When Alina and I first connected, she told me that she was envisioning a slightly industrial garden and greenery vibe for her wedding day - and her wedding to Ilya at Brotherhood Winery in July delivered just that. It was a beautifully aesthetic day filled with the same type of vibrant joy that colorful flowers welcome in on a warm summer day.

THE COUPLE

Alina and Ilya seem to be two sides of the same coin. They met through their families, and when toasts were given at their reception, it was noted that Ilya had always had a little bit of a crush on Alina (how adorable). They enjoy hiking, visiting breweries, and enjoying movies that make them feel nostalgic. They have a pup, and are realistic yet dreamers; enjoyable to talk to, and endearing beyond measure.

THE VENUE

Brotherhood Winery has the amazing history of being the oldest winery in America. While so many of our ideas around America’s history center either more northern or southern, the fact that we have such fun pieces of history in the Hudson Valley is a treat.

Photographing weddings at Brotherhood Winery is always a wonderful experience. It is not a large estate, so it is easy to walk to different locations on the grounds for portraits. There is a small vineyard near the wine cellar that is perfect for sunset portraits, and the staff will usually let you into the wine cellar for iconic and quintessential photos down there, as well.

You can have your choice of where to host your ceremony on site, and the reception space has a slightly medieval theme - a unique feature different from other wedding venues in the area. When walking into the reception room, it always elicits a feeling of being in an episode of Game of Thrones - something that Ilya especially liked for his wedding day with Alina.

The reception room is also air conditioned, which we took as much advantage of as possible on Alina and Ilya’s wedding day, since there was a heatwave (how we all survived without looking too sweaty is a mystery to me).

THE DETAILS

Alina and Ilya chose pink details for their wedding day, which always photograph so beautifully. The bridesmaids wore shades of blush, and the light pink florals surrounding their ceremony and decorating their chuppah were a gorgeous touch to elevate the outdoor space.

Alina and Ilya were playful with their details, as well - Alina wore celestial earrings that I was absolutely obsessed with, and Ilya wore a dinosaur tie and cufflinks. For table numbers, the couple designed placards with pictures of all of the pets in their lives.

The couple’s names and wedding date were embroidered on the inside of Ilya’s yarmulke - such a meaningful keepsake from their wonderful day.

THE RECEPTION

Alina and Ilya’s cocktail hour and reception were both meaningful and celebratory. During the cocktail hour, the couple’s family sang traditional songs in front of and with the crowd; it was so special, it almost felt like time stood still during those moments. The reception was full of dancing and heartfelt speeches, and was honestly just a delight to share in.

What a dream Alina and Ilya’s wedding day was. I feel grateful to have been there, and loved every minute of it - heatwave be damned.

FROM THE COUPLE

“Erica's work is incredible. Her pictures made me feel so beautiful on my day. She also has the most bubbly and welcoming personality which made everyone in the bridal party feel comfortable taking photos. She had all of us laughing the whole day. It was a magical experience working with her.”