Back in September, I had the opportunity to photograph a wedding for the first time at the Wedding Barn at Lakota’s Farm in Cambridge, NY. It was a fabulous day! My clients, Sara and David, were wonderful to photograph, and The Wedding Barn is truly spectacular! Yes, it is a rustic, barn wedding venue. But it is also so much more! The owner, Kim, has thought of every detail. It is not only visually beautiful to photograph, it is a comfortable place to hang out for the day. You really feel like you are more in someone’s home instead of a wedding venue.
I asked Sarah to share a little bit about how she and David met. Below is their story:
What a lovely place for Wedding Photos!
David and I met shortly after I moved to Eugene, OR to teach at the University of Oregon. As an academic who is always thinking and sitting at a computer, I immediately loved that he was an organic vegetable farmer, and with his grounded personality we balance each other out.
Sunflowers and a big, red barn–what a perfect setting!Floral details–the floral design for the wedding was by Samantha Nass. Can you spot the carrot foliage in the bouquet?His and Hers details. Sarah got ready in the Bridal Suite and David got ready in the Man Cave.The Bride wore cowboy boots–fun!Don’t you just love the expression on David’s Mom’s face while she was watching Sarah get ready? Priceless!
There is a little cabin called the Man Cave for the guys to use to get ready.
So many great places for photos!Handsome guys!
After two years in Oregon I had to take another job across the country in Massachusetts. This might have seemed impossible, but instead David proposed shortly after I moved.
The Bride’s sister wore cowboy boots too!First look with Dad–so special.I really like the way the barn incorporates knotty pine and vintage doors. Sarah’s dress is from Something Blue and is by Watters.Sisters. These two are so fun!Family Photos in the Bridal Suite area.
Rather than waiting for things to somehow “work out” we decided that we were going to be together no matter what.
There are lots of little areas at the Wedding Barn that are very cozy and home like.Guests arriving for the ceremony.
A huge life lesson for us has been that life is too short to wait for things to fall into place, if you want something to happen you have to make a choice and then orient your life toward it. For us, that meant that being together and starting a family despite the fact that we currently have jobs that are across the country.
The wedding ceremony incorporated Buddhist elements. Friends of the couple created the ceremony space.
Elements of Nature were used on the altar.That moment of anticipation before the ceremony starts.The Bride walking down the aisle is always very special.
Hands just speak to me.Reverend Joy Burke incorporated a hand fasting ritual in the ceremony.Carrots–of course!
We had the most perfect blue sky that day!First married kiss.
We are figuring out where we will eventually settle, but in the meantime we couldn’t be happier knowing that we will be together. Follow your dreams and don’t think you need to everything all figured out in advance!
Picture perfect locations everywhere.
Picture perfect locations everywhere.
My take on American Gothic, but they look too happy. LOL.
The floral design was stunning, don’t you agree?Selective focus can be fun.Such pretty cards!Food was catered by Lily and the Rose.I loved that there was a special spot for the kids to hang out.Introductions–so fun!
Great panorama view.
One of my favorite images from Sarah and David’s wedding. The end of a perfect day.
Are you looking for a Wedding Photographer in Upstate NY? We would love to discuss photographing your special event. Fill in our Contact Form or call (518) 584-4237 today.
This past January, I got to photograph a wedding for a lovely family. I had already photographed Megan’s sister’s wedding and her brother’s senior portraits, so I was beyond thrilled to be asked to photograph this Longfellows Winter Wedding.
Below is a quick slideshow we did. But if you have time, keep scrolling to see more of this beautiful day.
One of my favorite portraits from Megan and Nick’s Longfellows Winter Wedding.The front room was set aside for the bride to get dressed.The invitation is always a nice detail to photograph. The pearls were a gift from the groom.How cute is she?The blue box is always special–Megan gave these earrings to her sister as a gift.It is always a special moment when the bride puts on her dress
I love the eyelashes!Flower Girls are so cute.It was chilly, but the girls were warm with the blankets and mittens Megan thoughtfully provided.
