Abby and Carter got married at Rushmore Estate in Highland Mills, New York on September 13th and as their Rushmore Estate wedding photographer, I can honestly say it was one of those days where everything just felt right. A beautiful early fall wedding, a sage green and white color palette, an ivy-covered estate that looked absolutely dreamy, and two people who were so ready to become husband and wife. Scroll on for a look at their day!
Starting with the Details
Abby’s invitation suite and paper goods were beautiful. White cards with delicate green botanical script lettering, sage green envelopes, and the prettiest coordinating ribbon tied throughout. Laid out alongside her diamond engagement ring, gold wedding band, and a velvet ring box wrapped in green ribbon, everything felt so pulled together. Elegant and romantic and completely her.
Getting Ready
Abby and her girls got ready together and the energy in that room was the best. Everyone was in the most adorable matching light blue pajama sets. When Abby did her reveal to her bridesmaids the reactions said everything. She was absolutely stunning in her strapless lace gown. Her diamond necklace and cathedral veil were the perfect finishing touches.
Carter got ready and looked so handsome in his classic black tuxedo and bow tie. Calm, happy, and so ready for the day.
The First Look and Private Vows
Abby and Carter chose to do a first look and private vows before the ceremony. I am so glad they did. Carter was waiting on the lawn as Abby walked up behind him. When he turned around his whole face just lit up. They had a quiet few minutes together to exchange their private vows. Those moments are always some of my favorites to capture. Just the two of them, completely in their own world, with that incredible ivy-covered estate wall behind them. So beautiful.
About Rushmore Estate
Rushmore Estate in Highland Mills, New York is one of the most unique venues I have ever photographed. The estate has such a distinctly European feel. The ivy-covered exterior, the arched windows, the beautifully manicured grounds. It is stunning at every turn. A few of my favorite things about shooting here:
- The ivy-covered estate walls that create the most incredible natural backdrop for portraits
- The sweeping lawn and trees that make every corner feel so lush
- The outdoor ceremony space overlooking the grounds
- The elegant tented reception with string lights and garden views
- The stone courtyard and arched architectural details throughout the property
Rushmore Estate is located in the Hudson Valley and is one of the most unique wedding venues in the New York area.
The Bridal Party
This bridal party was so much fun. The bridesmaids wore silver satin gowns and together with Abby’s white lace gown and cathedral veil they looked absolutely gorgeous in front of that ivy wall. The single white dahlia and calla lily bouquets were so elegant. The groomsmen were sharp in their classic black tuxedos. The full wedding party shot on the estate grounds is one I keep coming back to. What a group.
Portraits on the Grounds
After the first look we spent time exploring the Rushmore Estate grounds together! Every corner of this property is stunning. The ivy-covered walls, the manicured gardens, the beautiful stone details throughout. As their Rushmore Estate wedding photographer these are the moments I look forward to most. Abby’s cathedral veil was just dreamy to photograph and these two were so natural and relaxed together. Laughing, kissing, completely in their own world. After we wrapped up photos, Abby and Carter headed inside to get hidden away before the ceremony and the anticipation was just the best feeling.
The Ceremony
The outdoor ceremony at Rushmore Estate was breathtaking. Abby walked down the aisle on her father’s arm to a full crowd of guests seated on the sweeping lawn. The ivy-covered estate and arched garden gateway framed everything so beautifully. The aerial shot of the full ceremony from above shows just how grand the whole setup was. Abby and Carter incorporated beautiful Jewish traditions into their ceremony. The moment Carter broke the glass and the whole crowd cheered and was one of those moments I will never get tired of photographing.
And the hora during the reception had every single person on their feet. Watching Abby and Carter get lifted in their chairs with the whole crowd around them is one of those moments I always love to see as a Rushmore Estate wedding photographer.
Cocktail Hour and the Tented Reception
Cocktail hour was held outside on the estate grounds. The florals by Blooming Visions were just stunning. Local seasonal flowers in deep reds, creamy whites, and soft greens filled every corner. The tented reception glowed with string lights and candlelight once the sun went down. It was so warm and beautiful and felt so perfectly in keeping with the character of the estate.
Once the reception got going the energy was incredible. The hora dancing had everyone on their feet from the very first song. Watching Abby and Carter get lifted in their chairs with the whole crowd cheering around them was one of those moments I will never forget. Pure joy from start to finish.
Abby and Carter, thank you so much for having me be part of your day. It was so full of love and tradition and happiness and I am so honored I got to capture it all. Wishing you both the most beautiful life together.
If you are planning a wedding at Rushmore Estate and looking for a Highland Mills or Hudson Valley wedding photographer, I would love to hear from you. Contact me here to check your date.
Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Karina Mekel Photography
Venue: Rushmore Estate
Planning and Coordination: Venture North Events
Floral Design: Blooming Visions
Hair: Hair and Makeup by Steph
Makeup: Beauty by Giuliana
See more Hudson Valley wedding photography from this Park Chateau Wedding or this Glen Island Harbour Club Wedding! Or contact me anytime to inquire about photography for your wedding.
