Wedding Spotlight: Tracee and Bill’s Winter Wedding

On February 16th, 2016, we had the honor of celebrating the marriage of Tracee and Bill at Birch Hill. The date meant much more than being close to Valentine’s Day, it marked their 15th year together, and what better way to celebrate such a milestone than to say “I do”.

When Tracee first came to us, she said all she wanted was “just simple romantic elegance and beautiful spots for photo ops and some good food and drink,” and that is why she chose Birch Hill.

After a moving ceremony at the Kinderhook Reformed Church, the bridal party and their guests made the short ride to Birch Hill, where they were welcomed into the romantic Conservatory Ballroom. The tivoli-draped chandeliers and earth toned walls combined harmoniously with the rich greens and reds of Tracee’s handmade centerpieces. Lights twinkled and candles flickered, reminding everyone of the burning love between Tracee and Bill.

While guests were keeping themselves busy and warm, mingling over cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres from our famous Bistro Display, Tracee, Bill, their 5 amazing children, and the rest of the bridal party were outside in the crisp February air smiling and posing for the their talented photographer, Chris Sawinski.

Following introductions, first dance, and toasts, the buffet opened to reveal a few surprises to the bride and groom. Birch Hill’s talented kitchen upgraded the happy couple to an elegant carving station, where guests were served steaming slices of perfectly cooked sirloin filet topped with a red wine reduction. The sirloin was the perfect pairing to the creamy penne a la vodka and garlic-parmesan crusted broccoli on a cold February day.

Of course, a wedding wouldn’t be a wedding without something sweet, and Tracee brought the sweetness in a perfect package. There aren’t many brides who can say they made the centerpieces AND the cake, but that is what makes Tracee so special. We at Birch Hill see a lot of cakes, but Tracee’s sophisticated three-tier, rosette frosted cake was by far one of those most lovely ones we’ve had on display.

After cake cutting, DJ Kenny Casanova brought the party on the dance floor, where the rest of the wedding went by with smooth moves and big smiles. Afterwards, Tracee and Bill raved about their day and said that they “HIGHLY recommend Birch Hill to take care of you on your special day!”