Saratoga BRIDE Fall/Winter 2025

BRIDE

®

VOLUME 18

2025 FALL/WINTER Complimentary

Real

Brides REAL STORIES

DETAILS, IDEAS & ADVICE

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from the

BRIDE

®

editor

OWNER/PUBLISHER Chad Beatty EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Vallone Bushee

Chris Vallone Bushee Creative Director/ Managing Editor cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com 518-581-2480 ext. 201 SaratogaBride.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

MAGAZINE DESIGNER Kacie Cotter-Harrigan ADVERTISING DESIGNER Jocelyn Lucey ADVERTISING Jim Daley Cindy Durfey

Welcome to Saratoga Bride Magazine!

In addition to TWELVE beautiful weddings – and the work of SEVENTEEN photographers showcasing the work of fabulous wedding professionals from the Adirondacks to the Capital District – we have my Seattle Bride!!

If any of you follow us on the socials, you may have seen my squealing over the thought that somebody would be using Saratoga BRIDE to plan their wedding – FROM SEATTLE!! But it was true, and I was thrilled to finally meet her (well, over email at least!!).

Read all about it on page 23.

As you know, I wish I could use every bride that contacts me, but luckily, we have SaratogaBride.com for that – please check us out for even more Flowers, Dresses, Cakes, Venues, Inspiration!

Happy Planning with #SaratogaBride!

XO, Chris

I’m sure you’ve noticed…

In addition to tons of ADVICE, TIPS and beautiful photos, this publication is filled with ADS - the businesses you need to plan your wedding, and the reason we can distribute these beautiful, informative magazines free of charge!

Please mention us by name when calling on them : )

PS…. If you didn’t see it… We Eloped!!

I should have realized it, but there was no way I could choose JUST ONE location for our wedding, so we did what any sane person would do… we ran away and got married !!

2025

2024

2023

AWARD WINNING!

by the New York Press Association 2022

2021

2020

2019

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2018

2017

2016

INTERNS Maria Isele Mimi Hrbek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stacie Baxter Susan Blackburn Megin Potter John Reardon PHOTOGRAPHERS Abby Films + Photo Susan Blackburn Photography Bryer Photography Tracey Buyce Photography CLH Images Photography Michael Conway Photography Jordan Keyser Jenn Matcham Photography Angela Mia Anne Mientka Photography Caitlyn Miller Photography The One Eleven Collective Nicole Rae Photography Melissa Seabury Photography Caitee Smith Photography Rob Spring Photography Justin Tibbitts Photography PUBLISHED BY SARATOGA TODAY 2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com SaratogaBride.com Saratoga BRIDE® is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher.

Copyright © 2025. Saratoga TODAY Newspaper.

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54

contents

2025 FALL | WINTER

SEE AUDREY + JAMES' WEDDING PHOTO BY ANGELA MIA

A Good Read

Real Brides

14 Dress Shopping? …start here!

62 Amanda & Brandon

16 Lake George has… EVERYTHING!

18 New Venue… Hotel Brookmere and Arbor Spa 23 My Seattle Bride!

26 John Reardon… Father of the Bride!

28 Avoid Fall Wedding Pitfalls

32 Outside the Box Photobooth has it all!

34 Fabulous Flowers start here!

94 Amanda & Michael 66 Anna & Ethan 54 Audrey & James 86 Bryanna & John 50 Caroline & Jack 82 Hannah & Owen 90 Katie & Mark 74 Lauren & CJ

Honeymoon 38 Planning Made Easy with Heber Travel

58 Maria & Kurtis 46 Rachel & Tristan

COVER PHOTO BY JENN MATCHAM PHOTOGRAPHY See Anna + Ethan's Wedding on page 66

78 Schyler & Nicholas 70 Stephanie & Josh

One Last Thing...

98 Save the Date!

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A Good Read

The Dress!

Bridals GONE Viral WRITTEN BY MARIA ISELE ALL PHOTOS FROM THEIR AWESOME INSTAGRAM FEED!

I

t's no bride's secret that one of the best parts of wedding preparations is picking out the perfect dress.

Thanks to social media, certain styles have captured the public's eye and made quite the impression on wedding dress hunters. Of late, local bridal stores have been blowing up online by viewers from Saratoga and beyond, as they demonstrate the latest dress trends of 2025 in a variety of breathtaking forms. There are many reasons as to why these style dresses are so popular.

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MERMAID STYLE

Firstly, aesthetics are taken into account, where it's decided whether the dress would fit in with the atmosphere and theme of the event. For example, the mermaid style is a timeless representation that highlights elegance and romance, on account of its curvy fit that allows the bodice and waist to be accentuated, along with its long and classy train.

Mermaid dresses are commonly worn with floral accents, adding gracefulness to the design.

In addition, flair is considered as well. In more recent times, it's seen that we're slinking away from simplistic fashions, and gearing more towards the unique. The scarf style has become increasingly popular in the wedding industry as a substitute for a traditional veil.

It entails a delicate white fabric such as chiffon or silk, that's worn draped around the neck with the ends spilling down the back. It's increased in popularity due to its addition of movement and glamor to the dress, as well as serving as a classic touch without the additional need for pins. This being said, the plethora of wedding dress trends today are what can solely be described as extraordinary.

From Lily Saratoga to Jocelynn's Bridal, here's a deep dive into the wedding dress style trends of 2025, and the local stores that aided in their popularization. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Lily Saratoga • @lilysaratoga

BASQUE WAIST STYLE

CAT-EYE STYLE Demonstrated by Lily Saratoga, the cat-eye style wedding dress displays a unique neckline that's to die for, featuring two distinct points on the bodice that sweep upwards towards the outer edges of the dress.

The basque waist style featured by Something Bleu Bridal has become a universal staple in the wedding dress industry over the past few centuries, and has recently become more popular than ever. The style includes a V- or U-shaped bodice that extends lower than the typical waistline, continuing down over the hips. This sleek design creates an hourglass silhouette that radiates mystique, and glamour, while defining the waist and complimenting various skirt Something Bleu Bridal • @somethingbleubridal

LACE-TOPPER STYLE

Combining the classic sweetheart neckline with a contemporary twist, the cat-eye style creates a look that's both empowering and romantic.

Lace-toppers are in total heat right now when it comes to spicing up a wedding look that's more on the simplistic side.

Jocelynn's Bridal perfectly depicts how the delicate and intricately designed fabric creates a modest and dignified allure that provides a lightweight and breathable quality to a wedding dress.

DROP WAIST STYLE As illustrated by Elle's Bridal Boutique, the drop waist style wedding dress introduces a bodice that extends out lower than the typical waist, often to the hip area, before bursting into the skirt below. Originating in the 1920s, the drop waist has made quite the comeback due to its iconic elongated appearance that gives a sophisticated and luxurious appeal.

Elle's Bridal Boutique @ellesbridalboutique

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Jocelynn's Bridal @jocelynnsbridal

W

ith our ever-changing and evolving social media, it can be difficult to keep up with trends and what's popular. It's important to know that no matter what style of dress you choose, all are stunning and unique, and if you find yourself interested, head over to Saratoga's local bridal stores to explore what they have to offer!

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A Good Read

The Venue!

The Inn at Erlowest Rob Spring Photography Michael Conway Photography

Vintage Elegance The Promise Gardens Nicole Rae Photography

Mountain Magic

For those captivated by the natural beauty of the mountains, several venues offer serene and scenic escapes. The Friends Lake Inn provides an intimate, romantic atmosphere with upscale Adirondack charm. Garnet Hill Lodge features sweeping views of Thirteenth Lake and a rusticchic Great Camp feel. At Gore Mountain, couples can say “I do” atop the summit after a scenic chairlift ride. West Mountain brings all-seasons appeal, with breathtaking slopeside ceremonies and stunning views of the Hudson Valley. The Lodge at Echo Lake offers a peaceful forest setting with versatile event spaces, while The Promise Gardens surrounds guests with sprawling meadows, mountain views, and fairytale-worthy gardens.

Classic Club Charm

Couples seeking timeless elegance and manicured grounds will find plenty of inspiration among the area’s country and yacht clubs. Hiland Park Country Club blends natural beauty with refined reception spaces, while The Lake George Club, established in 1909, offers historic charm with lakefront dining and dockside access. The Sagamore Golf Club adds luxurious flair to tradition with its spectacular views, and Top of the World Resort lives up to its name with panoramic scenery and a perfect blend of country club amenities and Adirondack appeal.

a Perfect Setting

History lovers can celebrate their future in some of the region’s most storied venues.

Blue Water Manor, perched on the lake, delivers vintage Adirondack character alongside breathtaking views. The Fort William Henry Hotel combines grandeur and heritage across an 18-acre estate. The Inn at Erlowest, a century-old stone castle, offers lakeside ceremonies and private boat rides, while The Queensbury Hotel in downtown Glens Falls radiates classic 1920s elegance with modern comforts.

•

Dreaming of a wedding surrounded by majestic mountains, sparkling lake views, or timeless charm? The Lake George Area offers an exceptional variety of venues to match every couple’s vision. From rustic barns and elegant hotels to lakeside resorts and historic estates, this stunning Adirondack destination provides unforgettable settings for weddings of all styles and sizes.

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Love on the Water

For a celebration right on the water, the Lake George Area offers a collection of exceptional lakeside venues. Bayside Resort provides customizable options with private cottages and sunset views. The Courtyard by Marriott offers a rooftop terrace and sleek event spaces in the heart of the village.

The Lodges at Cresthaven, alongside the Boathouse Restaurant, offer luxury accommodations and an intimate lakeside vibe, while Melody Manor Resort and Surfside on the Lake Hotel both pair cozy charm with sweeping views and modern amenities. Couples can also celebrate aboard a classic cruise with either the Lake George Steamboat Company or the Lake George Waterfront Cruises, both offering unforgettable ceremonies and receptions while gliding across the lake. On a private island, The Sagamore Resort invites couples to host refined celebrations in a variety of elegant waterfront settings, including aboard a replica 19thcentury touring vessel.

