Morgan and Michael’s Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor brought together loved ones from across the world for an unforgettable celebration. Their handfasting ceremony honored Celtic traditions while the reception featured an incredible Irish jig. With family traveling from Ireland, every moment felt meaningful and connected to their heritage. From playful first looks to epic dance floor moments, this day radiated joy.

Getting Ready at the Westchester Marriott

The day began at the Westchester Marriott, where Morgan got ready with her crew. She laid out her dress and details in advance, helping us capture everything efficiently. Among the meaningful items was a book filled with letters from loved ones. As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, we love when couples incorporate personal touches like this.

Groom Preparation and Travel to the Venue

Michael got ready in a separate room at the hotel with his groomsmen. He headed out to the venue first to prepare for their first look. Meanwhile, Morgan took a private exit thanks to the incredible Marriott staff. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor starts with this anticipation and excitement.

First Look by the Fountain

Morgan and Michael chose to do their first look at The Briarcliff Manor. The rain cleared just in time for us to set them up outdoors by the fountain. We positioned Michael with the manor in the background as Morgan approached. She tapped his shoulder, and his joyful reaction was absolutely priceless.

The Manor as Your First Look Backdrop

This space is always stunning for Westchester wedding photos. The white columns and fountain create classic elegance for emotional moments. As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, we love how the architecture frames couples perfectly. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor benefits from these timeless portrait locations.

Portraits Around the Estate Grounds

After the first look, we captured portraits on the stone steps and in the lush backyard. The wedding party and families gathered for group photos by the venue. The layout makes everything feel close and connected throughout the property. Furthermore, the variety of backdrops creates diverse images without traveling far.

Wedding Party and Family Portraits

The front steps provided elegant framing for the full wedding party. Family portraits happened quickly and efficiently thanks to the organized spaces. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor accommodates large family groups traveling from overseas. Everyone felt included in these meaningful group photos.

Handfasting Ceremony with Celtic Traditions

The backyard ceremony at The Briarcliff Manor offered classic elegance for their vows. Morgan and Michael incorporated a handfasting ritual into their ceremony. This ancient Celtic tradition involves binding the couple’s hands together with ribbon or cord. The symbolic gesture represents their commitment and union beautifully.

What is Handfasting?

Handfasting dates back centuries in Celtic and Irish traditions. The binding of hands symbolizes the couple’s promise to one another. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor provides the perfect romantic setting for this meaningful ritual. Morgan and Michael’s handfasting brought tears to guests who understood its significance.

Vows Under Soft Cloud Cover

Morgan and Michael exchanged vows with soft cloud cover creating even, beautiful light. The atmosphere felt heartfelt and intimate despite the large guest count. Guests included loved ones from across the world, especially Ireland. As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, we captured the emotion radiating through every moment.

Cocktail Hour and Family Connections

After the ceremony, cocktail hour allowed guests to mingle and reconnect. We gathered Michael’s extended family indoors for group photos during this time. The couple moved through the space with ease, connecting with guests. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor creates these opportunities for meaningful interactions.

Hosting International Guests

The venue’s layout works perfectly for celebrations with guests traveling from far away. Indoor and outdoor spaces flow seamlessly for comfortable mingling. Furthermore, the staff understands how to accommodate international family groups. These connections across continents made the celebration even more special.

Reception with Irish Jig and Dancing

The reception kicked off with an energetic entrance from the newlyweds. Their first dance was tender, surrounded by beaming family and friends. Parent dances followed and brought more emotion to the room. Heartfelt speeches during dinner offered a quieter, meaningful pause before the party began.

The Irish Jig Takes Over the Dance Floor

Then the dance floor came alive with Irish energy. Michael’s family joined together for an Irish jig that brought the entire room to their feet. The traditional dance connected everyone to their heritage in a joyful celebration. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor creates space for these cultural moments.

Epic Dance Floor Moments

Morgan led the iconic “Rock The Boat” dance with guests forming a boat on the floor. We captured the joy and chaos of the moment as everyone participated. Soon after, the couple was hoisted on friends’ shoulders as the party reached its peak. As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, we live for this kind of energy.

Why The Briarcliff Manor Works for Irish Celebrations

The venue’s combination of elegance and warmth suits Irish wedding celebrations perfectly. The outdoor ceremony space accommodates meaningful traditions like handfasting beautifully. Additionally, the ballroom provides space for energetic dancing and large family gatherings. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor feels both sophisticated and genuinely fun.

Accommodating Cultural Traditions

The staff at The Briarcliff Manor understands how to support cultural wedding elements. Whether you’re incorporating handfasting, Irish dancing, or family traditions, they adapt seamlessly. The venue’s flexibility makes it ideal for couples blending heritage with celebration. Furthermore, the experienced team keeps everything running smoothly throughout the day.

Vendor Team for This Irish Wedding at The Briarcliff Manor

Morgan and Michael’s celebration came together thanks to talented professionals who made every detail perfect.

Coordination and Entertainment

Weddings by Emily ensured everything ran smoothly from ceremony to last dance. DJ Fernando Serrano of Blanc Noir Events kept the energy high and the dance floor packed all night. Rev. Gary Deinstadt led a heartfelt ceremony that honored their traditions beautifully.

Florals, Cake, and Transportation

Sarah May Floral Design created beautiful arrangements that complemented the venue’s timeless look. The Cakery Fishkill provided a stunning and delicious cake for the sweet finale. Red Oak Transportation handled shuttling guests between the Marriott and venue with ease.

Book Your Irish Wedding at The Briarcliff Manor

Morgan and Michael’s wedding showcased how cultural traditions elevate celebrations beautifully. The handfasting ceremony honored their Celtic heritage while the Irish jig brought everyone together. An Irish wedding at The Briarcliff Manor offers elegance, flexibility, and space for meaningful traditions. From overseas guests to epic dance floors, this venue accommodates it all.

Contact Us for Briarcliff Manor Wedding Photography

If you’re planning a celebration that honors your heritage, we would love to capture your story. As Hudson Valley wedding photographers, we document cultural traditions with care and authenticity. Whether handfasting, Irish dancing, or family rituals, we preserve every meaningful moment. Reach out today to discuss your wedding photography needs.