Bride and Groom pose for wedding photos at their Tailwater Lodge wedding in Altmar NY

Cassie and Bill had waited patiently for their wedding day for more than 9 years. With a long-term couple like that, you know that they have poured their heart and soul into every detail, and that you can expect nothing but a fantastic wedding. These two opted to tie the knot at Tailwater Lodge in Altmar, NY. It has become a really popular Central NY wedding venue in the past few years. Couples love that everything happens all in one location, plus the beautiful surroundings make for some killer wedding photos.

When the wedding day arrived, the first thing I did was set up Cassie’s details to photograph. I love that she had a box of items ready and waiting, including jewelry, shoes, and all of their green wedding details. After I was done with that, I turned my attention to the wedding party, who were finishing up preparations for the ceremony. The girls and guys had so many fun ideas for getting ready photos!

We all headed to The Barn at Tailwater Lodge for a short and sweet wedding ceremony. All of the guests were clearly excited to see these this long-time couple finally say “I do.” Once the ceremony was over, we went outside on the patio to take family photos. Cassie had a pin with a photo charm of her grandpa on it, which she gifted to her grandma right before pictures started. Her grandma was so surprised, and it was a sweet way to keep their loved one in mind that day.

Cassie, Bill, and their entire wedding party headed to the overlook for some fun group photos. They split up after a bit and the guys enjoyed celebratory cigars while the girls snapped a few more pictures. They were such a fun group and made everything really easy! The wedding party was eventually dismissed, and I dedicated some time photographing the newlyweds. I absolutely adored Cassie’s pearl veil, so we made sure to include it in some of the photos. We took pictures at the overlook, then headed down into the woods to snap some on the boardwalk. The two of them found a quiet bench where they could share private vows, and it turned into a pretty emotional moment for everyone.

When we were done with pictures outside, the cocktail hour was still going strong. Cassie and Bill joined their guests back in The Barn to mingle and socialize with their family and friends. The reception kicked off with a slew of really fun entrances by the entire wedding party. Cassie and Bill came in and launched straight into their first dance. Parent dances were next, followed by toasts and dinner.

After a delicious meal, Cassie and Bill cut their cake, then did a table dash so we could get photos of them with all of their guests. It was chaotic but so fun! The dance floor opened with a traditional dollar dance, then the real party began! The reception was chugging along, when suddenly there was a wedding crasher - the Syracuse University mascot, Otto! Cassie and her dad are season ticket holders for SU basketball and were both overjoyed at the surprise. Cassie reminded me that she had seen Otto at another previous Tailwater Lodge wedding that I had photographed.

Cassie and Bill, it was such an honor to document your day. I wish you so much love and happiness as you continue your lives together!

Venue: Tailwater Lodge
Cake: The Sprinkle Spot
Dress: Lovely Bride
Hair: Reyna Velez
Makeup: Jessie Rivera Beauty
DJ: Jones Tones
Suit: Giovanni’s Tuxedo