From mountaintop lodges to island resorts, the Lake George Area offers couples the rare opportunity to align their wedding dreams with a setting that feels truly their own. To make the planning process just as memorable, the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau offers complimentary assistance with venue selection, accommodations, and logistics.

Connect with the team at lgrcvb@lakegeorgechamber.com or 518-668-5755 for personalized support.

The Sagamore Resort Caitlyn Miller Photography

Explore more and begin planning your dream celebration at meetlakegeorge.com/weddings.

Sundance Ranch Abby Films + Photo

Refined by Nature

For those envisioning a relaxed, rustic atmosphere, the Lake George Area shines with warm, natural charm. The 1000 Acres Ranch brings dude ranch character to riverfront weddings. The Barn at French Mountain offers authentic Adirondack ambiance, while Silver Bay YMCA blends history, waterfront settings, and a sense of adventure.

Sundance Ranch completes the picture with wide-open spaces and equestrian charm. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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A Good Read

New Venue!

Hidden Gem Saratoga’s Newest

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOTEL BROOKMERE

At Hotel Brookmere, every moment

• Making your dream day as easy as saying, “I do!”

is designed to be savored. Nestled on a storied 10-acre expanse beside Saratoga National Golf Course, this secluded retreat feels worlds away, but is a hop, skip, and a jump from the Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga Lake, and downtown Saratoga Springs.

Formally Longfellows Hotel and Restaurant, this cherished Saratoga landmark has been reimagined with a $30 million renovation.

Brookmere presents itself as a calming retreat that blends contemporary elegance with the quiet beauty of its surroundings. Step inside, and you’re welcomed by a sunlit lobby where earthy tones, nature-inspired artwork, and custom furnishings set the stage for everything that follows. Built by Bonacio Construction and designed by the Atlanta-based Sims Patrick Studio, Brookmere feels both grand and grounded, a true reflection of its setting.

Here, weddings are not just events but experiences. With on-site catering, thoughtful service, and spaces that shift seamlessly from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Brookmere is a destination where love stories unfold with ease and elegance.

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Elegant Event Options The ideal event space exists as a beautiful blank canvas for what you want to create, said Brookmere’s Catering Sales Manager Aidan Garry, a 4th-generation hospitality professional whose meticulous attention to detail, proactive approach, and compassionate nature work together to coordinate the day you’ve been dreaming of.

Brookmere’s 4,000 sq. ft of event space includes the elegant Grand Ballroom (that can accommodate up to 210 guests or be divided) where golden feathers dangle from two branchlike chandeliers overhead. Inspired by the Brookmere mascot, an owl named Otis, this room is reflective of the serenity of the surrounding forests and wetlands, as well as the hotel’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices.

The Gallery and outdoor Courtyard (with its shaded seating and two gas fire tables, as well as its tenting capabilities) have been created with joyous cocktail hours in mind. Tucked away nearby, The Nest is a private room with blackout blinds where the couple can take a few moments to catch their breath during their event.

For those having an off-site ceremony, the Brookmere’s second entrance and plentiful parking make it easy to enter in style.

A Menu of Possibilities Exceptional dining awaits onsite at the Regent Restaurant and Bar where award-winning Executive Chef Chris Smith prepares Frenchinspired cuisine with regional flair. The dining room, which seats 65, and the Woodland, a private dining room that accommodates 16, offer ambiance and gourmet options that delight the senses.

Watching Chris plate a meal is like watching an artist paint a masterpiece, said Aidan. Choices abound with a curated menu of delicacies from the land, sea, air, and garden. In addition to plated and station dinner options, wedding packages can include cakecutting, brunch, late-night snacks, and an open bar - all created with a unique modern twist on global fare (while accommodating any special dietary requests).

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Relaxing By Design Restful nights come naturally at this serene retreat. Brookmere’s 88 guest rooms each come stocked with robes, slippers, espresso machines, and botanical Molten Brown toiletries. Two Presidential suites, featuring fireplaces and panoramic views, 15 loft suites with separate living rooms, and five ADA accessible rooms are among the accommodation options that ensure everyone in your party can gather comfortably.

This dog-friendly facility also offers exclusive amenities including an in-ground heated pool with ADA pool lift, a fitness studio, and an outdoor sauna. Feel rejuvenated after indulging in a visit to the Arbor Spa. This restful space, designed by Balzer & Tuck Architects, features three full salon stations, big, beautiful dressing rooms with full length mirrors, and four treatment rooms. Spa suites have a steam shower, an infinity bathtub and a private outdoor patio made for those special first look moments. Optional bridal packages will have you looking your best with a series of six facials, six months before the big day, and custom couples’ treatments ensure wellness bliss for both bride and groom.

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The Best Thing Being the new kid in town has its advantages, and one of the biggest is that prime dates are still available, said Aidan.

“Being so new, we’re really able to do just about anything and can treat each event like it’s special – because it is!”

Full wedding weekend packages that begin with the rehearsal dinner and conclude with a post-wedding brunch, glorious options, and attentive service look even better when you book in 2025 and receive a 50% discount off facility fees.

For more information, follow @HotelBrookmere on Facebook and Instagram, and visit www.hotelbrookmere.com

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A Good Read

Destination: Saratoga Springs

True Confessions Planning a Destination Wedding with My Future Mother-In-Law WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Jordan with her Mother and Father-in-Law

A Cross-Country Adventure to Shop Local from Out of Town Jordan Sandecki and Matthew Olivo met in 2023. By the end of the year, they’d booked their May 24th, 2025, wedding weekend across the country at The Gideon Putnam in Saratoga Springs.

This cross-country wedding adventure began when Jordan, who was living in Las Vegas, Nevada at the time, went to visit a friend in Seattle and met Matthew through an online dating app.

It was love at first sight. The second time Jordan met her mother-inlaw (MIL) Lorna, she booked her wedding venue. “Saratoga is a great place to get married. It’s a beautiful area with great accommodations, and you don’t have to go outside of Saratoga Springs very far to get everything you need. That’s what endeared me to it,” said Jordan.

Both Jordan and Matthew were previously married, so this Seattle couple knew having their wedding at a centrally-located venue would be the most convenient for family and friends to attend (the majority of which live within a few hours of each other on the East Coast).

“It’s a really hard balance. When you’re asking people to travel for your wedding, you have to make sure it’s worth it and that everyone is taken care of,” she said.

With help from Jordan’s future MIL, however, the many miles between this couple and their dream wedding weren’t enough to derail their plans.

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With Elegance and Grace While standing in the beautiful natural light beneath the vaulted ceiling of The Gideon Putnam’s timeless Arches room with Senior Catering Sales Manager Angela Byrne, Jordan and Matthew could easily imagine their outdoor summer wedding taking place here on the stone patio (framed by the hotel’s vintage archways). They booked a wedding for 100 guests. Just months before their big day, they halved the guest list to 50, but discovered they were able to work with local vendors to reappoint their budget. Their wedding went off without a hitch.

“Booking an all-in-one venue made planning a destination wedding way easier. You may pay a slightly higher premium up-front, but there’s less planning that you have to do, less worry, and less wear-and-tear, overall,” said Jordan.

Having a future MIL like Lorna also helps. When Matthew told his mother he was marrying Jordan (and she learned that both of Jordan’s parents have passed) Lorna said, “That’s ok, I’ll be standing in for both parents.”

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It’s Everybody’s Wedding While the couple was paying for the wedding and wanted to use it as a chance to do something big, they also wanted to keep costs down for those driving in from the tri-state area and flying into Albany International Airport from elsewhere in the country, said Jordan. The Gideon Putnam’s all-in-one approach made picking out the food, drinks, and linens a breeze. Because of its beautiful accommodations and convenient Saratoga Spa State Park location, guests were happy to spend the whole weekend there, from Friday night’s cocktail reception to Sunday’s brunch.

During the planning, the couple encouraged everyone to share their opinions about how the wedding would look and the theme became, “It’s Everybody’s Wedding,” said Jordan.

Lorna got to work finding local vendors. She picked up copies of Saratoga BRIDE magazine, attended two bridal expos, and mailed a box of promotional materials to Jordan. Lorna and her husband Phil were perfectly happy to taste samples from the fine Italian Dulce and Biscotti Bakery in Clifton Park, and store wedding décor in their basement, said Jordan.

Finding Serendipitous Serenity On her wedding day, Lorna presented Jordan with a hand-stitched handkerchief (her something borrowed and her something blue). She had also been the one who found Azazie, the website that allowed Jordan’s bridesmaids (who were traveling from South Carolina, Maryland, and Seattle) to select their dresses (and serendipitously settle on the same dark plum color) independently.

Clear communication is vital to planning a destination wedding, said Jordan. But managing excitement and expectations while ensuring everyone is on the same page can be tricky, even, at times, between Jordan and Lorna. “We have a great relationship and I know I can be honest with her, but because I’m new to the family, it’s hard to set true boundaries because I don’t want to be harsh,” said Jordan. With her vendors, however, Jordan said a bride has to be willing to say “no.”

“There is someone out there who will meet your expectations. Someone to fit your budget, vibe, and aesthetic.

You just have to do your research.”

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A Good Read

Father of the Bride

Father of the Bride WRITTEN BY JOHN REARDON | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Hello, my Foodie Friends!

My life is changing and there is no stopping it.

As we come closer to the wedding time of our daughter Aubrey, I reflect on my own emotions in getting ready to walk her down the aisle. Over the years, watching your daughter grow up and transition through milestones in her life can be bittersweet, especially with the momentous occasion of getting married. You are happy with their fresh opportunity to love, however, you recognize the changing seasons of being a parent especially as the father of the bride. The time has gone by so quickly from the moment Aubrey shared the excitement of her fiancé Eric proposing to her. The journey to the wedding day has involved my role as father of the bride in being a steady companion with venue selection, tastings, selecting the band, and tux fittings to help create the perfect day. During the hectic schedule, I have found myself trying to sneak in the small amount of time together in talking and enjoying our special bond. You see, Aubrey is my mini me and shares a love of old movies, rock ‘n roll and SNL type comedy.

