Cortlandt Colonial Fall Wedding | Hudson Valley & Peekskill NY Wedding Photography
October 31, 2025
about
Your wedding day should feel relaxed, joyful, and completely yours.
I’m Alex Kaplan, a wedding photographer and videographer based in New Milford, NJ, serving Northern NJ, NYC, and the Hudson Valley. For over 30 years, I’ve helped couples enjoy their day without feeling rushed — while I quietly capture the real moments, natural portraits, and genuine emotions you’ll still love decades from now.
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A Hudson Valley Love Story
You know those weddings where you can feel the love in every moment?
This Cortlandt Colonial fall wedding in Peekskill, NY was exactly that.
From the laughter-filled suites at the Holiday Inn Express Peekskill to the last dance beneath the gazebo lights, the entire day overflowed with joy, emotion, and style — the kind of story that reminds me why I love being a Hudson Valley wedding photographer.
(See more Hudson Valley wedding galleries here.)
Getting Ready at Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Peekskill
Every great wedding story starts with anticipation.
Both partners got ready at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Peekskill – Lower Hudson Valley (2 John Walsh Blvd), an ideal location just steps from the Hudson River waterfront park.
Dylan’s suite buzzed with excitement — an elegant white beaded ensemble with crystal embellishments and a cathedral-length veil shimmered in the morning light. Their bridal party’s black off-shoulder gowns carried that timeless black-and-white theme through the day.
Meanwhile, Stephan prepared in a navy suit with a pink paisley bow tie and matching vest — modern, stylish, and personal.
Between laughter and last-minute details, every moment radiated genuine emotion.
“Those quiet, emotional pre-ceremony moments — the laughter, the small details — are where the story really begins.”
First Look by the Hudson River
At 3 PM we crossed to the Peekskill Waterfront Park, where autumn color framed the river and mountains beyond. Soft overcast light turned the first look into pure cinematic magic — a moment suspended in time.
“The Hudson River in fall gives you everything — color, emotion, and that cinematic light that makes each moment unforgettable.”
Cortlandt Colonial: A Hudson Valley Gem
After portraits, we drove seven minutes to Cortlandt Colonial Restaurant & Ballroom in Cortlandt Manor — a venue that blends classic charm with modern romance. Its white Victorian gazebo, landscaped grounds, and waterfall feature are picture-perfect for fall weddings.
A Ceremony Under the Stars
At 6 PM the ceremony began under glowing string lights. Dylan walked down the aisle, veil trailing behind, as guests gasped. Stephan’s face lit up — a look no one will forget.
The ornate gazebo, burgundy-and-white florals, and crisp October air made the moment pure magic.
Cocktail Hour & Reception
Guests enjoyed cocktails while the ballroom transformed: soft pink uplighting, black-and-white décor, and a stunning four-tier cake with ruffled fondant and pearl accents.
The newlyweds’ grand entrance set the tone — arms raised high, smiles wide, energy electric.
Emotional moments followed — a mother-child dance, heartfelt toasts, and nonstop laughter.
Then came the wild dance-floor energy — a guest in a hot-pink dress lifted into the air, laughter everywhere.
Cake Cutting & Bouquet Toss
By 10 : 30 PM, the cake-cutting sequence captured pure joy — playful, elegant, and full of laughter.
Why This Hudson Valley Wedding Was So Special
Every Hudson Valley wedding tells its own story, but this one had it all — perfect fall light, an emotional ceremony, and an incredible celebration that never slowed down.
From the Peekskill waterfront to the Cortlandt Colonial ballroom, every frame glowed with authenticity and joy.
“When love is this genuine, every frame tells the story for you.”
Final Thoughts & Favorite Moments
After 9.5 hours of coverage (1:30 PM – 11 PM), these moments stood out most:
- The first look by the Hudson River
- Veil flowing beneath the willow trees
- The glowing gazebo ceremony
- Their grand entrance into the ballroom
- Dylan and Maria’s emotional dance
- The wild dance floor energy
- The playful cake sequence
Vendors
Photography: Alex Kaplan Photography
Venue: Cortlandt Colonial Restaurant & Ballroom, Cortlandt Manor, NY
Getting Ready Location: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Peekskill–Lower Hudson Valley
Portrait Location: Peekskill Waterfront Park
Coverage: 9.5 hours (1:30 PM – 11 PM)
Wedding Colors: Black, White & Pink Accents
Guest Count: 125
Wedding Party: 15 attendants + 3 children
Planning a Hudson Valley Wedding?
Looking for a Peekskill or Cortlandt Manor wedding photographer who captures real emotion, elegant portraits, and unforgettable celebrations?
I’d love to help you tell your story beautifully.
📸 Alex Kaplan Photography
🌐 www.alexkaplanweddings.com
📞 917-992-9097
📧 alex@alexkaplanweddings.com
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The Calm Behind the Camera
About Me — But Really, It’s About You
The most meaningful wedding photos never come from stiff poses.
They come from the quiet laugh you didn’t think anyone saw.
The look on your partner’s face during the vows.
The warmth of your people all around you.
I’ve been doing this for over 30 years — and I still get nervous before every wedding.
Not because I’m uncertain, but because I know how much it matters.
After photographing hundreds of weddings over the past few decades, I’ve learned something simple:
The best photos happen when you feel fully present.
That’s why I work calmly, behind the scenes — guiding when it helps, then stepping back when the real moments unfold. I’m always anticipating what’s next, so you never have to think about a thing.
My goal is simple: to help you relax, feel confident, and walk away with photos that feel like you — not a filtered version of someone else’s idea of perfect.
Most of my couples say the same thing:
“We’re so glad we didn’t have to worry.”
Behind the Camera
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