The 50th Exeter Memorial Day Parade

Celebrating Community & Capturing Moments in Time



This past weekend, I had the incredible honor of photographing the 50th Annual Exeter Memorial Day Parade! This tradition means so much to our small-town community here in Exeter, Rhode Island. As both a resident and a photographer, being part of this milestone celebration was something I’ll never forget! The day was a bit cooler than years past—cloudy skies, cooler temperatures, but no rain! There was a joyful spirit in the air from start to finish. Sunderland Road was lined with parade float participants adding last minute touches. Families gathered along Route 102 waving flags, kids collecting candy, and neighbors catching up as they waited for the parade to begin.


As I looked through my lens, I was struck by the deep sense of pride and connection that filled every moment. 


Seeing & hearing Ronald "Woody" Woodmansee speak at the after parade ceremony & celebration as Grand Marshal was especially moving—he was instrumental in coordinating Exeter’s very first Memorial Day Parade, and to have him front and center for the 50th felt full-circle in the best way.


We were also honored by the presence of several veterans, many dressed in military attire, who reminded us of the true purpose of Memorial Day. The heartfelt ceremony that followed the parade at the library was a beautiful pause to reflect and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country. As a photographer, those quiet, meaningful moments are just as powerful to capture.


Of course, the parade wouldn’t have been complete without the amazing floats and community participants.


Congratulations again to our float contest winners:


🥇 Solid Rock Homestead

🥈 American Made

🥉 Girl Scout Troops 435

🏅 Boy Scout Troop 45

🏅 Girl Scout Troop 282 & 206


From the jeeps to the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, the face painters, petting zoo,  Lemonade, the after-parade celebration was filled with joy and energy. I especially loved seeing how the community gathered together!


🍋 Del’s Lemonade

🐐 T&T Fun Farm Petting Zoo

🎨 Tay’s Creations Face Painting

🚽 Cassie’s Cans Portable Restroom Service (huge thanks!)

🍦 Two Scoops Ice Cream

The Lux Lemon

🌭 Free Hot Dogs

🍔 Alaina's Mobile Food Truck

🧁 Sarcastic Sweets

🎈 Balloon Creations for the kiddos

📸 Heather Golding Photography (Parade Photo Link ~ Click Here)


Many of you may not know but we had special guests that traveled from Exeter, NH to see OUR Parade! They call themselves "Travel New England" and can be found across social media and YouTube documenting New England. They did a wonderful job documenting the day and their vlog can be viewed on YouTube! (Video Link Here)


As much as I love photographing local events like this, my true passion lies in capturing the quieter, everyday moments of families and little ones—the kind of moments that happen in my cozy studio here in Exeter.


There’s something really special about freezing time during a family cuddle in my studio, a baby’s gummy smile during a milestone session, or a child’s special milestone. These moments may be quieter than a parade, but they’re just as worth celebrating. They're your family's history in the making.

So if you found your way to my website because you saw me photographing the parade—welcome! I’d love to help you capture the heart of your family in a relaxed and beautiful way. Whether you’re expecting a little one, celebrating a baby’s first birthday, or simply want updated portraits of your growing crew, I’m here to make it easy and enjoyable.

Feel free to browse around and check out the Newborn, Milestone, High School Seniors and Family galleries, or reach out with any questions. My studio is located right here in Exeter, RI, and I’d love to meet you and help tell your family’s story through timeless, natural images.


Thanks again to everyone who made the 50th Exeter Memorial Day Parade such a beautiful success—and to all of you who allow me the honor of capturing life’s most precious chapters. ❤️



Many Thanx,

Heather

Heather Golding Photography