Hey there, fellow wedding enthusiasts! Find your favorite cozy corner and brace yourselves for a love story that’s as captivating as it gets. We’re about to plunge into the enchanting universe of Grace and Amilcar, and trust me, this experience is something you won’t want to miss. Picture this – a bohemian wedding at a place that sounds like a fairytale location itself: the Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown NY. Yeah, you heard that right, and believe me, this venue lives up to its dreamy name.
So, let’s get into the juicy details.
We’ve got Grace and Amilcar, the dynamic duo of this story. Their love tale kicked off at none other than the Sutton Hill Apartment in Middletown, NY. Yep, that’s right, real-life love can be found in unexpected places. They were both knee-deep in medical school during the wild days of COVID lockdown. Fate, or maybe just a good dose of destiny, brought them together. Grace was walking her furry sidekick, Milo, and Amilcar was doing his daily jog. A few words turned into a conversation, which transformed into study buddies that just clicked. Oh, and here comes the twist – Amilcar got locked out of his own apartment! Or so he claims. Grace has her doubts, but they spent the day together, sharing stories, and diving into deliciousness at a local Italian joint. The rest is history in the making.
What do these lovebirds enjoy doing together? Hiking, rock climbing, and traveling – yup, they’re not your usual Netflix-and-chill couple.
Fast forward to their 2-year anniversary, and they found themselves near the Hudson River in New Jersey. The sun was bidding adieu for the day, and the New York City skyline was painting a jaw-dropping backdrop. And in this perfect moment, Amilcar dropped to one knee and popped the big question. Hugs, kisses, and pure bliss followed, sealing the deal for a lifetime together.
Grace envisioned her perfect wedding day with a bohemian romantic feel. Before delving into the getting ready part, let’s shine the spotlight on the stars of this show – the vendors who turned this day into a dream come true. We’ve got the incredible wedding venue The Barn at Villa Venezia, providing the enchanting backdrop. Then there’s Tatiana Strukova, ensuring Grace’s makeup was flawless. Dominique Rochelle worked her magic on Grace’s hair, and trust me, it was sheer perfection. Kris Glover-Rasimas, the mastermind behind the UnKAGed events planning agency, orchestrated the entire affair. A-Roll Films skillfully captured the moving moments on video, while Rachael Solomon from Bad Boss Bride crafted floral masterpieces that added a touch of nature’s beauty.
Now, let’s jump into the getting ready part. Amilcar and his crew decided to kick back at the Hotel Hilton Middletown. And guess what? The guy had no idea how to tie a bow tie! I mean, who could blame him? The struggle was real, but it turned into a hilarious YouTube tutorial session, complete with laughter and behind-the-scenes candid shots. And let’s not forget his snazzy blue suit with that blush bow tie – talk about dapper.
On the other side, we’ve got Grace, the stunning bride, getting ready at their apartment. Surrounded by her closest pals, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. And here’s the cutest part – her friends gifted her a robe with “Mrs. Shin” in silver letters on the back. Personalized and precious, just like her.
The moment that usually takes your breath away – the first look. It was decided to have it in the stunning setting of the Orange County Arboretum, a picturesque park that’s just a short drive from The Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown NY. The ambiance is like something out of a dream – serene and perfect for capturing the anticipation of that first look. And then, there were the private vows, exchanged in a majestic spot within the Orange County Arboretum, known as the Remembrance Walkway and Garden. A place that resonates with love in every corner. The families of the bride and groom also came to Orange County Arboretum to take family photos with the couple. This spot is perfect for family pictures too, with lots of open spaces that can easily fit big groups of people.
By the way, while the entrance to the park is free, it’s important for the wedding photographer to obtain a photography permit in advance and include this location as co-insured on your business insurance, something I always do when I need to cover additional locations on the wedding day.
And then, the big moment – the ceremony. The spotlight was on The Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown NY. Trust me, when they say this place is expansive, they’re not kidding. I was stationed on the top floor, while another celebration took place downstairs. Surprisingly, the walls proved to be effective sound barriers, ensuring that the ambiance of each wedding remained undisturbed. I gathered that those on the lower floor could opt for an outdoor ceremony, though I suspect this may hinge more on the couple’s preferences. In my case, we opted for an indoor ceremony due to the summer heat and humidity, a decision that proved wise as we stayed comfortably cool. The ceremony was accompanied by the soulful tunes of The Devonshire Players which made it truly magical.
Let’s talk ambiance. Wooden walls, cozy corners, and a moody vibe – this is what The Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown NY is all about. If you’re into that boho/rustic elegance, you’re in for a treat. The dim lighting adds a touch of intimacy, creating the perfect canvas for those oh-so-important intimate moments. But here’s the thing, when the natural light starts to fade after 5 p.m., things can get a bit challenging. Candid indoor shots? Check. But sometimes, you need a flash of brilliance (literally) to make those shots pop.
Now, let’s fast forward to the part everyone’s been eagerly awaiting – the reception. Imagine stepping back into the rustic yet enchanting ambiance of the Barn at Villa Venezia, the very same place where the heartfelt ceremony took place. But this time, the atmosphere shifted, embracing a new kind of energy – one of celebration, of unbridled laughter.
The moment the doors swung open, the open dancefloor beckoned with its promise of carefree twirls and electric moves. The beats from DJ Joe Linkman flowed seamlessly, wrapping the guests in a melodic embrace that lasted long into the night.
Yet, the surprises didn’t stop there. The air was alive with the thrill of casino games, offering a playful escape for those who fancied their luck. It was a chance to try their hand at games of chance, to indulge in friendly rivalry, and perhaps even win a prize or two. And nestled nearby was the Snaptrend Photo Booth, a whimsical portal that captured candid moments, laughter, and a splash of creativity – instant souvenirs to cherish forever.
And of course, what’s a celebration without a cake? Oh, but not just any cake. Liz from Bread & Butter bakery weaved her culinary magic, crafting a masterpiece that wasn’t just a dessert but a work of art. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, a testament to craftsmanship and passion. As the evening dipped into the velvety hues of twilight, the cake-cutting was a moment to savor, both in taste and sentiment.
To sum it all up, Grace and Amilcar’s wedding day was a whirlwind of love, laughter, and memories. And at the heart of it all, was The Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown NY. It’s not just a venue; it’s a love story waiting to be told. With its rustic charm, cozy ambiance, and a touch of elegance, it set the stage for a day that will be cherished forever. And as the sun set on their special day, they danced, laughed, and celebrated a love that’s bound to last a lifetime. Cheers to Grace and Amilcar, and to the magic of The Barn at Villa Venezia in Middletown NY!
Just drop me a message if you’re interested in working together. Let me know which service you’d like more info on, your budget, and anything else about you and your partner! I’ll be in touch soon!
Wedding photographer in New Jersey, New York & beyond. Engagements, micro weddings, elopements in NYC