Catherine and Andrew’s November wedding was one of those days that felt equal parts elegant, joyful, and deeply meaningful. From a heartfelt Catholic ceremony to golden hour portraits along the Hudson River, everything came together beautifully - and I still feel so lucky to have captured it all. Their warm personalities and the love that surrounded them from family and friends made the day so special.
THE COUPLE
Catherine and Andrew are the kind of couple who radiate calm, steady love - the kind you can feel just by watching the way they look at each other. Their wedding day began with each of them getting ready at their respective family homes - a touching way to start the day surrounded by the people who raised them.
Catherine’s lace gown was absolutely stunning, and even more special because the designer had sketched it for her during her bridal appointment. Watching her step into the finished dress was like seeing a dream brought to life. Andrew was all smiles that morning as he prepared with his family - calm, collected, and clearly ready to marry the love of his life.
Their Catholic ceremony was full of reverence and emotion. As Catherine walked down the aisle, the room seemed to pause. The way Andrew looked at her said it all. It was such a moving and beautiful exchange of vows, grounded in their shared faith and surrounded by an incredibly supportive community.
THE VENUE
The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, NY was the perfect backdrop for Catherine and Andrew’s reception. Nestled right along the Hudson River, this venue has such a peaceful, elegant feel - especially in early November, when the autumn colors are rich but the air is still surprisingly mild. The first weekend of November gifted us with a perfect, temperate day, and golden hour hit just in time for portraits along the riverfront.
The light that evening was magic. We stepped down toward the Hudson just as the sun began to set, casting everything in that soft, golden glow us photographers dream about. The breeze picked up Catherine’s veil, the last of the fall leaves fluttered nearby, and the love between these two made every single photo come alive.
The Details
Catherine and Andrew’s wedding day was a soft, romantic dream. Their color palette of peach, blush, champagne, and white wove throughout every aspect of the day - from the florals and stationery to the wedding party outfits and reception tablescapes. It was cohesive, classic, and beautifully understated.
Some of my favorite details included Catherine’s bouquet, tied with fabric from a family heirloom, and the subtle warm accents on their table decor. The invitation suite, floral yet minimal, set the tone for a timeless celebration. Everything felt like it belonged - nothing was overdone, yet each element carried intention and style.
Even the weather felt like part of the aesthetic - warm light, gentle skies, and that crisp-but-not-cold feeling that defines the best fall days in the Hudson Valley.
THE RECEPTION
The Grandview’s reception space was aglow with candles, soft florals, and the laughter of family and friends. Every speech was filled with warmth and admiration for Catherine and Andrew - it was clear how loved and supported they are. The couple’s first dance was emotional, fun, and graceful, kicking off an evening filled with joyful energy and heartfelt moments.
One thing I’ll remember most about this day was how welcoming everyone was - not just to me, but to each other. It was the kind of wedding where guests really showed up for the couple. From the toasts to the packed dance floor, there was a sense of celebration that didn’t let up for a second.
Catherine and Andrew, thank you for inviting me to photograph your wedding day. It was a true honor to witness the love you share and the joy that surrounds you. Wishing you a lifetime of beautiful light, strong faith, and quiet, golden moments together.
And, one last adorable note I’ll never forget: a few days after the wedding, Catherine’s mom called and left me the kindest voicemail - full of warmth, gratitude, and the most thoughtful compliments. I think I still have it saved on my phone. That moment, like this entire wedding day, continued to solidify why I love this work so much: it’s about connection, emotion, and the stories we carry with us from days like this, years later.
The Grandview WEDDING VENDORS
Photography: Sweet Alice Photography // Venue: The Grandview, Poughkeepsie, NY // Videography: Al Woodard Films
Wedding Date: November 4, 2023
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