Can you just imagine my excitement when Rachel and Greg contacted me saying they were getting married at a Catskills roadside motel? If you are familiar with the Catskills you’ve likely heard about the ultra hip renovated motel named The Graham and Co. in downtown Phoenicia. Martin, the owner, has created a retro inspired oasis situated among the beauty of the Catskill Mountains. Add in an artistic couple with excellent taste, plus a fluffy Great Pyrenese wedding dog named Fanny and I was absolutely sold.
Upon pulling in, I was greeted with a giant kitschy sign welcoming the couple for their wedding day. It immediately set the vibe and I was obsessed, sorry not sorry for the multiple photos of it here, it was just so cool. Rachel and Greg got ready in different suites and chose to have their first look in front of the suite near the road. I loved the mixed textures and mid century styling as the back drop.
We took a quick walk for some portraits and stopped by one of the two camp fires that were going all evening long while someone fetched Fanny the Great Pyr pup from a family member. I snapped a photo of Rachel’s epic Dolce Vita wedding boots as she relaxed a moment by the fire. Her wedding day style was epic; between her country western inspired lace dress with bell sleeves, the white boots and her flowing curls, she was an absolute icon reminiscent of Dolly Parton. Greg looked incredibly dapper and almost scholarly in his green woolen suit. Immediately behind the chill out spot was the area that operated as a motel check in point, complete with warm drinks, funky decor and an illustrated sign of Rachel and Greg sipping a cocktail. A vibe indeed.
Their ceremony was officiated by a close family friend and featured a macrame backdrop instead of a traditional arch, with a vintage oriental rug from the couple’s home to be married upon. Their chairs had warm jewel toned ribbons dangling in lieu of an aisle runner. Behind the ceremony, another camp fire roared, the homey smell of smoke wafting through the air. The October leaves were in full force acting as the perfect backdrop. It truly couldn’t have been more perfect.
Under the tent fun details like a sprinkle covered wedding cake with a handmade road side attraction sign greeted guests. Fun green key tags were placed on a peg board as a take away gift; think Schitt’s Creek but make it classy. Again, I was thrilled.
Congratulations Rachel and Greg - your Catskills wedding day was unlike anything I’ve experienced and I loved every minute of it.
Shoutout to the wonderful vendor team
Venue - The Graham and Co. Phoenicia NY
Hair and make up - Alana Schmidt (one of my absolute favorites!)
Entertainment - Beat Train Productions
Catering - Hickory BBQ Smokehouse
