Real Brides (63)
Our Story:
Attending a small school in Boston, both as science majors, it was no surprise that their paths crossed. James and Logan slowly started spending more time together studying for classes and getting their daily coffee fix. After many casual ‘dates,’ James asked Logan on their first official date to his favorite place in the city, the Boston Public Library.
That stroll through the Public Library turned into a few moves, the addition of a yellow lab puppy, Bode, and growing together. Six years after that first date, they were packing up for their 3rd annual Labor Day celebration in Saratoga with family and friends, when James hooked a ring onto Bode’s leash and convinced Logan to take a walk with him before hopping in the car.
Although they never left Boston after graduating, Saratoga always held a special place in their hearts. They thought choosing a venue in Saratoga would be a bit more difficult, until they met Danielle and the team at Saratoga National. The planning began for October 19, 2018.
10.19.18 was the perfect theme of rustic elegance; they were able to tie in family heirlooms and special touches that made the day feel personal. Logan and James are so grateful to their vendors, family and friends that traveled near and far to celebrate their special day.
wedding date October 19, 2018
location Saratoga National
photographer The Harris Company
event decorator Danielle Robinson at Saratoga National
stationery suite Paper Dolls
wedding gown Lily of Saratoga
bridesmaids' dresses Nordstrom
groom & groomsmens' clothing Jos A Bank
rings Martoni & James, Ltd
hair & makeup Make Me Fabulous
flowers Posie Peddler
cake / caterer Saratoga National
band Soul Session
first dance 'You Are The Best Thing ' by Ray LaMontagne
honeymoon destination Italy and Ireland
officiant Liz D'Agostino,Logan's best childhood friend
table and wine barrel rentals Rustic Robin
special touches... For our table runners we sewed together old lace tablecloths that were Logan's grandmother and great grandmother's. A family friend welded old horseshoes together for our table numbers. Logan's sister, Tyler, designed the
wedding programs, menus, etc. We had a generation table with loved ones who have passed, and those in our family who have strong relationships we look up to.
advice to pass along... Planning a wedding is a fun, exciting time, but it can be overwhelming too! - Always stay true to your relationship, wedding vision and remember the reason you are doing all this planning.
Our Story:
In June of 2015, I had just moved to Saratoga Springs for a new job. Within two short weeks. Jay and I met for the first time at Druthers which would quickly become a part of our weekly routine. . Some drinks, pretzels, beer cheese, and good conversation, it was off to a good start. I was able to sneak off to the bathroom and send a text to my mom explaining I did not want to date anyone else. My mom replied "that's great, but does he like you too!?" Fortunately, Jay felt the same way and our relationship continued to grow for the next two years in Saratoga, before a job opportunity, too good to pass up, opened up for Jay in in Boston.
It was bittersweet leaving Saratoga in the Summer of 2017. After 3 years of dating, Jay proposed at my parents house in July 2018. As if I couldn't be surprised enough with our engagement, Jay, along with a little help from my mom, had already booked my dream venue, Hall of the Springs for March! Queue the tears of joy again!
Even though we lived in Boston, Saratoga has always had a special place in our hearts and it also happens to be the half way point for most of our family and friends.
Our wedding day exceeded all of our expectations, it couldn't have gone better! All of our vendors were wonderful and helped us make it the most special occasion to share with family and friends.
The Details:
wedding date: March 30, 2019
location: Hall of Springs
photographer: Rob Spring Photography
event decorator: Total Events
wedding gown & bridesmaids' dresses: Dress Your Fancy, Binghamton
Men's Warehouse: Blue Nile
hair: Lisa Bernunizo-Thirolle
makeup: Erin Muller
flowers: Surroundings Floral
cake / caterer: Mazzone Hospitality
DJ: DJ Vinny Vin, Nonstop Music
first dance: 'In case you didn't know' by Brett Young
honeymoon destination: Maui and Oahu
advice to pass along...Finish your to-do list early so you can enjoy your wedding weekend.
Our Story:
Kurt and I met while we were undergraduates at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. We played music together in our college orchestra, and as a result, we met a great group of mutual friends who brought us together. We enjoyed spending time together, talking and playing games after our classes and rehearsals had finished for the day. Aside from a shared appreciation for music performance, we had very different interests, but this is what made us a great team. Our friendship eventually developed into a romantic relationship, and we took turns visiting each other over the summers.