How did you meet?
“Nick and I went to high school together. He was one class ahead of me, but I was advanced in Math, so we had Geometry class together. From there he started showing up at Basketball games he knew I was at. He eventually asked me out when I was only 14 years old, and we have been together ever since.”
The guys in the church before the ceremony.The room behind the altar had a really nice stained glass window.
Before the ceremony is always an exciting time.
Loved this moment.
How did he propose?
“We like to go hiking on different trails in Lake George in the summer. One day Nick asked me to go with a couple friends of ours, which we do all the time. So we went hiking and were sitting on the top of the mountain in the gazebo, and he gave me a Shutterfly photo book. It was all of his favorite photos and memories of us over the last nine years with some of his favorite quotes. The back of the book had a sweet handwritten letter. Once I finished reading the letter, he got down on one knee and proposed. He actually packed champagne and glasses in his backpack, but was so nervous that he completely forgot about it and we ended up drinking it at the bottom in the parking lot.”
Details give a sense of place in wedding photos.
Here she is again!
Tell us about planning your wedding:
“We got engaged at the end of May and got married that next January. I was busy studying for the Pharmacy Board exams all through the summer, so I didn’t really start to plan anything until six months before the wedding date. Once I started it all came together. My sister got married a couple of years before me. She is a big planner, so she was a huge help getting everything done.
After the ceremony we did some formal photos in the church.Family photos don’t need to take a long time.Great looking bridal party.
“I was lucky enough to have a fantastic family and bridesmaids that went above and beyond to make it such a perfect day.
Arriving at Longfellows.We did some quick wedding portraits outdoors at Longfellows.It was an hour or so before sunset–perfect time of day for photosNick was very handsome in his suit from Jonathan Reid.
“Nick really wanted to be involved as well. He was a big help, and we were able to fill the day with everything that we both wanted.
DJ Nick of Events by Cool Cat had this great deck of cards.Longfellows is very quaint and charming.DJs at work.How fun are Megan’s parents?
Introduced for the first time.This was so fun!
The cake table and the escort card table were very pretty.Parent Dances are very emotional.
Some fun dancing photos.
“It was the best day of our lives. And now we are enjoying the married life!”
Ring shotsLove this detail of the fur and lace that Meg was wearing.
In regards to planning Wedding Day Photography Timelines, timing is literally everything.
Timing is everything.
Part of my job as a Wedding Photographer is planning a Wedding Day Photography Timeline. Let’s face it, one of the most important parts of my job is making sure there are some great portraits of the Bride and Groom. The amount of time necessary is different for each wedding and depends on several factors. You would want to commit to at least 20 minutes and possibly up to an hour and a half if at all possible to formal photos. That amount of time can be broken down into smaller increments throughout the day, but planning ahead is very important. Below are several factors you want to consider:
This couple chose to do a First Look before their event. We made sure they had enough time so they did not feel rushed.
First Look:
First, determine whether or not you want to do a First Look. A First Look is when the couple sees each other before the actual ceremony. This is not an option for everyone, but lots of my clients choose to do it. When asked, they tell me it saves them a lot of stress. We also get a lot of pictures done ahead of time so they can enjoy their cocktail hour with their guests.
Be sure you allow enough time for Bridal Portraits on location! This wedding was at the endo of October, so we needed to be sure we had enough light for outdoor photos.
Time Of Day Is An Important Consideration For Your Wedding Day Timeline
Consider the time of day and factor that into your timeline. For example in the Winter, the sun sets earlier. So if you want outdoor wedding photos, you need to make sure you have daylight. Night shots are also popular–so talk to your caterer and photographer to make sure this can happen without a major disruption in the catering/dinner service.
Factor Travel Time Into Your Wedding Day Timeline
We had extra time at this wedding to photograph the girls because there was very little travel time between the location where they got dressed and the venue.
