Location: Craryville, New York, USA
Setting: Country Club
Wedding season: Summer
The number of guests: 150
How long did the couple plan the event: 15 months
Wedding theme/style: A bubbly, romantic garden party.
Sarah and Anthony’s love story began when they met at a wedding, where Sarah was a bridesmaid for her college best friend and Anthony served as a groomsman for his cousin. Despite Sarah’s move to Austin, Texas shortly after, their connection remained strong. Their first date took place in New York City, and the magic of their love story truly ignited when they exchanged heartfelt “I love you” declarations on a park bench at the Vanderbilt Mansion property in Hyde Park.
Sarah hails from the outskirts of Boston and works in event marketing, while Anthony, originally from the Hudson River Valley, launched his own architecture firm, Frisenda Architects, after their engagement. Their shared Manhattan home is located just across from Madison Square Park, where Anthony proposed on a snowy February night. Their engagement journey also included memorable moments like back-to-back ski trips with their families and capturing beautiful fall engagement photos with the talented Maisie Snyder.
The couple’s vision for their wedding was a lively and romantic garden party. They were inspired by the idea of a colorful June wedding to welcome the summer season. They encouraged their guests to wear bright colors and florals to infuse a light and fun atmosphere into the celebration.
The bride’s morning unfurled in an atmosphere of untroubled delight. She prepared for her special day surrounded by her closest friends, and, of paramount significance, her mother’s loving presence graced every moment.
Sarah’s appearance exuded an astonishing level of femininity. For her wedding gown, she chose the ethereal Elliott dress by Jenny Yoo. Her Bella Belle shoes, adorned with delicate silk ribbons, imparted an exquisite and tender touch to her entire bridal ensemble.
She elegantly gathered her hair into a stylish low bun. At the same time, her makeup featured soft hues that splendidly accentuated her natural beauty, seamlessly harmonizing with the entire look to create a delightful and timeless appearance. In its summer-like delicacy, the bouquet enhanced the overall impression.
Anthony’s morning was equally filled with merriment. While his friends assisted him in getting dressed, they shared jokes and hearty laughter that echoed throughout the room. Anthony also opted for a classic look, donning a white jacket and black trousers, and exuded solemnity and elegance in his ensemble from Gray.
The bridesmaids had not yet seen Sarah in her wedding dress, so when she appeared in her radiant attire, it was an incredibly thrilling moment for them, filled with anticipation and excitement.
While the bridesmaids’ emotions were a whirlwind of excitement, the first look between Sarah and Anthony was a profoundly moving and touching experience. Anthony was so profoundly struck by Sarah’s beauty that he couldn’t hold back tears of sheer admiration.
Before the ceremony, they shared joyful moments in heartfelt conversations; some even engaged in playful games. This was exactly what the lovebirds had hoped for – that every guest would feel at ease and accessible at their wedding.
Maisie Snyder, the photographer who captured Sarah and Anthony’s wedding, has created tender photographs that reflect this couple’s love. She skillfully documented every emotion; even a minor hiccup in the weather at the beginning of the day didn’t deter her. She can create beauty even in the most challenging conditions as a true professional.
The couple had been worried that the inclement weather might dampen their celebration, but even the skies had a different plan for that day. They decided to surprise the two lovers. Gradually, the clouds dispersed, and the sun made its appearance. The ceremony venue was adorned with magnificent floral arrangements that accentuated the beginning of summer. Sarah decided to add some charming touches, so she prepared sun umbrellas for each guest, adding a touch of sunny whimsy to the occasion.
A gentle melody filled the air as the ceremony began, and Anthony stood at the altar, awaiting his bride. Radiant in her wedding attire, Sarah emerged arm in arm with her father. Anthony saw her and was moved to tears. He gazed at her as she walked down the aisle, and his happiness was unparalleled in that moment.
During the ceremony, Anthony and Sarah exchanged heartfelt vows of love, a beautiful testament that deepened their bond and love for each other.
How wonderful it was to have their closest and dearest ones by their side, not only rejoicing sincerely but also sharing in every moment of this joyous occasion with Anthony and Sarah.
After the ceremony, they went for a short stroll, and Maisie Snyder was right there to capture this moment. The photographs turned out bright and genuine, as she skillfully conveyed their emotions and the joy of the just-concluded ceremony through her lens.
The wedding reception venue looked perfect. Amidst the lush green surroundings, a white marquee stretched out, and beneath its arches, strands of white paper lanterns created a whimsical display resembling many little suns. Round tables adorned with floral arrangements and candles underscored the classic wedding style. A delightful touch was added at each table with childhood photos of Anthony and Sarah next to the table numbers, a sweet detail.
At the entrance to the marquee, there was a particular area where wedding photos of the couple’s close relatives were displayed. An enormous boat, adorned with flowers and filled with ice and refreshing beverages, served as a unique addition to the celebration, a testament to their care for their guests and infinite sense of humor.
The newlyweds made a grand entrance at the wedding reception and kickstarted the evening with their first dance. Anthony and Sarah’s chemistry on the dance floor was enchanting, setting the tone for an evening filled with lively celebrations. The live musical band added to the ambiance, keeping the dance floor alive with their fantastic tunes.
Heartfelt toasts and congratulatory speeches were delivered in honor of Anthony and Sarah, leaving many guests moved to tears. It was a night of profound emotions and unforgettable moments.
Sarah shared a touching dance with her father, and Anthony twirled his mother on the dance floor, symbolizing the love and connections that extended beyond the newlyweds themselves.
Following these heartwarming dances, Anthony’s friends organized a game of golf, one of his favorite pastimes, adding a personal touch to the celebration.
Guests were pleasantly surprised with a delightful treat in the form of an ice cream cart, where a genuine ice cream vendor served up sweet scoops.
The dance floor remained alive with unceasing energy and joy as the night progressed. The atmosphere was filled with unbridled merriment and happiness as the newlyweds and their loved ones danced the night away.
Advice from the couple:
• It sounds cliché, but try not to sweat the small stuff. Decision fatigue is real, so we tried to keep the planning process fun for ourselves and set up date nights to check in with each other and make decisions as a team. Everything works out, and anything that doesn’t go according to plan adds comic relief – even if you forget to bring the rings to the ceremony like we did!
PHOTOGRAPHER Maisie Snyder | PLANNER Copake Weddings | FLORAL Rosery Flower Shop | VENUE Copake Country Club | ENTERTAINMENT Around Town | MUA KMR makeup | HAIR Baylee Paynter | BRIDAL DRESS Jenny Yoo | MENSWEAR Grey | RINGS Zimmer Brothers Jewelers | BRIDAL SHOES Bella Belle | ICE CREAM TRUCK Sweets and Treats
