Once a year, I used to host a giveaway that allowed one lucky couple to receive free wedding photography, along with some other wedding items and services that other vendors so graciously donated. It was something we were all able to do in tribute to others we had lost (for me, my mom) or in support and solidarity for each other. It was also in support of the clients who won, as one of the criteria for entering the giveaway was to have also experienced significant familial loss. Although we all no longer offer this giveaway, and we all loved being able to support these clients and commune with each other by serving the wedding community in this way.

Kristen and Nick were the last couple we were able to provide this package to. Their day was so beautiful, and it was especially meaningful that they got married on my own parents’ anniversary - it felt like a little goodbye wink from the heavens.

THE COUPLE

Kristen and Nick have been together since middle school. They met in study hall, and as soon as Nick saw Kristen, he was completely smitten. After being friends for a while, he asked her out, and she originally said no - funny how things change, and now they are married.

When I think back on Kristen and Nick’s wedding day, I think about how beautifully raw and emotional it was. The way Kristen cried when she read the note from Nick at the beginning of the day. The way they choked up when reading their vows. The way they hold each other so gently, and speak to each other so sweetly.

Their love is pure, and you can tell.

THE VENUE

Hollow Brook Golf Club in Cortlandt, NY feels like my home away from home. It is one of my very favorite wedding venues in the Hudson Valley and Westchester area. Whenever I speak to couples about why they book Hollow Brook for their weddings, they almost always first mention how incredible the staff are (and they really are the best!), and then note how beautiful the grounds and venue itself is - that it is clean and gorgeous while still being rustic and inviting; that the grounds are a golf course but don’t feel overly-manicured. It is an excellent choice if you want to have a rustic wedding, but don’t want all of the do-it-yourself elements that a lot of rustic weddings require.

THE DETAILS

Kristen and Nick chose such pretty elements for their wedding day. Kristen wore a drop-sleeve lace gown that looked like it was made for her, and a crystal hair piece. Nick wore a black suit with a bow tie. They looked like a vision together, especially adding in the beautiful colorful florals. For their reception details and wedding party, they chose warm tones with gold accents.

THE RECEPTION

Kristen and Nick’s reception was a PARTY in every best sense of the word. The dance floor was pure chaos and celebration - exactly as every wedding dance floor should be, in my opinion. It was especially exciting towards the end of the night, when the entire crowd was given glow sticks, and stilt dancers appeared.

Kristen and Nick had such a lovely wedding day. Perfect weather. Adorable people. Fun party - what more could you ask for?

Hollow Brook Golf Club WEDDING VENDORS

Photography: Sweet Alice Photography (giveaway participant) // Wedding Venue: Hollow Brook Golf Club, Cortlandt Manor, NY // Florals: Maple Field Floral (giveaway participant) // Gown: Blush Bridal Boutique (giveaway participant) // Videography: Love N’ Pixels (giveaway participant) // Photobooth: Paramount Photo Booths (giveaway participant) // Gown Alterations: Oh Sew Perfect (giveaway participant) // Hair: Annaliese & Company (giveaway participant)