So many couples have had to reschedule their weddings because of Covid this last year. Some rescheduled their weddings multiple times only to still end up not able to hold a larger ceremony or an indoor ceremony. As a result, more and more couples have been stripping things down and opting for small elopements and intimate wedding ceremonies. In fact, some couples have opted for last-minute elopements. And they’re loving them!
That was the inspiration for this styled elopement shoot. I saw the INCREDIBLE ice rink at Cedar Lake Estates one night while scrolling through insta, and I was like … I HAVE to do a shoot on that ice! I commented on the post and said those exact words … to which they responded … sure, let’s do it!
I started planning a shoot with lots of different vendors and even searched for a couple who were pretty sturdy on ice skates. It was slowly coming together, but then, snow happened. Lots of beautiful snow showed up here in the Hudson Valley and so we decided to push the shoot ahead and have fun with the snow! And so, this shoot became a lot like a last-minute elopement. I had a few days to bring together the vendors I think are really, really important for any wedding day … even last-minute elopements.
HAIR – Melissa Rodriguez (@melissarodriguez)
MAKEUP – Alana Schmidt (@alanaschmidtmakeup)
VENUE + CAKE – Cedar Lakes Estate
FLOWERS – Adams Fairacre Farms
In the world of weddings, this was a simple, stripped-back kind of styled shoot. And because of that, I think it has the exact vibe of a last-minute elopement. Easy-going, simple, and full of love. I grabbed a whole heap of beautiful flowers from Adams and put them together in my first ever bouquet (hats off to the florists out there! It’s not easy!). But if you’re eloping and need a spot to grab flowers for a DIY bouquet, Adams has you covered. And since I have a massive plant addiction, you’ll probably run into me while you’re there!
So, here we go … a snowy winter elopement …
Huge thanks to Melody and Quinton who played outside all day long in the freeeeezing cold snow without coats while looking absolutely adorable. Can you see the newlywed glow in their eyes? That’s because they actually did just get married a month ago : )
Snowy elopements are as cozy and romantic as they look! And it just so happens we have more snow coming this winter. So if you’re on the fence and are thinking about making it happen … DO IT!!!! And please call me. Because I really want to document some amazing photos for you!
XO,
Kate
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Kate Callahan is Hudson Valley photographer who LOVES to capture authentic memories for couples and families. She’s available for weddings, senior photos, child photo sessions, and family photography. Kate works with clients throughout the Hudson Valley, NYC, Delaware (and the tri-state area), and beyond.