When couples think of weddings in Upstate New York, they often imagine sprawling estates and mountain views. These are the kind of understated elegance you only find tucked away from the crowds. As a luxury wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to capture love stories in some of the region’s most breathtaking—yet often overlooked—settings.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like a true escape, here are five exclusive wedding venues in Upstate New York that promise privacy, character, and timeless beauty.
1. Hayfield Catskills — Maplecrest, NY
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Catskills, Hayfield is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a modern-day fairytale. With a beautifully restored barn, sweeping fields, and those iconic Catskill backdrops, this venue feels both rustic and refined.
What makes Hayfield truly special is its intimacy. It’s perfect for couples who want to feel completely tucked away with their guests. The result? Organic moments, natural light, and the kind of candid wedding photography that tells your story with soul.
2. The Lake House on Canandaigua — Finger Lakes, NY
This luxury lakeside retreat is one of Upstate New York’s best-kept secrets. The Lake House combines upscale design with laid-back charm. It offers everything from private docks to garden paths, all framed by the sparkling waters of Canandaigua Lake.
It’s one of those exclusive wedding venues that manages to be both grand and grounded. For couples wanting a destination feel without leaving the state, it’s an absolute dream.
3. Cedar Lakes Estate — Port Jervis, NY
A former summer camp turned luxury resort, Cedar Lakes Estate is the epitome of a nostalgic yet elevated wedding experience. Think: cocktail hour by the lake, dancing under the stars, and cabins that look like they belong in Architectural Digest.
The venue is only available to one wedding per weekend—offering true exclusivity and a sense of place that’s both serene and cinematic. It’s ideal for multi-day celebrations and intimate gatherings that unfold like a storybook.
4. Foxfire Mountain House — Mt. Tremper, NY
Foxfire is a design-lover’s paradise. Styled with Moroccan tiles, antique textiles, and wood-burning fireplaces, this inn feels effortlessly curated. It’s relaxed, but never ordinary—making it a perfect match for couples who want a wedding that feels personal and stylish without being over-produced.
As a photographer, the natural textures and soft tones at Foxfire create a setting where moments unfold beautifully and authentically. It’s one of those venues that lets the couple—and the connection—shine.
5. Inness — Accord, NY
Set on 225 acres of Hudson Valley hills, Inness is modern minimalism at its finest. With a muted palette, a farmhouse-style restaurant, and panoramic views of the Shawangunk Ridge, it offers a striking yet serene backdrop for an exclusive wedding weekend.
Inness is more than just a venue—it’s an experience. From sunrise portraits in the fog to candlelit dinners that feel like private supper clubs, it’s made for couples who appreciate detail, discretion, and design.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably special about hosting your wedding in a place that feels like a discovery—where every corner holds intention and every moment has room to breathe. These exclusive wedding venues in Upstate New York offer just that: beauty without the buzz, elegance without the excess.
If you’re drawn to settings that inspire and photography that tells your story with depth, I’d love to capture your celebration. Let’s connect! From candid, photojournalistic frames to timeless editorial portraits, your day deserves to be documented with care, artistry, and a touch of magic.