If you are planning on using multiple locations in your wedding images, you need to allow for travel time. This is one of the most overlooked areas in Wedding Day Photography Timelines. I have had brides choose locations 20 minutes apart. This adds quite a bit of time for the formal photography on the wedding day. And if traffic complicates getting there, it can be quite stressful.
Have A List For Family Photos
Be sure to allow enough time for the Family Portraits in your Wedding Day Photography Timelines–especially if little kids are involved.
Stay organized during the Family Portrait portion of your Wedding Day with a list of the key people. This will make the process of Family Portraits a breeze.
We used the church for a few wedding photos for this couple, then traveled 20 minutes to the location for the reception.
In summary, wedding photography often takes up the largest portion of any Wedding Day Photography Timeline. But the photos are the only tangible thing you will have left when the wedding is over–so make sure you plan accordingly.
Be sure to check our our FAQs for Weddings. To schedule a complimentary consultation with Wedding Photographer Susan Blackburn, use the Contact Form or call (518) 584-4237 today.
Plan your Wedding Day Photography Timelines with Award Winning Saratoga NY Wedding Photographer Susan Blackburn.
This is one of my favorite images from Zach and Katee’s wedding day at Windham in the Catskills.
Typically, the time for most couples to get engaged is the period between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day–so congratulations to all you newly engaged couples!
After deciding on a date, many times one of the first items on the To Do List is Finding a Wedding Photographer. The choice can be daunting because there are thousands of photographers in the area. So what do you consider when narrowing down your search? Before even looking on the internet, ask yourself, “How do I want to remember my wedding day?” Particularly if you want more than just the copy cat, cookie cutter photos you have already seen all over Pinterest. If you are looking for a wedding album that is creative and feels more like a magazine instead of your parents’ wedding album, look for these things in your photographer:
Find a photographer who is passionate about their art and does more than just weddings. They should LOVE photography, not just be looking at it as a way to earn some extra cash on the weekends. Do you want someone who lives and breathes photography, or someone who is just phoning it in?
Ask to see one or two (or three) weddings that have been photographed well. Make sure you browse a couple of weddings from start to finish. Pay attention to whether the entire wedding has been well covered. Wedding Photographers wear many hats on a wedding day from fashion/editorial, detail shots, photojournalism and everything in between. A great question to think about when viewing portfolios is, “Have they captured moments that are important to me?”
Personality is always a big consideration. Once you have narrowed down your search, take the time to meet with several photographers in person. It is tempting to skip this, but it is crucial to the final result. You may love the work a certain photographer has in their online portfolio but have absolutely no rapport in person. And guess what? That will show in the final product. Connection to the camera and your photographer is critical. In fact, having a compatible personality with all of your vendors is really important. You should feel as if they “get” you.
Professionalism–it is often overlooked. This is tricky and often overlooked. But it is so important. A professional has their bases covered, whether it is equipment, contracts, attire, etc. Sometimes people get hung up on budget–I get that weddings are expensive. But skimping in the photography area can mean you end up with a bad experience and bad images. There are lots of people out there calling themselves wedding photographers–does not make them professionals. To put it in perspective, all my friends own a pair of scissors. I would not let any of them cut my hair. Same goes for wedding photography. Everyone has a camera, not everyone can photograph a wedding professionally and well. Just saying.
Last, but certainly not least–Post Production. This is what separates the women from the girls–LOL. Post Production is the final product you receive. Be sure to ask what you will be getting as a final product. Some photographers “shoot and burn” meaning they show up, photograph the wedding and give you everything they shot on a drive–with no color correction, retouching, etc. Don’t know about you, but a thousand images on a drive that can’t be printed because of color/exposure issues–that kind of gives me the heebie jeebies.
These five things should give you a good start on selecting a photographer to cover your wedding day. Remember that good wedding photographers book up quickly–sometimes up to a year in advance! So get started and have fun!
Fun with off camera strobe.
Would you like to see more? Check out some of our Weddings.
