Some wedding stories feel like they were written long before the actual day. Emma and Matt’s is one of them. These two met as teenagers, lost touch during college, and then—like something straight out of a rom-com—reconnected during a job interview in their 20s. Five years later, they were ready to celebrate a lifetime together, surrounded by the mountains and magic of upstate New York. And let me tell you, a Taconic Ridge Farm wedding was the perfect place for it.
Why Taconic Ridge Farm is a Dream Wedding Venue
Taconic Ridge Farm has that rare mix of rustic charm and elevated elegance. Couples can host the entire day on site, which makes the flow seamless and stress-free. The gorgeous views of the Catskills just make it that much sweeter.
Here’s what stood out about Emma + Matt’s wedding at Taconic Ridge:
Multiple event spaces → Their ceremony took place in a woodland clearing. Cocktail hour unfolded in a wide-open field overlooking the mountains. Dinner and dancing filled the barn, and guests ended the night around a bonfire. Each part of the day had its own vibe, but it all felt connected and cohesive.
Natural beauty → Wildflowers framed the day, from pops of color in the bouquets to the bud vases lining the tables. The venue’s landscapes spoke for themselves.
Photo-friendly variety → From apple trees perfect for a first look, to wide open fields at golden hour, to cozy barn lighting after dark, Taconic Ridge Farm offers endless backdrops for photos that feel cinematic and truly authentic.
If you’re looking for an Upstate New York wedding venue in the Hudson Valley that balances natural beauty with thoughtful design, Taconic Ridge Farm is a must-see.
Emma + Matt’s Wedding Day at Taconic Ridge Farm
The day started with Emma getting ready in the farmhouse while Matt prepped nearby with his groomsmen. Their first look under the apple tree was quiet and emotional, surrounded by greenery that made it feel private and intimate.
Their ceremony took place in the meadow, with Emma’s dad officiating under a birch chuppah he built himself (pretty sick, right?), decorated with colorful wildflowers from Tiny Hearts Farm. Guests gathered in the open field, with the Catskills as the backdrop. A LITERAL dream came true for these lovebirds.
Cocktail hour was all about local love — food from The Farmer’s Wife (a spot Emma has been visiting since childhood), beer from local breweries, and pies from their favorite farm stand. The Silver Arrow Band kept everyone dancing once dinner was served, and the hora brought the energy WAYYY up before sunset portraits in the fields.
True to Emma’s request, we slipped away for golden hour. Watching the two of them against the glow of the setting sun still gives me chills just thinking about it. And yes, Matt loves sunsets, so this moment was a non-negotiable.
Later in the evening, guests gathered by a bonfire while late-night bites kept the party going (because…duh).
Want help creating a kick-ass wedding timeline that doesn’t stress you out like Emma and Matt’s? Head to this blog next!
Details That Made Their Day Uniquely Theirs
Family at the center → Emma and Matt wanted sibling moments captured just as much as couple portraits. Those little glances and hugs ended up being some of the most emotional images.
Wildflower palette → Pops of blue, green, yellow, orange, and pink showed up everywhere — in the florals, the bridesmaids’ dresses, and the table details. It felt vibrant without ever being overwhelming.
The personal touches → From pies instead of cake, to Emma’s dad officiating, to speeches from both of their moms — every detail was tied back to the people and places they love most.
Wondering what non-traditional touches you can add to your own wedding or elopement? I’ve got 11 ideas for you ready to binge right here!
Here’s how Emma described having me alongside them at Taconic Ridge Farm:
“There are not enough adjectives in the world to describe how incredible it is to have Erica as your wedding photographer… Her warm and festive energy immediately put us at ease… Her pictures tell the story of the night in a style that is immersive, intimate and expressive — capturing the big romantic memories and the million special moments in-between with equal attentive care.”
Reading those words still gives me chills. Because that’s exactly what this wedding was: intimate, expressive, and full of love.
Sooo…Should You Get Married at Taconic Ridge Farm?
If you want a venue that combines natural beauty, flexibility, and incredible views of the Catskills, Taconic Ridge Farm delivers. It’s a place where you can host every part of your day without feeling rushed, and where the natural surroundings do most of the heavy lifting.
For Emma + Matt, it wasn’t just about the location — it was about what it represented: a homecoming to a region that shaped them, celebrated with the people who matter most.
And honestly? That’s what the best weddings are made of.
Upstate NY Wedding Photographer | Erica Warren Photography
While New Hampshire is home, I don’t mind traveling to cool places to meet even cooler couples! 😉 I really strive to be more than just a photographer. I’m all about capturing those moments that make life truly special with the people you love most, and I’d love to capture your story in a place that is meaningful to you! Reach out, here to secure your date!
