Storybook Weddings in the Hudson Valley

Storybook

Weddings begin in the Hudson Valley

T

he Hudson Valley is renowned for its natural beauty, welcoming innkeepers, and fresh, local foods, wines and flowers. It’s no surprise that couples create weddings full of historic romance and magnificent ambience in an environment replete with majestic vistas and famed celebration venues.

photo: Roy Gumpel

brought to you by

VISITvortex

1850’s House

T

he reception venues we’ve chosen are diverse for pleasing individual tastes—from a vintage historic church for both ceremony and reception in a quaint village to the gala scenario of waterfronts and mountain vistas. Most venues are set up to have both ceremony and reception in one convenient location.

And—besides offering some great “go to” places that are sure to turn your wedding festivities into the most memorable and fabulous day of your lives—we’ve also come up with an inspirational list on some out-of-the box ceremonial locations to add new heights to saying “I Do!” Like a hot air balloon, perhaps?

Ashokan Dreams

Wedding Venues

photographer’s dream—the pictorials captured at this location provide the most incredible memories a couple could desire. 111 High Point Mountain Road, West Shokan. 845-657-2312; ashokandreams.com

1850 House Inn and Tavern

Bearsville Theater

in Ulster County

Blue Willow B&B

A fabulous, newly renovated historic boutique hotel that’s the optimum “go-to” destination that complements and harmonizes overnight stays for newlyweds and their guests with many of the wedding venues in the Hudson Valley. Plus the traditionally restored tavern, an exquisitely embellished lounge area, and a quiet reading room, overlooking the pleasantry of the Rondout Creek, are enhancements offered to all guests. Also offers intimate outdoor receptions on the D&H Canal’s historic berme in the outdoor gardens. 1850 House is located within a quaint village replete with superb eateries, an historic one-screen movie theater, and an eclectic array of boutiques for shopping enjoyment during your stay. Convenient transportation with 23 buses a day from Manhattan. 435 Main Street, Rosendale. 845-658-7800; toll-free 855-658-1850; the1850house.com

Ashokan Dreams

A rustic converted barn rich with history and bed-and-breakfast charm offering breathtaking vistas of the Catskills, the Ashokan Reservoir, and the Berkshires. The 30 acres within the heart of the Forest Preserve afford a most unique wedding experience for both the couple and their guests. A

Legendary among theatergoers and artists alike, Woodstock’s Bearsville Theater is an amazing venue with a touch of rock & roll nostalgia. The Bear Cafe, with its award winning cuisine, is the exclusive caterer for the Theater and can accommodate events from 75 to 250 people. bearsvilletheater.com; bearcafe.com

Belltower

An historic Gothic-style brick building, once a Reformed Church built in 1896, has been transformed into a vintage venue for magical weddings featuring an astounding antique wood staged pulpit. With its 20-foot high vaulted tin ceilings and natural light soaring through a huge leaded front window your cherished day will be filled with elegance and warmth in a magnificent atmosphere that accommodates up to 120 guests for spectacular receptions. The experienced staff will connect couples with the best vendors for food, beverages and music that are perfectly suited for personalized visions and budgets. 398 Main Street, Rosendale. 845658-8077/917-294-9532; belltowervenue.com

Belltower

Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa

A totally restored 1750 stone home providing a peaceful getaway with the historic and renowned ambiance of the quaint village of Stone Ridge. Located near an historic church and many Valley wedding venues makes it the perfect place to stay for that special out-of-town wedding. Rent a suite or the entire house for the wedding party to rest in luxury, elegance and convenience. 3772 Route 209, Stone Ridge. 845-389-1844; bluewillowgetaways.com

WEDDINGS

Blue Willow

Celebration Wedding Chapel

This gorgeous 4,000-square-foot, 150-year-old former Methodist church is now a nondenominational chapel. It was restored over a six-year period specifically for the day that same-sex marriages became a right for New York couples. The chapel has 300 chairs, 12 large round tables, an original working wooden pipe organ, and a sound system, which resounds with pride from the 40-foot vaulted ceilings. Receptions can be held in Cornell Park across the street from the venue or on the chapel’s grounds under the Bluestone Arch in a 2,000-square-foot reception room. 29 Wurts Street, Kingston. info@celebrationweddingchapel.com; celebrationweddingchapel.com

Emerson Resort & Spa

Opulence at its finest—acknowledged to be a hidden gem and the crown jewel of Catskill Mountain resorts surrounded by natural beauty and mountain landscapes.

