Callicoon Hills Wedding weekend

A Wedding at Callicoon Hills: A Perfect Blend of Rustic Charm and Elevated Design

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Catskills, Callicoon Hills feels like one of those rare places where time slows down and every detail feels intentional. As a wedding planner, I’m always looking for venues that balance natural beauty with thoughtful hospitality—and Callicoon Hills does exactly that.

Whether you’re envisioning a relaxed weekend-long celebration or a design-forward destination wedding, this historic property offers an effortlessly stylish backdrop that feels both intimate and elevated.

The Setting: Effortless Catskills Charm

Callicoon Hills is the kind of place that feels warm the moment you arrive. Surrounded by forested hills, open meadows, and winding roads, it offers couples a true escape from the city without sacrificing comfort or style. The property blends rustic Catskills character with a refined, boutique-hotel feel—perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel authentic, personal, and beautifully curated.

From golden-hour ceremonies outdoors to candlelit receptions indoors, the setting naturally lends itself to romantic, editorial-style celebrations.

A Seamless Weekend Experience

One of the most appealing aspects of hosting a wedding at Callicoon Hills is the ability to turn your celebration into a full weekend experience. With on-site accommodations, guests can settle in, relax, and truly enjoy the weekend without rushing from place to place.

Many couples choose to host:

• A welcome gathering or casual rehearsal dinner

• A full wedding day celebration

• A relaxed farewell brunch the following morning

This creates an immersive experience that feels intentional and deeply personal—something guests remember long after the weekend ends.

Design That Feels Elevated Yet Approachable

From a planning and design perspective, Callicoon Hills offers a beautiful blank canvas. The spaces are character-rich without being overwhelming, which allows your design vision to shine—whether that’s modern, romantic, minimalist, or nature-inspired.

Think soft florals, layered textures, candlelight, and thoughtful details that enhance the space rather than compete with it. The property’s natural beauty does much of the work, allowing the design to feel elevated without being overproduced.

Why Couples Love It

Couples are drawn to Callicoon Hills not just for its beauty, but for the experience it creates. It’s relaxed yet refined, stylish without being pretentious, and perfectly suited for couples who value connection, atmosphere, and meaningful moments.

From a planning standpoint, it’s a venue that supports creativity, flexibility, and a seamless guest experience—everything you want when designing a truly memorable wedding weekend.

Planning Your Callicoon Hills Wedding

As a planner, I love working at venues like Callicoon Hills because they allow us to create something that feels intentional and deeply personal. From logistics and vendor coordination to design direction and weekend flow, thoughtful planning ensures the space truly comes to life.

If you’re considering Callicoon Hills for your wedding and want guidance on how to bring your vision together, I’d love to help you create a celebration that feels elevated, effortless, and completely you.

Photography Marilyn Lamanna

Planning & Design Direction Skylar Arden

Florals Three Notch Florals

A Planner’s Perspective: Hosting Events at Bridgehampton Tennis & Surf Club

As an event planner, I’m constantly searching for spaces that feel both elevated and effortless — places where design, flow, and atmosphere come together naturally. Bridgehampton Tennis & Surf Club is one of those rare venues that truly delivers on all fronts.

From the moment you arrive, there’s an undeniable sense of ease. The property captures everything we love about the Hamptons: coastal beauty, relaxed elegance, and a timeless summer energy that doesn’t feel overproduced. It’s the kind of setting that allows an event to feel refined without ever feeling forced.

A Setting That Does the Work for You

One of the most compelling aspects of Bridgehampton Tennis & Surf Club is how intuitively the space functions for events. The layout flows seamlessly — from the courts and grounds to the beachside atmosphere — allowing guests to move naturally throughout the day. As a planner, that flow is invaluable. It creates an experience that feels organic, not staged.

The natural surroundings do much of the design work themselves. Soft coastal tones, open skies, and thoughtfully maintained grounds provide a beautiful foundation that allows styling to feel intentional rather than excessive. It’s a dream canvas for elevated, understated design.