In 2016, we moved to Upstate New York together to be close to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where Kurt decided to pursue his graduate course of study. In September 2017, Kurt proposed to me during a weekend getaway to Stowe, Vermont. When we checked into our hotel that afternoon, our room was covered in rose petals, which set the stage for a lovely proposal. We knew that we wanted to get married in Upstate New York, close to our new home.
Not long after our engagement, we were on a day cruise on Lake George when we saw the majestic Sagamore Resort from the boat. We exchanged glances and knew that this would be our venue for our October 2018 wedding. Shortly thereafter, we attended a beautiful luncheon at the Sagamore, which further confirmed our decision.
With our excellent team of vendors and the Sagamore Resort as an elegant backdrop, our vision for our wedding day became reality. Kurt and I feel so fortunate to have had such an amazing wedding day, and we are looking forward to reliving the memories for years to come.
The Details:
wedding date: October 20, 2018
location: The Bayview at the Sagamore Resort
photographer: Susan Blackburn Photography
videographer: Dale Himelrick (Memories in the Making Video Productions)
stationery suite: PaperDolls of Saratoga
wedding gown: Simone's Unlimited
bridesmaids' dresses: Lily Saratoga
groom & groomsmens' clothing: Mark Thomas Men's Apparel
rings: Mayfair Jewelers
hair & makeup: The Sagamore Salon (part of the Sagamore Resort)
flowers: Fleurtacious Designs
Cake / caterer: The Sagamore Resort
band/ DJ: Lark Strings (string trio) & DJ Andy Pratt (Stephanie)
first dance: 'Can't Take My Eyes off of You' by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
honeymoon destination: We chose not to take a traditional honeymoon immediately following our wedding, but we would like to take a celebratory vacation later this year to Bologna and Florence, Italy.
officiant: Reverend Joy Burke
special touches: Although it is an honored tradition and an important aspect of the wedding reception for many brides, I opted not to do a bouquet toss, but instead to present the bouquet to my grandmother in honor of her 62 years of marriage. Rather than drawing attention to my friends and family who have not yet had the good fortune to find their partner in life, I wanted to celebrate a lifelong partnership by recognizing my grandparents' marital longevity.
advice to pass along... Do whatever brings you peace and relaxation the day before your wedding to ensure you wake up feeling re-energized and renewed the next day. Go to bed early, stay hydrated, and eat well. Take a bubble bath, get a massage, or meditate. Read a book or go for a walk. Your wedding day is a marathon event, and your body and mind will thank you if you make taking care of yourself the first priority the day before.
Our Story:
Brandon and I grew up in New Jersey and met in high school through a mutual friend. We instantly connected through a shared love for outdoor adventures, and animals, especially horses. We stayed together long distance through college, while I was at Boston University and Brandon at University of Connecticut. After years traveling to visit each other, we finally both lived in Boston, where I went to medical school at BU and Brandon went to veterinary school at Tufts. Even though our schedules were busy over the years, we spent every bit of free time we had together exploring outside, backpacking in the mountains, cycling and running with our triathlon and cycling teams.
We share a love for National Parks, and during a trip through the Pacific Northwest, Brandon proposed on top of a mountain in Olympic National Park. It was a magical moment surrounded by mountain views, deciding to spend the rest of our lives together.
When we found The Wedding Barn at Lakota’s Farm, with its beautiful open space, stunning draft horses, and perfectly restored barn, we immediately knew it was the perfect fit for us. Kimberly is also an incredible wedding planner and venue manager, making sure every detail flowed seamlessly, so we could focus on enjoying the best party of our lives.
We got married two weeks after Brandon graduated from veterinary school and I graduated from medical school. We now live in Seattle, where Brandon works as a horse vet, and I’m a resident doctor in Internal Medicine.
The Details:
wedding date: May 27, 2018
ceremony & reception location: Wedding Barn at Lakota's Farm
photographer: Heather Bohm-Tallman
event decorator: Kimberly Finney
wedding gown: BHLDN Wedding Dresses
bridesmaids' dresses: Bella Bridesmaids
tuxedo: Indochino
groomsmen clothing: Blue suit with bowtie matching bridesmaids
rings: Kay Jewelers
wedding planner: Kimberly Finney
flowers: Ten West Events
hair& makeup: Lipstick and Lashes
caterer: Hudson Valley BBQ
music: Stolen Moments
first dance: Cowboy Take Me Away
special touches: Brandon hand made a wooden archway for our ceremony that we were able to get married under at the farm! It was such a sweet touch and it looked beautiful with the flowers draped across it too.
advice to pass along: Try not to get lost in the little details, and soak in every moment of the wedding day!
