AN INTIMATE DESTINATION WEDDING IN UPSTATE NEW YORK
“I promise to learn from our own heartaches and be the father and husband neither of us got to witness firsthand.” 🥹 This is a small excerpt of Austin’s heartfelt vows to Karli at their intimate summer wedding at Gardens and Gables Event Barn, in Granville, NY.
How do you not ugly cry during vows like that? Answer: You can’t not cry! And sure enough, everyone had a pretty hard time keeping it together: the bride and groom, the officiant, the wedding guests, (and even a certain wedding photographer who shall remain nameless)…all of the tears were flowing freely.
But let’s rewind and start at the beginning, because every moment of Karli and Austin’s wedding day was stunning, and we don’t want to skip over anything… especially Karli’s unusual surprise, something that we’ve never before seen done at any other wedding…#mindblown.
GETTING READY
The day began with our groom getting ready at a hotel room in Lake George, a few minutes away from their wedding venue in Granville, New York. Austin, who was more than ready to marry his high school sweetheart, was all smiles in anticipation of the big day.
He had grandpa help him with his bowtie and suit jacket, and his close friend was on suspender duty. Before long, Austin was ready in his light colored suit and olive green accessories. And let’s not forget the Nike’s with the matching olive green swoosh on standby for the reception. 🔥
Meanwhile, Karli was surrounded by her sisters, Austin’s sisters, her nieces, and her mom as she got ready at their intimate wedding location: the lovely Gables and Gardens.
Her close friend Emily Baum, a talented makeup artist and hairstylist, really hit it out of the park with flawless hair and makeup. Before long, it was time to get into the dress, and proud momma was nearby to help out.
Karli’s beautiful mom couldn’t stop smiling as she buttoned up her daughter’s gorgeous wedding gown.
And what did the rest of the crew think of Karli’s bridal look? Take a look at their reaction picture, that’ll say it all. It was touching to see all that love and support, as well as the little details Karli thought of to show her loved ones how much they meant to her.
Look at this cute idea: personalized messages from Karli on everyone’s hangers. ❤️
FIRST LOOK
The anticipation and excitement was palpable as we got ready for first look. With Austin in place on the beautifully manicured lawns at Gardens and Gables, Karli slowly began to make her way towards him from behind.
As soon as he felt Karli’s touch on his shoulder, Austin dropped forward in excited laughter as he turned around to face his bride.
Just look at his reaction. We love emotional first looks! A memorable moment for both of them, for sure.
With the two of them finally together, we took advantage of the gorgeous green gardens and broody skies to get portraits and aerial footage of Karli and Austin.
And before we knew it, it was time to get ready for the big moment!
WEDDING CEREMONY
Although we loved the dynamic sky for pictures, it was also accompanied by a little rain, so the ceremony ended up being indoors. Austin’s aunt Risa did a phenomenal job as officiant. All 85 guests in attendance were very close to the couple, and they made a special group vow to Karli and Austin to offer their continued support throughout their marriage. And then came those personal vows we were talking about earlier…take a look at the guests’ reactions.
Next came the ring exchange, and just like that, the Lloyds were official!!! They shared their first kiss as a married couple and then celebrated their way back down the aisle before doing an adorable dip kiss.
HAIRCUT
Now… haircut and cocktail hour aren’t words we’ve ever used together in the same sentence. So we were more than a little excited when something pretty unusual happened on Karli and Austin’s wedding day. Karli secretly slipped away with her hairstylist (plus her photo and video team). While everyone was enjoying cocktail hour, Karli was tucked away getting a haircut as a surprise for Austin.
Karli explained that Austin was always telling her that he liked her hair short, but Karli kept saying that she really wanted long hair for their wedding, so she’d cut it after they were married. What she didn’t say was HOW SOON after they married ;). She got him good! And everyone, especially Austin, loved the new look.
GOLDEN HOUR
We were so happy that the skies cleared up and golden hour came around in all its glory. We stole away Austin and Karli and her new do for a few more portraits on the beautiful grounds.
Throw in a custom jean jacket and…can you get any cuter?!?
RECEPTION
Finally, it was party time! 🕺🪩🍾 The Silver Arrow Band helped make it a night to remember.
And the guests that were taking a break from the bar or the dance floor and wanted to enjoy the outdoor weather could sit outside by the bonfires or play lawn games.
Watch a preview of Karli and Austin’s wedding video!