I recently got to photograph a wedding for two people who absolutely love Saratoga Springs and horseracing. Peggy and Chuck got married at Saratoga National on a beautiful day in October. They live downstate most of the time, but love our town so much that they have a weekend home here as well. At our first meeting, they told me that they wanted to incorporate many local landmarks in their wedding photos. Saratoga National Wedding Photos are always beautiful, but it was so much fun running around before the ceremony to different locations in Saratoga Springs as well!
Peggy and Chuck love Saratoga and horse racing to we went to many iconic Saratoga Springs locations.
When I asked Peggy to share their story, she told me they were so boring. I don’t know–I like hearing about how people meet, fall in love and decide to get married, so I have their story in her words below.
It had actually snowed a little the day before the wedding.
“We met in December of 2005 and started dating December 1, 2006. Our first date was at Torches on the Waterfront in Newburgh, NY.
Chuck got ready at the condo he and Peggy own by Saratoga LakeLots of racing memorabilia around.
“We got engaged on May 1, 2008. Because we both were married before, I was involved with choosing my diamond and setting. But he did drop down on one knee and ask me to marry him. He claims I could have still said no. LOL.
Bridal details are always fun to capture.
“Chuck proposed at his condo–it was a Friday. Chuck’s grandfather and father were involved with horse racing. So he started going up to Saratoga from the age of 13.
These are just some candids from the hair and makeup session.The girls helping Peggy dress at the Grand Pavilion.
“When we started dating, my first visit to Saratoga was during the winter of 2007, and I loved it.
“After we got engaged, Chuck asked if I would consider living or having a second place in Saratoga. So the search began for our second place in Saratoga. We loved the townhouse concept and Water’s Edge offered everything we wanted. We bought our place in May, 2010.
We did a First Look outside of the Grand Pavilion.Love black and white images.Chuck looking debonair outside of the Fasig Tipton building.Saratoga Springs is very quaint and picturesque, which is great for wedding photos,
The Fasig Tipton building was one of our choices because it is very important during racing season.The bridal party was Peggy and Chuck’s kids and Chuck’s brothers. They were fun to photograph.
“Saratoga National Golf Course was just one of our favorite places for cocktails and dinner. So Saratoga National was the only place I was going to get married. It turned out better than I ever imagined!
Love the bridge at Saratoga National.The melted snow made an interesting photo op.
All set up for the ceremony at Saratoga National.
The ceremony and reception decor was by Rudy Grant of Experience & Creative Design.Love the attention to detail at this venue.
The introduction photos are always fun.
We had the most beautiful sky on Peggy and Chuck’s wedding day.
Wedding Vendors for Peggy and Chuck’s Wedding at Saratoga National:
Did you enjoy this post about Peggy and Chuck’s Saratoga National Wedding? You might also enjoy this Saratoga Wedding Post. Are you getting married in Saratoga Springs? Fill in the Contact Form or call 518.584.4237 to schedule an appointment today.
An Elegant Gatsby Themed Wedding | The Mansion Saratoga NY
Just so you know, I love all my clients. I love photographing their weddings, their kids, their businesses. It is just the best job. Some of my clients end up on my blog for various reasons. The wedding couple on the blog today is really special to me for many reasons. I first spoke to Kathy on the phone about a year ago, and I knew I wanted to photograph her elegant Gatsby inspired wedding to Georges immediately.
I love the way the water droplets look like the sparkles on Kathy’s Wedding Dress.
Fast forward to this October. I met up with Kathy before the wedding at Mrs. London’s (my satellite office–hahaha). I felt like I was catching up with an old friend and could have talked with her for hours on end. That weekend, we met up at Congress Park to begin photos, then traveled to the Mansion Inn for the Wedding Ceremony and Reception. Not only is the Mansion Inn one of my very favorite venues, they also had a small, intimate Gatsby inspired wedding that was perfect. So I asked Kathy to write something about her wedding to Georges for the blog. Enjoy the story:
It was one of those great late fall days–the weather was not too cold and the park was pretty deserted.