There have been many times that I have tried to say something witty and funny at a party and I’ll hear one big laugh from my daughter, who then proceeds to enthusiastically translate my jokes to others. All her friends are now trained in the art of “understanding dad.”

The wedding is now days away and I reflect upon; what she will look like when I see her for the first time in her wedding dress, how I will feel walking down the aisle with her by my side, hearing her getting announced as Mrs. Aubrey Kate Cassidy, dancing with her during the father/daughter dance, and continuing to be a light and a guide through her life as she continues on her next chapter in life.

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One of our favorite movies of all time is “Father of the Bride” starring Steve Martin. For years, I could not sit through this movie without tears in my eyes. Despite its warmth and humor of this story of a loving father who didn’t want to face his daughter’s impending marriage, it hit a little too close to home while I’m anticipating the day I would need to let my little girl go. Recently, I watched it again through the lens of now truly being the Father of the Bride.

Amidst the final preparations, I am filled with love, and cherish the memories of me holding my little girl’s hand through each accomplishment and challenge with growing up. I am proud of the women she has become while I prepare to hand over my care as a father into the loving arms of her new partner. But I have to say, it is hard to let go. My emotions in preparation of the wedding, are a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between the two of us. I realize the wedding day will be filled with complex feelings, from pride and happiness, to nostalgia and protectiveness. Ultimately, as I will watch my daughter begin her new life with the love of her life, my heart will be bursting with pride and happiness, knowing that I have played a significant role in shaping the incredible person she has become. I’ll end this with a song lyric that I say to her quite often; “Look at the stars, Look how they shine for you And all the things that you do”

Remember my Foodie Friends, “Life Happens in the Kitchen.”

Take care, John Reardon (Father of the Bride)

Don’t tell anyone but I might have laughed …and cried.

The main character “George” from the movie, reminds me of my own thoughts of being a father and how precious the times with our children are, especially our daughters.

“You have a little girl, an adorable little girl who looks up to you and adores you in a way you could never have imagined. I remember how her little hand used to fit inside mine, how she used to love to sit on my lap and lean her head against my chest.

She said I was her hero. Then the day comes when she wants to get her ears pierced and wants you to drop her off a block before the movie theatre.

Next thing you know she’s wearing eye shadow and high heels. From that moment on you’re in a constant state of panic. You worry about her going out with the wrong kind of guys, the kind of guys who only want one thing, and you know exactly what that one thing is because it’s the same thing you wanted when you were their age.

Then she gets a little older and you quit worrying about her meeting the wrong guy, and you worry about her meeting the right guy. And that’s the biggest fear of all because then you lose her. And before you know it, you’re sitting all alone in a big empty house wearing rice on your tux wondering what happened to your life. It was just six months ago that it happened here. Just six months ago that the storm broke.” saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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A Good Read

Tips from a Pro

Avoid Fall Wedding

Planning PITFALLS

WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY SUSAN BLACKBURN

Fall is prime Wedding Season in Upstate New York?

It isn’t surprising because the foliage is colorful, the temperatures are often very pleasant, and the air is crisp and clear. However, a Fall wedding comes with some unique challenges that couples often don’t really think about ahead of time. As a Wedding Photographer for many years, I have pretty much seen it all. I love photographing Fall weddings, but you want to avoid Fall Wedding Planning Pitfalls.

The best Wedding Photos do not magically happen by accident. They are the product of careful planning and experience. Here are common mistakes I have seen couples make when planning a Fall wedding in Upstate NY...

1

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Not Accounting for the Earlier Sunset Time

Couples often plan late afternoon ceremonies because they want an evening candlelit reception. But many times, they do that without realizing how quickly it gets dark in September and October.

Easy Pivot: Recommend scheduling outdoor ceremonies earlier in the day (2–3pm). As a photographer, we are happy to offer a custom timeline that maximizes natural light for portraits, especially during the Golden Hour. Many clients prefer a First Look and doing their formal photos prior to the ceremony to maximize daylight.

Pro Tip: You can check the time of sunset here: www.timeanddate.com/sun/@5136335

The sun sets earlier in the Fall.

Many of our clients choose to do a First Look as well as all their photos before the Ceremony.

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2

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Ignoring Weather Volatility

While we all love Fall weather, don’t assume your Wedding Day will be “crisp and sunny.” You might wake up to frost or rain. Fall in Upstate NY can swing from 75°F and sunny to 40°F and drizzly. In short, weather in the Fall can be highly unpredictable.

Easy Pivot: We encourage clients to have contingencies in place: • A solid rain plan (especially for outdoor ceremonies).

• Accessories like clear umbrellas or shawls (also make for great photos!).

The weather in the Fall in Upstate NY can be unpredictable.

Be sure to plan ahead for any contingency.

• Indoor backup portrait locations.

Pro Tip: Talk with your venue in advance about how they handle inclement weather.

3

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Over-Relying on Peak Foliage Timing

Planning a wedding only around peak foliage week (usually early to mid-October) is unpredictable. Many factors have an impact on foliage.

Easy Pivot: Fall in Saratoga lasts for weeks — and we can highlight rich tones even before or after peak season.

We highly suggest choosing venues that look great year-round (like barns, stone buildings, or wineries).

Pro Tip: Include a distinct Fall color palette when choosing attire, florals and linens.

This was actually taken in mid September, before our “peak” foliage.

4

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Choosing Summer-Weight Attire

Bridesmaids in spaghetti straps and groomsmen in light suits — only to be freezing during portraits or the ceremony.

Easy Pivot: We recommend warm layers or seasonal fabrics (velvet, wool, long sleeves, shawls) for Bridal Party attire, especially later in the season. After all, comfort leads to better expressions in photos. No one looks great shivering!

Pro Tip: Your local bridal boutique or menswear shop can tell you all about Fall-friendly fashion options.

5

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Booking Vendors Too Late

Fall is just as popular if not more so, as summer now — but some couples still underestimate how fast venues and vendors book up.

Easy Pivot: We encourage booking your vendors at least 12-months out–especially the ones you are passionate about. Early booking ensures you are able to secure the vendors you really love.

Pro Tip: Most couples get engaged between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day and begin planning soon after. Do not procrastinate.

6

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Not Preparing for Guest Comfort

Outdoor cocktail hours or tent receptions with no heating or weather contingency.

Easy Pivot: We highly suggest an indoor venue for a Fall wedding. However, if your heart is set on a tented reception, we definitely suggest renting space heaters and offering blankets Pro Tip: Other ideas for guest comfort include hot cider stations or fire pits—they also make for great photos.

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7

Because lighting can sometimes be challenging with shorter daylight hours, we are sure to bring off camera strobe.

Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Underestimating Fall Lighting Challenges

Assuming Fall light is always perfect. Sorry, it is not.

Easy Pivot: As an experienced Wedding Photographer, I am very comfortable using all kinds of techniques for working in low light situations, including off camera strobe. However, nothing is a substitute for having adequate time to accomplish all the photos. Be sure to build in a buffer to your timeline!

Pro Tip: Make sure you communicate clearly to anyone you want for group photos the time and location where these photos are taking place.

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Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Forgetting About Local Fall Events & Tourism

Scheduling a wedding during major local events (like concerts, leaf peeping weekends, or Fall festivals) without accounting for traffic, hotel scarcity, and parking issues.

Easy Pivot: We encourage early hotel blocks and inform guests of any big local events, offer more than one lodging option just in case.

Pro Tip: Put together a short guide with tips on how to get around town like a local, for your out-of-town guests.

A Fall Wedding does not need a plethora of pumpkins or burlap.

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Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Going Overboard with ‘Fall’ Themes

Everyone loves rustic weddings. However, try not to overdo the pumpkins, burlap, or orange everything.

Easy Pivot: We love elegant, timeless Fall palettes — like burgundy, forest green, navy, rust. They photograph beautifully and will not look too trendy in photos. Subtle seasonal touches (dried florals, rich textures) also photograph well.

Pro Tip: Compare “trendy vs. timeless” Fall wedding aesthetics using real weddings on Pinterest. Decide what your style is in this regard.

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Fall Wedding Planning Pitfall: Not Having a Clear Photography Timeline Cramming everything into the day without enough of a time buffer.

Easy Pivot: A solid Wedding Day Timeline — especially for Fall, when light fades fast — is incredibly valuable in providing clients a stress-free Wedding Day. As experienced professionals, we know how long certain things take, and we usually always build in a “buffer.”

Pro Tip: Be sure to share your Wedding Day Timeline with all the key players so everyone knows where to be at what time.

A great Timeline will let you enjoy your Wedding day with minimal stress.

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Using these simple tips when planning your Fall wedding will ensure you have a stress-free and fun day! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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A Good Read

The Photo Booth!

COME WITH ME INTO THE

Photo Booth WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF OUTSIDE THE BOX PHOTOBOOTH

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There’s nothing quite like a photo booth. It’s a curiosity magnet, a novelty that invites people of all ages to capture spontaneous fun.

Photo booths are instantly rewarding, and today’s professional-quality photo strips and digital delights are produced within seconds. A casual portrait of the day, the prints find their way onto refrigerator doors, bulletin boards, and desks, becoming a time capsule that triggers a daily walk down memory lane.

With four unique booth options, Outside the Box Photobooth encourages everyone to enjoy the excitement of an engaging, interactive, entertainment experience.

“Even though we have cell phones with cameras, we’re at a time when we really don’t want to have them out all the time. It’s nice to put them down occasionally,” said Christina Primero. Since she launched Outside the Box Photobooth a decade ago, more couples have included photo booths at their special events with each passing year, she said.

Outside of the Box has built up a fleet of booths as unique as your wedding day.