Whether indoors at the rustic Catamount Restaurant or the spectacular Great Room, with its floor to ceiling windows and massive stone fireplace, or outside under the Waterside Pavilion with panoramic mountain views and the soothing babble of the Esopus Creek—you’ll be assured of a stunning site and the signature service of an experienced wedding planner. 5340 Route 28, Mt. Tremper.

845-688-2828; emersonresort.com

Celebration Wedding Chapel

Bearsville Theater

visitvortex.com

Offers a day to remember complete with the elegance of the natural beauty of a 70-acre Hudson River estate. A wedding within exquisite gardens, flowering terraces, wildflower fields, winding trails, brooks, ponds, waterfalls, and spectacular river views will make desires and dreams into memories. Award-winning catering, privacy, and exclusivity in a stay in the Grand Laurel wedding suite or the four carriage house suites—plus spa amenities add icing to that wedding cake and experience. 220 North Road, Milton. 845-795-1310; buttermilkfallsinn.com

Buttermilk Falls Inn

3

Hoffman House

Go back in time to the 17th century in this once-private house and now National Historic Landmark for a fantasy wedding. Built prior to October 1679 this beautiful stone structure was a look-out for the British during the Revolution and survived through the burning of Kingston, New York’s first capital. This American Dutch rubble house features a fireplace in each of the main rooms; many small multi-level rooms; and wide-planked, random width floors throughout where intimate weddings transform into grandeur.

94 N. Front Street, Kingston. 845-338-2626; hoffmanhousetavern.com

Mohonk Mountain House

A Victorian castle on beautiful Lake Mohonk is the perfect backdrop for an unparalleled wedding. Whether outside arriving in a picturesque horse and carriage to the elegant sounds of string quartet with award-winning gardens as your backdrop or indoors in a late 19th-century parlor overlooking exquisite cliffs and a pristine lake—the experienced wedding staff will help with all the special touches from photography and flowers to music and gourmet menus. Choose from four wedding genres: American Gothic, Edwardian Splendor, Victorian Memories, or Wedding Tapestry; each elegantly created to perfection. 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz. 845-256-2053; mohonk.com

Onteora Mountain House

This 75-year-old Adirondack-style house is a renowned location for destination weddings in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills. It’s a one-stop venue that’s been acclaimed in Modern Bride magazine for its magnificent offerings. Exchange vows on the 90-foot deck as you gaze over the Esopus Valley; enjoy cocktails and appetizers on the terrace; and dine and dance in the new 3,600-square-foot timber pavilion. Whether you choose a Saturday wedding for an entire weekend or a Sunday affair—the entire house is yours and your guests’ for an unforgettable memory. May thru October. 96 Piney Point Road, Boiceville. 845-657-6233; onteora.com

Shadow Lawn

Situated at the crest of the famed High Falls waterfalls, the six-acre property with its expansive lawns and mature plantings provides a verdant backdrop

for outdoor receptions. The main floor of the 18th-century Dutch stone house lends a formal note while the restored 19th-century barn gives an unpretentious country feel without sacrificing elegance. Many personalized options from a tented outdoor wedding or a barn wedding night-lit by tiki torches and the glow of the festive paper lanterns and vintage twinkle lights.

2233 Lucas Turnpike High Falls, 845-687-2302; shadowlawnny.com

Hoffman House

The Kaaterskill

With sweeping views of the Catskill Mountains and over 40 acres of breathtaking scenery surrounded by spectacular mountain vistas, acres of wooded and pastoral land, age-old trees and beautiful footpaths that wind along lazy rivers—this is an amazing location for a country wedding. Enjoy a beautiful red barn with hardwood floors and five barn doors that open up to views of the pond and mountains, allowing guests to enjoy the property’s natural beauty and sunsets as they dance all night. 424 High Falls Road Extension, Catskill. 518-678-0026; thekaaterskill.com

Emerson Resort

The Inn at Stone Ridge

Specializes in custom weddings in a restored 18th-century Dutch Colonial Mansion set on 150 acres of lawns, gardens, orchards, rolling fields and untouched woods. Outdoor affairs take place under a party tent beneath a towering spruce and hemlocks behind a “Gatsby-esque” 1920 pool.

