G + I

October 2022

Clermont Historic Site, Germantown NY

Picture this: a wedding meticulously planned to unfold within the beauty of Mills Mansion, only to face an unexpected twist of fate. Unfortunately, a bad storm destroyed a vital bridge to the original venue, rendering it inaccessible for my couple’s wedding day. Luckily, the couple discovered an equally enchanting alternative just a half-hour drive away. Enter the Clermont Historic Site, a hidden gem nestled along the serene Hudson River, boasting its stately manor and sprawling grounds steeped in 18th-century history and breathtaking landscapes. Clermont’s timeless charm provided the perfect backdrop for their 60s-inspired bottomless brunch celebration.

After hearing Gabrielle’s classically elegant and detail-oriented vision for their wedding day, I was hooked. I couldn’t wait to photograph their perfect wedding day. We began at a Victorian-style house they found on Airbnb, and let me tell you, it is absolutely stunning!

Gabrielle poured her heart into every detail of their wedding, from the Victorian-style house they prepared in, to the thrifted white old fashioned nightgowns she had on along with her girls. Her custom-made shoes from Italy added a touch of sophistication, while their calligrapher skillfully crafted a landscape illustration of the property, capturing the essence of their enchanting venue. Detailed as ever, Gabrielle found the perfect earrings that mirrored the silhouette of a lion, just like the ones on the pillars of the mansion.

First Look

Portraits

After the first look, we traveled over to their ceremony and reception venue at Clermont Historic Site to capture wedding portraits throughout its beautiful gardens. We seamlessly transitioned into capturing bridal party and family portraits, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Hudson River and the picturesque foliage that graces the Hudson Valley in October.

Ceremony

As we gathered for their ceremony, nature cast its spell upon us, creating a scene of pure enchantment. The gentle falling leaves, kissed by the golden morning light, gave the atmosphere a sense of serenity. Underneath a canopy of foliage, Gabrielle’s meticulous attention to detail revealed itself once more, as she orchestrated a whimsical path of chairs, inviting guests to embark on a journey through a fairy tale to their happily ever after.

With such organic special touches between moss and neutral florals paired with the simple architectural columns their vision came to life. During their ceremony they had a blessing of the rings where they passed their wedding bands to each guest to give their blessings.

“the falling leaves are paid actors” – Gabrielle

Reception

Gabrielle and Ian’s reception at the Clermont Historic Site in the Hudson Valley was nothing short of magical. After the ceremony space seamlessly transformed into a cocktail hour space, guests were treated to beautifully crafted passed hors d’oeuvres under the enchanting setting of sun-kissed, floating leaves. The reception took place beneath a stunning sailcloth tent, its diffused lighting casting a warm, inviting glow over the festivities. Gabrielle and Ian’s choreographed first dance to ‘Wanted’ by Hunter Hayes captivated everyone, setting the tone for an afternoon of heartwarming celebration. Guests danced and listened to heartfelt toasts from Gabrielle’s parents, friends, and family.

The cake was a unique waffle tower, and the couple ‘cut’ it by pouring maple syrup over it, delighting their guests with this whimsical twist. A champagne tower added an elegant touch, adorned with a beautiful thrifted tablecloth that perfectly fit Gabrielle’s vision. Her attention to detail was evident in every element, from the peaches and figs that adorned the tables and cake to the whimsical florals that seemed to bloom from the tabletops, brought to life by their Planner and Florist Kateri Jude. It was an unforgettable afternoon, filled with love, laughter, and the perfect blend of Gabrielle’s enchanting style.

Let’s get this party started!

A couple more portraits & last dance because the lighting was *chefs kiss* to end the afternoon

Ian and Gabrielle’s Love Story

Ian and I have a beautiful love story exemplifying the fact that timing is everything and people will make their way back into your life at the right moment.

We met while I was at Dartmouth College as a student and Ian was working in research there. Ian headed to Boston for a job only a few months into us seeing one another and we broke up due to distance as I was moving to NYC for grad school.

We still stayed in touch almost every day and grew a very strong friendship and every few months we would spend some time together if I was in Boston. We would spend each evening on the phone talking about life.

Then, one Thanksgiving we were both in Boston at the same time and Ian joined my family’s festivities. From that moment on we were inseparable and 4 cities, one dog, and a 100 year old home renovation, we are here today!

Vendor Team

Venue: Clermont Historic Site

Planner & Florist: Kateri Jude

DJ: Rick Zolzer

Makeup & Hair Stylist: La Tua Bella

Bridal Dress: The White Gown

Cake: The Cakery Fishkill

Catering: Mill House Brewing

Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry

Invitation Suite: Maison Blanche