The loveliest Kate Spade heels can really get a party started and Arielle Doneson Photography knows full well how to finish that party off. Breathtaking images, that’s how. This is Hudson Valley in the most classic of ways with a Bride who is an event planner by day meaning she knew exactly what she wanted when it came time to craft her own affair. Her vision was timeless and romantic with a layer of fun and she totally nailed it. See it all unfold in the full gallery.
From the Bride… Fritz and I met at college, and after eight years of dating he surprised me with a picture-perfect proposal on Mother’s Day in Central Park. Being an event planner, I immediately jumped into the wedding planning, and I loved every single minute of it. We knew from the start that we wanted our wedding to be formal and fun, as well as romantic and timeless without being too stuffy.
We began our venue search in Manhattan where we live, but nothing seemed quite right, so we decided on a whim to take a drive up the Hudson River Valley to visit The Garrison. Almost immediately after touring the beautiful property, Fritz and I were convinced that this was the perfect place for us. The outdoor ceremony space features a jaw-dropping view, and we fell completely in love with the simple elegance and rustic charm of the interior décor. With venue decision made, the rest of the wedding details fell into place. After a bit of research, we booked who I firmly believe to be the best vendors a bride and groom could ever hope for. Working with my talented florist, we came up with a floral design concept that was soft, elegant, romantic and featured peonies – my favorite flower. As a perfectionist, I was hesitant to take on too many projects, but I incorporated personal touches to the wedding with DIY details such as a chalkboard seating chart and table numbers, homemade wedding programs and a color-coordinated candy bar.
On the big day, I loved the time I got to spend at the Garrison getting ready with my mother and bridesmaids. I could even run downstairs to check on the progress of everything throughout the morning and afternoon – the planner in me loved that! The weather was perfect all day, and our fantastic photographer got some amazing photos during our first look and portraits, then as soon as we lined up to start the ceremony the sky clouded over ominously. As if on cue, the moment before I walked down the aisle there was a terrific clap of thunder. It rained as we exchanged vows, but I honestly don’t remember anything except looking into the handsome and happy face of my best friend as we became man and wife. All in all, I could not have imagined a more perfect day, and I would not change a single thing.
Wedding Photography: Arielle Doneson Photography / Reception: The Garrison in Garrison, New York / Floral Design: Mary Lou Pappas Flowers / Bakery: The Pastry Garden / Wedding Invitations: Graphic Nature / Wedding Dress: Luna Novias by Rosa Clara / Shoes: Kate Spade / Hair: Salon at The Garrison / Makeup: Meredith Hayman / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Men’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank
