If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding day that feels like stepping into a storybook, let me introduce you to Olivia and Drew’s stunning celebration at The Wadsworth Homestead. Nestled in Geneseo, NY, this historic venue is a hidden gem that combines timeless elegance with natural beauty. From its intimate gardens to its charming mansion, The Wadsworth Homestead offers endless opportunities for unforgettable moments and breathtaking photos. It’s no wonder I love photographing weddings here!
The Wadsworth Homestead is one of those rare venues that has it all. The historic mansion exudes old-world charm, while the surrounding acres provide a lush, romantic backdrop for any wedding. As a photographer, I’m always thrilled when couples choose this venue because it’s packed with stunning photo spots—from the stately porches to the tree-lined pathways and vibrant flower beds. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or whimsical garden vibes, this venue delivers every time.
One of my favorite features of The Wadsworth Homestead is its versatility. This wedding perfectly showcased how the venue can transition seamlessly from a serene ceremony setting to a lively reception space. The historic charm of the mansion paired beautifully with their garden-inspired details, creating a cohesive and visually stunning experience for their guests.
How sweet is this moment of Olivia and her dad during their first look?!
When Olivia and Drew first reached out to me about capturing their wedding, one thing stood out: they wanted to enjoy their day. Together, we crafted a timeline that allowed plenty of time for everything—from getting ready to capturing sweet, intimate moments between the two of them with their family and friends. This thoughtful approach not only made their day more enjoyable but also ensured we had ample time to take advantage of all the incredible photo spots at The Wadsworth Homestead.
The day began with Olivia getting ready in one of the mansion’s charming suites. Surrounded by her bridal party, she sipped on mimosas and laughed as the morning unfolded. The suite’s large windows let in soft, natural light, creating the perfect setting for those beautiful getting-ready shots. Meanwhile, Drew and his groomsmen prepared in a separate area, enjoying a relaxed morning before the festivities began.
Having this extra time in the morning allowed everyone to ease into the day, which set the tone for the rest of the celebration. There was no rushing or last-minute chaos—just pure excitement and anticipation.
One of the highlights of the day was Olivia and Drew’s first look. We chose a quiet spot in the back of the property, surrounded by dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. It was an incredibly sweet and emotional moment as Drew turned around to see Olivia for the first time in her gown. Having this private moment before the ceremony gave them a chance to soak in the significance of the day together.
After the first look, we spent time exploring the property for portraits. The Wadsworth Homestead’s grounds are truly a photographer’s dream. From the stately front steps of the mansion to the whimsical garden pathways, every corner offers a picture-perfect backdrop. Olivia and Drew’s love for each other shone through in every shot, making my job a joy.
The ceremony took place in the heart of The Wadsworth Homestead’s sprawling acres. Guests were seated on rows of white chairs, framed by lush greenery and beautiful florals. The natural beauty of the setting meant minimal décor was needed, allowing the focus to stay on Olivia and Drew as they exchanged heartfelt vows.
One of the things I love most about outdoor ceremonies at The Wadsworth Homestead is how intimate they feel. The field creates a sense of seclusion and serenity, making it easy for couples and their guests to stay present and connected. As Olivia and Drew said their “I dos,” the joy and love in the air were palpable.
After the ceremony, we took advantage of the golden hour for more portraits. This is hands-down my favorite time of day to shoot, and The Wadsworth Homestead’s open fields and tree-lined paths make it even more magical. The soft, warm light added an ethereal quality to Olivia and Drew’s photos, perfectly complementing the romantic vibe of their day.
Having built extra time into the timeline, we were able to explore a variety of locations without feeling rushed. Olivia’s flowing gown and Drew’s sharp suit looked amazing against the golden light, and their genuine laughter and love made every shot feel effortless.
The reception was held on the mansion’s sprawling acres under their beautiful tent, where guests enjoyed dinner and dancing under the stars. The tented setup was adorned with twinkling string lights and elegant floral centerpieces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. One of the standout moments of the evening was Olivia and Drew’s first dance. As they swayed to their favorite song, surrounded by their closest friends and family, it was clear this was a day they’d cherish forever.
Throughout the evening, guests mingled on the lawn, and enjoyed the property, including visiting with the horses! The relaxed timeline allowed everyone to fully enjoy the celebration, and Olivia and Drew had plenty of time to connect with their guests.
If Olivia and Drew’s wedding has you dreaming of your own celebration at The Wadsworth Homestead, here are a few reasons why this venue is such a standout choice:
This wedding at The Wadsworth Homestead was a beautiful reminder of why I love this venue so much. Its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and versatile spaces creates the perfect setting for a memorable celebration. By thoughtfully planning their timeline, Olivia and Drew were able to fully enjoy their day while capturing stunning photos that they’ll treasure forever.
If you’re considering The Wadsworth Homestead for your wedding, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Let’s create a day that feels just as magical as Olivia and Drew’s!
©2022 SLZ photography | all rights reserved | site credit karima creative | copy credit Black diamond copy co