If you’re newly engaged, or even simply starting to dream of a picturesque, intimate wedding amongst the stunning scenery of Upstate New York, you’ve come to the right place. As an East Coast wedding planner of over 13 years, I have a thing or two to say about weddings in Upstate. I’m here to help you navigate the wedding planning process with ease while ensuring that every detail exceeds your expectations. So let’s dive in!
Why Choose Upstate New York for Your Wedding?
Whether you’re from Upstate New York or you’re from Downstate, wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City, Orange County, and Long Island traffic - Upstate offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and historic charm that’s perfect for creating a magical atmosphere on your big day. From the charming Hudson Valley to the stunning Adirondacks, Upstate New York is home to so many wedding venues that I have been blown away by, ranging from rustic barns to vineyards to waterfront front estates.
If you're wanting an intimate outdoor wedding, look no further than the Finger Lakes region or the quiet shores of Lake Placid. These locations provide a tranquil backdrop that will make your wedding photos stand out and leave guests talking about your event for years to come.
With a mix of modern elegance and timeless appeal, Upstate New York is truly a destination for couples who want to experience both beauty and comfort on their wedding day.
Tips for a Seamless Upstate New York Wedding
As a wedding planner, I’ve seen first-hand how stressful the planning process can be. Here are a few tips to help you create the wedding of your dreams in Upstate New York:
1. Choose the right season for your wedding
The best part of planning a wedding in Upstate New York is that each season offers something different. For the spring, expect vibrant blooms and mild temperatures. Summer offers warm weather and longer days - perfect for outdoor weddings. Fall boasts the stunning foliage, making it the most popular wedding season in the region. If you're looking for a winter wonderland, Upstate New York is a winter paradise, offering snow-covered mountains, cozy venues, and a truly unique atmosphere.
2. Select a venue that matches your vision
From charming estates to elegant ballrooms, Upstate New York has a wide variety of wedding venues. It’s important to choose a venue that complements your wedding vision, season, and accommodates your guest list. Think about the type of ceremony you want and how the venue will help bring your dreams to life! Many venues that I work with typically require minimal additional decoration, so if you’re strategic in which venue you select, you could be saving a lot of money on decor!
3. Local vendors for a personalized experience
When you’re planning a wedding in Upstate New York, local vendors should be at the top of your list. From photographers and florists to caterers and musicians, the region is home to so many talented professionals who understand the local area and know how to create a truly unforgettable event. Want ideas or recommendations? Give me a call or shoot me a message and I’ll give you my top recommendations of incredible vendors I swear by and have had great experience working with!
4. Plan for Weather
Since much of Upstate New York is known for its outdoor wedding venues, it’s essential to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Working closely with a wedding planner to ensure plan A, B, AND C are all in place in case of inclement weather or any unforeseen circumstances is a MUST. While weather is tricky to predict, a good wedding planner will take all the stress of the “what if’s” off your shoulders and leave you at ease with how your perfect day will go.
As an experienced wedding planner in Upstate New York, I’m committed to helping you create the wedding of your dreams, perfectly tailored to your personality and style. Ready to start planning your wedding in Upstate New York? Let’s get to work! Contact me for recommendations, availability, and pricing!
xo, Katie