This rustic wedding at the Roxbury Barn and Estate in the Catskills was low-key, intimate, and adventurous, with the majestic pine grove in the background. Kristen and Alexey’s chosen wedding venue in the Catskills was nothing short of magical, offering not just a venue, but an experience. Their intimate celebration unfurled with an aura of relaxation that enveloped guests like a warm embrace. As they celebrated their wedding at the Roxbury Barn & Estate, Kristen and Alexey embarked on an enchanted escape, sharing this adventure with their cherished family and friends.
Kristen is a DPT specializing in pre and postpartum strength, and Alexey is a professional trainer. These two fitness enthusiasts crossed paths in the bustling city of New York five years ago. Kristen says, “We met at the gym! One night, Alexey complimented me on my form. At that time, he worked at the gym, and I was just a member. Later on, I started working at the same gym as a trainer, and we became friends. Shortly after I ended my previous relationship, Alexey asked me for drinks. On our date at the bar, while I was explaining why baseball games are so cool, he asked me if he could kiss me. The guy behind him almost choked, but I said yes, and the rest is history! We both love being outdoors and exploring and since we started dating, we’ve gone on many hikes with our cat and have taken numerous getaways to cabins. We got engaged not far from our wedding venue in the Catskills, this area is so special to us.”
The couple fell head over heels for the Roxbury Barn and Estate at first sight when they saw the ceremony site surrounded by pine trees. They realized that this place was everything they had dreamt of and more. They wanted their outdoor wedding in the Catskills to be simultaneously secluded and modern, intimately connected with nature, and built on sustainable foundations.
The groom and the bride were getting ready right at the wedding venue the Roxbury Barn and Estate. This enchanting place is a collection of several distinct buildings, a thoughtful arrangement that perfectly aligned with Kristen and Alexey’s desire to keep the magic of their first look intact. This meant that they each readied themselves in separate spaces, adding a touch of anticipation to the air.
For the bride, the preparations took place in the charming embrace of the newlyweds’ house. The rooms here were adorned with ample sunlight, infusing each corner with a natural glow that beautifully complemented the bride’s radiance. The fully-equipped kitchen served as more than just a culinary hub; it was a space where laughter flowed freely, and the sense of togetherness was palpable. The abundance of sunlight flooding through the windows ensured that every photograph captured the day’s essence, reflecting an almost otherworldly brightness.
Beyond the walls of the house stretched a vast backyard, a canvas of untouched natural beauty. This outdoor expanse became an exquisite backdrop for capturing candid moments between the bride and her beloved family. Adding a personal touch to the bride’s aesthetics, her makeup was skillfully done by a dear friend, while her sister lovingly took charge of her hair. These chosen companions enveloped her with their unwavering support, infusing the room with emotional warmth, and helping her relax in those crucial moments.
The bride’s choice of attire was emblematic of her style – an elegant and straightforward figure-shaped gown sourced from BHLDN, gracefully adorned with cream lace. The gown was a reflection of simplicity and timeless grace, a choice that harmonized with her natural makeup and softly curled hair. A sense of legacy danced in her ensemble, with earrings and bracelets passed down from her grandmother, the same pieces that adorned her on her own wedding day, becoming poignant symbols of continuity and love.
Meanwhile, the groom embarked on his own transformation in a different corner of the venue. Positioned on the second floor of the very building that would later host the evening’s reception, this place bore an intimate and dimly lit ambiance, casting a veil of masculine mystery over the scene. This play of shadows and light created a unique setting for capturing the groom’s moments of preparation, infusing the photographs with a sense of depth and intrigue.
Donned in a timeless Armani suit, the groom’s choice exuded classic elegance, and it was punctuated by a traditionally ornamented bow tie. This detail added a dash of creativity and a nod to tradition, encapsulating the essence of the Roxbury Barn and Estate’s fusion of rustic charm and modern sophistication.
The enchanting first look of the bride and groom unfolded amidst the grandeur of the majestic pine grove, a heartwarming moment set against the backdrop of the Roxbury Barn and Estate wedding venue.
Approaching this pivotal moment from the perspective of a photographer, I held a specific vision for this initial meeting. The chosen setting needed to be a haven of intimacy, a secluded enclave where the couple could experience this precious instant in solitude. Moreover, the realization that an exquisite couples’ photo session awaited us right after the first look motivated my decision to reserve the pine forest exclusively for the couple. Their affinity for this verdant haven was what drew Kristen and Alexey to this very venue initially, and I was determined to gift them the luxury of time within its embrace.
As the first look unfolded, the bride and groom exchanged heartfelt compliments, their emotions infusing the air with an almost tangible warmth. It was a moment to savor, one that deserved to be immortalized through the lens. As a photographer, I hold the belief that the most genuine and cherished moments are born when couples are free to simply be themselves. Hence, instead of rigidly orchestrating poses, I provided subtle guidance and suggestions, letting the couple’s love and connection take the lead. In those moments, I assumed the role of an observer, granting them the space to bask in their shared joy.