“What better location to hold our Gatsby inspired wedding than Saratoga and the Mansion Inn! Congress Park, the Canfield Casino, and Saratoga Springs are exquisite and steeped in history, glamour, Speakeasies, and high society. We wanted our photos to immerse the eyes and mind of the beholder into that bygone era.
The springs in Historic Congress Park are known all over the world.
“Outside the Canfield Casino aside our vintage Bentley, we instantly fell into the charms of the era.
The Mansion Inn in Rock City Falls has been lovingly restored to it’s former grandeur.How perfect is the Bentley?
The colors at this wedding were on point.
“Next we journeyed to the historic Mansion Inn, outside of Saratoga Springs. We chose this venue to host our intimate wedding ceremony and reception because of its beauty, charm, authenticity, as well as the incredible staff.
Father Richard officiated the ceremony in the Mansion’s parlor.There was a beautiful glow cast from the fireplace in the parlor.
“Stepping into the Mansion Inn is like stepping back in time. All of our guests claimed that they felt transported into another era upon entering the Mansion Inn. We chose ostrich feather centerpieces with crystal accents and Art Deco themed decor with touches of silver chevron patterns.
The details on the tables were perfect. Every table featured a different F. Scott Fitzgerald quote.The food at the Mansion is always exceptionalThe toasts are always an emotional part of any wedding.
“Guests got in the spirit by donning period inspired garb, as we dined on a lavish, decadent meal prepared by the Mansion Chef Rick. Jazz era music wafted through the parlors during the dinner.
The Music Room is one of many unique features at the Mansion Inn.
“At the reception after, I put on my feather wrap to make my grand entrance with my new husband arm in arm. Georges wore a classic grey tux designed by Vera Wang, along with Swarovski crystal studs and cufflinks to compliment my crystal encrusted vintage gown.
The first dance is always fun.How fun is the feather shrug Kathy wore at the reception?The color violet was one of the details at this wedding.
“We danced to the timeless classic As Time Goes By, under violet light, and we all imbibed our Signature Cocktail the Violet Vodka Martini–complete with edible violets from France.”
Just really love these dance photos.
Weddings like this are so great to photograph. It was intimate, charming and really fun. I hope you enjoyed looking at these images as much as I enjoyed creating them.
Wedding Vendors for Kathy and Georges’ Gatsby Inspired Wedding:
Wedding Photography | Blackburn Portrait Design Venue | The Mansion Inn
Entertainment | Mike Reilly, CT Productions Videographer | Lance Wheeler
Bride’s Dress | Neiman Marcus Wedding Officiant | Father Richard
Did you enjoy reading about this wedding? You might also enjoy Leslie and Jamie’s Wedding Post. Would you like to discuss your wedding photography needs? Please call 518.584.4237 or fill in the Contact Form to schedule an appointment today.
When I am creating Wedding Photos, I think sometimes it is all about perspective. Kind of like life. I try to move around and see things from different vantage points during the day. It gives variety to my clients and it is challenging to me. Moving around and taking a different point of view can be uncomfortable, but also rewarding. It helps you grow.
The Wedding Photos below are from a recent wedding near the Canfield Casino in Saratoga Springs, NY. We were in this very beautiful area with a fountain, a sundial and sculptures. The light was the perfect kind of light you get in the fall late in the day. The first photo is a fairly typical type of wedding photo in that the bride and groom are facing the camera and smiling. I gave the image depth with the sundial in the foreground, as well as using the 70-200 mm lens to compress the background. I really like this wedding photo because they look so happy.
Love this black and white wedding photo in Congress Park this past fall.
What I like to do after I get a shot like this is move around to different angles. I got some really different looking images at this wedding, but the one below is my favorite. It is just Georges holding Kathy’s waist. I love hands, and think they can be so eloquent. I love the way he is holding tightly onto her waist, like he does not want to let go. These kinds of images happen at every wedding spontaneously–every time. I just need to move around. Showing something like that is why I think Wedding Photos are important. It captures a moment in time forever. My goal is for my clients to remember exactly how they felt at a particular moment–photos help you do that.
