A white woman with brown hair in a wedding dress and fur shawl and asian man in a black suit stand holding hands on a deck at The Lodge in Skaneateles.

Kara & Ryan’s winter wedding at The Lodge in Skaneateles was one of those days that felt both cozy and elevated. It was full of intentional details, winter charm, and moments that truly reflected who they are as a couple. With glowing Christmas lights, guest experiences, and heartfelt moments woven throughout the day, it was the perfect way to wrap up my 2024 wedding season as a Skaneateles wedding photographer.

The day began in Syracuse with a quiet, meaningful morning of getting ready. I arrived at Kara’s home to photograph her dress, shoes, jewelry, invitation suite, and rings. At the same time, my second photographer was with Ryan and his groomsmen at the Embassy Suites near Destiny USA, capturing relaxed moments, laughter, and the anticipation building before the day really began. By early afternoon, transportation arrived to bring everyone to The Lodge.

Once at the venue, after a father-daughter first look, Kara & Ryan shared their first look outside, surrounded by the warm glow from The Lodge’s iconic floor-to-ceiling windows. It was a grounding moment for them before the rest of the day unfolded. We flowed naturally into bridal party and family portraits in front of the large windows that would soon frame their ceremony. Winter weddings in Skaneateles have a quiet kind of magic, and this setting showcased it beautifully.

As guests arrived, The Lodge filled with warmth and excitement. Kara & Ryan’s ceremony took place in front of those stunning windows, with glowing string lights and drapery creating a heartfelt, joyful, and perfect reflection of their story together.

Cocktail hour brought one of the most memorable experiences of the day: carriage and sleigh rides around the property. Guests embraced the winter setting fully, making it feel like something out of a holiday movie. From there, the celebration flowed seamlessly into the reception.

Introductions and dances kicked off the evening, followed by dinner and a night full of interactive moments. The phone guest book by After The Tone was another favorite, capturing heartfelt and hilarious voice messages the couple can listen back to for years to come. Throughout the night, cold sparklers lit up the dance floor, adding energy and incredible photo moments. Dessert was truly an experience. Guests warmed up at the hot cocoa bar, enjoyed a beautiful dessert spread by Sugar Blossom, and gathered around as ice cream was made with dry ice right in front of them. It was perfectly suited for a winter wedding celebration.

As the night went on, the dance floor stayed packed under twinkling Christmas lights thanks to Vice Versa Entertainment. By the time coverage wrapped up, the celebration was still in full swing, ending the year on a high note.

Kara & Ryan’s winter wedding at The Lodge was the perfect reminder of how special this season can be. Thoughtful details, meaningful moments, and a venue that truly shines year-round made this day unforgettable. If you’re planning a winter wedding at The Lodge or searching for a Skaneateles wedding photographer, I’d love to be part of your story!

Vendors
Venue & Catering: The Lodge
DJ: Vice Versa Entertainment
Florals: East Wood Blooms
Desserts: Sugar Blossom Cake Shop
Dress: Mirror Mirror Inc Bridal
Suits: Brooks Brothers
Makeup: Kelsey’s Beauty Bar
Hair: Ashley Toia
Guest Book: After The Tone
Photography: Brittany Juravich Photography