Emma and Ryans Wedding at HoliMont Ski Resort
This past Friday, I had the honor of capturing Emma and Ryan’s wedding at HoliMont Ski Resort, one of the most heartfelt and picturesque celebrations I’ve ever experienced. Nestled in the quiet hills of Great Valley, their day overflowed with golden light, meaningful moments, and the kind of love that makes time feel suspended.
From the calm energy of their getting-ready cabin to the joyful dance floor at HoliMont, every detail felt intentional—and uniquely them.
Getting Ready in Great Valley, NY
I arrived at their Airbnb on Mutton Hollow Road as excitement began to build. It was a crisp early autumn day that felt like a fresh start. Inside the cabin, a quiet buzz signaled that something beautiful was about to unfold.
Emma was radiant as she prepared to step into her dress. She kept glancing at it as if it were calling to her—and honestly, it was stunning. The sleeves, the scarf, the entire look—perfection.
I spent the morning capturing thoughtful details: her bouquet glistening with morning dew, the invitation suite, her rings, and that dress—ready for its moment. Emma’s nine bridesmaids filled the cabin with warmth, energy, and a few well-earned happy tears. Moments like these remind me why I love weddings so much.
Guests Arrive & First Looks
Around 3:00 PM, guests began arriving. Some rode the shuttle, while others drove up the gravel road toward the pond ceremony site tucked behind the cabin. The surrounding hills created the perfect hidden retreat.
Ryan arrived shortly after, calm and smiling. His eyes, however, revealed everything. At 3:45, Emma shared a first look with her stepdad, Alan, in the garage. It was quiet, emotional, and a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment that said everything without words.
The Ceremony by the Pond
By 4:00 PM, guests were seated, and the procession began. Emma’s mom and stepdad led the way, followed by Denise, Ryan’s parents, his brothers, the ring bearer and flower girl, and the Maid of Honor.
Then the music shifted. Emma appeared at the top of the hill on her dad’s arm, sunlight streaming through the trees. For a moment, the world paused. Ryan’s expression was everything you hope to see when a couple meets at the altar.
Their ceremony was personal, calm, and full of joy. Surrounded by trees and loved ones, they exchanged vows. At 4:30 PM, Emma and Ryan became husband and wife.
Private Vows & Portraits
Afterward, while guests mingled at the cabin, Emma and Ryan stole away for a private vow reading on the hill. Champagne in hand, with only the trees as witnesses, the moment felt sacred.
We captured a few frames from a distance before giving them full privacy. The bench, the wind, the golden light—it was perfect.
Later, during portraits by the pond, we asked Ryan to list all the things he loves about Emma. He smiled and said,
“There isn’t enough time.”
That simple line said more than words ever could.
At 5:15, Alan toasted the newlyweds with family before guests boarded the shuttle to the reception.
Cocktail Hour & Reception at HoliMont Ski Resort
By 6:00 PM, guests arrived at Emma and Ryan’s wedding at HoliMont Ski Resort in nearby Ellicottville, NY. The ski lodge glowed with warm wood tones, candlelight, and cozy mountain vibes, creating an elegant yet intimate atmosphere.
Cocktail hour was full of laughter and connection. Rachel’s heartfelt toast had everyone smiling. Dinner began at 7:00 PM, accompanied by a round of speeches and a blessing that brought the room into a shared pause of love and gratitude.
At 7:55 PM, Emma and Ryan cut their cake, followed by Mr. Tom’s toast that perfectly led into the first dances.
A Dance Floor Under the Stars
By 8:15 PM, the dance floor was full. There were no awkward pauses or hesitant dancers—everyone was ready. The joy was contagious, and the night unfolded under string lights, laughter, and a few unexpected dance moves.
By 8:30 PM, the room buzzed with energy. The stars shone overhead, and Emma and Ryan were exactly where they belonged—arm in arm, surrounded by their loved ones, dancing as if time didn’t exist.
A Day That Felt Like Them
Friday, September 26th, 2025, wasn’t just a wedding day. The was a living reflection of Emma and Ryan
It didn’t feel rushed. Their day was real, full of love and intention.
That’s what made it unforgettable.
See More From Their Wedding
You can view Emma and Ryan’s full wedding gallery by clicking here
