Dog Mountain, Dog Chapel

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Burke Mountain Hotel & Conference Center

Welcome Dinner

Wedding Reception

Cocktail Hour

Dinner & Dancing

After Party

Brunch

Our Wedding

Our Story... a work in progress

It all began on a dark and stormy night in May 2019 when JP invited Kristina out for a drink despite a downpour. We arrived at Hotel Vermont, where Kristina ordered a $30+ bourbon only to discover that JP doesn’t drink. Undeterred, we settled in by the fireplace, chatting about Vermont, our mutual love of dogs, and enjoying easy conversation that made the storm outside feel like part of the story. By our third date, the adventure had already begun. We planned to meet in the middle of the Waterbury Reservoir in kayaks. JP, who had been camping the night before, was (unsurprisingly) late. Kristina, with no cell service, briefly thought she was being stood up in the most remote and inconvenient way possible. But JP did arrive, and what followed was a perfect Vermont summer day: kayaking, swimming, grilling, and the beginning of a tradition we still keep—returning each year to camp there on our anniversary. In January 2020, we moved in together, just in time to spend a truly unprecedented amount of togetherness during the COVID-19 lockdown. Shortly after, we adopted Ellis and brought him home to Vermont. He instantly added more joy, more love, and significantly more dog hair to our lives. Over the years, we’ve built a life full of both big steps and everyday moments. JP went back to school to pursue a meaningful career in education. We’ve traveled near and far, from local camping trips and endless dog walks to adventures in Alaska, Mexico, and Italy. We’ve learned to cook favorite meals for each other, grow a garden, and deepened the kind of partnership that makes even the ordinary feel special. In 2025, we found and bought our forever home. In August 2026, we made it even better by adopting Zissou, who brought a whole new level of excitement, enthusiasm, and joyful chaos to our household. Along the way, we built a life we love, and found in each other a deep sense of comfort and understanding. What we’ve created together is more than we ever could have hoped for: a partnership that feels like home. And this is just the beginning.

Our Story

A few snapshots of our little moments, the big memories, and everything in between.

Photos

Zissou will be serving as Maid of Honor. 

Known for her impeccable instincts, expressive side-eye, and commitment to staying exactly where the snacks are, Zissou brings both grace and mild chaos to the big day. She has been an unforgettable presence in our lives, offering unwavering loyalty, questionable listening skills, and just enough mischief to keep things interesting. We couldn’t imagine saying “I do” without her by our side.

Zissou

Ellis will be serving as Best Man, a role that perfectly suits his regal nature and unmistakably dapper good looks. A devoted companion to both Kristina and JP, he considers it his life’s work to love us deeply, follow us loyally, and ensure we are never without comfort. Equal parts noble gentleman and best-of-the-best friend, Ellis brings a steady presence, a warm heart, and an unwavering dedication to his people. It feels only right that he’ll stand by our side at the Dog Chapel at Dog Mountain, where he will no doubt carry out his duties with dignity… and an eye out for snacks.

Ellis

Wedding Party

Festive, colorful, and ready to celebrate. Suits are optional and gowns are discouraged.We’re prioritizing comfort over formality. If you can dance in it and feel like yourself, you’re doing it right. We encourage colorful dresses, bold patterns, relaxed tailoring, fun accessories, and creative combinations. Above all, be yourself!

Dress Code

Q + A

We’re so excited to welcome you to Vermont for our wedding weekend! Burke and St. Johnsbury are nestled in the Northeast Kingdom — a beautiful (and slightly remote) part of the state. A little planning goes a long way, so we’ve included options below to help you get here smoothly.

Accommodations:

We've arranged a room bloc for discounted accommodations at the Burke Mountain Hotel, where our reception is being held. The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from studios to three-bedroom suites, making it a great option whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends. The room block discount is available for the wedding weekend (Saturday, May 29 through Monday, May 31, 2027). If you wish to arrive earlier or stay later, you can still use our room block discount, but you must book by phone. HOW TO BOOK: Book online: Use <a href="https://burkemountainhotel.ibe.stayntouch.com/search-results?checkin=05-29-2027&amp;checkout=05-31-2027&amp;adults=2&amp;kids=0&amp;groupCode=LPWEDD" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">this link</a>, which already has the wedding dates and group code applied. Book by phone: Call 866-966-4820 and mention the "LaLonde Pentek Wedding" room block or provide the group code LPWEDD. --&gt; Use this option if you wish to book an extended stay--&gt; If you don't see the room size that your seeking online, give the hotel a call. They can help to review the hotels inventory to get you set up with what you need. NOTE: We recommend reserving your room early, as Memorial Day weekend is a popular time to visit Vermont.

Perched high on Burke Mountain, the Burke Mountain Hotel offers sweeping mountain views and fresh Vermont air in every direction. It’s the perfect home base for our special weekend. Rooms range from cozy studios to spacious three-bedroom suites, many with kitchenettes and/or fireplaces. Guests can enjoy the seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, arcade, and terrace overlooking the mountains. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. For the adventurous, the hotel offers on-site downhill mountain biking, and you’re just minutes from the renowned Kingdom Trails network. Hiking trails are right outside your door, and Lake Willoughby (about 30 minutes away) offers kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and stunning views. While you’re in the area, you can also visit Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, explore the Fairbanks Museum &amp; Planetarium, or simply enjoy the scenic charm of the Northeast Kingdom. We hope you’ll make a weekend of it and experience a little bit of Vermont while you’re here.