Our Story:
The day after Traver’s Day 2014, there was a message in my FACEBOOK inbox from this random guy named Dan Furman: ”Were you at the track yesterday?”
You know that feeling when you do or say something you wish you could dig a hole and hide from…yup, that was my exact feeling! I thought of every embarrassing scenario that could have unfolded in front of this handsome stranger.
Sure enough, he did notice me and wanted to approach, but chickened out (HA!) lo and behold Facebook has a "people you may know" feature that brought my husband and I together.
After our first date, it was off to the races! I gained a best friend and “my other half.” There is no other human who will ever make me feel as special and strong as does Dan.
When Dan proposed, he caught me totally off guard—which is super hard to do! I had spray tan running down my cheeks from happy tears.
Our starting gate as husband and wife was held on Travers Day 2019. It was a picture-perfect day with Lake George as our backdrop. My most cherished memory is walking up the fairytale, castle stairs to see my groom for the first time; the emotions I felt was everything you want love to feel like.
Every wedding guest left with a customized lottery ticket that read, “Wishing you riches from the new Mr and Mrs.” We wish everyone luck finding their “other half.” and maybe give that person in your inbox a chance!
The Details:
wedding date: August 24, 2019- Travers Day
reception location: Top of the World Golf Resort -Lake George
1st look location: Highlands Castle, Bolton Landing
photographer: Matt Ramos Photography
videographer: Eunoia Visuals- Shane Hawthorne
stationery suite: Carol Jo Dufort
event decorator: Whimsical White Fox- Ballston Spa
wedding gown: Lily's Bridal; second dress bought from Something Bleu (customized by Beth Whitbeck)
bridesmaids' dresses: Saratoga Elegance
groom and groomsmen clothing: Men's Warehouse
rings: Northeastern Fine Jewelry
flowers: Felthousen Florist
hair: Juliet Smith
makeup: Cassandra McKenna D’Alberto and Amanda Pierce
cake: Villa Italia
caterer: Longfellows
music: New York Players
transportation: Royale Transportation
first dance: It was supposed to be "Dirt" by Florida Georgia Line -instead they played "Dirt on my Boots" haha
photobooth: Matt Ramos
honeymoon: Mediterranean Cruise: Italy, Greece and Malta
bridesmaids jewelry: Wits End --Kendall Scott earrings
tent rentals: Rain or Shine Tent Rentals
wedding concierge for furbaby: Canine to Five
ice cream station: Stewarts
special touches: We didn't want to trouble family or friends with our furbaby sharing our special day so we hired Canine to Five. They were fantastic, they created an amazing video that showcased our dog's perspective of the wedding. He literally had a gopro on him! Right before the party ended, we had a lantern release ceremony. And if the cake wasn't enough, we had a sundae bar with our favorite Stewart's ice cream flavor--Crumbs along the Mohawk. Whimsical White Fox created hilarious drink signs to go along with our signature drinks. These drinks were inspired by our alter egos and our beloved dog, Cesar. "Tipsy Mermaid" "Pick Six" and "All Hail Cesar" Instead of the traditional father daughter dance, my Dad and I surprised our guests with a performance inspired by the Little Mermaid's ending scene when King Triton gives Ariel her legs to be with her prince. My bridesmaids and groom were a part of the routine!
advice to pass along: I recommend first look, it was the most authentic experience in our entire relationship, such RAW emotion. I get teared up thinking about it. The details of your bridesmaids go far! I am so happy I didn't buy my bridesmaids gifts that weren't featured in the wedding. The Kendall Scott earrings will always remind my girls how much I appreciate them, and the earrings were a perfect accent piece! Please get the wedding videographer! You will want to look back on this day. And video captures the candids, the jokes and smiles. I can't wait to look back on our wedding for years to come.
- real bride
- Saratoga Springs, NY
- Saratoga Bride
- Top of the World Golf Resort Lake George
- Highlands Castle, Bolton Landing
- Matt Ramos photography
- Lily's Bridal
- Something Bleu
- Saratoga Elegance
- Men's Warehouse
- Northeastern Fine Jewelry
- Felthousen Florist
- Juliet Smith
- Cassandra McKenna D’Alberto and Amanda Pierce
- Longfellows
- Villa Italia
- Royale Transportation
- New York Players
- Rain or Shine Tent Rentals
- Canine to Five
- Stewarts
Our Story:
Cameron and Brandyn’s love story began during the summer of 2015 in Syracuse, New York. They spent their first date at a local Syracuse restaurant. The date lasted over four hours and they knew right away that they shared a special connection.
