Love Never Waits: Reasons to Elope in 2020

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You were planning the wedding of your dreams until 2020 crashed the party. Hardship and uncertainty were the unexpected guests, but with them, we found an opportunity to lean into what’s really important. Although many aspects of daily living are still in a holding pattern, love doesn’t wait and neither should a joyous wedding celebration. Micro-weddings and elopements are part of the new normal, and while you may have never considered one before, it’s on the table now, and trust us - it’s a great option. Here’s why:

  • You’ll get to focus on an intimate, intentional ceremony and a joyful day that truly belongs to you.

  • The pressure is low, really low, and that’s a beautiful thing.

  • It’s your chance to throw the wedding rulebook into the river and make it completely about you and your partner.

  • This one is a big bonus - money/budget! Spend it on your dress, the shoes, the booze, great food… not your fourth cousins.

  • Forget about stage fright and exchange heartfelt vows that you’re comfortable sharing in front of your closest family and friends.

  • Instead of chatting with 150 guests for 3 minutes each, spend quality time with those who mean the most to you.

  • Enjoy every minute of your day, mindfully and wholly. 

  • Standing with your partner, sunshine on your cheeks and tears of love in your eyes, get swept up by a once in a lifetime feeling of sacred, quiet joy.

The Stewart House has been host to many joyous occasions over the years, accommodating the changing needs of guests since 1883. The picturesque, historical waterfront property anchors the quaint upstate Hudson River town of Athens, NY. It’s the perfect all inclusive venue for an elopement or intimate micro-wedding in 2020 and beyond. Surrounded by natural beauty, simple charm, vibrant culture and rich history, it’s just two hours north of New York City, minutes from Hudson and Catskill.

Majestic willow trees frame several options for open air ceremony sites, all of which offer breathtaking, sweeping river views. An outdoor reception area provides plenty of opportunity for distancing and dancing. Chef Bob Turner’s holistic approach to food turns local, seasonal abundance into memorable meals over an open wood fire grill. In the cooler months, say “I do” in one of our gorgeous indoor spaces, surrounded by the romance of perfectly curated decor. Guest Rooms in the meticulously restored boutique hotel strike a balance between luxury and comfort within walking distance of the outdoor ceremony site, and just a flight of stairs up from the indoor gathering spaces. A team of seasoned professionals will cater to your needs, make your ideas come to life and ensure your day is tailor made and very special.

A close-to-home, nature-filled wonderland of farm to table food and flowers, rich history, and vibrant culture, the Hudson Valley is here and awaiting its own chapter in your love story. 

Embrace the lesson of simplicity that 2020 is teaching. Maybe a small intentional wedding is the big event you always dreamed of. 

Becky PineComment