When I think about kindred spirits, I think about Loren and Brendan. About their sense of humor, and their warmth. About how open and authentic they are, and about how freely they offer their kindness and friendship. I first met them for their sunrise engagement session on a cold fall morning, and they honestly haven’t left my life since. So many of my favorite wedding memories came from working with them at Hudson Hall, and it all still feels so clear in my mind - as if it was just yesterday.

THE COUPLE

I’m pretty sure Loren and Brendan have known each other for pretty much forever. They seem stamped in each other’s lives like birthmarks - I wonder if they even have many memories pre-each-other. They met through community theatre, and their love for performance still runs deep - Brendan is a musician, and Loren teaches drama. They’re a match made in theatrical heaven - the type of match every 90s teen movie idolizes, but you think could never actually be real. But it is real. And Loren and Brendon are the best example of it.

Loren and Brendan are like two peas in a pod - so alike in so many ways, and so different in so many others, but just so very clearly meant for each other. Loren’s sense of humor is unlike any other (she is truly one of the funniest people I’ve ever met), and Brendan’s quiet kindness is the most comforting thing to be around. They’re good people. Important people. People who I hope to never lose touch with.

THE VENUE

Loren and Brendan got married at Hudson Hall in Hudson, NY. Located right on Hudson’s main thoroughfare, Warren Street, this venue has a unique and storied history, in being named New York’s oldest surviving theater - perfect for Loren and Brendan, whose story was shaped by performance.

The outdoor space for portraits at Hudson Hall is sparse; however, if you’re willing to do some exploring in the immediate vicinity, there are some gorgeous buildings that can play host to your portrait backgrounds, and some absolutely darling locations along the street for some nontraditional images. Hudson Hall isn’t the place you host your wedding because you want something traditional - it’s where you host your wedding because you want to host something unique and different.

The inside of the venue is absolutely stunning, with the ceremony and reception space being in the theatre location on the second floor. It is a large space with a stage, and tons of natural light. Just the most amazing place to get married.

THE DETAILS

Loren and Brendan had a Midsummer Night’s Dream celestial theme for their wedding - because: of course. Loren wore a crown decorated with stars, and Brendan’s tie boasted a galaxy pattern. They handmade all of their tablescape details to play with light and stars, as well as their ceremony backdrop, shaped like a moon. Their wedding program was a playbill, and guests got to eat popcorn as they watched the ceremony unfold onstage. Their colors were deep greens and blacks, with pops of orange…because how can you not have some orange at an October wedding?

THE RECEPTION

If joy was a reception, this would have been it. I’ve never seen a group so absolutely thrilled to be dancing, celebrating, enjoying. It was so fun in every possible way, but the best part of the reception was when Brendan’s band, A Fragile Tomorrow, performed. Live music at a wedding is always such a treat, but live music played by the groom and his friends and brothers?! Perfection.

One thing I’ll never get over: Loren and Brendan’s wedding day. The gorgeous weather. The excited friends. The incredible vibes.The untradition of it all alongside the love of it all.

Best day. Ever.

Ever.

FROM THE COUPLE

“What can I even say about Erica that will manage to encompass all that she is? Erica is light and laughter and warmth, and we honestly couldn’t even imagine our wedding day without her.

From the very first email I knew that Erica was a kindred spirit, but our engagement session solidified it for us. We laughed through our sunrise session, and hired her for the wedding the following day.

Working with Erica is like working with your best friend - she’s like a cheerleader, your favorite teacher, and a consummate professional rolled all into one; she does it all and makes it look easy while doing it. She manages so much more than just showing up to take photos the day of, she helps you along the process with eagerness and grace.

Our guests raved about her, our vendors adored her, and most importantly, we love her! Thank you, Erica, for not only the amazing photos of our favorite day, but for being the giggle behind the lens that made it extra special!”