By the end of the year Cameron’s work took her to Connecticut. The following two years were spent driving between states to spend weekends together. After many miles put on both of their cars, Brandyn made the decision to join Cameron in Connecticut where they still live today.
Brandyn proposed to Cameron while apple picking with friends. Not only did he surprise her with a ring and a promise to share a lifetime together that day, but he also coordinated schedules with her and his family members to surprise her at their apartment upon their return. They celebrated the occasion with dinner and drinks and began planning their wedding the days following their engagement.
They tied the knot in October 2019 at Saratoga National Golf Club as they were surrounded by family and friends. They have always loved Saratoga as Cameron grew up in the area and Brandyn grew to love it after spending Christmas with her family there. They knew Saratoga would be the perfect destination for guests to enjoy as well. They could not have asked for a more perfect wedding and appreciate all the amazing vendors who helped make it happen.
The Details:
wedding date: October 11, 2019
ceremony & reception location: Saratoga National Golf Course
photographer: Bridget Photography (Bridget Bellucci)
stationery suite: Minted
event decorator: Oculus Theory (Martin Dodge)
wedding gown: Bridal Gallery by Yvonne (Designer: Martin Thornburg)
bridesmaids' dresses: Bridal Gallery by Yvonne (Designer: Bill Levkoff)
tuxedo and groomsmen clothing: Black Tux
rings: Furnari Jewelry
flowers: Oculus Theory (Martin Dodge)
hair & makeup: Make Me Fabulous
cake & caterer: : Mazzone Hospitality
music: NonStop Music
transportation: Premiere Transportation
first dance: "You Are the Reason" by Callum Scott
honeymoon: Barbados
Favors: Outhouse Orchards
Hotels: The Pavilion Grand, Hampton Inn & Suites, Embassy Suites, Hilton Garden Inn
advice to pass along: Take a moment during your wedding day to take everything in!
- real bride
- Saratoga Springs, NY
- Saratoga Bride
- Saratoga National Golf Course
- Oculus Theory
- Minted
- Bridget Photography
- Black Tux
- Bridal Gallery by Yvonn
- Make Me Fabulous
- Mazzone Hospitality
- Premiere Transportation
- NonStop Music
- Outside the Box Photobooth
- Callum Scott
- The Pavilion Grand
- Hampton Inn & Suites
- Embassy Suites
- Hilton Garden Inn
- Furnari Jewelry
Our Story:
Much like a motocross race, the gates dropped and our hearts were racing. The first words in a Facebook message "Aren't you the girl from the motocross track?", "Haha, yes that's me!" lead to long nights staying up past midnight on Snapchat, like we were kids in high school again. It was like an instant adrenaline rush... maybe because our first date was to Six Flags, New Jersey. My heart skipped beats but I'm not sure if it was from the rollercoasters, or from him!
Hearts were stolen away in one weekend and that's when we both truly believed we were meant to be. Our eyes were both opened to how much different, and better, our lives could be together. He moved in that month, we bought a house 6 month later, adopted our first fur baby, and continued to tackle every twist, turn, rut, and kicker life has thrown at us. (dirt bike puns, wink wink) Together!
The proposal was as shocking and unexpected as could be. For me anyway! Apparently, everyone else knew about it for months! Just before our 1-year anniversary, on my favorite holiday, July 4th, he got down on one knee and proposed. His speech was perfect I'm sure, but I honestly can't remember it because I was in pure shock!
I cannot recommend Greenwich Elks lodge enough for everything they do! Linens, bar service, backdrops, the place is so convenient and enjoyable to work with, not to mention beautiful and spacious! My 200+ guest wedding fit very comfortably! The wedding day was flawless, thanks to them, my amazing vendors, and family for making it possible!
The Details:
wedding date: October 19, 2019
ceremony & reception location: Greenwich Elks Lodge
photographer: Oh Darling Photography- Saratoga
event decorator: XOver Creations
wedding gown & bridesmaids' dresses: : David's Bridal
tuxedo and groomsmen clothing: Jonathan Reid
rings: Kay Jewelers
flowers: Dehn's Flowers, Saratoga
hair & makeup: Tease Salon and Beauty Bar
caterer: Ginny Rae's
cake: Family Friend
music: All Around Sound
first dance: "From this Moment/You're Still the One," Kaleb & Kelsey
honeymoon: Daytona, FL
miscellaneous: My best friend's husband Jeremy Dickinson was so kind to get ordained specifically for my wedding! I cannot thank him enough! It put a very nice, personal touch on our special day! My grandmother Lynn is the manager at Dehn's flowers, so it made my day that much more special that she helped create my bouquets and centerpieces!
special touches: Dehn's Flowers was amazing at helping me choose flowers, as I do not know the first thing about them! I just showed Deb a picture, and she was able to make an even better replica of it, with flowers she knew would be better quality! Oh Darling Photography, also took the time to look over specific shots I requested, and did a beautiful job! Her night time, backlit photos are STUNNING!
advice to pass along: DIY! I own my own crafting business, so I found doing my own decor was relaxing, and I got exactly what I wanted out of it! It also saved me quite a bit of money!
