A colorful tented celebration overlooking Skaneateles Lake with romantic florals, live music, and timeless estate charm
A Luxury Finger Lakes Wedding Weekend Full of Color and Heart
When it comes to estate wedding venues in Upstate New York, few places feel as idyllic and charming as Hobbit Hollow House. Overlooking the still waters of Skaneateles Lake and surrounded by rolling vineyards and meadows, this historic Georgian-style manor served as the breathtaking backdrop for Hanna and Reece’s late summer wedding.
Together for nearly eight years, Hanna and Reece’s love story began in high school and has grown through the seasons of life. Their wedding was a joyful reflection of that shared journey—bright, personal, and deeply meaningful. Every detail was carefully chosen to honor their story and to create a warm, unforgettable experience for their closest family and friends.
A Hidden Gem in the Finger Lakes: Why Couples Choose Hobbit Hollow House
Hobbit Hollow House is a luxury estate wedding venue located in Skaneateles, part of the Finger Lakes region known for its scenic lake views, elegant wineries, and timeless charm. The estate features a historic farmhouse with six well-appointed guest rooms, manicured gardens, vineyard paths, and panoramic views of the lake below. With exclusive rental options, couples can host multi-day celebrations all in one private, serene location.
The property is ideal for garden weddings, tented receptions, and destination-style weekends that prioritize both elegance and intimacy. Its secluded setting and spacious lawn make it especially popular for sailcloth tent weddings like Hanna and Reece’s, where guests can enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors with all the comforts of a refined venue.
Thoughtful Planning Meets Romantic Design
With expert planning by Heather Davidson Hospitality, Hanna and Reece’s celebration was executed with care and sophistication. The couple’s vision came to life beneath a stunning sailcloth tent, where Gather Planning handled rentals, signage, and visual storytelling with effortless grace.
The design centered around a vibrant floral palette by Folls Flowers—blending coral, blush, mauve, sage, and dusty blue into a joyful, elevated expression of the couple’s personalities. Lush floral arrangements framed the ceremony space beneath the tent, while statement centerpieces adorned the reception tables. Even the smallest details—from the embroidered napkins to the welcome signage—were designed with intention and beauty.
To enhance the space further, McCarthy Events provided timeless rental elements, while She Rents Vintage and Fabulous Events brought in charming specialty pieces that made the lounge areas feel curated and comfortable. The end result was a garden wedding that felt fresh, refined, and uniquely personal.
A Sailcloth Tent Ceremony with Heartfelt Emotion
One of the most beautiful elements of this celebration was the tented ceremony itself. Rather than opting for a separate ceremony location, Hanna and Reece exchanged vows beneath the same sailcloth tent that would later host dinner and dancing. This choice created a sense of continuity and intimacy that made the entire day feel deeply connected.
With the breeze from the lake drifting through the tent, and sunlight filtering in through the natural fabric, guests were surrounded by nature while seated in comfort. The floral-lined aisle, acoustic music, and handwritten vows all came together to create a ceremony full of heart and presence.
For couples planning a similar outdoor celebration, a sailcloth tent offers both beauty and practicality—it protects from the elements while maintaining an open, airy feel that keeps guests connected to the landscape.
Elevated Reception Moments: From Signature Cocktails to Live Music
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy cocktails on the lawn, with views of the lake stretching out behind them. The open bar featured custom signature drinks inspired by the couple’s favorite destinations, while passed hors d’oeuvres added an elegant touch of hospitality.
Dinner took place inside the tent, with long wooden tables, layered linens, and delicate candlelight creating a romantic ambiance. The Sherwood, a beloved local favorite, catered the meal with elevated comfort dishes that reflected the season and the couple’s personal tastes.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Silver Arrow Band filled the space with energy and warmth. The couple’s first dance beneath the canopy of glowing lights marked a turning point in the evening—ushering in a night of celebration that was as joyful as it was intentional.
Live music was a central part of the reception experience, and the band’s ability to read the room and connect with guests kept the dance floor full well into the evening. It’s a detail that elevated the entire celebration and left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Capturing the Magic Through Photography and Film
Photographer Laura Rose Weddings captured the vibrancy and softness of the day with her signature editorial-meets-documentary style. Every image felt timeless—filled with natural light, emotional candids, and elegant compositions.
Alongside photography, cinematic videography preserved the full emotional arc of the day: from the quiet anticipation of getting ready to the joy of the reception and the stillness of late-night moments under the stars. A garden wedding like this, with its movement, music, and heartfelt storytelling, is best experienced through moving images that preserve not just how the day looked—but how it felt.
What to Know When Planning a Wedding at Hobbit Hollow
Planning a wedding at Hobbit Hollow offers couples incredible creative freedom and natural beauty, but it’s helpful to consider a few logistical tips:
- Onsite Lodging: The estate includes a small number of guest suites, perfect for family or wedding party members. Nearby accommodations in Skaneateles can support additional guests.
- Tent Layout: The sailcloth tent can be fully customized in layout, lighting, and furniture. Work closely with a planner and rental team to create a flow that supports both ceremony and reception.
- Vendor Flexibility: Hobbit Hollow allows outside vendors, giving couples the ability to build a custom vendor team that reflects their vision.
- Welcome Events: Many couples host a welcome dinner or cocktail gathering nearby at The Sherwood or other local venues to kick off the weekend in style.
Vendor Team Behind the Day
- Planning – Heather Davidson Hospitality
- Venue – Hobbit Hollow House
- Videography – Tilton House Films
- Design / Rentals – Gather Planning
- Florals – Folls Flowers
- Photography – Laura Rose Weddings
- Catering – The Sherwood
- Music – Silver Arrow Band
- Rentals – McCarthy Events
- Specialty Rentals – She Rents Vintage, Fabulous Events
- Beauty – Glam Squad
Hanna and Reece’s vibrant wedding at Hobbit Hollow was a celebration of love, legacy, and joyful elegance. From the lakeside ceremony to the live music and emotional toasts, it was a wedding filled with both grandeur and soul. For couples dreaming of a garden wedding in the Finger Lakes with sweeping views, timeless design, and heartfelt storytelling. Hobbit Hollow House truly offers an unforgettable canvas.
Photos Taken By: Laura Rose Weddings
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