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Sometimes, you meet someone and just know that you were meant to cross paths. Call it destiny or coincidence, there's definitely a connection there; some kind of familiarity. That connection is what I felt with Shane and Steve.

Photographing their New Paltz short term rental wedding felt like it was meant to be. Like I was the only one who could have photographed them exactly how they had imagined. This Hudson Valley backyard wedding was like any other - eclectic guests from around the globe, a BBQ meal cooked on-site and over an open flame, and a performance by fire dancers. What brought this wedding over the top was how Shane and Steve made sure that everyone at their wedding felt welcomed and taken care of - including the furry friends!

Hudson Valley Airbnb Wedding

When the couple first reached out to me, they explained that pre-COVID, they spent most of their time in NYC but had recently started spending more time at their Airbnb in Tillson, NY. They then decided that it would be the perfect location for their backyard Hudson Valley wedding. In their initial email they sent me a listing of their Airbnb, and I was floored when I saw it. I had actually photographed a wedding there before. Yep, this is that connection I was talking about.

About four years ago, a couple reached out to me about photographing their Bad Seed Cider wedding. When they asked about hotels in the area for them and their family and wedding party to get ready at, I suggested that they inquire into AirBnbs too. When they decided on a Tillson Airbnb, the couple and I went in advance of their wedding day to check it out. In addition to getting ready photos, they also wanted to capture some of their portraits there as well, which I thought was a brilliant idea because the Airbnb was an excellent backdrop.

Although the Airbnb owner was not there as we toured the rental home and property, I also felt an odd kinship to the owner. A premonition, I suppose, as the owner and his fiance would eventually ask me to photograph their wedding too.

I had an immediate liking for Shane and Steve. They talked of Burning Man, tea ceremonies, and providing a welcoming space for all - children and pets included. Their backyard Hudson Valley Airbnb wedding even featured a space for children to carve pumpkins, and not only were their closest friends in their wedding party but they were also encouraged to bring and walk down the aisle with their dogs too. Speaking of dogs, Steve and Shane's dog pretty much stayed with the couple through all of their Hudson Valley Airbnb Wedding. Their pup also made for the perfect addition to the bride and groom's portraits.

Even though the Hudson Valley Airbnb wedding was technically a backyard wedding, Steve and Shane had planned for a grand affair. They even had fire dancers and a bbq area for the caterers that cooked the meat over fire pits.

But honestly, the best part about the wedding was the fact that they were surrounded by a loving family and an amazing set of friends. When you look at the photographs, you will see what I am talking about. Everyone was just there to support the couple on their wedding day. Their ceremony, which happened by the waterfall of their Airbnb, was filled with so much emotion as well. The vows were heartfelt and loving, and it's always such a joy to witness that kind of genuine love - no matter how many weddings I photograph.

As for me, Shane and Steve felt like an extension of my friend circle, that they would intertwine seamlessly. They were incredibly gracious and such fantastic hosts. From the getting ready photos and the ceremony to couples portraits and the reception party, I had a great time photographing all the special moments at their Hudson Valley Airbnb wedding.

Celebrate Love With Christine Ashburn Photography

Shane and Steve, thank you for choosing me as your wedding photographer and bringing me back to this wonderful home of yours. It was heartwarming to be a part of your wedding.

You can check out this Tillson Hudson Valley Airbnb for yourself here: https://abnb.me/83FRLjkgcqb