First sunny Saturday in New Hampshire in months a welcome sign for businesses, those with outdoor plans
After weeks of soggy Saturdays, New Hampshire is finally getting a break from the rain, just in time for a local couple’s long-awaited wedding and a weekend full of outdoor activities.
Deanna Hanafain and Alex Ricciardi have been monitoring the weather closely as they prepared for their June 21 wedding at LaBelle Winery’s Derry location. With the forecast showing clear skies, they’re feeling grateful and excited.
“We were completely prepared right from the get-go, because I think they were anticipating that there was a high chance of rain, because there’s been so much,” Hanafain said.
The couple specifically chose the summer solstice for their ceremony, tying their celebration to a celestial theme that began with their engagement during last year’s solar eclipse.
“There was a contingency plan. LaBelle was ready to help us in case it did rain,” Ricciardi said.
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With no rain in sight, LaBelle Winery’s weekend events will proceed as planned, much to the relief of staff and guests.
“It’s such a stress relief for all of us, because we want our brides and grooms to have the greatest day of their lives,” said winery owner Amy LaBelle.
Recent rainy weather has hurt the winery’s outdoor dining and wine-tasting traffic, she said, but she’s hopeful that this weekend marks a shift.
“We’ll get to be out on the terrace this weekend, close to the vineyard overlooking the vines, and that’s good news for everybody,” LaBelle said.
Golfers are also celebrating the sunny forecast.
“I’m very excited to actually play on a weekend,” said golfer Mike Walker.
Scott Peters echoed that sentiment: “The rain we try to avoid—that’s why it’s been such a struggle. Every Saturday in a row.”
Amherst Country Club golf director Mark Newton said tee times are filling up fast, and spirits are high.
“It’s nice to have everybody back out and see some excitement, some smiles, and maybe even a birdie or two made on the golf course,” he said.
As for the bride and groom, they’re simply ready to celebrate.
“We’re ready. We’re excited. Yeah. Very excited,” Hanafain and Ricciardi said.