Strike a pose with friends, loved ones, and colleagues in the Digital Booth and text, email, or airdrop the images. Upgrade to the 360-degree Video Photo Booth to capture the action in a vibrantly viewable way.

For a more traditional photo booth experience, hideaway in the mobile Pixel Wagon, a renovated 1974 horse trailer made for romantic interludes. Step into the Legacy Print Booth and soon you’ll be holding a 2”x 6” or 4” x 6” souvenir. For timeless treasured keepsakes, opt for the glamour of a black and white filter, a sophisticated lounge-like portrait studio set-up, and custom 5” x 7” and 6” x 6” prints.

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Express yourself by embracing the potential of props with Outside of the Box’s vast collection of backgrounds, hats, glasses, and signs (that are more sophisticated than silly).

Available in neutral tones, these props fit into all sorts of color schemes to match your theme. An attendant is on-site to set up, to keep the space tidy, and to navigate the technology for four hours of photo fun.

Confess your love, hopes, and dreams for the couple with a video guestbook, or ride the wave of sentimentality when you speak into a rotary phone to record an audio message.

“When you hear someone’s voice (but don’t see them) a different emotion is stirred up,” said Christina. Capturing emotion is at the core of Christina’s work, whether she’s providing a boutique experience behind the camera, shooting Super 8mm video, or documenting politics as Deputy Director of Media Services at the NYS Senate.

“Surprisingly, photographing for the legislature and for weddings and events, is very similar, I’m still looking for that emotion,” she said. “In politics, there are a lot of big personalities who are very passionate about their work, and I’m documenting that on a daily basis. At weddings, I’m still trying to capture that emotion, but the vibe is different. People are usually very happy and there’s a different level of excitement but in the grand scheme of things, my job is to make people feel relaxed, to be engaging, and to document what unfolds in front of me.”

Whether your wedding is a year out or a month away, inside or out, if you have an 8’x8’x8’ space and power hookups, you can get the party started with a photobooth when you visit outsidetheboxpb.com

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A Good Read

The Flowers!

Bloom

Top 10 Tips for

Fabulous Flowers

Where You Are WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER

PHOTOS PROVIDED (UNLESS NOTED)

C

ouples order flowers from Blooms Floral Design from all over the country. With online consultations, some may never make it into Suzanne Pillsworth Becker’s quaint shop in Greenwich, NY, where the delicate scent of flowers fills the air and portraits of beaming brides holding beautiful bouquets and grooms showing off their boutonnieres grace the walls, but they still know their flowers will be fabulous.

CLH Images Photography

Uniquely, at Blooms Floral Design, after booking their date, couples can schedule a preview session, where they can see samples of their bouquets and reception arrangements and ensure every bloom is just as they imagined.

“When I see a great big smile on a bride’s face, I know we got it spot on and perfect.”

Although pricing florals for 2026 and 2027 can be a bit tricky in today’s uncertain economic climate, professional florists are up for the challenge.

“Right now, floral pricing isn’t consistent. Even wholesalers aren’t sure how pricing is going to be affected a year from now, but we’re going to get you the best price we can. In the future, if we can’t get you a specific flower because of high tariffs, we’re going to find you a substitute with the same look and feel that’s within your price point,” she said.

Follow @BloomsFloralDesign on Facebook, and @BloomsWeddings on Instagram and Pinterest.

Find them online at bloomsfloraldesign.com

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CLH Images Photography

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DO NOT DIY! “If you’re fretting because you have to arrange your fresh florals the night before the wedding, you miss out on all that beautiful family and friend time. It adds on a whole other layer of stress,” said Suzanne Pillsworth Becker, owner of Blooms Floral Design.

Personalized Perfection With a wedding-only florist like Blooms Floral Design, you have a team focused solely on you, from the design to the delivery. Susanne’s team of women (and sometimes even her husband, Eric is recruited to help with rentals!) work hard to ensure every blossom looks its best.

Share the Wealth Talk to your florist about what you want.

Pinterest boards ensure visually, you’re on the same page. It’s also an easy way for the florist to help you identify similar blooms and design styles that are available at your price point.

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Match the Centerpiece Budget to the Price Per Plate Cost After 30+ years of experience, Suzanne has developed an easy formula to help couples wrap their head around developing a floral budget. Whatever you’re paying per plate for dinner is what you should budget for your floral centerpieces, advices Suzanne. If you’re paying $250 per person for dinner, estimate $250 for a table arrangement that will strike the perfect tone. *Check out Blooms FAQ page for more budget tips.

Celebrities Set the Trends When the Kardashians had twin arbors, suddenly, everyone wanted them. When people watched Twilight’s woodland wedding, scores of dreamy, ethereal weddings followed. Now, Taylor Swift’s flower-filled engagement photos are sparking excitement for the romantic fairytale garden-themed weddings that are sure to come.

Bring on the Teardrops The classic romance of the teardrop bouquet is again a bridal favorite. More compact than the larger handtied cascading arrangements that have been popular for years, the structured silhouette is flattering against many gown styles and completely customizable.

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Rob Spring Photography

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Welcome the Warmth Joyful and refined, blooms with a touch of blush, and buttery yellows feel fresh and modern when tucked among a sea of white. Weddings showcasing full floral colors are also coming back into fashion. All flowers are available in a variety of sizes, colors, and price points, Alaskan-grown peonies (in the off season) and garden roses are still making a statement at all sorts of ceremonies.

Think Outside the Bouquet More couples are setting the mood with floral installations in unexpected places. Why not greet guests with a personalized flower box welcome sign? Floral seating chart walls (filled with bud vases serving as chair cards) gets guests in on the action.

Putting florals on display under creative glass cloche covers make each bud feel fascinatingly fragile.

Rob Spring Photography

Rob Spring Photography

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Tracey Buyce Photography

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So Sustainable Reusable silk rental arrangements can sometimes stretch a budget and still provide that WOW factor. Faux florals look and feel like the real thing. (Some shops rent everything from ceremony arrangements to personnel flowers, so ask how inserting rentals could work for you!)

Sola wood flowers look jaunty and jovial in any color or season, and filler greenery like cedar, add loads of eco-friendly texture and movement year-round.

Preservation Nation It used to be every bride wanted ivy because it can be rooted after and live on, said Suzanne. Today, brides are now mailing off their flowers to be preserved. Finding a great photographer to capture your flowers beautifully is also key, she said. With lists of recommended vendors, florists like Blooms Floral Design, can help you find the ones that are right for you.

“Your flowers are going to be in your photos and videos and be seen for generations to come,” said Suzanne. “Long after your food and drinks are finished, your flowers will continue setting the mood of the day, and making you feel the warmth of the love shared. Flowers really do live forever.”

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HONEY Honeymoon Planning

Ideas & Advice

at Home America’s Dreamiest Getaways for Newlyweds WRITTEN BY STACIE BAXTER, HEBER TRAVEL | PHOTOS PROVIDED

After the excitement (and exhaustion) of wedding planning, your honeymoon should be all about you; relaxing, reconnecting, and celebrating your new life together. But here’s a secret: you don’t have to hop on a long-haul flight to find romance, adventure, and luxury. The United States is home to some of the world’s most enchanting honeymoon destinations, offering everything from wine country bliss to sun-soaked islands and mountain hideaways. Ready to fall in love all over again? Check out these swoon-worthy U.S. escapes for your first adventure as newlyweds.

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MOON Napa Valley, 1 California Sip, Savor, and Celebrate Together

As Pink would say “Raise a glass” to your future in California’s legendary wine country. Napa Valley is the ultimate destination for couples who want to indulge in life’s finer things. Picture yourselves wandering through sun-drenched vineyards, sampling world-class wines, and sharing gourmet farm-to-table meals at cozy bistros. Book a sunrise hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views—and a moment you’ll remember forever. After a day of exploring, unwind with a couple’s massage at a luxury spa resort, then snuggle up by the fire in your private suite.

Napa’s blend of romance, relaxation, and culinary delights make it a honeymooner’s paradise.

Bonus Tip: Many wineries offer private tastings and picnic experiences just for couples—perfect for a little extra romance.

2nd Bonus Tip: Western New York is another great area for wine tastings!

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Charleston, South Carolina 2 Southern Charm for Sweethearts

Step into a world where history meets hospitality. Charleston’s pastel mansions, cobblestone streets, and secret gardens set the scene for an utterly romantic getaway. Start your days with a stroll along the Battery or hand-in-hand through Waterfront Park. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, explore centuries-old plantations, and discover hidden courtyards perfect for a quiet moment together. As the sun sets, treat yourselves to a candlelit dinner at one of Charleston’s award-winning restaurants—think fresh-caught seafood, southern classics, and decadent desserts.

Don’t forget to sneak away to the beaches of nearby Kiawah Island or Folly Beach for a day of sand, surf, and sweet nothings.

Bonus Tip: Book a stay at a historic inn or boutique hotel for an extra dose of Charleston charm.

3 Jackson Hole, Wyoming Adventure for Two

If you and your partner crave adventure, Jackson Hole is your honeymoon playground.

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Grand Tetons, this mountain town offers endless opportunities for outdoor thrills. In summer, hike scenic trails, go horseback riding, or take a wildlife safari to spot bison, elk, and maybe even a bear (from a safe distance!). Winter transforms Jackson Hole into a snowy wonderland—perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snuggling up in a cozy cabin. After a day of exploring, soak in a private hot tub with mountain views and toast to your next big adventure together.

Bonus Tip: Plan a day trip to Yellowstone National Park for geysers, waterfalls, and unforgettable photo ops.

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Florida Keys 4

Island Time, Newlywed Style

Craving sun, sea, and laid-back luxury? The Florida Keys deliver all the tropical vibes of the Caribbean—no passport required. Spend your days snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, kayaking through mangrove forests, or exploring quirky Key West with its pastel houses and lively art scene. Rent bikes to discover hidden beaches or charter a private sailboat for a sunset cruise (champagne highly recommended!). When evening falls, savor fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant and watch the sky turn every shade of pink and gold. The Keys are all about slowing down, soaking up the moment, and letting your worries drift away on the ocean breeze.

