Cortlandt Manor, NY Wedding // Drea + Karsten
If you've been dreaming of a summer wedding in the Hudson Valley, Hollow Brook Golf Club in Cortlandt Manor, New York might already be on your radar, and after spending a July evening there with Drea and Karsten, I completely understand why. Nestled in Westchester County, Hollow Brook offers rolling greens, gorgeous natural light, and a setting that somehow manages to feel both spacious and deeply personal. This wedding had all of it: a heatwave (!), heart, international guests, handmade gifts, and two people who were just genuinely happy to be getting married. It was a good day.
The Couple
Drea and Karsten met on the beach in 2017 (which, honestly is a meet-cute that writes itself), but they didn't actually start dating until 2020. Sometimes timing just has its own agenda. Karsten, a golf pro, proposed to Andrea (a teacher) on her birthday at a winery, and from everything I saw on their wedding day, that kind of thoughtfulness is just who he is. He carried a small portrait of his late mother in his pocket throughout the entire day, quietly keeping her close. It's the kind of detail you don't forget.
These two are foodies, sports fans, fiercely competitive with each other (in the best way), and proud dog parents to a pup named Bjorn. They live in Pennsylvania, but this wedding had a genuinely international feel. Family traveled from Germany and Norway to celebrate them, which made the whole day feel even more special and full. And Drea? She hand-stitched kerchiefs and gave them to all of the most important people as gifts that day. That level of care and intentionality tells you everything you need to know about her.
The Venue
Hollow Brook wasn't just a beautiful backdrop; it carried real meaning for Karsten, whose family has history there. Choosing it wasn't just an aesthetic decision; it was a personal one. And it showed. There's something different about a venue that actually means something to the people getting married in it.
The July heat was no joke. We're talking full-on heatwave territory, but Drea and Karsten were absolute troopers. They were game for everything, never complained, and honestly just seemed to be having such a good time that the temperature became a secondary detail. That kind of easygoing energy makes my job a joy, and it also makes for really natural, relaxed photos.
The Details
The color palette was lilac and black, bridesmaids in soft purple and groomsmen in classic black, and it worked beautifully against the lush green of the golf course. Lilac is one of those colors that photographs so well in summer light, and it felt perfectly suited to Drea's personality: feminine, elegant, and warm.
The Reception
The reception was exactly what you'd expect from two people who love good food, good company, and a good time. With family in from across the world, there was this wonderful, layered energy in the room. All different traditions were woven together for one night to celebrate these two. The families were genuinely wonderful, warm and welcoming.
There was no shortage of energy on the dance floor, and the reception had a life of its own. Karsten and Drea moved through it all with so much ease and gratitude, stopping to hug people, laughing with their guests, just soaking it in.
Drea and Karsten, thank you for letting me be part of your day. From the quiet moments to the loud ones, it was an absolute pleasure to document all of it. Wishing you and your wonderful families a lifetime of good food, friendly competition, and really great summers together. 🤍
Hollow Brook Golf Club Wedding Vendors
Photography: Sweet Alice Photography // Venue: Hollow Brook Golf Club, Cortlandt Manor, NY
Wedding Date: July 9, 2024
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