Coupled with the stone mansion and the beauty of the natural landscape one gets a feeling of a movie-set wedding. From small, intimate indoor nuptials to large, this venue has an event coordinator who can help you plan the wedding you envision. 3805 Route 209, Stone Ridge. 845-687-0736; innatstoneridge.com

The Stone House B&B

Set your wedding dramatics at a stunning 300-year-old Dutch estate on the banks of the Esopus Creek. Wedding ceremonies are welcome at a wooded arbor overlooking the water or in the historic home’s large front parlor with 18th-century wide-plank floors, beams and fireplace. Stunningly surrounded by two acres of gardens and four acres of woodlands. Small intimate receptions of up to 30 guests are also welcomed. 476 Old Route 209, Hurley. 845-339-4041; hurleystonehouse.com

Bearsville Theater

f

Onteora Mnt House

TuthillHouse

TuthillHouse at the Mill

A ceremony or reception on the banks of the Shawangunk Kill, surrounded by century-old milling history from 1788 is a most astoundingly gorgeous place to say “I Do” with beautiful views of the river and the sounds of flowing water providing a tranquil backdrop to your day. A specialized events team helps arrange it all with superior service and amenities. Also a spectacular location for a rehearsal dinner. 20 Gristmill Lane, Gardiner. 845-255-4151; tuthillhouse.com

Wedding Venues Mohonk Mountain House

Shadowlawn

Beekman Arms

in Dutchess County

America’s oldest operating inn offers grandeur and opulence for a memorable wedding saturated in history. The sister inn, The Delamater Inn, is just a block away and both inns offer not only an incredibly grand site for your wedding, but also a luxurious location for your guests to stay. Route 9, Rhinebeck. 845-876-7077; beekmandelamaterinn.com; The.Tavern.

At.The.Beekman.Arms@gmail.com

Belvedere Mansion

Weddings at this venue are called Civilized Country Elegant, whether you’re exchanging vows in the formal English garden or in the gazebo at the pond. This is an unforgettable place to start your married life. You’ll get elegance as the aesthetic complimented by warmth and intimacy.

Experienced wedding planner to cater to every personalized need.10 Olde Route 9, Staatsburg. 845-889-8000; belvederemansion.com

Locust Grove Historic Estate

Belvedere Mansion

ruly an unforgettable setting for a wedding with buildings and gardens overlooking the Hudson River, combining the charm of the 19th century with the comfort of the 21st. The West Gallery, located in the Arts & Crafts style Museum Pavilion, offers a unique setting where guests can enjoy cocktails on the covered terrace and shaded courtyard, then dine and dance in an elegant gallery with hardwood floors, a cathedral ceiling, and

three walls of windows that provide access to the estate’s 200 acres of gardens and grounds. Accommodates between 75 and 150 guests for dinner and dancing, while the adjacent Garden Lawn may also be rented for a ceremony overlooking the perennial gardens. 2683 South Road, Poughkeepsie. 845-454-4500 x21; lgny.org

The Grandview

Grandeur and elegance on the banks of the Hudson River at a family oriented, family run specialty wedding venue. A storybook life awaits any couple who chooses the blissful beginning this location provides.

From the magical waterfront panorama to the elegant amenities.

Perfectly customized luxury in every sense of the word. 176 Rinaldi Boulevard, Poughkeepsie. 845-486-4700; grandviewevents.com

The Greenhouse at Rhinebeck

This beautifully restored 200-year old post and beam two-tier barn offers a flexible event space for up to 75 guests, located on the former Pitcher Anemone farm, just minutes from the center of the charming village of Rhinebeck. Additional space for tented events of almost any size is available. The Green House also provides gorgeous floral arrangements for your event. Recite your vows inside the rustic barn or at a perfect pondside site—a favorite for nuptials. 41 Pitcher Road, Rhinebeck. 845-876-3974; thegreenhouseatrhinebeck.com

