Alexa + Jacob's Harry Potter Wedding at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel

Alexa and Jacob planned a Harry Potter wedding in the Hudson Valley area. I had photographed the wedding of Alexa’s brother back in 2018 and she had loved the images, so the couple reached out to see if I would travel down to shoot their wedding at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel. My answer was a resounding yes!

When I arrived, I couldn’t believe the level of detail they went to in order to incorporate their love of Harry Potter. From the ring box to the boutonnieres, the house colors, and the Bride’s shoes, no detail was left unturned.

I love when my couples opt for a first look. It’s almost always better for the schedule and can create some amazing emotional images (make sure you scroll down to see Jacob’s face as Alexa walks down the aisle - the first look didn’t ruin that moment one bit!). We all met up at Waryas Park, which overlooks the Hudson River just down the road from the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel. I made sure to frame the photos of their first look so the Mid-Hudson Bridge was in the background. It added such a special touch to their first look moment. Once we were done, they hopped onto the nearby playground for a few fun pictures, then we walked down to the dock to get some photos of Alexa and Jacob by the river with the gorgeous sunlight behind them.

Their ceremony was held outside at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel, officiated by Alexa’s father. They both read personal vows and Jacob performed a song before they said “I Do.” After the ceremony, we took time to finish up photos with the wedding party and family before heading inside for the cocktail hour. While Alexa and Jacob mingled with guests, we scoped out all the Harry Potter wedding decor in the reception space. There were so many unique touches, including a killer Harry Potter cake! The newlyweds were introduced as husband and wife and they shared a first dance. The Maid of Honor and Best Man gave speeches that absolutely lit up the room, then the rest of the evening was spent eating, dancing, and enjoying the photo booth.

This was such a fun laid-back wedding. Thank you Alexa and Jacob for hiring me to document your very magical day!

Venue: Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel

Dress: Andrea's Bridal

Suits: First Class Formal Wear

Hair & Makeup: Gab's Glam, with Angelic Artistry by Alexis, & Natalie Jazmin Studio

Videographer: Robert Gamble

DJ: Bryan Junior

Nails: Johnny Nails Design