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Planning a Wedding in Upstate New York? Get Inspired by This Stunning Styled Shoot at The Sablewood
Planning a wedding in Upstate New York? You won’t want to miss this breathtaking styled shoot by Styled Shoots Across America! We spoke with the creative team behind the vision to uncover all the details—from the inspiration to the stunning final shots. Stay with us until the end for expert tips on planning your own dream wedding in Upstate New York!
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
“Nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, The Sablewood at Highview Springs is a dream venue for couples looking for rustic charm with a touch of elegance. This woman-owned barn venue, located less than an hour from Albany, boasts breathtaking mountain views, lush greenery, and a rich history that makes it a one-of-a-kind wedding destination.
In August 2023, Styled Shoots Across America brought together an incredible team to create a wedding vision that was nothing short of magical. With a warm golden-yellow palette, bold black accents, and lush florals by TK Floral, every detail was thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the venue’s natural beauty. The white barn set the perfect scene for an intimate ceremony, while the historic black barn provided a striking contrast for the reception setup. And with the venue’s stunning wall of white hydrangeas in full bloom, every frame captured felt like a piece of art.
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
To bring this vision to life, real couple Ariel and Ozzy stepped in as our models, effortlessly showcasing authentic love and joy throughout the day. But the real magic happened when we ventured up the property to The Sablewood’s iconic pond for the much-anticipated rowboat photos. There’s something undeniably romantic about floating on still water, surrounded by nature—a true fairytale moment that will have any couple dreaming of their own perfect wedding day.
Whether you’re planning a wedding in Upstate New York or just looking for stunning wedding inspiration, this styled shoot at The Sablewood is pure magic.”
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
Little But Fierce Photography
The Vendors
Host: Styled Shoots Across America
Assistant: All Sett Up
Photographer: Little But Fierce Photography
Venue: The Sablewood
Florist: TK Floral
Hair: AJ Stylist NY
Makeup: Christy Ann Cosmetics
Stationery: Eros Stationery
Rentals: Party Rental Ltd
Cake: Salted Sprinkle
Linens: Nuage Designs Inc
Gown Salon: Lily Saratoga
Jewelry: Olive And Piper
Colorful Gown: Styled Gowns
Ring Boxes: Lovely Ring Boxes
Styling Mats: The Flatlays Styler
Models: Ariel + Ozzy
Tips and Ideas for Planning Your Wedding in Upstate New York
I’ve been covering weddings for 13 years at Bespoke Bride, and let me tell you—Upstate New York is one of the most underrated wedding destinations in the country. Rolling mountains, charming barns, elegant estates, and vineyards that look like they were pulled straight from a Tuscan postcard? Check, check, check. But before you start Pinterest-boarding your way into wedding bliss, let’s talk about the reality of planning a wedding in Upstate New York—and how to do it right.
The Weather: It Will Keep You on Your Toes
Let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way. Upstate New York weather is about as predictable as your uncle’s dance moves after three whiskeys. Summers can be blissfully warm or unbearably humid. Fall? Absolutely stunning but increasingly unpredictable. Winter? A snow globe fantasy—unless you’re stuck in a blizzard. Spring? Hope you like mud.
Tip: If you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Upstate New York, always have a solid backup plan. A tent isn’t enough if the wind decides to play villain. Look for venues that offer indoor-outdoor flexibility, like the location of the beautiful styled shoot above, The Sablewood at Highview Springs, or Handsome Hollow, both of which blend rustic charm with functional elegance.
Venue Hunting: Barns, Estates, and Hidden Gems
One of the biggest draws of an Upstate New York wedding is the variety of venues. But here’s the truth: Some of those Instagrammable barns are just overpriced sheds with fairy lights.
If you’re going for a barn wedding, choose wisely. Venues like The Hayloft on the Arch and Windridge Estate have history, stunning landscapes, and enough amenities to keep guests comfortable. For something more luxurious, check out Cedar Lakes Estate—yes, it’s pricey, but it’s also breathtaking.
Tip: Many venues in the region book up 12-18 months in advance, especially for peak fall weekends. If you have your heart set on a specific date, don’t hesitate.
Navigating Guest Logistics: No, Albany Is Not “Close Enough”
Upstate New York is big. If you’re inviting guests from out of town, don’t assume they can just Uber their way to your venue. Many spots are deep in the countryside, and ride-shares are about as common as a stress-free seating chart.
Tip: Provide clear transportation options for guests. Some venues, like The Roxbury Barn & Estate, offer shuttle-friendly setups. If not, look into renting a group shuttle—it’s an added expense, but it will save your guests from getting lost in the woods.
The Food: Farm-to-Table Heaven
One of the best things about a wedding in Upstate New York? The food. This region is farm-to-table central, and if your caterer isn’t sourcing local ingredients, they’re doing it wrong.
Tip: Ask about seasonal menus. A great caterer will build dishes around what’s fresh—think summer heirloom tomato salads, fall apple tarts, and locally sourced cheeses that will have your guests dreaming about your wedding food for years.
Photography: That Upstate Glow Hits Different
There’s a reason wedding photographers love Upstate New York: the natural light here is unreal. Whether it’s golden-hour glow over the Catskills or misty mornings by the Hudson, your photos will look straight-up cinematic. Just look at the photos above and see!
Tip: Work with a photographer who knows the region. Shooting in Upstate NY requires understanding how to work with unpredictable weather and natural landscapes. Photographers like Pat Furey Photography and Forged in the North are pros at capturing this magic.
Budgeting: The Truth About Costs
A wedding in Upstate New York can be more affordable than a Manhattan wedding, but don’t let that fool you—it’s still not cheap. Between venue fees, rentals, and catering, costs add up quickly.
Tip: Be smart about your budget. If you’re looking to save, consider Friday or Sunday weddings, or embrace an off-season date (yes, a winter wedding in the Hudson Valley can be absolutely stunning). Prioritize what really matters—a great photographer, amazing food, and a venue that fits your vision.
Final Thought: Why It’s Worth It
Yes, planning a wedding in Upstate New York comes with its challenges. The logistics require planning, the weather will keep you guessing, and the costs can climb fast. But here’s the thing: When you’re standing in a sun-drenched field, surrounded by your favorite people, with a backdrop of rolling hills and a breeze that smells like pine and wildflowers—it’s all worth it. Every. Single. Moment.
