Jamie & Elkin | Belhurst Castle Wedding Photos

It was a beautiful summer’s day when we arrived at Belhurst Castle in Geneva, NY to celebrate the marriage of Jamie and Elkin. Known today as one of the premier restaurants and hotels in the Finger Lakes Region, the history of the property is long and full of scandalous intrigue. Once occupied by an embezzler who fled London with the hope of escaping capture, the property went thru many transitions and changes of hands. Reimagined as a speakeasy and casino in the 1930s, it eventually was purchased in 1992 by its current owners, who’ve transformed the property into a true gem and destination for Couple’s getting married.

We began our day with the getting readies. Jamie and Elkin were able to book two of the beautifully ornate guestrooms that make up the Castle Chambers. These rooms were built during the Castle’s four-year-long construction in the late 1880s, with much of the materials being imported from Europe. As far as hotel rooms go, these are some of the coolest to work in, with so many angles and possibilities. It’s nice to stretch the imagination from time to time.

With the morning coming to an end, it was time for the First Look. Photographically speaking, the only downside I can see to this magnificent location, is that it’s so popular. A First Look should be an intimate moment for the Couple. Private and quiet is what we’re looking for. Thankfully, Belhurst Castle has just the spot on the Southeast side of the property, not far from the cocktail hour location. We were able to give Jamie and Elkin the private moment they’d asked for and invite the Bridal Party over for more pictures when they were ready.

After an appropriate time for creatives and fun with the Bridal Party, we gave everyone a break to get ready for the ceremony. Taking place just outside of the main building, and overlooking Seneca Lake, the intimate ceremony site is just right for any Couple. The lovely ceremony was followed by formals and cocktail hour, and then everyone made their way into the ballroom for dinner and dancing. Being a summer wedding, I had ample time to steal Jamie and Elkin away for some sunset photos. We took a walk to the north side of the property and down to the adjoining dock. The view over Seneca Lake was perfect.

As the sun set, Belhurst Castle was illuminated from within. I stepped outside, reflected back on our day, and couldn’t have been happier with the experience. For any Couple looking to get married and keep things all in one place and hassle-free, this is the venue to pick. I look forward to returning and celebrating the magic all over again!