Bonus Tip: Try a slice of authentic Key lime pie—trust us, it tastes even better after a day in the sun.

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New England Coast 5 Cozy, Classic Romance

If windswept beaches, charming villages, and lobster dinners sound like your kind of honeymoon, New England is calling your names. Explore the timeless beauty of Cape Cod’s sandy dunes, bike along Martha’s Vineyard’s scenic paths, or take a whale-watching cruise from Bar Harbor.

Stay in a historic inn or seaside B&B, where mornings begin with homemade pastries and evenings end with crackling fireplaces. Wander through art galleries, browse local shops, and share a lobster roll (or two!) with a view of the Atlantic. New England’s blend of coastal charm and cozy intimacy is perfect for couples who want to slow down and savor every newlywed moment.

Bonus Tip: Visit in the fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds, or in the summer for classic beach town fun.

• Honeymoon Tips for Just-Married Bliss Treat Yourselves: Book that luxury suite, indulge in a couples’ massage, and say YES! to room service - this is your time!

Make Memories: Try something new together, whether it’s a cooking class, a sunset cruise, or a scenic hike.

Unplug: Turn off your phones, set your out-of-office, and focus on each other.

The world can wait.

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Final Thought:

No matter which destination you choose, your honeymoon is about celebrating the beginning of your greatest adventure—together. Whether you’re sipping wine in Napa, chasing sunsets in the Keys, or cozying up in New England, the best memories are made side by side. Here’s to love, laughter, and a honeymoon you’ll never forget—right here at home.

For more information and to book any of these destinations and more check out www.hebertravel.com/honeymoonathome

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Real

BRIDES See Our Love Story on page...

86

SEE BRYANNA + JOHN'S WEDDING PHOTO BY BRYER PHOTOGRAPHY

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Amanda & Brandon

Page 62

Amanda & Michael

Page 94

Anna & Ethan

Page 66

Audrey & James

Page 54

Bryanna & John

Page 86

Caroline & Jack

Page 50

Hannah & Owen

Page 82

Katie & Mark

Page 90

Lauren & CJ

Page 74

Maria & Kurtis

Page 58

Rachel & Tristan

Page 46

Schyler & Nicholas

Page 78

Stephanie & Josh

Page 70

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Rachel Tristan MAY 10 • FRANKLIN PLAZA PHOTOGRAPHER: THE ONE ELEVEN COLLECTIVE

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Something Bleu Bridal •

Our Story Even though we attended the same high school, we first met at a country concert at SPAC when we were16 years old, and it didn’t take long for us to realize there was something truly special between us. From the very beginning, our connection felt easy, and growing up side by side only deepened the bond we shared.

As the years went on, we moved in together and built our little family, adopting two cats and a dog, creating a life in the very town we grew up in. Every chapter of our journey has been filled with love, laughter, and the kind of everyday moments that made us certain we had found our forever.

When it came time to propose, it felt only right to bring our story full circle. Saratoga Spa State Park - the very place where we first met - became the backdrop for one of the most special moments of our lives.

Planning our wedding was an adventure of its own. We visited countless venues, dreaming about what our big day could look like, and ultimately chose Franklin Plaza in Troy. We wanted our wedding to feel effortlessly romantic and timeless. On our wedding day, surrounded by family and friends, we celebrated not only the love we had built but also the journey that brought us there. It was, without question, the best day of our lives!

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION Franklin Plaza

MAKEUP Carina Scott

CAKE Oh Sugar Bakery

PHOTOGRAPHER The One Eleven Collective

GROOM'S ATTIRE Tuxego

DJ OR BAND Experience DJs

WEDDING GOWN Something Bleu Bridal

RINGS Her Rock and Brilliant Earth

FIRST DANCE "Unchained Melody"

AFTER PARTY DRESS Rockabella Boutique

WEDDING PLANNER Sophia Fusco, Franklin Plaza

HONEYMOON Mallorca, Spain

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Birdy Grey

FLOWERS Farmhouse Floral Design

REHEARSAL DINNER Brown's Brewing Company's Taproom and Brewery The Malt Room

HAIR Amber Philbin 48 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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Caroline Jack JUNE 28 • THE ADELPHI HOTEL CAITEE SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• The Adelphi Hotel •

Our Story Jack and I met on a hot July evening on the roof of the Saratoga City Tavern, shortly after pandemic restrictions were lifted, while meeting some mutual friends for drinks. It turned into one of the most fun nights of our lives, and Jack asked me on a date soon after. Our first date was at Hamlet & Ghost, and we quickly became an important part of each other's lives.

We moved into a downtown Saratoga Springs apartment early in our relationship, developing our favorite routines of walking around town, often bumping into friends and family, grabbing coffee, a sweet treat, or a drink when the mood struck. We love the quiet mornings, the lively nights, and how each day in Saratoga can be whatever we make of it. This town is home to both of our families, as well as the network of friends and community we've built together.

We wanted our wedding guests to experience Saratoga through our eyes, making The Adelphi the perfect venue right at the heart of it all. We chose June when the days are long, the energy of summer anticipation is everywhere, and the city is in tip top shape to welcome racetrack tourists. Others might favor bustling track season or the quiet of fall, but for us, June captures the perfect mix of vibrancy and charm!

Throughout planning, we playfully updated Saratoga's motto to "Health, History, Horses & Hogans" as a little nod to the city that brought us together and inspired our wedding weekend. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION The Adelphi Hotel

MAKEUP Yeliza Garcia

ICE CREAM CART Stewart's Shops

PHOTOGRAPHER Caitee Smith Photography

GROOM'S ATTIRE Jos A. Bank

CIGARS James & Sons Tobacconists

WEDDING GOWN Kim Kassas - purchased at Bridal Reflections

RINGS deJonghe Original Jewelry

DJ OR BAND Soul Session

FLOWERS Surroundings Floral Studio

FIRST DANCE "Stumblin' In"

CAKE The Adelphi Hotel

HONEYMOON Paris and Nice, France

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Show Me Your Mumu HAIR Alexandria's Beauty Salon

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• SPECIAL TOUCHES • REHEARSAL DINNER/ WELCOME PARTY The 408 Event & Occasion Our wedding was filled with little personal details from our personalized mini bottles of Tabasco (our favorite) accompanying hors d'oeuvres, to personal letters to each guest, to our favorite flavors of Stewart's Ice Cream (Peanut Butter Pandemonium is the best!) for dessert! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Audrey James AUGUST 31 • THE CROOKED LAKE HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHER: ANGELA MIA

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• The Crooked Lake House •

Our Story Love is Dynamic. Hard work at times and flowing effortlessly at others.

Audrey and I grew up in the same city, blocks away. Our families knew each other well, but we hadn’t met until we started working together in 2018.

There were immediate sparks. We fell in love quickly, bonding over similarities and balanced by our differences. Four years later in 2022, we got engaged on a beautiful beach on our annual vacation.

We agreed that there was no better place to get married than where we fell in love; the historic Crooked Lake House in Averill Park, NY. As we approached our wedding, Audrey was getting sicker. Eight days before our date, she needed to go to the ER. Life can change in an instant and it did. She was facing an emergency surgery and a diagnosis no one could prepare for. Stage IV colon cancer. We knew we had a long road ahead and with such devastating news, we decided to postpone our wedding until we could enjoy our special day together.

The next 14 months were intense. Audrey was declared cancer free for a few months, but it came back quickly. Both of us realized that the "perfect time" would never come to reschedule.

There is no time like the present and when she felt well enough, we decided to finally do it!

Our wedding was magical and left both of us in awe. I waited two years to see Audrey in her dress, and it was one of, if not the most amazing moment, in my life. My dance with my mother is second on that list if I had to categorize. Everything fell into place: the weather, the aesthetic and the ambiance. The staff was so accommodating, the food was amazing, the music appealed to everyone at different times. Crooked Lake and this incredible venue situated on it is truly beautiful and a vessel of history kept in its glory.

We are so appreciative of all the hard work and attention to detail that went in to our wedding, it is almost bringing me to tears writing this right now. Love is a choice, it is eternal if you let it be. I love Audrey with all my heart and soul, and we hope people can learn from us. Every moment is precious and sometimes it takes something tragic to truly realize that. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION The Crooked Lake House

by Daley Hospitality Group PHOTOGRAPHER Angela Mia

WEDDING PLANNER Kate Mace EVENT DECORATOR Kate Mace & Lisa Walsh, White Lotus

WEDDING GOWN David's Bridal

FLOWERS Forts Ferry Farm and Old Tavern Farm

HAIR Johanna Nemeth

RENTALS Tuscan tables from Total Events

GROOM'S ATTIRE J.Crew

Blush Matte Satin Table linens from Tablecloths for Granted

RINGS Glennpeter Jewelers

STATIONERY SUITE Amanda DeSalvatore and Faye Jones

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CATERER Old Daley Custom Catering Edible Uprising “Farm-to-Table” Produce CAKE Cake Street Sweets DJ OR BAND Conway Entertainment FIRST DANCE "Die with a Smile" by Lady Gaga/Bruno Mars HONEYMOON TBA

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• SPECIAL TOUCHES • REHEARSAL DINNER: Daley's on Crooked Lake Angela Mia knows Audrey and gave her photography as a gift as did our own Gina Lincoln.

Flowers were done as a family affair: Custom bridal bouquet and corsages by Johanna Nemeth (MOG cousin), Table florals by Faye Jones, Olivia Pettit and Audrey's nieces and nephews

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • As you navigate the many decisions to create the perfect wedding don't lose sight of what this event is really about - the celebration of your love for one another with your family and friends as witness - nothing else matters. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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SEPTEMBER 27 • THE BARN AT LORD HOWE VALLEY ROB SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY

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Maria Kurtis

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• The Barn at Lord Howe Valley •

Our Story Kurtis and I met in 2017 via a dating app. Kurtis had moved to the United States from Wales to coach soccer. At the time, I was still in college. What I thought would be a fun coffee date with a man with a nice accent, turned into finding the love of my life!