FLYING

If you’re traveling from farther away, here are the most convenient airport options: Burlington International Airport, Vermont (BTV): About 1 hour 45 minutes drive from Burke - This is the closest major Vermont airport and typically the easiest option. Rental cars are available at the airport and will be necessary to reach Burke. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), New Hampshire: About 2 hour drive from Burke - Often an easy and less crowded alternative to Boston. Rental car recommended. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): About 3 hour drive from Burke. Potentially the most direct or economical for guests traveling from farther away. Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL): About 2 hours 15 minutes from Burke - A great option for some flight routes, particularly from the West Coast. Keep in mind you’ll be crossing the U.S.–Canada border by car, so be sure to bring a valid passport.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS to Burke Mountain Hotel (2559 Mountain Road East Burke VT 05832)

Coming from Burlington, VT: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. * Take I-89 South, then merge onto I-91 North toward Lyndonville.* Take Exit 23 (Lyndonville) and follow the local directions below. Coming from the Tri-State Area (NY, NJ, PA, CT): Approximately 5–7 hours, depending on your starting point. * Take I-87 or I-91 North through New York and/or Massachusetts and continue on I-91 North into Vermont.* Take Exit 23 (Lyndonville) and follow the local directions below to reach Burke Mountain Hotel. Coming from Northeastern Points (Maine): Approximately 3–4 hours. * Travel west through New Hampshire and connect to I-91 North in Vermont.* Take Exit 23 (Lyndonville) and follow the local directions below. Coming from Boston: Approximately 3 hours. * Take I-93 North through New Hampshire and connect to I-91 North toward Vermont.* Take Exit 23 (Lyndonville) and follow the local directions below. Coming from Montréal: Approximately 2–2.5 hours (depending on border crossing time). * Take Autoroute 10 East, which becomes I-91 South after crossing into Vermont.* Take Exit 23 (Lyndonville) and follow the local directions below.Please remember your passport for the border crossing. Final Steps to Burke Mountain Hotel, From I-91 Exit 23 (Lyndonville)* Turn right off the interstate.* Go straight through both traffic lights in town.* Continue straight until you reach a T-intersection (a Subway will be directly in front of you).* Turn left at the T.* At the next T-intersection with a flashing yellow light, turn right (House of Pizza will be in front of you and White’s Market on your right).* Continue straight until you reach an intersection near Bean Homes.* Take the slight right yield/merge onto Route 114.* If you go through a traffic light, you’ve missed this turn.* Stay straight on Route 114 all the way into East Burke.* After passing through town, look on your right for a sign for Burke Mountain and turn right.* Follow Mountain Road all the way up. Note: About halfway up, you’ll see a sign for Burke’s Base Lodge — this is not the hotel. Continue past it. The the hotel will come into view after the Mid-Burke Ski Lift. Parking is available on site.

Travel

We hope you’ll take some time to explore while you’re here. The Northeast Kingdom is known for its quiet beauty, mountain views, and outdoor adventure. Late May is a particularly lovely time to visit. Below we've listed our favorite activities and attractions in the area:

If you’re in town for the weekend, we highly recommend a visit to Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury. Wander the trails, explore the art gallery, and spend time at the Dog Chapel — a joyful, one-of-a-kind space dedicated to the love of dogs (and the reason we chose it for our private wedding ceremony).

Dog Mountain, Home of Stephen Huneck Gallery

Just minutes from Burke Mountain, Kingdom Trails is one of the premier mountain biking networks in the country. With miles of scenic trails for all levels, it’s perfect for biking, walking, or simply enjoying the landscape.

Kingdom Trails 

Burke Mountain offers scenic hiking right outside the hotel, but if you’re up for a short drive, the trails around Lake Willoughby are especially stunning. Mount Pisgah, on the east side of the lake, features dramatic cliffs and sweeping views over the water — one of the most iconic vistas in Vermont. Trails range from moderate to more challenging, with rewarding lookouts along the way. At the south end of Lake Willoughby, you’ll find gentler walking paths and shoreline access (with a clothing optional beach), perfect for a quieter stroll with beautiful lake views.

Hiking and Mountain Views

Often called the “Lucerne of America,” Lake Willoughby is a glacial lake surrounded by steep mountains and clear blue water. It’s ideal for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, or simply relaxing along the shore. The south end of the lake tends to feel a bit more relaxed and tucked away. It’s a lovely place for a quieter swim, shoreline walks, or simply taking in the scenery. The South Beach area is also home to one of Vermont’s well-known clothing-optional beaches — a longtime local tradition for those who feel so inclined.

Lake Willoughby South Beach

Located near the northern end of the lake, North Beach offers beautiful mountain views and easy water access. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and launching kayaks or paddle boards. From here, you’ll also have access to hiking trails on Mount Pisgah, where dramatic cliffside overlooks provide some of the most iconic views in Vermont. Trails range from moderate to challenging and reward you with sweeping vistas over the lake.

Lake Willoughby North Beach

Located in nearby St. Johnsbury, the Fairbanks Museum features natural history exhibits, a planetarium, and plenty of small-town Vermont charm. It’s a wonderful stop for families or anyone who loves a classic museum experience.

Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium

If you’d rather stay close to home base, there’s plenty to enjoy right at Burke Mountain. Relax by the seasonal outdoor pool or unwind in the hot tub with mountain views. Inside the hotel, you’ll also find an arcade and game area , perfect for kids (and competitive adults). For the adventurous, Burke offers downhill mountain biking on the premises, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly routes to more technical, expert runs. Whether you're brand new to downhill riding or an experienced rider looking for a challenge, there’s something for every level. You can make it an active morning, a relaxing afternoon, or a little bit of both — all without leaving the mountain.

Kristina & J.P.

Kristina & J.P.

Photos