Some weddings have a certain kind of presence - not loud, not overly produced, just quietly full of meaning. Alyssa and Patrick’s day at Diamond Mills in Saugerties was exactly that. Honest. Kind. Grounded. The kind of wedding where everyone seems to breathe a little easier because it feels like exactly the right people in exactly the right place.
THE COUPLE
I’ve known Patrick for years; we met when I was working at his undergrad alma mater. I used to love working in financial aid, not necessarily because of the work itself, but because I was able to connect with so many wonderful people. Even then, he was kind and funny. His mom had the same energy, and I enjoyed every conversation I had with her, even when the topic wasn’t the most exhilarating (how could financial aid ever be?).
Patrick and Alyssa both run in higher ed circles, which already tells you a bit about who they are - thoughtful, values-driven, deeply committed to their communities. They had their first date at a zoo; a perfect idea for two animal lovers. Alyssa is the calm to Patrick’s busy; an anchor. She is generous of spirit, immediately warm.
Their first look on their wedding day was exactly what it should be: no big performance, just real emotion. A quiet moment to connect before the rest of the day unfolded. Perfect in its understated way.
THE VENUE
Patrick and Alyssa got married at Diamond Mills in Saugerties, NY. The waterfall behind the ceremony space was a standout: constant, steady, and a little dramatic in the best way.
Before the ceremony, we ducked out to a local park nearby for portraits. The greenery there gave us a softer, more natural backdrop, with wide open space, filtered light, a bit of stillness before the schedule picked up again. Somehow, we got the most beautiful afternoon amongst weeks of nonstop rain. A gift.
THE DETAILS
Alyssa and Patrick chose a color palette of purples and whites, with blush accents - elegant but unfussy. It showed up in the florals, the wedding party, and small touches throughout the day. Nothing felt overdone, but it all tied together beautifully.
THE RECEPTION
The reception had an ease to it. No one was rushing through formalities or waiting for the “next thing.” People were present. The toasts were genuine - funny, heartfelt, the kind where you learn something real about the couple. When the dancing started, it felt like the natural next step; not something that had to be encouraged or announced.
There was a rhythm to the night that felt like it belonged to the people in the room. Nothing forced. Just a space where people were happy to be together, celebrating something that clearly mattered deeply to everyone there.
Alyssa and Patrick, thank you for letting me be a part of it all. For the thoughtfulness, the trust, and the space you created for everyone to just be themselves. Your day was a good day, in every way that matters.
Saugerties WEDDING VENDORS
Photography: Sweet Alice Photography // Venue: Diamond Mills, Saugerties, NY // Gown: Wtoo from Dress Your Fancy Bridal Boutique // Florals: Marianne’s Floral Garden // DJ: MD Music
Wedding Date: September 23, 2023
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