I love Georges’ hand on Kathy’s waist.
I love both photos individually, but I like them even better together. Together they tell a story. What do you think?
This was taken after Leslie and Jamie’s first look. It is in their backyard, right after a little rain.
I recently had the opportunity to photograph my friend Leslie’s backyard wedding in Saratoga, NY to her partner Jamie. It was an intimate backyard wedding with tons of help from family and friends to make the day come together. Leslie is great to photograph–she has this fairy-like quality about her that was really enhanced by the rustic garden theme of the wedding, as well as the perfect makeup by Janelle Brown of Sanctuary in Saratoga Springs.
The detail on this dress was just great.
If you read my blog at all, you know that I love to have my clients tell their own stories. I love hearing peoples’ stories–and it is so much more interesting that just throwing a gallery up of images with a few sentences (obligatory exclamation points!!! after every sentence) gushing over how much I loved everything at the wedding. It kind of goes without saying that I love the wedding–I would not shoot them if I did not, and I certainly would not put something on my blog that I did not love. I just think there is so much back story that goes into a wedding that makes interesting copy. So if you agree with me, read on and find out more about Leslie and Jamie. Their story is kind of intimate and quite sweet.
Janelle working her magic on Leslie.
How did you first meet?
“It’s funny (not really) that I don’t recall the first time we actually met. Jamie says I have a terrible memory–which is true. However, I recall meeting him at a party prior to when/where he says we met. Some bad decisions, some heartache and a few mutual friend house parties later, we decided to make it official. This day is memorable because it was the day that Jamie’s Pepere had passed. A small group of friends, his sister and my sister included, were hanging out when he got the phone call. Basically, ever since then we have been supporting each other through our ups and downs. We grew into ourselves, at each other’s sides.”
The bridal bouquet from Native Farm Flowers was stunning.
Just enchanting.It started to rain so we headed indoors for some photos.
How did he propose?
“Jamie was never one for marriage. So in July of 2015 when he proposed, other than his nerves giving it away, I was not expecting it. For a while, he tried planning a weekend away, but I was caught up in work. He was very persistent on taking time off to go camping before we both continued on into our busy summer. So we picked a day, a mountain, packed up our three dogs, food, supplies, tent and blow up mattress (high maintenance, I know) and ventured North. Storm warnings came in and we rerouted East. Already behind schedule we made it to Treadway Mountain in Ticonderoga and ventured up. While the climb is fairly moderate, towards the top it becomes a very rocky incline. Once you get closer to the summit, the markers turn to small rock cairns, some only three or four rocks in a pile, which we had a very hard time following. Needless to say, we were lost. This is already after Jamie’s legs started cramping, our dog with the bad knee couldn’t walk–place me lost on a mountain, and I am ready to go home. After changing directions a handful of times, I sat with the dogs while Jamie chased down what sounded like people talking. We weren’t far off the path, and soon made it to the summit. The view was amazing–big sections of rock with much of it made up of rose quartz, great views of Pharoah Lake, Vermont, and the High Peaks of the Adirondacks to the North. It was dark by the time we set up the tent and Jamie started preparing dinner. I ventured into the woods, and on my way back in I saw him fiddling with the camera. He awkwardly told me to sit beside him. He busted out a beautiful ring four sizes to big and said he wanted to be with me forever. Knowing he never originally wanted to get married and actually convincing me that we never would be married, I responded with, “Really? So what do you mean?”
It rained off and on all day. But we were lucky that we got some clear weather to do photos.
“We ate, snuggled by the fire with our three dogs, and Jamie explained to me the night he changed his mind about marriage after an intense floating experience in his sensory deprivation tank. He also shared how he almost proposed at the New York City Ballet Gala while we were there with my yoga friends, watching fireworks a few weeks prior.”
LOVE the chicken.The details at the wedding were really fun.Just so sweet.Leslie and her sister watching the rain.
“How was it planning a Backyard Wedding?”