After almost six years of dating Kurtis proposed. He enlisted the help of one of my best friends, who also happens to be a photographer, to arrange a fake photo shoot with me in a picturesque park near Kurtis' host family's house. (When Kurtis moved to the US the soccer club he worked for set him up with a host family to live with. They quickly became family, with Jodi, Kurtis’ U.S mom eventually officiating our wedding ceremony!) After the proposal, Kurtis had planned a stay in a tiny house on a farm for us to spend the night just him and I, which was perfect, as our work schedules often made us ships that passed in the night.

When it came time to plan our wedding, we instantly fell in love with the BLH. Not only was it a venue I had never worked at before (as a wedding planner) but Kurtis was very excited for his international guests to experience the beauty of the Adirondacks! For our rehearsal dinner & welcome party, we choose The 408 Event & Occasion. I was so excited to show off the beautiful space that I manage, as well as give all our out-of-town guests an opportunity to explore Saratoga Springs.

Our wedding day was truly the best day of our lives! The weather was perfect, our vision came together, we had SO MUCH FUN, and above all, it was amazing to have all our family and friends together in one room, something we know will never happen again due to many of Kurtis’ family and friends living overseas.

We now live in my childhood home with our puppy Bernie and are looking forward to the years of marriage ahead! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION The Barn at Lord Howe Valley

MAKEUP True Beauty

CAKE Family Friend

PHOTOGRAPHER Rob Spring Photography

GROOM'S ATTIRE Elle’s Bridal

VIDEOGRAPHER Pretty Films - Drew Kambeitz

RINGS Glennpeter Jewelers

PARTY FAVORS Potted houseplants grown by the Bride!

WEDDING GOWN Ferri Formal

WEDDING PLANNER Bisou Weddings & Events

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Azazie

FLOWERS Mandy Springs Nursery

HAIR Alisha Marie

CATERER 2Shea Catering

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TRANSPORTATION S & L Journey’s DJ OR BAND Music Man Entertainment FIRST DANCE "Stand By Me" by Sklyar Gray

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• SPECIAL TOUCHES • REHEARSAL DINNER & WELCOME PARTY The 408 Event & Occasion As a houseplant enthusiast, I decided to use potted houseplants as part of our table centerpieces instead of flowers. I grew them all myself in the months leading up to the wedding. Guests were able to take them home at the end of the night as favors.

Each one of the groomsmen had socks that represented their country of origin.

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • When your wedding weekend arrives just let go and have as much fun as possible!

Trust in all of the planning that you did, go with the flow, and soak up every moment.

You don’t get this day back! Also - private vows are amazing! You are able to truly be in the moment with your partner without any distractions from their words.

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Amanda Brandon OCTOBER 2 • THE MANSION OF SARATOGA SUSAN BLACKBURN PHOTOGRAPHY

62 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• The Mansion of Saratoga •

Our Story Brandon and I met while working on a surgical unit of a hospital. We started off as best friends, talking all the time, picking up the same shifts so we could work together. It wasn’t until a particularly difficult shift during the height of the pandemic that I realized just how important he was to me. He walked into the break room and for the first time that day, I felt at peace. Devastated when he had to leave, I texted him that night asking if we could get married. I’m sure he took it as a joke since our communication was mostly playful banter, but I truly wasn’t kidding. He came over that night, and we’ve been happily together since.

Four years later, we found ourselves standing in a room filled with everyone that we love, including our two dogs, as we said our wedding vows. It was the absolute best day of our lives. I am a very particular person, I’ve even had the term neurotic tossed in there a few times; so, for me to able to say that the whole experience was as perfect as I could’ve ever imagined, speaks volumes. I have actual pictures from that day that I thought could only exist in my mind. I am truly blessed to have such beautiful memories from such an important day in our lives, and I owe my gratitude to my family, friends, and every vendor that we worked with to make that possible.

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION The Mansion of Saratoga

RINGS Diamonds USA

CATERER Chef Rick Bieber

PHOTOGRAPHER Susan Blackburn Photography

OFFICIANT Rev. Joy Burke

CAKE Chef Rick Bieber

WEDDING GOWN Custom gown

EVENT DECORATOR Total Events

TRANSPORTATION Premiere Transportation

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Birdy Grey

FLOWERS The Posie Peddler

DJ OR BAND Saratoga Sound

HAIR & MAKEUP Seraphina Divine Beauty

RENTALS Made You Look Backdrops

FIRST DANCE "The Luckiest" by Ben Folds

GROOM'S ATTIRE Amityville Men’s Shop

STATIONERY SUITE The Mansion of Saratoga

HONEYMOON Greece

64 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • Every single vendor that worked with us was absolutely incredible!

I would like to especially thank Lori, Rachel, and Sarah of The Mansion of Saratoga for working so closely with us to make our wedding day so beautiful.

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re trying to narrow down the details of your wedding. My advice is to pick a venue that speaks to YOU, make YOUR mental image of the day come to life, wear what makes YOU feel beautiful, and invite the people that YOU want to celebrate your beautiful day with.

More often than not, others can have plenty of opinions on how your day is supposed to play out.

Let your day be everything that you and your partner want it to be, unapologetically. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Anna Ethan OCTOBER 5 • BROOKLEDGE JENN MATCHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

66 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Brookledge •

Our Story Ethan and I both attended Le Moyne College from 2015-2016 - my freshman year, his sophomore year. During my freshman orientation, I quickly made friends with Hannah; a girl sitting nearby, (who is now one of my besties and a bridesmaid!). Later that day, while Hannah, my mom, and I were eating lunch in Le Moyne's dining hall, Ethan approached our table. He and Hannah had grown up together, but without that context, I was a bit taken aback when - with a crazed look in his eyes - he shouted, "WHERE DID YOU GET THAT PASTA SALAD?!" I found myself thinking that he was brave, and, quite frankly, a little crazy. From then on, he became affectionately known as the "Crazy Pasta Salad Kid." As the school year went on, I continued to bump into the Crazy Pasta Salad Kid around campus. But it wasn't until that summer, after the school year ended, that we really got to know each other... and I realized I really liked him.

Despite these feelings, Ethan and I went our separate ways after I transferred to Messiah College for the 20162017 academic year. Then, in May of 2020, we saw each other in person for the first time in years.

We have been inseparable ever since - dating long distance for a couple years between Owego, Carlisle, PA, and Baltimore, MD. We finally moved in together (Syracuse, NY) in September of 2022! After two years there, we relocated to the Saratoga Springs area to kick off married life!

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• DETAILS • LOCATION Brookledge

HAIR & MAKEUP Make Me Fab

BARTENDERS Mixaritas

PHOTOGRAPHER Jenn Matcham Photography

GROOM'S ATTIRE Etsy

CAKE We had s'mores instead!

VIDEOGRAPHER Kara McDuffee

RINGS Brilliant Earth

PARTY FAVORS To-go bags for s'mores

WEDDING GOWN Stella York 7675 purchased at NY Bride & Co

FLOWERS The Posie Peddler

DJ OR BAND Jake Allen

STATIONERY SUITE Designed by the Bride

FIRST DANCE "Until I Found You"

CATERER Bernie's Blue Line BBQ

HONEYMOON Barbados (Sandals Resort)

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Azazie, Revelry & Etsy

68 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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• SPECIAL TOUCHES • For the first six months of marriage, we had the rare and magical opportunity to live right at our wedding venue!

After leaving Syracuse, NY—where we lived before getting married—I started a new job and we relocated to the Saratoga Springs area. With no housing lined up, Helen Lavigne, the owner of Brookledge, generously offered us the men’s getting-ready cabin (Noble House) as our temporary home.

Living on the property was truly special. Every day we were surrounded by its beauty, and it deepened our connection to such a meaningful place. While we’ve since moved out to make room for the busy wedding season, Brookledge will always feel like a part of our story.

Our season at Brookledge was more than just a place to stay—it became a reminder of who we are together. Ethan and I often reference “the kite and the line,” he is the kite, I am the line. Without the kite, I would never leave the ground, and without the line, he would always have his head up in the clouds.

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Delegate like your sanity depends on it (because it does). Give trusted friends or family members specific tasks so you can focus on enjoying the day. And don't lose sight of what comes after the wedding day! You're going to invest so much time into wedding planning, but make sure you invest even more time in preparing for the marriage. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Stephanie Josh OCTOBER 5 • THE INN AT ERLOWEST CLH IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY

70 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Make Me Fab •

Our Story In December 2017, Josh and Stephanie matched on the dating app Hinge after she saw a photo on his profile from a 2017 Rugged Maniac mud run, which she had done in 2016. After a week of messaging, he asked her out.

In 2018 on Valentine’s Day, Stephanie picked Josh up after work, where he gave her a chocolate rose. At dinner, she unknowingly asked when they would become official, missing the note on the rose asking her to be his girlfriend.

In August 2020, after two and a half years of a long-distance relationship, they moved into an apartment in Wayne, NJ, and soon after adopted their orange tabby, Nacho.

Their 2-year anniversary trip to Nashville, TN was delayed by Covid. In May 2022, during their long-awaited trip, Josh proposed at Centennial Park after a kind stranger took pictures of them in front of the Parthenon.

