My profession as a wedding photographer takes me to a lot of different places, and sometimes, it’s just love at first sight, which I recently experienced at Michelle and Billy’s Indian Ridge Preserve wedding.
This wedding is the first that I shot at the Indian Ridge Preserve, and I’ve gotta say – for those of you who want your wedding day to be celebrated in the lap of nature, this venue could be your personal paradise. The property includes a gorgeous recently-built barn, a pond, a forest, a waterfall, and a beautiful overlook. It has everything that’s going to help you be an excellent host for your guests and offer you a memorable wedding experience, and of course, some amazing wedding photos!
Michelle And Billy’s Indian Ridge Preserve Wedding
I felt immediately like family when I greeted Michelle for the first time in her hotel room. Michelle’s mom was especially kind, making sure I had everything I needed and offering me water. Michelle has a pure heart with a presence that is kind, open, and grateful. It was so wonderful to capture the loving expressions across her face throughout her wedding day. Billy’s kindness matched Michelle’s. Add to it a protective quality and Michelle is surely in good hands. Her wedding dress was so elegant on her, and I adored Billy’s white tux.
The Indian Ridge Preserve wedding day was a worrisome day for the weather. When I first arrived to photograph Michelle getting ready at the Minnewaska Lodge, it was pouring and the rain was expected to continue. Although the couple would have preferred an outdoor ceremony, I thought the barn provided an equally lovely ceremony location indoors. It was really heartwarming to see Michelle and Billy’s ceremony, especially because they both kept laughing throughout. The rain did stop just after their ceremony and it was so wonderful to do their portraits outside on the Indian Ridge Preserve property as planned. The Indian Ridge Preserve really does offer a gorgeous, natural backdrop for wedding day photos.
Love, Laughter, And Rainbow
While the rain forced Michelle and Billy to change their ceremony location, it also came with a silver lining, or should I say as a burst of colors, in the form of a breathtaking rainbow. And that’s not something I get at every wedding, so of course, we had to do couples portraits.
We were just settling into the reception when we noticed the rainbow. I gently guided Michelle out the door, hoping to surprise her and she seemed lost as to what I was trying to do. I finally said, “Just look up,” and her mouth flew open. She let out a cute little squeal, and a huge smile appeared, and in that moment, I knew we were going to create some magic together.
When we first noticed the rainbow, I heard Michelle’s mom say, “Of course, Michelle gets a rainbow on her wedding day.” And I couldn’t agree more. This was clearly the universe rewarding Michelle’s positive, generous and pure spirit. The room was brimming with fun and loving energy and after the ceremony, everyone was in the mood to get the party started. The bride and groom and their friends and families came together on the dance floor and sang and danced to their heart’s content.
Celebrate Love With Christine Ashburn Photography
Michelle and Billy, thank you for choosing me as your Indian Ridge Preserve wedding photographer. Your wedding was an absolute delight and mother nature seemed to agree too! You two are one of the sweetest, kindest couples I’ve had the chance to work with, so thank you for making me feel so comfortable and welcomed. I wish you both a very happy life together!
If you are planning to get hitched and think that I am the one who could bring your wedding photography vision to life, you can get in touch with me through my website or Instagram. I photograph weddings across the Hudson Valley in New York. To check my availability and for more information, you can contact me through this form.
Featured Hudson Valley Vendors
- Bride’s Hair & Makeup: Amy Klewitz Beauty Bridal
- Caterer: Follow The Smoke
- Bride’s Dress: Alyne by Rita Vinieris, purchased from Wedding Salon of Manhasset