well as replicas and purpose-built exhibit halls. Founded in 1947 by Electra Havemeyer Webb, the museum offers a unique blend of traditional decorative arts with American folk art, presenting a vivid representation of America’s historical and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore collections that range from impressionist paintings, folk art, quilts, and textiles to decoys, carousel animals, and American vernacular architecture.
The Brick House
A significant structure on the Shelburne Museum’s grounds is the Brick House. Located on a ridge overlooking Lake Champlain, the Brick House was originally built as a summer residence for Electra Havemeyer Webb and her family. This elegant Georgian Revival home, built in the early 20th century, is unique for its architectural design and its splendid interior which features European and American antiques, oriental rugs, and fine art from the Webb family’s private collection. While it served as the family’s retreat for many years, it later became an integral part of the museum’s vast exhibition landscape. The Brick House remains a testament to Electra’s impeccable taste and her passion for collecting.
Shelburne Farms
While Shelburne Museum offers a deep dive into art and Americana, nearby Shelburne Farms provides a glimpse into sustainable agriculture and education. Originally established in the late 19th century as an agricultural estate by Dr. William Seward Webb and Lila Vanderbilt Webb, today’s Shelburne Farms operates as a nonprofit organization. Its 1,400-acre working farm is dedicated to educating visitors about sustainable farming, conservation, and land use. The property boasts a beautiful historic inn, a farm barn that hosts educational programs, a dairy which produces the renowned Shelburne Farms cheddar, and miles of walking trails that offer breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.
Together, the Shelburne Museum and Shelburne Farms encapsulate the region’s rich history, artistic spirit, and commitment to land stewardship. They stand as cherished destinations for those keen to understand Vermont’s unique cultural and agricultural landscape.