The Rhinecliff

A dream wedding is one with views of the majestic Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains as a backdrop—precisely what this venue offers and what a couple desires. Dating from 1854, when it served as a rooming house, this boutique country hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Outdoor patios and gardens for cocktail hour and accommodations for most sized weddings. Arrangements for flowers, specialty rental equipment, linens, invitations and photography can help take off wedding-day stress. 4 Grinnell Street, Rhinecliff. 845-876-0590; therhinecliff.com

WhistleWood Farm

1850’s House Locust Grove

With its country charm and warm atmosphere this wedding spot is perfect for a very unpretentious, informal yet sophisticated and unique setting. With the privacy of acres of rolling land with views of grazing horses and seasonally blooming flower gardens, it’s a perfect pastoral setting to enhance the ambiance of this most memorable occasion. 52 Pells Road, Rhinebeck. 845-876-6838; whistlewood.com

Wilderstein Historic Site

Perfect historic and romantic enchantment at an estate that’s high above the Hudson River. Choose an outdoor setting anywhere on a picturesque 40-acre landscape, including two gazebos and an expansive lawn with spectacular views of the Esopus. 330 Morton Road, Rhinebeck. 845-876-4818; wilderstein.org

Ashokan Dreams Greenhouse at Rhinebeck

Turning Vows into Wows Out-of-the Box Settings

Some may think you’re a bit daffy—but, heck, it’s your wedding!

VISITvortex has comprised a stimulating list of unconventional locations and themes for the bride and groom with atypical imagination and vision. Many of these sites aren’t only for memorable ceremonies—some also offer reception venue services. Give them a call to discover what else they offer for a change-up on the conventional.

Barns and Farms

Most any barn or farm would make a perfect site for a rustic wedding. Below are just a few that are already prepared to handle a wedding.

Hera’s Farms

An 1830 country farmhouse and barns on 16 acres with breathtaking

Bearsville Theater

Wilderstein

Grandview by Diane Stredicke

Whistlewood Farm

1850’s House

The Kaaterskill by Hillary Harvey

Beekman Arms

i The Rhinecliff Hotel

Liberty View Farm

mountain views, pastures, orchard, ponds, streams and waterfalls. Your nuptials can be held pondside or in the orchard circle. Up to 125 guests.145 Cold Brook Road, Bearsville.

845-679-4439

Grasmere Farm

The perfect setting for a rustic, yet elegant wedding ceremony. This secluded estate location offers the charm of a stone barn and carriage house surrounded by ponds and acres of wildflowers, pastures and greenery. (To note: Chelsea Clinton had her rehearsal dinner at this former Livingston family estate.) Rhinebeck, grasmerefarm.com

Liberty View Farm

Grasmere by Terrapin

Fulfilling your vision of a country wedding theme is always a personalized and unique experience at this wedding venue – whether informal or a gala with grace and elegance. It’s a sustainable way to a most special day that offers “natural” decorations of a country farm setting. And…the couple and guests have private access to the orchard, edible landscapes and flower gardens throughout the property. Although you can extend your stay in a vintage farm house—your wedding is a three day event connecting you with family and friends on a much deeper level. On Friday you can add some theme decorations with friends and family – have a rehearsal in the late afternoon and then a rehearsal dinner right on the farm. Saturday is Wedding Day! And Sunday is a country brunch with your guests who can help pack decorations and gifts afterward. 340 Crescent Avenue, Highland; 845-399-9545; libertyviewfarm.biz.

Beaches

Kingston Point Beach

Say “I do” from dawn ‘til dusk under a pavilion, barefoot on the sand, or launch your boat or kayak for a wedding vow water experience.

Beautiful views of the banks of the Hudson River.

Delaware Avenue, Kingston. 845-334-3987; kingston-ny.gov

Saugerties Village Beach

A destination wedding close to home! If a waterfront, barefoot nuptial ceremony is high on your list, this year-round beach location may be the perfect place. Offers a swimming dock in the Esopus Creek, kayak/boat launch for an onthe-water ceremony, and restroom facilities. No permit needed. South Partition Street, Saugerties.

