This Finger Lakes private estate wedding unfolded over two days at the bride’s grandparents’ lakefront home in Skaneateles. From a western-themed welcome party at Hobbit Hollow to an elegant celebration on the family’s tennis court, their wedding weekend balanced refined design with relaxed celebration.

Film Photography at Skaneateles Lake Wedding

I came to photograph this wedding through planner Heather Davidson, whose attention to detail and collaborative approach made the weekend seamless. The private estate setting offered endless opportunities for natural, documentary-style imagery.

Working with couples at family properties requires a different approach than traditional venues. These locations hold deep personal significance. My goal is to document not just the event itself, but the emotional connection to place that makes these celebrations so meaningful.

Finger Lakes Private Estate Wedding in Skaneateles : A Family Legacy

The lakefront property has been central to Savaria’s family story for generations. Family gatherings, summer days on the water, and countless memories have unfolded here. Choosing to marry at her grandparents’ home connected past and future in a tangible way.

The ceremony took place on the property overlooking Skaneateles Lake. Guests gathered to witness their vows in a location that held deep meaning for the bride and her family.

This wasn’t just about aesthetics. It was about honoring family legacy while creating new traditions.

Elegant Tent Wedding on Tennis Court

The reception tent was positioned on the family’s tennis court, transforming the recreational space into an sophisticated dining environment. Amber colored glasses and yellow details created visual warmth against the green surface below.

The design was refined yet relaxed. Elegant and intentional without feeling overly formal or stuffy. This balance reflected both the couple’s style and the intimate nature of celebrating at a private home.

Heather Davidson’s planning expertise ensured every detail worked cohesively while maintaining the personal, familial atmosphere that made this celebration unique.

Calla Lily Wedding Florals

Florals by Pistil and Pollen played a central role in defining the reception space. Calla lilies were used creatively throughout—hanging from woven lanterns and snaking down the length of the tablescape.

The floral design added drama and sophistication while maintaining an organic, flowing quality. Each element felt purposeful rather than excessive.

This thoughtful approach to florals elevated the entire aesthetic, creating visual interest at multiple heights and drawing the eye through the space.

Double Rainbow: A Serendipitous Moment

After the speeches and a brief rain shower, a double rainbow appeared over the lake. The timing felt serendipitous—the last time Savaria had seen her grandmother was in this exact location with a double rainbow.

In that moment, it felt like her grandmother was present for the celebration.

These are the moments you cannot plan or manufacture. As a photographer, being present and ready to document them is essential. The emotional significance of this rainbow will resonate through their wedding images for years to come.

Suzanne Neville Wedding Dress + Zimmermann After Party Look

Savaria wore a Suzanne Neville gown for the ceremony and reception. Later in the evening, she changed into a runway Zimmermann look that allowed her to move freely as the celebration intensified.

The dress change signaled a shift in the evening’s energy. From formal dinner to legendary dance party, the transformation was both practical and symbolic.

Multiple looks for a wedding day require careful timeline planning, but they provide visual variety in the final gallery and allow brides to fully engage with different aspects of their celebration.

Legendary Wedding Party

The evening dancing became the stuff of legend among their tight group of Fordham friends. What started as dinner and speeches evolved into a celebration that guests still reference years later.

Fireworks lit up the lake. Late night wood-fired pizza kept energy levels high. Silver Arrow Band provided the soundtrack as the party continued well into the night.

These are the celebrations people remember. Not because of perfection, but because of genuine joy and connection.

The combination of meaningful location, thoughtful design, and authentic celebration created a wedding weekend that honored family legacy while establishing new traditions for Savaria and Costa.

Vendor Team

Photography: Mary Dougherty | @mary.dougherty Planning: Heather Davidson | @heather_davidson_hospitality Hair + Makeup: Sainte Lux Weddings | @sainte_luxwedding Invitations: Foxy and Winston | @foxyandwinston Florals: Pistil and Pollen | @pistilandpollen Videography: Gabrielle Fordham Films | @gabriellefordhamfilms Wedding Dress: Suzanne NevilleAfter Party Dress: Zimmermann Band: Silver Arrow Band | @silverarrowband

For the western-themed welcome party at Hobbit Hollow, read the full feature [here]. For more private estate weddings in the Finger Lakes, explore the journal or get in touch to reserve your date.