Maddie + Andrew’s wedding at the Red House in Cassadaga, NY was my absolute DREAM, with Lord of the Rings-inspired details and decor galore—it was like something out of a storybook (literally). If you love all things fantastical and you find yourself dreaming of an autumn wedding at a romantic venue in the middle of the woods, then you’re going to fall in love with this breathtaking day.
Maddie + Andrew’s Enchanting Wedding at the Red House
Celebrating these two high school sweethearts
It’s always so cool to see a couple who’s been together since they were young, finally tie the knot; to learn about who they were when they met and how their relationship has transformed since then. Being a part of the same friend group in high school meant that they’d known each other for a while, having originally met while Andrew was part of the stage crew for a musical Maddie was in. Once they became more than friends they often found themselves playing chess, having movie nights, and exploring local parks together. Years later they would be hiking to the top of a small mountain in the Adirondacks when Andrew pulled out a ring box to propose—and she said yes! I can only imagine the pure joy shared between these two when Andrew pulled out the champagne to celebrate, followed by an amazing weekend together adventuring around the mountains. What an amazing start to engaged life, am I right?
Magical details inspired by Lord of the Rings
Maybe I should be telling you more sweet stories about this couple first. . . but I kinda just want to dive right into the details of their day. Because WOW are they some of my favorites I have ever gotten to photograph!
A little more backstory real quick: Maddie and Andrew both love reading, video games, and exploring the outdoors—so it only made sense that their wedding would revolve around one of their favorite mystical stories, as well as the picturesque beauty that New York has to offer.
Now when I tell you that I was obsessed with every little piece of decor that was a part of their vision, I was obsessed. They wanted their day to feel like you had just stepped into your very own world dreamed up by J. R. R. Tolkien (who just so happens to be the author of my own favorite books), surrounded by mystical wooded areas, an abundance of sprawling greenery, and little ethereal touches here and there.
Maddie had SO many magical details incorporated into her bridal look, from her stunning orange bouquet, to her fiery red braid sprinkled with sprigs and baby’s breath, to the cape she wore atop her breathtaking gown. She and Andrew even chose a Lord of the Rings-themed ring box depicting the Nimloth tree. How freaking awesome is that?! But their cake topper was my favorite of them all, as it was this elegant archway with Arwen’s Evenstar necklace from LOTR draped over the top. Incredible.
One more thing that’s going to blow your mind: all of the details were DIY. All of them! Talk about a DIY queen + king.
A storybook-esque fall day in New York
Aside from all of the magical details, Maddie and Andrew’s celebration in itself felt like one pulled from a romantic storybook in the forest. It was a beautiful fall day in early October, the trees and leaves boasting deep greens that really made the jewel tones of the wedding party “pop.” Maddie and Andrew had the sweetest first look outside of the Red House before taking photos with all of their loved ones + heading into the trees for a few more romantic couples portraits.
After their enchanting ceremony, where they tied the knot in front of this breathtaking arbor surrounded by sprawling ferns & florals, we managed to sneak away for sunset newlywed photos. Though the actual sun was nowhere to be found, the overcast lighting only helped these two stand out even more against the gorgeous landscapes—especially with Maddie’s vibrant hair and bridal bouquet!
The evening was spent mingling among tables decorated with colorful pumpkins, vining greenery, and scattered leaves, loved ones congratulating the new bride and groom at every opportunity. Maddie and Andrew used antique framed photos from their engagement session as decor, which was so freaking cute and rustic against the exposed brick walls. Everybody had a ball on the dance floor to end the night—even the doggos. Congrats to the new Mr. and Mrs. on a fabulous, magic-filled day!
Cassadaga, NY wedding vendors
Venue: The Red House
Suit: The Black Tux
Dress: Azalea Dresses
Shoes: Margaux
Bridal Bouquet: Wegmans
Makeup and Hair: Fawn and Fox Salon
Entertainment: Chase Entertainment
Catering: Ashley’s Culinary Creations
All Decor: DIY
About The Red House, a Charming Wedding Venue in Cassadaga, NY
Nestled right behind Middle Lake in Cassadaga, NY lies the Red House; an incredibly quaint, enchanting wedding venue perfect for couples who want an escape into the woods. It’s less than an hour’s drive from both Buffalo and Erie, so if you have any guests coming from either of those areas, it’ll be super easy for them to travel to you. The venue is brimming with historical, 19th-century elegance, picturesque scenery, and tranquil landscapes all around. What makes it extra amazing is that it’s available year-round, as this beautiful lakeside setting offers both indoor and outdoor wedding sites! You’ll have access to the stunning Manor itself, a rustic barn, and over six acres of private, park-like grounds surrounded by whimsical woods. The only issue you’ll run into at this venue is not having enough time to explore all of it!
Red House Wedding Packages
Saturday weddings during peak season (May-October) at the Red House cost $3,500, which includes full use of the venue for up to 200 guests. Sunday through Thursday rentals will have a lower hourly rate, and you even have the option to only use the barn OR the Manor if you’re having a more intimate celebration. And a huge bonus of getting married here: on-site overnight accommodations are available!
Cassadaga, NY Wedding Photographer
Interested in getting married at this beautiful New York venue? Reach out to me through my website, shoot me an email, or DM me on Instagram and we can start planning your dream Red House wedding together. I can’t wait to chat with you!
See more of my favorite New York wedding venues in the blog posts below:
