Tappan Hill Mansion Wedding in Tarrytown, NY | Rory & Ken

A TAPPAN HILL MANSION WEDDING

The Hudson Valley is always a beautiful place, no matter the season, but especially so in October: the crisp air, the golden light, and the way nature’s colors perfectly complement the season's romance. Rory and Ken’s fall wedding at Tappan Hill Mansion in Tarrytown, New York was a timeless celebration that embodied warmth, elegance, and heartfelt connection.

Ken and Rory share a kind of love that feels effortless, genuine, and joyful. From the moment I met them at their engagement session last winter, it was clear how deeply they care for each other and how much they value being surrounded by their loved ones. Their wedding day was a beautiful reflection of that love: intimate, emotional, and filled with meaningful personal touches!

After getting ready for the day ahead, Rory and Ken shared a first look in front of Tappan Hill Mansion’s grand entrance. The mansion’s historic architecture created the perfect backdrop for this sweet moment. Following their first look, we explored the mansion’s beautiful property, capturing portraits surrounded by lush greenery and the autumn colors. The soft natural light, paired with the couple’s relaxed energy, made for portraits that were both timeless and full of excitement.

Ken and Rory’s wedding design featured a sophisticated palette of emerald green, cream, and white, with subtle touches of gold, perfectly complementing the stately setting of Tappan Hill Mansion. The floral arrangements were romantic yet understated, and the décor struck a balance between refined elegance and cozy charm. Every detail, from the classic stationery to the soft candlelight during dinner, contributed to an atmosphere of effortless grace.

One of the most touching moments of the evening came during the reception, when Rory chose to honor her late father in a deeply personal way. In lieu of a traditional father-daughter dance, she danced with her nine siblings, a truly heartfelt tribute. As the night went on, guests filled the dance floor, laughter echoed through the ballroom, and the joy between Rory and Ken never faded. Their wedding was a perfect blend of elegance, emotion, and celebration!

THE LOVE STORY

Rory and Ken’s story began in October 2017, when they met at a bar in Stamford, Connecticut. Both were living and working in Stamford at the time, and as fate would have it, Ken’s roommate worked at the same accounting firm as Rory. Their paths had nearly crossed several times before, through mutual invitations to housewarming and birthday parties, but timing had other plans. When they finally did meet, it was clear that everything had unfolded just as it was meant to.

On Rory’s birthday in August 2023, Ken proposed in the sweetest and most unexpected way. As they were heading out for her birthday dinner, Rory bent down to put on her shoes when Ken told her she had dropped something. When she turned around, he was on one knee, holding the ring, and asking her to marry him. It was a moment years in the making and perfectly true to them!

Since meeting in 2017, Rory and Ken have shared a journey marked by love, resilience, and unwavering support. Ken stood by Rory through her father’s passing in 2019, and later that year, they moved across the country to San Diego as Rory supported Ken through law school. Now back in New York with their two beloved cats, they’re ready to begin this next chapter in their lives together.

Congratulations Rory & Ken! Wishing you many more happy years ahead!

I hope you enjoyed this fall wedding at Tappan Hill Mansion!  Do you know Rory and Ken?  Show the newlyweds some love by commenting below!


CREATIVE TEAM

Wedding Venue: Tappan Hill Mansion | Photography: Shaina Lee Photography | Officiant: Dane Healy | Floral Design: Damselfly Florals & Events | Hair & Makeup: Amber Papastavros Hair & Makeup Design | Band: Faze 4 Orchestras, Ltd. | Bride's Wedding Gown Designer: Martina Liana | Bridal Dress Boutique: The Plumed Serpent Bridal | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Revelry | Bridesmaids' Dress Boutique: | Invitations, Paper Goods, & Signage: Artistry and Aprons


ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shaina Lee Photography is a husband and wife photography team serving Connecticut, New York, and beyond.  We specialize in timeless, elegant, and romantic weddings while celebrating all couples in love. 

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