Photography: @jredziniak
Venue: @oheka_weddings_and_events
In October 2020, Cherie and Cory celebrated their love with an intimate elopement at the stunning Oheka Castle in Huntington, NY. With COVID-19 restrictions at their peak, indoor weddings were severely limited, and guests were required to wear masks. Despite these challenges, the couple, along with their young son and a few close family members, created a memorable and heartfelt celebration.
The day began in the elegant bridal suite of Oheka Castle, where Cherie prepared for her big day with the help of her mom. The suite’s luxurious ambiance provided the perfect backdrop for capturing the quiet, emotional moments as she dressed and reflected on the day ahead.
Meanwhile, Cory spent the morning in the castle’s beautiful garden with their son. They enjoyed some quality time together, taking in the serene surroundings just steps away from where the ceremony would soon take place. I captured these tender father-son moments, highlighting the bond that would soon be celebrated in a special way during the ceremony.
As the ceremony began, Cherie made a graceful entrance, walking down the steps to the back garden of Oheka Castle with her veil delicately draped over her face. The day was cloudy and a bit gloomy, adding a touch of drama to the already picturesque scene. As she walked along the pebble path, her father met her halfway to escort her to the gazebo at the garden's edge, where Cory and the small gathering of guests awaited.
The ceremony was intimate and filled with emotion. Cherie and Cory exchanged rings, but the most touching moment came when they presented their son with a necklace, symbolizing his important place in their newly joined family. This gesture added a beautiful layer of meaning to the ceremony, reinforcing the sense of unity and love that was so central to the day.
Following the ceremony, we captured formal family photos in front of the gazebo, which was adorned with a lovely floral arrangement. The grand architecture of Oheka Castle served as the perfect backdrop for the rest of the portrait session. I also used my drone to capture stunning aerial shots, showcasing the expansive and meticulously landscaped grounds of the castle.
The photography coverage concluded as Cherie and Cory retreated inside the castle to enjoy a private dinner on an outdoor patio. This quiet, romantic meal was the perfect ending to their intimate celebration, proving that even during a global pandemic, love can create moments of beauty and joy.
