Weddings have a funny way of telling their own story, and Crystal and Kyle’s wedding day at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, NY was a love story wrapped in timeless elegance, sweet emotion, and just the right touch of moody weather magic. From start to finish, their day felt precious - I honestly and truly loved every moment.
THE COUPLE
Crystal and Kyle are one of those couples - you know, the ones you meet and instantly get the feeling they’ve always been meant for each other. They met through mutual friends, and after several years together, they got engaged at Bear Mountain.
Kyle is completely, unmistakably enamored with Crystal. I lost count of the times he looked at her like she was the only person in the room, and it was clear to everyone around that he truly sees her - not just her outward beauty, but her heart. And Crystal? She lights up when Kyle’s around. Their connection is deep, playful, and full of real love - the kind that makes everyone in the room feel lucky to witness it.
THE VENUE
Crystal and Kyle chose to get married at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, NY - a venue that sits beautifully on the Hudson River. This place has always been lovely, but it's recently undergone a renovation, and word on the street (from staff and vendors alike) is that it's now absolutely stunning. Crystal and Kyle’s ceremony took place in the ballroom, due to a threat of rain, and even though getting married inside wasn’t the original plan, the ceremony still felt warm and romantic.
Before heading to The Grandview, the couple got ready at Greystone House - a hidden gem of a prep location right in Poughkeepsie, technically on the grounds of Locust Grove. The house has old-world charm, gorgeous natural light (in the sunroom especially!), and lush greenery on the grounds. They did their first look right outside the house, and let me tell you, and it was just perfect.
THE DETAILS
From the very beginning, Crystal and Kyle had a vision: classic black and white elegance with a fresh, soft twist. The black and white theme was clean and refined, and they added a perfect pop of color with blue and white florals.
And while the forecast had us all watching the sky nervously throughout the day, the clouds held out just long enough for any and all portraits we had to take outside. Later, when the clouds darkened after the ceremony, we snuck outside for a few more photos. That cool, moody light? A photographer’s dream. The photos turned out so dramatic and romantic - some of my favorites from this particular wedding season.
THE RECEPTION
Once inside, the ballroom glowed. Candles flickered on the tables, and the atmosphere was full of anticipation. Crystal and Kyle made their grand entrance and had their first dance under beautiful chandeliers, surrounded by the people who love them most. The energy? Pure joy.
The rest of the night was a celebration of epic proportions. Heartfelt toasts (some tears, plenty of laughs), incredible food, a packed dance floor, and one unforgettable party. These two know how to celebrate love, and their guests brought the house down.
Crystal and Kyle, thank you for trusting me to capture your story. Your wedding was filled with style, soul, and so much love - just like the two of you. Here’s to hoping all of us get to experience love like yours.
FROM THE COUPLE
"From the moment I found Sweet Alice Photography's Instagram and website, I knew I wanted Erica to photograph our special day! Her talent spoke for itself, but what really stood out to me was how much she cared about each of the couples she worked with. She was patient and understanding, and I could tell she was someone I'd want to spend 8 hours with. Our engagement shoot was the first time my husband and I felt comfortable during professional pictures. On our wedding day, she was a sense of calm when the unexpected happened and a trusted opinion along with my family and friends when I needed guidance. And Debbie [her second photographer] was just as amazing to work with. The pictures were more than we could have ever imagined, and we will cherish them forever. You cannot find a more talented team with better people than Erica and Sweet Alice Photography! You'll be in such good hands when you book them for your wedding day!"
The Grandview WEDDING VENDORS
Photography: Sweet Alice Photography // Venue: The Grandview, Poughkeepsie, NY // Hair: Hair by Jamie Boo // Makeup: High Vibrational Beauty and Wellness // Florals: Adams Fairacre Farms // Stationary: Truly Engaging // Videographer: LP Photo Video // Planning: Event Planning Solutions // DJ: Music Speaks Volumes
Wedding Date: September 17, 2023
Looking for a Grandview photographer? Contact me so we can chat more about your big day!