Our Story:
Before Shane and I started dating, we attended the same school together for 10 years! My senior year of high school, we became connected through mutual friends. A year later, at a Memorial Day Party, Shane made the first move and asked me for my number. There were the typical party games, and the not-so-typical- staring contests. We had friends on either side, cheering us on. And I lost EVERY TIME. The next day, I received a text from an unknown number that read, "You'll never beat me in a staring contest ;)” …and to this day, I never have.
Our romance was straight from a fairytale, enthralled with so much truth and passion. That passion only intensified as the years passed, prevailing us through college, internships, the start of our careers, and moving into our first place together where we adopted our cats, Finnegan and Penelope.
After six years of dating, Shane proposed at sunrise overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in West Palm Beach, FL, while the waves crashed to our feet. It was absolutely perfect.
The Inn at Erlowest was the first venue we visited, and all other venues just did not follow suit. We fell in love with the gorgeous mountain views and the natural beauty of its surroundings instantly.
Our wedding day was incredible. We felt so much love from not only our guests, but each one of our amazing vendors. We are forever grateful to each and every person who helped make our day so special!
The Details:
wedding date: November 16, 2019
ceremony & reception location: The Inn at Erlowest
photographer: Erin Covey Photography
videographer: Bear in Motion Films
event decorator: Elizabeth Tonn - Event Coordinator (The Inn at Erlowest)
wedding gown: Jocelynn's Bridal - Clifton Park
bridesmaids' dresses: Azazie - Sage Green, Long Length; Bridemaids chose individual style
tuxedo and groomsmen clothing: Mr. Formal Wear, Saratoga - Navy Blue with Navy Blue Vests & Sage Green Bowties
rings: Lily and David Fine Jewelers, Saratoga Springs
flowers: Dehn's Flowers, Saratoga
hair: Amanda Dugan Egbert - The Blue Peregrine Salon, Saratoga
makeup: Jennifer McCarthy Norton - True Grace Makeup, Albany
caterer: The Inn at Erlowest
wedding cake & cupcakes: The Healthy Living Market & Cafe
music: Adin Kovacik, The Piano Man DJ Productions, Albany
first dance: "Never Stop" by Safety Suit {Wedding Version}
honeymoon: New Zealand
officiant: Juan Carlos Posada
special touches: Our wedding arch was crafted by my father and decorated by Dehn's Flowers. Our wedding theme was nature-forward, romance-inspired. Our colors were earth tones and our seating chart was made from Eucalyptus leaves. Many menu items were plant-based including our wedding cake and cupcakes. We also had a memory table, which held pictures of loved ones who have passed away.
advice to pass along: Our wedding arch was crafted by my father and decorated by Dehn's Flowers. Our wedding theme was nature-forward, romance-inspired. Our colors were earth tones and our seating chart was made from Eucalyptus leaves. Many menu items were plant-based including our wedding cake and cupcakes. We also had a memory table, which held pictures of loved ones who have passed away.
Our Story:
I met Christopher at The University at Albany in 2008. We wouldn't go on our first date until 2010- he took me to a small Italian restaurant called Barcelona. If you haven't been - you need to go!
Six years later, we had dinner at Barcelona again. I thought he wasn't feeling well because he wasn't really touching his food. I ate most of the potatoes on his plate and finished my plate. At one point, the spotlight on the wall had gone out and a waitress immediately ran over and fiddled with it. I told her it was fine, but she insisted. I looked around and realized that people were looking at us. I looked back at Chris laughing only to notice that he was holding a box that he had taken out of his pocket. I realized what was happening and exclaimed, "oh my gosh, is that for me?" He laughed and said, "No, it's for the waitress"
Our wedding day was perfect, all our vendors were amazing and thought of everything!