The pine grove, with its serene beauty, transformed into a canvas for our photographic journey. The interplay of sunlight filtering through the pine needles cast enchanting patterns, adding a touch of magic to each frame. It’s worth noting the collaborative presence of a talented videographer, Aroll Films, who joined me in capturing this tale. Together, our lenses wove a narrative that wasn’t just about capturing visuals, but about preserving emotions and authentic moments for Kristen and Alexey. In that pine-scented haven, the camera became a storyteller, capturing stolen glances, soft laughter, and the unspoken promises exchanged between the couple.
After wrapping up the photo and video session with the couple, it was time to transition to the main event – the ceremony. The vibes were changing as everyone was getting ready for what was to come.
Getting ready for this ceremony was not just about the couple. A live music duo, Garrett and Tamara, set the mood with their instruments and microphones. They arrived early, almost coinciding with the end of the couple’s photo session. While they set up, the wedding venue the Roxbury Barn and Estate was alive with excitement.
A beautiful arch, crafted with care by Lydia Castiglia from Catskill Flower Shop, stood as the backdrop. It was a blend of art and nature, a perfect scene for what was about to unfold.
As the countdown to the ceremony continued, the guests started to trickle in, settling into their seats like pieces falling into a puzzle. An unexpected surprise awaited them on each chair – a paper cone, each cradling delicate lavender seeds. These seeds held a secret, a hidden message that would soon be unveiled. Sadly, the groom’s parents couldn’t make it due to visa issues. Still, there was a good crowd of local friends and family, around 80 to 90 people, coming to celebrate.
With a mixture of tradition and emotion, the bride, arm in arm with her father, gracefully made her way down the aisle. It was a moment strung with the essence of family bonds and the weight of a new journey about to begin.
The heart of the ceremony was the vows exchanged between Kristen and Alexey. They weren’t the usual serious vows; they were personal, even funny, touching the hearts of the guests.
As the ceremony concluded, the couple made their way out, and guests tossed lavender seeds into the air. Those seeds were not only fragrant but also eco-friendly, blending perfectly with the natural surroundings. It was a small gesture that showed the couple’s care for the environment in the midst of their big day.
Following the heartfelt ceremony, the jubilant guests made their way to another building nestled within the expansive grounds of the Roxbury Barn and Estate wedding venue. As they crossed from one space to another, the transition felt like a seamless shift.
An aspect often overlooked in the choice of a wedding venue in the Catskills is its accessibility, particularly for older guests who may struggle with mobility. Here at Roxbury Barn and Estate wedding venue, this consideration had been woven into the very fabric of the arrangements. The attentive staff, armed with golf carts, ensured that each guest could effortlessly traverse between the various points of interest. The carts became a symbol of care, offering not just transportation but an embodiment of the venue’s commitment to every guest’s comfort.
Amidst the clinking of glasses and the lively chatter, the children played cornhole (bags), their laughter blended with the celebratory ambiance. In the midst of this vivacious scene, the newlyweds found a moment to steal away. It was a stolen interlude of quietude, a chance to cherish each other’s company amidst the whirlwind of emotions that had colored the day.
The attentive staff, who seemed to anticipate every need, emerged with trays of cocktails and appetizers. Kristen and Alexey found a serene corner to savor these delectable treats, stepping away from the bustling crowd for a brief intermission. The culinary delights, orchestrated by Ate O Ate, were a testament to the region’s bounty, a farm-to-table culinary experience. That’s a thing that is special about weddings in the Catskills mountains area – you always have access to the freshest and most organic food because there are a lot of farms nearby.
As the sun set and the cocktail hour drew to a close, the company made their way to the dinner area. Awaiting them was a sumptuous feast, a testament to the marriage of local flavors and culinary expertise. Amidst this backdrop, Kristen and Alexey made their entrance, the bride resplendent in a shorter dress from the Hello Molly collection. Their first dance, a moment etched with intimacy, was a choreographic marvel. The choice of the song “The Time of My Life” from the iconic Dirty Dancing movie infused the atmosphere with nostalgia and joy. Applause rippled through the crowd, a genuine appreciation for the artistic and emotional display.
The rhythm of the evening changed as the dinner concluded and the dance floor beckoned. A dedicated table brimmed with traditional treats, a testament to the couple’s cultural roots. The sweets spoke the language of heritage – Russian chocolates, Argentinean medialunas, Dulce De Leche, and the treasured “nuts” with condensed milk inside, reflecting the couple’s fusion of traditions.
The celebratory air reverberated with modern hits, but the playlist also wove in the nostalgic tunes of the ’80s and a sprinkle of Russian melodies. The night unfolded in a symphony of laughter, music, and heartwarming connections. As the event came to a close, the atmosphere shifted to a more intimate note. With sparklers illuminating the night, the couple raced through the corridor of well-wishers, a luminous path to the final chapter of the evening.
Gathered around a bonfire, a sense of camaraderie lingered in the air. Conversations intertwined with the crackling of flames, and marshmallows turned golden brown on sticks. It was a warm, fitting conclusion to a day marked by love, laughter, and the weaving of countless memories. Also you can see a wedding video by A-Roll Films by clicking here.
Words of love from Kristen and Alexey:“Alina was AMAZING! She did the photography for our wedding and we couldn’t have been happier. She’s very professional, her work is flawless, she’s attentive, creative, and very easy to work with. We also got to work with her videography team as well and we’re so impressed with how well they work together to produce our wedding video. I would highly recommend them both. Thank you for everything, Alina!”
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!
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