845-246-2321

Cave Ceremony

The Widow Jane Mine at the Snyder Estate This is a most bright idea! Getting married amid the flickering glow of countless candles! Once a room and pillar cement mine this location provides the perfect acoustics for a cello to accompany the bride’s entrance, as well as a most unusual and serene place to say “I do.”

668 Route 213, Rosendale. 845-658-9900; centuryhouse.org

River Cruises

The Rip Van Winkle Cruise

If a water-wedding experience floats your boat,

Hudson Valley Cruises has just the boat to make your dream into a reality. Whether a day or night cruise, this 125-foot long, dual deck cruise vessel is an exceptional way to start wedded life as it provides an intimate and relaxing ride along the Hudson River before any forthcoming activities, such as a reception or honeymoon. The cruises operate in spring, summer and fall, with each season exhibiting a variety of nature’s colors and vistas with sunset cruises being particularly luminous. Departs from Rondout Landing in Kingston.

845-340-4700; hudsonrivercruises.com

The Sloop Clearwater

A customized three-hour sail will turn your wedding vows into wedding WOWs as your private charter sails along the mighty Hudson River.

Invite up to 50 guests including the officiant for the treat of a lifetime, offering great photo ops, super fun, and incredible vistas. Sure to be a unique and memorable experience. Get your online 2013 application in as soon as possible.

Kingston. 845-265-8080 x7107; clearwater.org

Historic Settings

Historic Mansions on the Hudson

Start off your married life at one of myriad Hudson River estates with beautiful vistas of the river and Catskill Mountains. Try the Clermont Estate, Germantown; Wilderstein, Rhinebeck; Montgomery Place, Red Hook; Mills Mansion, Staatsburgh; and several others. Search for Historic Hudson River Valley Mansions for complete information.

Montgomery Place by Terrapin

The Senate House

The intimate grounds of the Senate House State Historic Site is filled with the historic flair of New York’s first capital. Say “I do” amid spring’s flower gardens or under the portico surrounded by mature trees.

Simple, sublime and sophisticated—a perfect location for a picturesque nuptial.

296 Fair Street, Kingston. 845-338-2786; senatehousekingston.org

In The Sky

Above the Clouds, Inc.

Saugerties Lighthouse

Aerodrome

Imagine a traditional champagne hot air balloon flight for the ultimate nuptial experience. Experience unforgettable sensations and sights as you float over rolling green hills, small towns and lush farmland. After the flight a bottle of champagne will be opened in old French tradition for a celebratory toast. And, all morning flights include a complimentary breakfast! Each passenger goes home with a keepsake photo and memories that last a lifetime. Choose from a short or 45-minute sunrise or sunset flight. From May to the end of November.

Middletown. 845-692-2556; abovethecloudsinc.com

Blue Sky Hot Air Balloons Hot Air Balloon Ride

Up, up, and away among the clouds for unforgettable airborne vows. The one-hour

flight meanders wherever the wind takes you—with views of farms, valleys, mansions and mountain houses such as Mohonk. Plus an awe-inspiring panorama of the Catskill and Shawangunk mountain ranges and, at times, Bear Mountain. Flights take off just after sunrise or sunset. Up to five people can share the experience. Sprout Creek Farm, 34 Lauer Road, Poughkeepsie.

845-831-6917; blueskyballoons.com

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome

A very unique and fun location for your wedding. The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a true “living” museum of antique aviation.

They present one of the largest collections of early aeroplanes in the world, many of which regularly take to the air in all their glory. In addition to the airshows, the Aerodrome can host private events. Ask about having a biplane ride over the scenic Hudson River Valley as part of your event! oldrhinebeck.org

Lighthouse

Saugerties Lighthouse

Imagine stepping back in time to recite your vows on the deck of an 1869 landmark beacon in the middle of the Hudson River?

Couldn’t be more unique and picturesque!

Also accommodates small weddings of up to 30 guests. 845-247-0656; saugertieslighthouse.com

Also check with the many other lighhouses along the hudson. Here's a link with contacts: www.visitvortex.com/magazine/Hudson-RiverLighthouses

Parks

Opus 40

This National Historical Site would be a most memorable and unique location to hold a nuptial. Once an abandoned quarry, the 70+ acres was transformed into a monumental bluestone sculpture, known as Opus 40, by Harvey Fite. The extraordinary landscape was laid by hand from millions of pieces of indigenous bluestone to create a labyrinthine world of finely fitted stone, swirling with ramps and terraces constructed around pools and trees and fountains and rising out of bedrock a half mile deep. Opens Memorial Day Weekend.

