Holiday Valley Resort Wedding

Ellicottville, NY

Emily and Tony’s wedding day at Holiday Valley Resort was filled with joy, laughter, and so many heartfelt tears.

While Emily got ready surrounded by her best girls, Tony and the guys were just down the road getting ready in their own style. After getting dressed, they cheered with pink lemonade vodka shooters (like only real men do) and practiced dipping each other in preparation for the big day. Suits pressed, drinks in hand, and laughter echoing through the room, they looked absolutely fabulous.

Tony shared a handwritten letter with his mom that brought her to tears, no matter how much she tried to hide them. It was a tender and emotional moment that set the tone for the day. Emily stepped into her dress, and mom and her girls’ reactions were priceless. The room instantly filled with happy tears, gasps, and laughter as they took in just how stunning she looked. It was the perfect mix of emotion and celebration, and such a special way to kick off the day.

The ceremony took place at Holy Name of Mary Roman Catholic Church in Ellicottville, a timeless space filled with charm and tradition. Its soaring ceilings, warm wooden pews, and colorful stained-glass windows created the most beautiful backdrop as Emily and Tony exchanged vows. The light that poured through the windows gave the whole ceremony a soft, glowing feel that made their “I do” moment even more powerful.

Right after the ceremony, the skies shifted and surprised everyone with a bit of light rain. We ripped the tape off our emergency use clear umbrellas, passed them around and turned the drizzle into something magical and romantic, adding a unique touch to their portraits.

Cocktail hour kicked off on the balcony of the Holiday Valley Lodge, overlooking the ski lifts. The leaves are just starting to turn, adding a splash of early Fall color to the area popular among ski enthusiasts and food and wine connoisseurs. Guests sipped drinks while watching Emily and Tony’s portraits down below, cheering and clapping as every photo was taken. The energy was contagious and set the tone for the evening.

Inside, the reception was nothing short of gorgeous. Heartfelt speeches and emotional dances brought on more tears. The seamless transition to the open dance floor brought everyone onboard. The dance floor stayed packed all night long. At one point, Tony and the guys slipped outside for a quiet break to light cigars together. The cool mountain air mixed with the smoky haze while they toasted to Tony’s new chapter, laughing and soaking in a few minutes of calm before diving back into the party. It was the kind of old-school, celebratory moment that felt just right for the day.

Emily and Tony’s day had it all: emotions, surprises, joy, and nonstop love. Holiday Valley’s setting made it unforgettable, but it was their people, their families, and their story that made it truly perfect. Thank you for having myself and Katie there to celebrate your love!