“Thankfully, we had so much support from Jamie’s parents–offering to have the wedding and reception at their home. I am so blessed to be welcomed into such a loving and fun family! Jamie’s aunts and uncles were there days before to set up and helped take everything down and clean up before Jamie and I even woke up! My parents and my aunts were more than excited and willing to help out as much as possible, planning a bridal shower, as well as coming to set up the day before the wedding, making flower arrangements in the pouring rain. My brother-in-law’s mother made the desserts, and his cousin’s wife let me borrow her stunning dress! Some of our dear friends offered gifts to us in forms of kegs, photography, facials, playing ceremony and cocktail hour music, making myself and the bridal party gorgeous with hair and makeup, which made the day so much more magical! The best and most touching part was Jamie’s cousin being our officiant–English being his second language and his first wedding ever officiating. It was beyond perfect, and so many said it was the most beautiful ceremony they ever witnessed!”
It was raining while the guests were arriving.
I loved the way the drops of rain looked on the pine needles.Moments like these are really important.
Jamie and his Dad made the entrance to the ceremony with salvaged doors.
What were some of your favorite moments?
“How the weather played perfectly to our advantage–it was pouring when the ceremony was supposed to start. Jamie’s uncle was running to borrow umbrellas, and the wedding party was changing how we were all walking down the aisle to make it to the tent dry. Once we all had our borrowed umbrellas in hand, the sun began to peek out of the clouds and it stopped raining. At that moment we all ditched our umbrellas and went for the original plan. As soon as I made it under the tent, it began to instantly pour! During the ceremony, it was still sprinkling, but the sun was still shining.
Some really great wedding reception details.
“Second favorite moment–is seeing my two grandmothers dancing with all my aunts and cousins. I don’t think I have ever seen my family have so much fun!”
Any advice for other couples planning a wedding?
“Let people help you. Even if you don’t agree on everything. The day goes by so fast, let the little details go. And make sure your DJ and the food is the bomb!”
Congratulations to Jamie and Leslie! Best wishes for a long and happy life together!
Did you enjoy Jamie and Leslie’s Backyard Wedding? You might also enjoy this Wedding Planning Post on planning a tent wedding. Are you getting married in the Saratoga or Adirondack Region? Be sure to fill in the Contact Form or call 518.584.4237 to schedule an appointment.
I have been a little behind on my blog posting lately and realized that I had not posted this Saratoga Elopement. I have a special place in my heart for elopements–they are always very personal and intimate. Anne and Michael eloped this past Winter in Saratoga with just their children present. The ceremony was officiated by our very own Saratoga Wedding Officiant Reverend Joy Burke. The ceremony was beautiful, personal and meaningful and just delightful to witness. Below is Anne and Michael’s story.
Love this Black and White Wedding image from Anne and Michael’s elopement in Saratoga Springs this past winter.Reverend Joy lives and works in a converted church in downtown Saratoga Springs. I love the space, particularly the red door.
“Michael and I met several years ago through a common hobby and our children. Both of us were very active in the local horse show circuit. Our children actually began dating four years ago.
Anne’s lovely daughter was one of the witnesses.Pinning on the Groom’s boutonniere.
“We were mutual friends for several years, and when we found ourselves going through some difficult times, that friendship resulted in a support system that saved us both and gave us hope.
Getting ready–a contemplative time usually.This was a candid–the light was so great. It makes a good portrait.
“We started dating in 2014, and were lucky our children embraced this friendship and support system. We decided to elope as we felt that what was most important in our lives was the love we had for each other and our families. We were blessed that our union was blessed by our children, who were witnesses at our elopement.
Loved the bouquets.
Blessing the rings is really important.
I always feel like the ceremony is really the heart of any wedding.I love how ceremonies can go from lighthearted to serious in no time at all.
“My family was born and raised in Saratoga, and I have substantial roots there, even though I have lived out of the area for most of my life. Our elopement was blessed by Joy Burke, and we could not have been happier with the intimacy and gentleness of our commitment to each other.”
