“Natural Beauty”
Alexander: Ilana and I met as kids growing up in Miami, Florida. By the end of high school, we’d grown into close friends, and going off to college in separate states didn’t cause us to drift apart. In fact, two years into college we began dating, kicking off a three and a half year long-distance relationship.
Ilana: Eventually, we reunited for good in New York City. We lived together in a small Manhattan apartment, spending our free weekends taking day trips to the mountains outside the city. It was on one of those hikes, six years into our relationship, that Alex proposed. We were atop the incredibly scenic Mohonk Mountain Preserve, and as we looked around we knew we wanted a venue that showcased those gorgeous Hudson Valley views we loved.
Alexander: The Roundhouse was perfect. The ballroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows reveal a view of the beautiful waterfall and let in glimmering natural light. In addition to the breathtaking setting, the staff and coordinators were eager to be helpful every step of the way.
Ilana: We kept things simple and designed our wedding around the natural beauty of the space, adding candles, some colorful textiles, eucalyptus, and a few unique florals. We worked closely with our florist, who translated our scattered thoughts into handsome, thoughtful creations. We intended to have a ceremony outside, but the biggest storm of the season changed our plans. Amazingly, this was no problem for The Roundhouse staff and our wedding planner. The inside setup couldn’t have been more beautiful. We could hear our guests gasp as they walked through doors.
Alexander: Cocktail hour in the gallery felt personal and intimate in the best way. Jazz was playing and personalized cocktails were available. We had the chance to welcome our guests and hug all our friends and family before heading downstairs to the transformed room.
Ilana: Custom chandelier lights hanging from the ceiling created a unique, eye-catching glow. Our rectangular tables were adorned with long runners of low greenery, with a few pincushions and roses placed throughout. Cozy gray blankets embroidered with a gold ampersand hung on the chairs and served both as décor and as a favor.
Alexander: After our champagne toast, we chose a first course of mixed greens in a white balsamic shallot vinaigrette. Guests could then chose roast day boat cod risotto, grass-fed filet steak house style, or a vegetarian wild hive grain risotto, which could also be made vegan. The kitchen accommodated all the dietary needs of our guests. We had a sweet and savory dessert course with a tasty carrot cake, and hot pretzels with mustard for guests to take on their way to the after-party.
Ilana: Our guests spent every moment they could on the dance floor. Our band was spectacular and they kept the momentum going the entire night. They set the tone for a unique, upbeat, fun-filled evening.
Alexander & Ilana: We are so grateful to The Roundhouse staff, all our vendors, and our always-on-point wedding planner. A special thank you to our incredible, inimitable parents, to whom we owe everything.
The Roundhouse, Beacon, NY, 845.765.8369, roundhousebeacon.com