A Venue That Encourages Connection

What truly sets this space apart is how it encourages people to slow down and connect. Whether it’s a relaxed daytime gathering, an intimate celebration, or a beautifully hosted event, there’s a sense of warmth and ease that guests immediately feel. It’s the kind of place where conversations linger, laughter carries, and moments unfold naturally.

From a planner’s perspective, that energy is everything. When guests feel comfortable and present, the event becomes memorable without needing to be overproduced.

Why It Works So Well for Thoughtful Celebrations

Bridgehampton Tennis & Surf Club is ideal for clients who value quality over excess — those drawn to thoughtful details, beautiful surroundings, and meaningful experiences. It’s especially well-suited for intimate weddings, refined celebrations, and gatherings that prioritize atmosphere as much as aesthetics.

As a planner, I’m always drawn to venues that elevate an event simply by being what they are. This is one of those places. Effortless, elegant, and unmistakably Hamptons.

Planning Your Event at Valley Rock Farm (Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club)

Planning a Wedding or Event at Valley Rock Farm
An elevated guide from Skylar Arden Events & Design

Nestled in the rolling hills of Sloatsburg, New York, Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is one of the Hudson Valley’s most sought-after destinations for couples dreaming of a refined yet relaxed wedding experience. Just an hour outside of Manhattan, the property offers the rare combination of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and full-weekend hospitality — making it an ideal setting for couples who want their celebration to feel immersive, intentional, and deeply personal.

As planners who specialize in full-service, design-driven weddings, we’ve found Valley Rock to be a truly special place for couples seeking a destination feel without the stress of long-distance travel.

A Venue Designed for the Full Wedding Weekend

One of the most unique aspects of Valley Rock is its ability to host an entire wedding weekend in one cohesive setting. Rather than a single evening celebration, couples can create a full experience for their guests — from welcome cocktails to farewell brunch.

The property includes multiple event spaces that flow seamlessly together, allowing for a natural progression throughout the weekend:

• Garden and lawn areas ideal for outdoor ceremonies surrounded by greenery

• The Summer Pavilion, perfect for elegant receptions with an open-air feel

• Courtyards and communal spaces for cocktail hours, welcome gatherings, and late-night moments

• On-site accommodations across several beautifully restored buildings, offering a true retreat experience

This layout makes Valley Rock especially appealing for couples with guests traveling from out of town who want to spend meaningful time together rather than rushing from one venue to the next.

A Natural Setting That Speaks for Itself

One of the reasons we love planning events at Valley Rock is that the setting does so much of the work for you. The landscape, architecture, and surrounding nature provide a refined yet organic backdrop that rarely needs heavy décor.

Design tends to shine best when it complements thethe environment — think:

• Soft, organic florals

• Warm lighting and candlelight

• Textural linens and thoughtful tabletop details

• A color palette inspired by the surrounding greenery and stone

The result is an elevated aesthetic that feels effortless, timeless, and deeply connected to the setting.

Ideal for Destination-Style Weddings Close to Home

Valley Rock is especially well-suited for couples hosting guests from multiple cities or states. With on-site accommodations, nearby hiking trails, wellness amenities, and a peaceful setting just outside New York City, it allows guests to fully unplug and enjoy the experience.

Many couples choose to host:

• A welcome dinner or cocktail gathering on arrival night

• A full wedding day celebration

• A relaxed farewell brunch or morning hike

This approach turns the wedding into a shared experience rather than a single event — something guests remember long after the weekend ends.

Planning Considerations

Because Valley Rock is such a sought-after venue, we always recommend booking early, particularly for peak seasons in late spring and fall. Working with a planner who understands the flow of the property, vendor logistics, and design possibilities can make a significant difference in creating a seamless experience.

From timeline creation to vendor coordination and full design execution, thoughtful planning ensures the venue’s natural beauty is elevated while every detail feels intentional.