The Details:
wedding date: November 3, 2018
ceremony location: St. Mary's (Ballston Spa, NY)
reception location: Mansion Inn
photographer: Brayton Photography
wedding gown & bridesmaids' dresses: : David's Bridal
tuxedo and groomsmen clothing: Men's Warehouse
flowers: Trader Joe's (Colonie,NY
wedding planner: Family
hair & makeup : Blended Hair Studio (Saratoga Springs, NY)
cake & caterer: Chef Rick at The Mansion Inn
transportation: Exclusive Chauffeur
music & photobooth: DJ Mike Melice (Ithaca, NY)
honeymoon: Sandals Ocho Rios, Jamaica
wedding favors: Saratoga Tea & Honey
Our Story:
Matt and I started dating about 2 years ago. Given that we both had children from previous relationships we were very cautious and intentional from the beginning. What started out as a solid friendship bloomed into love as we both realized we had common goals and priorities.
I grew up in Saratoga and Matt relocated here after college, but it has become one of our favorite places. Even though we live here, there was no question that we wanted to have a very Saratoga wedding. Matt proposed in front of The Adelphi Hotel in June 2020.
The Adelphi has always been a favorite place of ours downtown and I think we both knew we'd like to get married there. But, 2020 meant the pandemic and COVID. We decided we really wanted to start our lives together with our kids so we planned a wedding for September 12, 2020, just 12 weeks after getting engaged!
Because we could only have a ceremony and a dinner, we focused all our energy into those things. We had only 27 guests; immediate family, and a handful of close friends.
The day was about our union and our children, and it could not have been more perfect. Our vendors perfectly understood our vision and worked so carefully to keep everyone safe without compromising on the experience. We had amazing weather, the best vendors, the perfect venue and at the end of the day we were married!
What could be better?
The Details:
wedding date: September 12, 2020
ceremony: Adephi Hotel
reception location: The Blue Hen, Adephi Hotel
photographer: Rob Spring Photography
stationery suite: Paperdolls
wedding gown: Lily Saratoga
groom/groomsmen clothing: Simon's Menswear (Mike), Greenfield
wedding bands: N. Fox, Engagement ring from a jeweler in Texas
flowers: Samantha Nass Floral Design
hair & makeup: Revive Hair and Skin (Juliet Smith)
cake/caterer: The Blue Hen
dj: Anthony & Tyler from Non-Stop Music
first dance: "Love Like This" by Ben Rectort
officiant: Dianne Patterson - From The Heart Ceremonies.
"Guest Book" print of the Adelph: Impressions of Saratoga
special touches: It was important to us to keep our vendors local. As someone who works in the wedding industry, I know how much business our fellow vendors have given up. We wanted to support our local wedding industry. We also wanted to make sure our guests felt as comfortable as possible during a pandemic. Everyone was socially distanced during our ceremony and we had mostly two tops for dinner, spaced out.
Advice to pass along... Keep the focus on what the day is really about which is getting married to your best friend. Yes, we would have loved to have more friends and family present with us and danced the night away, but at the end of the day that's not what the day is really about.
More...
Our Story:
Jordan and I met at the University at Albany. I was in my freshman year, while Jordan was just finishing up undergrad. We saw each other in passing a lot as Jordan was very heavily involved in athletics, and I was on the cheerleading team. Over the course of 2 years, Jordan and I got to know each other and became closer friends. In 2012 Jordan started grad school and we officially started dating. We both graduated in 2014; me with my bachelor’s degree, Jordan with 2 masters, and we moved to New York City.
Three years of living together in NYC flew by, and In April 2017 we headed back up to Albany to celebrate Easter with my family. When we are in town, we always stop by the old campus to walk around and check out anything new. We walked around for bit and ended up in the front of the campus, Jordan told me there was no better place than "where it all began.” He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Soon after, our parents ran out of one of the buildings so excited; they had witnessed the whole proposal! It was so amazing to have both families present for our engagement.
We had been planning a trip to California, and it ended up being the week after we got engaged. I spent the entire 6-hour flight researching and planning. Living in the NYC area and being from the Capital Region, we both knew there was no better place to get married than Saratoga. We were lucky to have booked some of the best vendors in the area and our planning process was a breeze.
Our wedding day was magical. That’s the only way I know how to describe it. We felt overwhelmed with love by our friends and family, and that was a feeling we will never forget.