In May 2024 Josh and Stephanie purchased their perfect starter condo in West Milford, NJ. Since 2006, Stephanie's family has gone camping every summer on an island on Lake George. Her father always said "if a boyfriend were to come he would be in his own tent, on his own island with no boat." In 2018, her family welcomed Josh to join their annual trip. Knowing how much Stephanie loves Lake George, her father suggested getting married there. Ultimately, The Inn at the Erlowest would be the perfect place in Lake George for their happily ever after. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION The Inn at Erlowest Ceremony: North Pointe Reception: Grand Ballroom PHOTOGRAPHER CLH Images Photography VIDEOGRAPHER Vibe With Me Videography WEDDING GOWN Kleinfeld Bridal BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Bella Bridesmaids HAIR & MAKEUP Make Me Fab

72 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

GROOM'S ATTIRE Classic Tuxedo

CATERER The Inn at Erlowest

RINGS Jenti Jewelers

CAKE The Inn at Erlowest

WEDDING PLANNER The Inn at Erlowest - Jaimee Kranz

PARTY FAVORS S'mores

FLOWERS Blooms Floral Design

PHOTOBOOTH CLH Images Photography

STATIONERY SUITE Stephanie Ringel Designs and More Than Paper

DJ OR BAND DJ Non Stop Music

CONTENT CREATOR Lisa Stramiello

FIRST DANCE "In Case You Didn't Know"

by Brett Young

LIVE WEDDING PAINTER Hannah Williams Art

HONEYMOON Scotland saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • REHEARSAL DINNER Mama Riso's in Lake George Josh's uncle, Rabbi Arthur Nemitoff, officiated the wedding ceremony.

Stephanie (graphic designer) designed the wedding invitation stationery suite with the assistance of her mother's first cousin (More Than Paper).

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Always remember that the wedding day is about YOU, the bride and groom.

You cannot please all of your family and friends, so make decisions based on what will make you happy on your special day!

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Lauren CJ OCTOBER 6 • GABLES & GARDENS WEDDING AND EVENT BARN SUSAN BLACKBURN PHOTOGRAPHY

74 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Susan Blackburn Photography •

Our Story CJ and I met while I was studying at Nazareth College in Rochester, NY. I was working for campus security one night when he and a friend stopped to ask me for directions to one of the dorms. I pointed out the dorm was right in front of them and we went our separate ways. Two seconds later, I hear a truck stop and turn to see CJ stumbling out of it. He told me he'd regret not asking out "the prettiest girl" he'd ever seen.

CJ is in the Army and currently stationed at Fort Drum and although both of our schedules can be demanding, we made it work. After two years of dating, he proposed in front of a waterfall the summer before he left on deployment. In very "me-like" fashion, I fell on my butt in shock!

We had our wedding in Granville, NY since I grew up in Queensbury and we loved driving through Lake George to see me family. The first venue I visited, Gables & Gardens Wedding and Event Barn, was absolutely perfect for the rustic country wedding we wanted.

Our wedding day was straight out of a fairytale, and we are so grateful for all our vendors for helping create such a perfect day. We were both so thankful to spend our special day surrounded by our family and friends whom we love very much.

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION Gables & Gardens Wedding and Event Barn PHOTOGRAPHER Susan Blackburn Photography WEDDING GOWN Eternity Bridal & Boutique BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Amazon HAIR Hair by Rachel

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MAKEUP Carina Scott Makeup

CATERER Cambridge House Catering

GROOM'S ATTIRE Tuxedo Junction

DESERTS Cambridge House Catering

RINGS Kay Jewelers

DJ OR BAND All We Know is Epic

WEDDING PLANNER Leoni Smith

FIRST DANCE "You and Me" by Lifehouse

EVENT DECORATOR Mandy's Spring Nursery

HONEYMOON Switzerland

FLOWERS Mandy's Spring Nursery

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • My engagement ring has a celtic knot on either side of the band (I'm Irish) CJ wore a small picture of his late mother inside his suit jacket I did a special dance with my grandfather

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Enjoy the day! It goes by so fast.

Remember that the whole day is about you and the love of your life!

Try to take a moment for just the two of you.

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Schyler Nicholas

OCTOBER 11 • MOUNTAIN TOP RESORT ANNE MIENTKA PHOTOGRAPHY

78 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Lily Saratoga •

Our Story Funny enough, Nick and I were set up by our moms who have known each other for over thirty years. We went on a blind date in April 2017 and clicked instantly. After dinner, we drove around in Nick's car listening to music to extend our time together that night. A few years later, we moved into our first apartment together and then purchased our first home in 2022. We added to the craziness by bringing home our Golden Retriever puppy a week after closing on our house.

After close to six years of dating, Nick proposed on a pier overlooking Lake Champlain in Burlington, Vermont. He coordinated having a photographer there to capture the special moment which was amazing.

When choosing a venue, we knew we wanted to get married in Vermont since it was now such a special place to us after Nick's proposal. Nick stumbled upon Mountain Top Resort about two hours from home and we instantly fell in love with the stunning views and overall beauty of the property. We also loved that all our guests could stay on the property.

We had a stunning, crisp fall day. The mountains were at peak foliage and gave us the most beautiful backdrop for our outdoor ceremony. Our reception was the ultimate dance party, disco balls and all! We wish we could relive our wedding day over and over again …even as we approach our one-year anniversary!

We couldn't have asked for a better team of vendors to bring our vision to life!

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION Mountain Top Resort

SPRAY TAN Mobile Tans by Steph

CATERER Mountain Top Resort

PHOTOGRAPHER Anne Mientka Photography

GROOM'S ATTIRE Mr. Formal Wear

CAKE Golden Boy Baker (my husband!)

VIDEOGRAPHER Gifford Videography

RINGS

ADDITIONAL DESSERTS Sweet Vermont Treats

WEDDING GOWN Jenny Yoo & Martina Liana - purchased at Lily Saratoga BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Jenny Yoo - purchased at Styled by Lily Saratoga

Engagement Ring: James Allen Wedding Bands: Ferris Jewelry EVENT DECORATOR Meadow’s Edge Floral Design FLOWERS Meadow’s Edge Floral Design

HAIR Hillary Fay Studios

LINENS The Linen Shop VT

MAKEUP Dérive Esthetics & Makeup

STATIONERY SUITE Julia Murphy Design Co.

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PHOTOBOOTH The Modern Photobooth Company DJ OR BAND Erin Whin, Experience DJs FIRST DANCE "You Make My Dreams" Hall & Oats Cover by Billie Marten HONEYMOON Italy & Croatia

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • Our wedding cake was made by my husband which was a really special touch! We also included our golden retriever in our ceremony and took pictures with him afterwards. He was the best boy!

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • As stressful as it can be, enjoy every minute of wedding planning.

It's all worth it seeing your dream day come to life!

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Hannah Owen

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OCTOBER 20 • FORT WILLIAM HENRY HOTEL MELISSA SEABURY PHOTOGRAPHY

82 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Fort William Henry Hotel •

Our Story Owen and I met at my first post graduate job, working in a lab for a pharmaceutical company. We sat right next to each other, and Owen was assigned as my trainer. At first, I thought he was too serious and reserved, but over time he revealed how patient, kind and reliable he was. We ended up working weekends together fairly often, and I asked for his number "in case of emergencies".

We both fell head over heels very quickly, and after three years of dating we decided to move back to the Capitol Region to be closer to my family. We had discussed marriage many times and knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together. One morning, Owen asked me to get ready for a surprise, and brought me to a jeweler to pick out an engagement (and wedding) ring. It was perfect.

I always knew I wanted to get married in the Adirondacks, as it was so close to home yet so beautiful. Owen's family has always loved trips up to Lake George and the mountains, so the Fort William Henry was the perfect choice. The Carriage House has the perfect view of the lake, and the fall foliage made it that much more beautiful.

We were incredibly blessed to have gorgeous weather and an amazing team of vendors working with us on our wedding day. We truly could not have asked for a more perfect day.

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION Fort William Henry Hotel

GROOM'S ATTIRE Danielle's Bridal

CATERER Fort William Henry Hotel

PHOTOGRAPHER Melissa Seabury Photography

RINGS Lewis Jewelers

CAKE Cake by Alissa

WEDDING GOWN Danielle's Bridal

WEDDING PLANNER Dawn Bennett

Cheesecakes: Denise Poulin

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Birdy Grey

EVENT DECORATOR Keilana MacNeil

HAIR Trista Perkins

FLOWERS A Lasting Impression Florist

MAKEUP Serene Beauty

Sola Wood Flowers

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DJ OR BAND AllStar Weddings FIRST DANCE "Grow as We Go" by Ben Platt HONEYMOON Cape Cod, Massachusetts

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Cherish every moment, from wedding planning to the last dance. Every bride I know says she wishes she could relive it all!

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Bryanna John OCTOBER 26, • THE SARATOGA HILTON BRYER PHOTOGRAPHY

86 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• Styled by Lily Saratoga •

Our Story In April of 2020, John and I connected on Facebook dating. We both had been doing online dating for a while and happened to stumble across one another’s profile. We chatted for a bit, but it wasn’t until after a FOUR HOUR (!!) Facetime call that we decided it was time to meet. He was working nights at the time, and I am a teacher, so it was hard to figure out a time to get together. We finally made a plan to meet at BPW Restaurant. It was a wonderful first date and it felt like we had known each other for years. We continued to spend as much time together as we could!

Fast forward three years, John surprised me on Christmas Eve at our home with an engagement proposal.

He had both our families waiting to celebrate together. It was a magical night! We planned our wedding in just 10 months, and it was the best night of our lives.

People are still talking about how much fun it was! From the food to the music to the energy - it was a wedding for the books!

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS • LOCATION The Saratoga Hilton

RINGS Lily and David

PHOTOGRAPHER Bryer Photography

WEDDING PLANNER Matthew Shelton and Misty Garafalo

VIDEOGRAPHER Eunoia Visuals

EVENT DECORATOR Matthew Shelton and Misty Garafalo

WEDDING GOWN Lily Saratoga

FLOWERS Doug Fleischut and student @ WSWHE Boces

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Styled by Lily Saratoga HAIR Danielle Fitzgerald & Gwen at Stella’s Salon GROOM'S ATTIRE Mr. Formal Wear

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RENTALS Lit Drapery: All Occasions Display STATIONERY SUITE The Saratoga Hilton CATERER The Saratoga Hilton

CAKE Erica Hickey with Desserts Gunnardoga Sweets & Eats PARTY FAVORS Dog Customized Coozies from Etsy TRANSPORTATION Durrin Transportation DJ OR BAND DJ Caroline, Upbeat Occasions FIRST DANCE "Unchained Melody"

by Mike Yung HONEYMOON Excellence El Carmen, Dominican Republic

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • REHEARSAL DINNER Augies Family Style Italian Restaurant and Bar Love is prompts... by bride’s fourth grade students Engagement Photos by Ruth Thivierge Photography were displayed on hanging racks Bride DIYed everything!

