Fall Strong Mansion Wedding

Heather and Austin’s Fall Strong Mansion wedding featured a book theme, whimsical but elegant cottage core-vibes with a hint of luxury. It was important for them to keep the gathering intimate in order to share the day with those closest to them. They honored Heather’s Chinese heritage with a tea ceremony and Chinese door games.

Heather and Austin first met in 2015. But they didn’t get together until they reconnected in 2019 when Austin reached out to Heather for help with a school project. Homework dates soon turned into real dates, and they’ve been together ever since.

On the last day of a family road trip through New England, Austin suggested a photoshoot to commemorate the trip. AND to capture the moment he got down on one knee and popped the question. So next to the Kaaterskill Falls in the Catskill Mountains of New York, Austin asked, and Heather accepted.

Heather and Austin met Maya during a styled photoshoot when Heather was still modeling. After participating in such a beautiful event, Maya was their first call when it came time to assemble their vendor team. They chose their venue because budget-wise, Strong Mansion is very well priced compared to other venues in the area, especially given what the price includes. Visually, the mansion also fit their vision perfectly of the fairytale-like feeling that they wanted for their book-themed wedding.

Heather visited the Bridal Boutique in Columbia while preparing for the same styled shoot when she and Austin met Maya for the first time, years before visiting as an actual bride. She loved the intimate atmosphere, and it turned out to be the perfect place to say yes to the dress. For her Western-Chinese wedding dress, Heather had heard a lot about East Meets Dress as they specialized in modern Chinese wedding gowns. They were able to create Heather’s dream dress with their detailed customizations. From the exact shade of red to the beautifully embroidered train, it was gorgeous. She also included family heirlooms into her bridal look: pearls and a gold necklace from China, and perfume designed by her late grandmother.

Their advice to other couples is: “9/10, something won’t go according to play—and that’s okay. Don’t let it keep you from having the time of your life! Surround yourself with friends and vendors that you trust to not only help you through it but can also turn a mishap into a laugh.”

They described their wedding day as “a manifestation of not only Heather and Austin’s love but of the love shared within their little community, too.” Heather was most excited to share their vows while Austin was most excited to see Heather in her dress. Their favorite parts of the day were the hug-ball during G’s speech and the Chinese door games.

This was such a special day and we wish these two all the happiness in the world!