After the ceremony, we did some formal (and not so formal) photos.Did you know that the roundness of wedding rings symbolizes infinity? They are worn on the left ring finger because it was believed blood traveled from there directly to the heart.Formal Portrait of the entire group–all four of them:)The light was just wonderful for portraits.We went to Congress Park for a bit.Loved the stole Anne wore outside.
The shoes were super fun too.
I especially loved the way the light was rimming their hair in this series of photos we did. Love the geometry of the steps.
A Saratoga Elopement–I love them! Many blessings to Anne and Michael! Did you enjoy this blog post on a Saratoga Elopement? You might also enjoy this post on a Fern Lodge Elopement.
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The “B” Word–Budget. Everyone needs one. Weddings are wonderful–but unless you have a budget and actually stick to it, they can be a financial drain. As a Saratoga Springs Photographer, I go to a lot of weddings. There are so many beautiful wedding planning publications, websites/blogs out there–not to mention Pinterest–that it is easy to get sucked into making sure every last detail is beautiful and perfect. But let’s be honest here. How important is every single detail to your guests? Will they even notice the upgraded fabric on the chair covers–or will the plain white suffice? Do you need to serve an eight course meal, or would you really prefer to do something a little less extravagant? Below are some ideas on where to save some money on your wedding while still making it an affair to remember.
1. Party Favors: These are big on Pinterest, and I know I will take a lot of heat on this one. But can I tell you how many times I leave a wedding and see the favors in the trash or on the ground in the parking lot? At best, your mom is going to put your monogrammed/photo thing in her junk drawer or on the refrigerator. So unless it is a food item or serves some useful purpose, consider skipping them. Really.
I liked these favors because they were useful.I liked this idea because the Bride and Groom compiled a playlist of favorite songs for their guests.Cute favors from Marilyne and Paul’s wedding this past spring. Food is always popular. And it matched the girls’ dresses.
2. Top Shelf Liquor: I am from Long Island originally, and where I come from one does not invite guests to an event and have them pay for their own drinks. It is simply–Not Done. But you do not have to provide the premium, top shelf stuff. Mid level is just fine. Most people really cannot tell the difference. Especially after one or two cocktails. Or consider serving a signature cocktail along with beer, wine and soft drinks.
Shawn’s wedding this past summer featured a signature cocktail–Mint Juleps–served in Mason jars.
3. The Guest List: Consider abbreviating the guest list. Do the math. If your venue charges $100 per person and you cut 50 people, you will save $5,000. Seems like a no-brainer.
These are photos of all the guests at Britta and Nate’s wedding.
4. Choose Flowers and Deorations that are in season: A tip from Gretchen Squires at the Posie Peddler–work with your florist to create the overall look you want, but use flowers that are in season locally. We are lucky here in the Northeast that we get beautiful fall foliage, pumpkins and gourds.
Fall foliage, flowers and pumpkins were a beautiful compliment for this Lake George Wedding in October.Hydrangeas and Roses are in season in the summer.
5. Hit the Sample Sales: Do you want an amazing dress for an amazing price? Try the annual sample sales that the bridal stores run. Or check a consignment store. Just be aware that they will have a restricted range in sizes, and you might not get the exact dress you want.
Amazing Dress–but you might get lucky at a sample sale.
I feel as if everyone has a budget–just that some budgets are bigger than others. Staying within a budget will be less stressful for you in the long run.
Did you enjoy this article on wedding planning? Check out this article on planning the perfect event.
Please call (518)584-4237 to schedule a consultation today and get started on planning your wedding. Or use our Contact Form.
Saratoga Photographer Susan Blackburn of Susan Blackburn Photography specializes in photographing Weddings and Elopements. With a photography studio location in Saratoga Springs, NY, Susan serves the Saratoga Springs, Lake George and the Adirondack Regions. She is also available for travel assignments. Susan has been a professional photographer for 20 years. Her goal has always been simple—take pictures that her clients love.