Bride’s Uncle was the Officiant

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Enjoy every second and try not to sweat the small stuff. Take a minute to stop and look around the room.

Take in all of your loved ones being in one place and remember that memory forever!

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Katie Mark OCTOBER 26 • THE QUEENSBURY HOTEL JUSTIN TIBBITTS PHOTOGRAPHY

90 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• The Queensbury Hotel •

Our Story Katie and Mark met in May of 2021 as many do in today’s age...online. Little did they know they were talking to each other from the same floor just two doors away in the same apartment building! After realizing the funny connection and rather surprising twist, they began dating shortly afterward.

The couple are both local to the Glens Falls/ Hudson Falls area and spent a lot of time on magical dates downtown in Glens Falls at local restaurants, visiting Lake George for mini golf, or soaking up their favorite season (Autumn) in nearby Washington County apple picking!

After a year of dating, Mark and Katie moved in together (it was a short two door move down the hall!) and Mark proposed in August of 2023 in downtown Glens Falls in front of the gazebo in City Park.

When deciding on a wedding location and venue, the couple wanted to honor their love story and their roots.

They decided to get married (down the street from their apartment) and where Mark proposed, in downtown Glens Falls at The Queensbury Hotel.

The wedding could not have been a more picture perfect fall day! The couple is extremely thankful to The Queensbury Hotel and all their vendors. It was a beautiful moment being able to celebrate their love with their friends and family by their sides!

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

LOCATION The Queensbury Hotel

MAKEUP Carina Scott Makeup

CATERER The Queensbury Hotel

PHOTOGRAPHER Justin Tibbitts Photography

GROOM'S ATTIRE Jos A. Bank

CAKE Flour Child Bakery

WEDDING GOWN Madi Lane - purchased at Something Bleu Bridal

RINGS Northeastern Fine Jewelry

PARTY FAVORS Etsy

WEDDING PLANNER Alexis Colucci / Bruce Curtis

DJ OR BAND The Accents

EVENT DECORATOR Made You Look Backdrops

FIRST DANCE "Can't Help Falling in Love"

by Elvis Presley

SHOES Badgley Mischka BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES Azazie HAIR Vicky Jackson

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FLOWERS A Touch of an Angel Florist STATIONERY SUITE The Knot

HONEYMOON Sandals Ochi Rios Jamaica

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Take a moment for just the two of you to soak in the magic of the day!

Whether that is a private first look, vow exchange, or just a moment alone at your venue!

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • Katie and Mark both love vinyl records, they incorporated that love into their guest book and party favors. The guest book signed by their family and friends was a vinyl record featuring their first dance song "Can't Help Falling in Love"

by Elvis Presley. In addition, their party favors were mini "vinyl record" bottle openers with their wedding date and color on the front!

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Amanda Michael

DECEMBER 7 THE 408 EVENT & OCCASION / VAPOR NIGHT CLUB PHOTOGRAPHER: JORDAN KEYSER

94 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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This Real Bride Brought to You By…

• The 408 Event & Occasion •

Our Story Mike and I had known each other for years before we started seeing each other. I had seen him playing baseball and asked a friend about him but he was seeing someone at the time. I ended up getting into a long relationship so we just didn’t connect upon officially meeting, but about 7-8 years later our paths aligned and the rest is history. We fell hard for each other right away. I guess the universe is always on time.

We’ve been together for about 14 years and have welcomed two kids: 12-year-old Lily & 4-year-old Mo. We truly are best friends. Soulmates. All that. Marriage was something we always said we didn’t need because we were happy the way things were. Then Christmas Eve 2021 he proposed. I was literally shocked and speechless. I don’t think I spoke for like 60 seconds I just cried, ha. We clearly do things in a non-traditional way.

Downtown Saratoga was where it all started for us so it just felt right to get married there. The 408 Event & Occasion was the perfect location being right in the heart of town and brought the romantic vibes I was looking for. We wanted the ceremony to be intimate. I’m sure none of our guests were surprised we chose Vapor Night Club as our reception venue. We’re fun! Our friends and family are fun! Meant to be. Our original wedding date was set for Best Friend’s Day June 6, 2024 but then The Belmont was announced. *insert a lot of tears* but our venues graciously agreed to reschedule and we ended up having the most vibey winter wedding. Truly the universe aligning again to create the most magical and epic day ever. We had the best time with our family and friends.

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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• DETAILS •

CEREMONY The 408 Event & Occasion RECEPTION Vapor Night Club PHOTOGRAPHER Jordan Keyser VIDEOGRAPHER Reilly Balcolm

96 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

WEDDING GOWN Custom Lis Simon - purchased at Angela’s Bridal HAIR & MAKEUP Courtney Vogel GROOM'S ATTIRE Mr. Formal Wear

PHOTOBOOTH Lovestream DJ OR BAND DJ King Bully FIRST DANCE "Our Song" by Elton John

EVENT DECORATOR Maria Savino, The 408 Event & Occasion

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• SPECIAL TOUCHES • My favorite part of the day was that our daughter, Lily and our son, Mo were our Maid of Honor and Best Man. It was so special to see their excitement & share the whole experience with them.

• ADVICE TO PASS ALONG • Plan a day that will keep you as stress free as possible, even if it’s not traditional. Our ceremony was small and intimate but our reception was a big party. We don’t love cake, so we skipped it and went for a champagne tower instead. We kept it simple and true to who we are.

I loved that for us.

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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One Last Thing...

Save the Date!

Exhibits, Events & Expos Galore!

A Sampling of the Upcoming Wedding Shows and Why Saratoga BRIDE says…

Save THE Date!

WRITTEN BY MARIA ISELE | IMAGES FROM THEIR INSTAGRAM FEED

Capital Region’s Premier Wedding Show The name of this showcase comes as no surprise, as it’s become known as the “#1 must-attend wedding event in the Capital Region”!

Set to take place in early February, registration is completely free online and upon registering, couples are entered into a $1,000 Gift Certificate Giveaway, available for use with any exhibitor at the show (!!). Located at the Saratoga Springs City Center and hosted by The Daily Gazette, brides and grooms-to-be are treated to food, beer, wine and cake sampling! This opportunity is a huge step in planning and highly recommended by us at Saratoga BRIDE. Instagram: @cap_region_wedding_show

Wedding Expo at the Albany Marriott We’re elated to state that 518 EXPOS has partnered with Saratoga BRIDE to promote all their shows! The Wedding Expo at the Albany Marriott Hotel, occurring in early January, is a spectacular event featuring the opportunity to explore over 100 Exhibits with wedding professionals to obtain ideas and inspiration for any couple’s dream wedding. In addition, attendees can speak with wedding mavens throughout the event who are open to answering questions, offering suggestions and advice, as well as setting appointments for more in-depth conversations! Those looking for fashion inspo for their special day can explore all the latest styles and trends of wedding attire that the event has to offer.

Aside from all the informative options, entry includes a SWAG BAG for all attendees, containing take-aways and samples to enjoy at home. On top of that, feel free to have a fun picture taken of you and your other half in one of the photo booths!

This expo has become extremely popular in the wedding community, as their endless options for aiding couples lost in the wedding-planning process have proven this show to be extremely useful in alleviating the stress that comes with planning. Saratoga BRIDE loves that! Instagram: @518expos 98 | SARATOGA BRIDE | FALL/WINTER 2025

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So, you’re getting married Congratulations!

You and your partner are preparing to embark on the journey of spending the rest of your life together, but once the ring is on your finger, what comes next? Where do you start with planning? When is the date of the wedding?

Where will the event take place? These are all questions that every couple planning their big day struggles to answer. This next step in your life is exciting and thrilling, but can also be stressful, overwhelming and without proper guidance… financially draining.

This piece of the puzzle is where Wedding Shows and Expos come in! These beautifully orchestrated showcases give brides and grooms-to-be the opportunity to participate in venue walkthroughs, indulge in food and beverage tasting, view the latest styles and trends in wedding attire, and more. Several of these upcoming wedding showcases in the Capital Region have been recognized by Saratoga BRIDE magazine as unrivaled to others in the area, but what makes them so special? Each showcase displays their own unique features that sets them apart from the rest and makes them especially worth attending.

Now, without further ado, let's dive into the top Wedding Expos in the Capital Region of 2026, and why we at Saratoga BRIDE have fallen in love with each!

The Lake George Wedding Show The Lake George Wedding Show located at the Fort William Henry Hotel in Lake George, NY, is perfect for those planning a scenic wedding with the ease of everything happening under one roof! Plus, the gorgeous views of Lake George are all included - at no extra cost - year-round! (Saratoga BRIDE loves that!) However, it’s not only the year-round beauty that allows this show to make the list. This Boutique Showcase allows attendees to tour the gorgeous Lake George venue and meet with industry professionals to expand the imagination of your dream wedding and turn it into reality. Those who pre-register for the show are automatically entered into a raffle for a one-night stay, dinner, and breakfast for two(!!). This limited-time offer has a $500 value! Instagram: @fwhweddings Weddings are meant to be a time of celebration and love - not stress and anxiety - and wedding shows (along with Saratoga BRIDE, in print and online!) enable you to ease into wedding planning. So, to all the Brides and Grooms-to-be out there…

SAVE THE DATE for all these Can’t-Miss Wedding Shows! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

FALL/WINTER 2025 | SARATOGA BRIDE | 99