The Details:
wedding date: November 17, 2018
ceremony & reception location: Hall Of Springs
photographer: Matt Ramos Photography
videographer: LaRose Medias
stationery suiteAmber Michaniw Designs
event decorator: Total Events
wedding gown: Angela's Bridal
bridesmaids' dresses: Badgley Mischka
tuxedo and groomsmen clothing: The Black Tux
rings: Kent New York
flowers: My Mom!
wedding planner: Family
hair: Kelsey Gabriel
>makeup: Amy Caridi
caterer: Mazzone Hospitality
cake: Cake Street Sweets
transportation: Exclusive Chauffeur
music: Fernando, Piano Man
first dance: "So High" John Legend
honeymoon: The Maldives
get ready location: Pavilion Grand Hotel
aisle Runner: The Original Runner Co.
special touches
My mom created all of the florals, including the bouquets, boutonnières and centerpieces. I'm the youngest in my family, and she helped make all of my siblings florals for their weddings. So it was very special she did the same for mine Jordan LOVES Bourbon, The Hall Of Springs set up an amazing Cigar and Bourbon Bar.
advice to pass along
Hire vendors you LOVE and feel comfortable with. I'm so glad we splurged on photography. It's a keepsake for the rest of your life; and we got beautiful images. Most importantly, Relax and enjoy the best day of your life.
Our Story:
A few short months after I moved to Boston, I joined a co-ed soccer team named "Victorious Secret" where I met my husband Mike. He says he was instantly charmed by me and I say I couldn't take my eyes off his flashy foot skills. Neither of us knew what this fateful day would be "kicking off."
A couple of weeks after that first game, he invited me to his St. Patrick's Day Parade party, which is a very big tradition in Boston. Little did I know the party would conveniently consist of only 2 people...seemed fishy! The party started with some traditional Irish car bombs and ended with Mike asking me out on our first date! From then on, he continued to court me with his quirky sense of humor and adventurous spirit. We spent the next few years making unforgettable memories exploring New England and traveling around the world together.
He proposed to me on a weekend getaway to Burlington, VT in July 2018 with our loveable dog, Zoey, and my best friend and her husband. After dinner, we walked along the beautiful Burlington waterfront at sunset and when my best friend asked if she could take a photo of us along the sunset waterfront, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him and he was met with a happy, tearful "yes!"
Fast forward 13 months, we were married at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Albany, NY and had our reception at The State Room on September 7th, 2019. I always knew I wanted to be married in a church and we were drawn to St. Peter's Episcopal Church because of its gorgeous architecture and it is the church my father often visited when he worked in downtown Albany. The State Room is conveniently located across the street and when we saw the venue and met with the staff (Eric, Tara, & Tom) we knew it was the perfect place for us with its gorgeous ballroom and unique architectural features-it preserved its previous elements of when it used to be a savings bank.
For our wedding, we chose September because it is our favorite month of the year as the summer transitions into the fall. We were incredibly lucky that we had a gorgeous sunny day in the 70s. It was important to us to incorporate as many personal touches as possible into our wedding. One of our favorite things to do together is travel, so for our seating chart, we did a world map and each table was named by a location we had traveled together. And our table numbers at each table featured a different framed photo of us at each location. Our signature drinks were a Moscow Mule-our first drink we had together on our first date and a Caramel Apple Bellini-a drink we love to make for our friends every fall. Our wedding favors were macarons, our favorite treat! And we loved incorporating a dog biscuit bar in honor of our dog, Zoey and her furry pals who couldn't make it to the pawty! Ending the night with a sparkler send-off was a wonderful way to end our perfect day. It was like a fairytale. We are so thankful to our vendors who helped bring our dream wedding vision to life!
The Details:
wedding date : September 7, 2019
ceremony location: St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Albany, NY
reception: The State Room in Albany, NY
photographer: Bryer Photography-Heather & Jason
stationery: RSVP Hingham
videographer: Ebabil Film
event decorator : The State Room
wedding gown: Flair Boston
tuxedo & grooms’ clothing: Men's Warehouse
rings: Long's Jewelers
flowers: Ambiance Florals-Michele Peters
wedding planner: Eric Stewart & Tara Cometti
hair & makeup:: Krystal Rose Studio
caterer: The State Room
cake: Coccadotts
dj: Hollister Entertainment
first dance "Speechless" by Dan & Shay
photobooth: Bryer Photography
honeymoon: Maui, Hawaii and Kauai, Hawaii
Day of Details-ceremony booklet, seating chart, menu cards: Hirokawa Design Company
Favors: Maca Boston
Dog Biscuit: Bar-Bella & Lindy's Saratoga Pet Boutique
Welcome Bags: Saratoga Candy Company
advice to pass along... On the day of your wedding, don't stress over all the little details and try to soak in every moment since it goes by so fast. It is an incredible feeling to have everyone who loves and supports you all together for the first time ever. Don't forget to have some private moments as a couple because it is your relationship and commitment to one another that made this day possible. Some of our favorite memories of the wedding were private moments together to reflect on how grateful and lucky we are to have found each other.