50 Fite Road, Saugerties. 845-246-8584; opus40.org

Seamans Park

A year-round, beautifully landscaped and hilly park that outshines itself in early October with an incredible variety and quantity of chrysanthemums and art displays. Choosing a location for your ceremony within acreage offers many options—from gazebos to a white chapel-like archway with benches at the end of a stone bridal walk that’s sheer perfection.

And, if you’re into a winter-wonderland setting (and can bear the cold), the park becomes a dazzling array of lights during the holiday

season. Saugerties. 845-246-2919; village. saugerties.ny

Poets Walk

It’s been said that this 120-acre park continues to cast a romantic spell as it once inspired 19th-century writers with its magnificent views. Hence, it’s a superb landscape for a wedding ceremony with many rustic gazebos, meadow trails and overwhelming views of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River. The trail following an old farm road leads one to a stone bridge over a dramatic ravine that could be just the place to start a marriage. However, wherever you decide to recite your vows you’ll be sure it’ll be stimulating and sentimental.

Open year round. Red Hook. 845-473-4440; scenichudson.org/parks/poetswalk

Railway Weddings

Catskill Mountain Railroad

The Esopus Scenic Train provides a ride that’ll rival any other unique nuptial ceremony. The five-mile round trip between Mt. Tremper and Boiceville provides a wonderful 45-minute excursion along the Esopus Creek, famed for its scenic beauty—including bald eagles, great blue herons, hawks, deer and other wildlife.

Shorter Kingston Shuttles also available.

Charter rides only on non-scheduled operating days May 1 through November 15. For group charter information contact Coordinator Pat Smalley at 845-889-4242 or email charters@ catskillmtrailroad.com. 5408 Route 28, Mt. Tremper. catskillmtrailroad.com

Catskill Mntn Railroad

The Trolley Museum of NY

If you’re really into something unparalleled a trolley ride would be a real hoot and a real TOOT! The historic Johnstown Trolley Car # 358 makes a very dramatic entrance with bells ringing and whistles blowing. There are several options for this fantastic trolley excursion—even one that involves a sunset!

The April through November jaunts require a minimum of 25 adults for this fantastic 45-minute trip that offers uniqueness and fantastic photo ops. Off-season contact can be made by calling TMNY Board President Jon McGrew at 914-388-4439 or emailing president@tmny.org. 89 East Strand, Kingston.

845-331-3399; tmny.org

Wineries

New York’s wine production began in the 17th century with Dutch and Huguenot plantings in the Hudson Valley/Catskills region, making it one of America’s most historic viticulture areas. Both Ulster and Dutchess county offer many wineries to hold unforgettable ceremonies and receptions, such as Stoutridge, in Marlboro; West Park Winery in West Park; Cascade Mountain Winery in Amenia; Clinton Vineyards; Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville; Millbrook Vineyards & Winery; Benmarl Vineyards in Marlboro; and many others.

Opus 40

Poets Walk

Some Helpful TIPS for Planning a Seamless Wedding:

choosing a florist

WildFlowers

Greenhouse at Rhinebeck

• First decide if you want a florist or a floral designer. A floral designer is an intermediary expert who works with a florist. They’re artists who may integrate the floral designs with other aspects of the wedding’s theme and design.

On the other hand, a skillful florist can certainly create expert arrangements and may even be a floral designer in addition.

Flowers by Elissa

• Ask around for a recommendation—word of mouth is extremely important. Recently married friends or planners at your wedding venue are good sources for recommendations.

• Start collecting floral photos from magazines, online wedding sites, and personal wedding photo sites. Make a folder of your favorite ideas and color swatches of bridal party attire for

references when meeting.

• Don’t let your budget “bloom.” Although you want your wedding to flourish, you don’t want your budget to blossom into something you can’t afford. A reasonable amount to spend on flowers is between eight and ten percent of your total wedding budget.

