Nobody ever could have predicted this pandemic. And, while there are plenty of things about COVID-19 that are terrible and awful, it has also been such a joy seeing how couples navigate wedding planning together in such an unprecedented time. Originally, N and J were supposed to have their wedding on a rooftop in Boston. When those plans fell apart, they saw it as a little speed bump in their wedding planning journey. They pivoted, and they decided on an Upstate New York lakeside wedding instead.
Getting Ready at The Lake House
N and J both got ready at The Lake House on Canandaigua, surrounded by their closest friends and family. Their first look took place on the hotel’s lakeside lawn. And, they shared private vows with one another before driving together to their ceremony location, St. Mary’s Church.
Wedding Ceremony
N and J’s ceremony was saturated with intentional details. Their close family members read pieces of scripture. N and J wore masks that said, “We’re getting married RIGHT NOW!”. They lit a unity candle together. N’s grandparents even renewed their vows during the ceremony. N and J then exited the church, beaming.
Reception
During the two minute drive from St. Mary’s Church to their reception location, NY Kitchen, it began to unexpectedly pour rain. And, you know how New York rain can be; it was coming down in buckets. After some careful planning and strategic umbrella holding, J and his dad were able to safely get N inside the restaurant (everyone was a little wet though). We opted to take family and wedding party portraits later, after the rain let up.
At Natalie and Javee’s reception, everyone had the best dang time. They had a massive table of egg-free, dairy-free, gluten-free (?) cupcakes that were delicious (thanks to Scratch Bake Shop). They even had a magician. A magician! I think that was the highlight of J’s day, only second to marrying N of course.
Lakeside Wedding Portraits
When the wedding reception festivities ended, N, J, their families, and their wedding party all walked back to The Lake House on Canandaigua for some photos. We perched ourselves on the dock, took lots of pics, prayed that the rain would keep holding up, and received lots of excited honks from boaters passing by.
Then, I got to steal N and J away for a bit. We started off their couple portraits in the library/bar area of The Lake House on Canandaigua before driving to the other side of the lake for more photos. After sunset, we ended the wedding festivities with photos in their hotel bathtub (some of my personal favorite pics of the day).
N and J, you made it! It was a long, winding journey to get here. You had to pivot more times than when Ross on Friends was trying to get a couch up the stairs (click here if you have zero clue what I’m talking about). But, you did it! You’re married to your forever person, and I am so excited for you both.
Vendor Information
Photography: Liz Erban Photo (yours truly)
Floral Designer: Wildflower by Simply Events
Cake and Desserts: Scratch Bakeshop
Dress: Lovely Bride Hayley Paige
Suit: ONE Custom Clothier
Rings: Cornell’s Jewelers and Manly Bands
Getting Ready Location: The Lake House on Canandaigua
Ceremony Location: St Mary’s Church
Reception Location and Catering: NY Kitchen
Are you a fan of this Upstate New York lakeside wedding?
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