Our Story:
Jason and I met many years ago, casually chatting here and there but nothing major. Then one day something just felt different between us. As we tried to explore what this was, it was difficult for us to accept what we were feeling. With so many differences between us, surely this could not be right. Once we finally stopped fighting it and trying to deny our true feelings an undeniable bond was formed. We became best friends, true loves, and soul mates.
I never thought I would get married, not that I was against it, I just didn't see marriage as something that solidified a relationship. Then one day in our kitchen, when I turned around and saw Jason down on one knee, with Jason's son AJ standing nearby, I knew immediately I wanted to marry him and have these wonderful boys in my life forever.
Saratoga was the only option for our wedding, we both were born and raised here. With so many beautiful locations and endless possibilities, it is easily the most magical place to have a wedding. Our friends own a farm and kindly let us use it as our venue. With the sun setting during cocktail hour and all the candles twinkling upon entering the reception tent, it was nothing short of a dream come true!
The Details:
wedding date : September 21, 2019
ceremony and reception location: The Bovee Family Farm (Charlton)
photographer: Niki Rossi Photography
stationery: Zazzle and Paper Dolls of Saratoga
Officiant: The Reverend Joy Burke
event decorator : The bride and groom!
wedding gown: RK Bridal NYC
tuxedo: Mr. Formal Wear
rings: Cartier (groom) and NYC Wholesale Diamonds (bride)
flowers: Dehn’s Flowers
hair & makeup:: Kassie at Rumors Salon and Spa (Latham)
caterer: Lily and the Rose
cake: The Cupcakecakery
dj: Platinum Entertainment, DJ Eric Cooper
first dance "Die a Happy May," Thomas Rhett
honeymoon: The Bahamas
miscellaneous: Rain or Shine Tent Company, napkins/place cards holders - Etsy
special touches... Jason's son AJ walked me down the aisle, this wedding was the joining of the 3 of us so it meant a lot to me to include him as much as possible and have an important role. Jason made a beautiful speech that mentioned those who were not able to join us on our special day (his Dad and a guest’s mother both recently passed away).
advice to pass along... Trust your heart and do what YOU want to do. This is YOUR day, you do everything the way you want to do it, it is all about YOU today (maybe the groom too, but just a little bit). Enjoy every single moment, from the little ones to the big, from the planning to the big day, it really will be over in a blink of an eye!
Our Story:
Nick and I went to elementary school together, but it wasn’t until we were put in the same eighth grade English class that we started to like each other. My childhood home was next to the YMCA, so Nick would ride his bike over, and we would meet there. Years later in our senior year of high school, we started dating. We talked about getting married, and the future - but we were so young that it seemed like a lifetime away. When college came, we decided that if our relationship was meant to be, we would get back together in the future. Four years of undergrad and months later, we went out with some friends as a group, reconnected and the rest was history. We started dating (again) as adults (ha!), moved up to Saratoga together, and five years later we got engaged!
When it came time to pick the venue, we knew we wanted to get married somewhere in Saratoga or Lake George. So, we started researching, and Nick stumbled on the Inn at Erlowest. We laughed when we realized how close it was to my family camp on the lake, drove by the sign a million times, and never knew what a hidden gem it was. However, it ended up being exactly what we pictured. Our wedding day turned out to be a beautiful sunny September day! I got to marry the love of my life, with all our favorite people - at a place we love!
The Details:
wedding date : September 13, 2019
ceremony location: The Inn at Erlowest
reception location: The Inn at Erlowest
photographer: JB Photography
event decorator : The Inn at Erlowest
wedding gown: Angela’s Bridal
bridesmaids' dresses: Show Me Your Mumu
tuxedo and groomsmen clothing: JoS. A. Bank
rings: Glennpeter Jewelers
flowers: Dehn’s Flowers & Greenhouses, Inc and Petal Pusher
hair: Premier Hair Lounge
makeup: Bar Beauty - A Julie Occhino Salon
cake: Cider Belly and Kathy’s Kupcakes
dj: Conway Entertainment
first dance "Do You Remember" - Jack Johnson
honeymoon: TBD
guestbook paddle - Love is in New York
rehearsal dinner at the Inn at Erlowest: Charlton Tavern (The Maloney’s)
advice to pass along... Don’t worry about the time. You have people there whose jobs are to keep you on schedule. Once your timeline is established, enjoy your day.