Recommendations: Greenhouse at Rhinebeck , Rhinebeck Genesis Florist, Stone Ridge Flowers by Elissa, Gardiner WildFlowers, Margaretville

choosing a photographer • Make sure the photographer is experienced and has a list of personal references you can contact.

You can also call reception venues and churches that’ll be happy to share their work encounters with a particular professional.

• Meet the photographer in person to sense a connection with him/her. The feeling of a passion for their art should radiate from someone who really loves their craft, and that’ll show up in their work.

Recommendations:

• Keep in mind that the sample photos on their website are their best. Ask to see a pictorial of an entire wedding… from the bride/groom preparation all the way through the ceremony, reception, the couple’s portraits, family portraits, and even the venue.

• Make sure the photographic style is one you favor. Some photographers are well versed in photojournalistic formats with unique poses and candids—others are best with a more traditional style.

• Ask lots of questions. Does the photographer work alone or are you going to be photographed by someone else on your wedding day? How long until you get photos back? Also ask to see a sample contract and what the cancellation fees are in the event of a change of plans.

• Of course price range is significant —but don’t just select by price. Know exactly what you’ll get and make sure it’s clearly stated in your discussion— and on the contract.

by Diane Stredicke

by Roy Gumpel

Roy Gumpel, roygumpel.com Rochelle Riservato, photosbyrochelle.com Diane Stredicke, hudsonriverphotographer.com Jean Kallina, hudsonvalleyphoto.com

by Rochelle Riservato

choosing a caterer • Ask about their specialty. Some caterers may be exclusively renowned for expertise in certain types of fare and service. Make sure the type of cuisine you’re envisioning can be fulfilled with a particular caterer.

about the firsthand experience from the bride of a recently attended wedding after the event.

• Consult friends. You can’t beat a recommendation from a friend who shares the same taste and requirements as you do. Or ask

• Keep your budget in mind. Most caterers offer different packages – so evaluate the

Friends & Family

• Book early. A popular caterer also comes with great demand, so book your chosen caterer as far in advance as possible.

menu options for both the cocktail hour, if you’re having one, and also whether a buffet or sit-down dinner fits into your budget best.

• Reception set-up. Learn about how your guests will be served and use this time to understand the organization of your reception’s set-up.

Blue Mountain Bistro

Main Course

Bear Cafe

Lucky Chocolates

Terrapin Catering

Main Course Catering

Northern Spy, High Falls 845 687-7298, northernspycafe.com

Dominick’s, Kingston 845-338-4552, DominicksCafe.com

Main Course, New Paltz 845-255-2600, maincourserestaurant.com

Bear Cafe, Woodstock 845-679-5555, bearcafe.com

Bistro Mountain Store, Gardiner 845-255-2999, bistromountainstore.com

Peekamoose, Big Indian 845-254-6500, peekamooserestaurant.com

Bacchus, New Paltz 845 255-8636, bacchusnewpaltz.com

Blue Mountain Bistro, Kingston 845-340-9800, bluemountainbistro.com

Terrapin, Rhinebeck 845-876-3330, terrapinrestaurant.com

Tuthillhouse, Gardiner 845-255-4151, tuthillhouse.com

Friends & Family, Accord 845-626-7777, friendsandfamily2.com

Moxie Cupcake, New Paltz 845-255-2253, moxiecupcake.com

Hickory BBQ, Kingston 845-338-2424, hickoryrestaurant.com

Gendron Catering, Rhinebeck 845 876 4480, gendroncatering.com

Alternative Baker, Rosendale 845-658-3355, lemoncakes.com

Barnaby’s, New Paltz 845- 255-2433, barnabyssteakhouse.com

High Falls Cafe, High Falls 845-687-2699, highfallscafe.com

Lucky Chocolate 845-246-7337, luckychocolates.com

Moxie Cupcake

Hickory BBQ

Bistro Mountain Store

Buttermilk Falls

Gendron Catering

Northern Spy Cafe

Peekamoose

Alternative Baker

HUDSON VALLEY

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WEDDINGvortex.com VISITvortex.com po box 82, high falls, ny 12440 o.845-687-3470 c.845-399-5180