An outdoor wedding ceremony in the Hudson Valley has a kind of quiet beauty that’s hard to describe. The way light filters through the trees, the calm sound of nearby water, and the easy balance of elegance and nature. Jake and Anne-Lorraine’s day was the perfect reflection of that feeling: poetic, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Every detail, from their floral design to the unplugged ceremony, felt intentional and completely them. I’m so excited to share their special day on the blog today!
But first, hi! I’m Kayce, founder and lead planner of KR Occasions. Our team specializes in designing weddings that feel effortless, personal, and full of meaning. From crafting seamless timelines to creating spaces that reflect your story, we love helping couples celebrate with ease and intention.
If you’re planning your own outdoor wedding ceremony in the Hudson Valley (or at one of the beautiful wedding venues in the Catskills), we’d love to bring your vision to life. Explore our services and get in touch. Together, we’ll create a celebration that feels uniquely yours.
A Calm Morning Getting Ready
The morning began with a relaxed energy as everyone got ready surrounded by close friends and family. Jake and his groomsmen shared quiet laughter, while Anne-Lorraine and her bridesmaids helped one another with the finishing touches (the kind of simple moments that end up feeling the most meaningful).
Their looks perfectly balanced modern minimalism with timeless romance. Anne-Lorraine wore a simple, elegant white gown with soft draping and a low bun with deep magenta flowers. Her bouquet added a joyful pop of color. A mix of coral, orange, and pink blooms that tied beautifully into the rest of the design. Jake opted for a light linen suit and striped tie, an ideal choice for a warm outdoor wedding ceremony by the water.
Not sure about doing a first look? Here’s why so many couples end up calling it their favorite part of the day.
First Look & Portraits
Before guests arrived, Jake and Anne-Lorraine shared their first look. The moment was quiet and full of anticipation. The couple wandered the grounds together, surrounded by greenery and summer light, before taking portraits with their families and wedding party. We always love this time of day, the calm before everything begins.
Their photographer captured soft, natural portraits that reflected who they are: relaxed, present, and ready to celebrate.
Ceremony by the Water
At City Winery Hudson Valley, Jake and Anne-Lorraine exchanged vows beside the Wallkill River. The team at R Shepherd Floral Design placed a white draped arch filled with cascading florals in coral, fuchsia, peach, and light blue. The asymmetrical design, accented with vines and greenery, created a garden-inspired look that felt effortless and inviting.
We loved the decision to make the ceremony unplugged, allowing everyone to be fully present as Jake and Anne-Lorraine exchanged their vows. Their three flower girls added an especially sweet touch. Each were a baby held by an adult who tossed petals from a basket embroidered with the baby’s name (a charming detail that made everyone smile).
The beginning of the aisle was lined with low floral arrangements of roses, ranunculus, delphinium, and berries. After their vows, guests showered the newlyweds in dried flower confetti as they made their way to a waiting golf cart, driving off to cheers and applause. It was such a fun, lighthearted exit.
For anyone planning an outdoor wedding ceremony, thoughtful touches like these (personal details, natural textures, and intentional pauses) are what make it unforgettable.
The Celebration Begins
Following the ceremony, a live band played outside as guests enjoyed cocktails and conversation under the open sky. Jake and Anne-Lorraine took a few portraits outside and inside the photo bus before joining everyone for the celebration. Around this time, the bride changed into her second look: a relaxed, flowy ivory gown with flutter sleeves and a deep V-neckline. The lightweight fabric moved effortlessly as she danced and mingled with guests.
The music, laughter, and summer air created the kind of easy, joyful atmosphere that defines a Hudson Valley wedding. It was clear everyone felt connected and present, exactly what an outdoor wedding ceremony should inspire.
Not sure who (or how much) to tip on your wedding day? We’ve made it simple. Check out our guide to tipping wedding vendors so you can plan with confidence and gratitude.
The Reception Details
As the sun began to set, guests made their way into the reception space. City Winery is a warm, brick-walled venue that balances rustic charm with refined design. The transition from the outdoor wedding ceremony to the indoor reception felt seamless, with the same vibrant floral palette bringing everything together.
We set the tables with care and creativity. A mix of round and long tables gave the room variety and flow. The long tables featured lush floral runners accented with tall taper candles in glass sleeves, casting a soft glow across the wood surfaces. Every arrangement echoed the colors from the ceremony: coral, peach, fuchsia, and light blue, with touches of greenery and texture.
The seating chart was a true design moment. A circular board with calligraphy, surrounded by flowers and soft candlelight, displayed on a linen-draped table. Each place setting had a custom menu and name card featuring blue illustrations, a subtle nod to the blue delphinium used earlier in the day. We love adding small details to carry through the entire design.
Their three-tiered cake was simple and elegant, frosted in white and decorated with real blooms in the same bright, romantic palette. It tied the day together beautifully, echoing the colors from the outdoor wedding ceremony.
Dancing & Celebration
Once the candles were lit and glasses were filled, the evening gave way to celebration. Guests filled the dance floor, surrounding Jake and Anne-Lorraine as they led the first dances of the night. The joy in the room was palpable, laughter, movement, and connection in every corner. Anne-Lorraine’s second gown flowed with each turn, perfectly suited for the energy of the evening.
Moments like these are what we love most about wedding days: that blend of intentional design and unfiltered joy. Because at the end of the day, that’s what all the planning is really for.
There is no doubt that City Winery is stunning, but if you’re searching for more Catskills wedding venues with that same effortless charm, you’ll want to see a few of my other favorites here (and yes, City Winery definitely made my list!).
A Thoughtful Ending to a Beautiful Day
Jake and Anne-Lorraine’s wedding was a beautiful example of what happens when style and meaning come together. Every choice was personal from the unplugged outdoor wedding ceremony to the handcrafted details throughout the reception. Their celebration was relaxed yet refined, joyful yet calm, and filled with thoughtful moments that reflected who they are as a couple.
As Hudson Valley wedding planners, we always aim to create that balance: celebrations that feel effortless, grounded and designed with heart. This day captured that perfectly.
If you’re dreaming of your own outdoor wedding ceremony or exploring wedding venues in Hudson Valley, we’d love to help you plan something just as personal and meaningful. Contact us today to get started.
Vendor Team
Wedding Planner: KR Occasions
Venue: City Winery
Officiant: Sanya Manzoor
Cake: Wild Flour
Photography: The Light + Color
Beauty: Abby Lauren Makeup
Entertainment: Silver Arrow Band
Florals: R Shepherd Floral Design
Rentals & Decor: Fox Haus Events & New York Photo Bus
Transportation: West Point Tours
Travel & Accommodations: Residence Inn, Orange Inn & Holiday Inn & Suites