A Thoughtful Setting for a Meaningful Celebration

Valley Rock Farm is ideal for couples who value connection, design, and a sense of place. It offers the charm of a destination wedding with the ease of staying close to home — a rare combination that continues to draw couples year after year.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels immersive, elegant, and truly personal, this Hudson Valley gem is absolutely worth considering.

Event Pro Refresh Guatemala Retreat & Future Retreats

Step Away and Reset: Join Me for a Retreat

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a break—step away from the constant demands of life and give yourself the time and space to reset. Imagine starting your day with a peaceful sunrise over Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, or feeling the warm ocean breeze on Playa Grande, Costa Rica. My retreats aren’t just vacations; they’re intentional experiences designed to help you recharge, refocus, and return home feeling like yourself again.

How It Started

In January, I finally launched my first retreat. After years in the event industry, I saw how burned out so many of us were—especially post-COVID. I gifted myself and my husband a trip to Costa Rica, and for the first time, I watched him truly disconnect. No phone, just a book in hand, fully present for the sunset. The following year, I did the same in Mexico. Every time I returned, industry friends told me they wished they had taken a break, too.

Then I saw a TikTok about a women’s retreat in Costa Rica. Something about it clicked. I booked a spot, not knowing a single person. That trip changed everything. The stress I’d been carrying for months disappeared, and I came home with a clear mind. I had talked about leading my own retreat for years, even jotting down “Costa Rica & Mexico” in my journal nearly seven years ago. But I never acted on it—until that moment.

After returning from my retreat, I mentioned the idea to a friend. She asked, “Why wait?” That was all the push I needed. I researched, planned, and launched my first retreat in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. One by one, incredible women signed up. By October, I was there for a trial run, making sure every detail was in place. And let me tell you—Lake Atitlán is breathtaking. Volcano views, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful energy that’s impossible to describe. I knew the women joining me would feel the same.

What to Expect

I don’t do cookie-cutter retreats. Every detail is thought out—from the schedule to the local vendors to the private chef (who, by the way, was not only talented but also one of the best people I’ve met). Every woman who joined had her own reason for being there. Some days, we opened up about our biggest struggles and goals. Other days, we let go completely—starting mornings with yoga, enjoying breakfast by the lake, and getting massages in the garden. We arrived as strangers and left as friends.

Where We’re Going Next

In 2026, we’re heading to Costa Rica. The group vote made it clear—beach, ocean, and jungle vibes are calling. I know travel can feel uncertain these days, but I also know that waiting around for the “right time” often means missing out. If you’re feeling the pull to take a break, trust that feeling.

If you need a reset, if you want to reconnect with yourself, and if you’re craving an experience that goes beyond a typical vacation—this retreat is for you.

Spots are limited, and they go quickly. If this sounds like what you need, don’t put it off.

Join me for a retreat that will truly make a difference in your life.

Costa Rica Retreat 2026

Weddings at Lion Rock Inn: A Dream Destination for Your Big Day

When it comes to hosting an unforgettable wedding, few places can compare to the stunning beauty and serene atmosphere of Lion Rock Inn at Sharon, CT. Nestled in a picturesque location, this venue offers a breathtaking backdrop for couples who want their wedding day to feel truly magical. As a wedding planner, we were thrilled to be part of the design and planning of this incredible celebration.

The Ultimate Wedding Experience at Lion Rock Inn

One of the unique features of hosting your wedding at Lion Rock Inn is the opportunity to immerse yourself and your loved ones in a full weekend celebration. The venue offers plenty of space for your closest family and friends to stay, allowing you to extend the festivities well beyond the wedding day itself. Picture this: a rehearsal dinner, welcome drinks, the big day, and a farewell brunch, all hosted at the same beautiful venue. This makes for an unforgettable, intimate experience where everyone can truly feel part of the celebration from start to finish.

Why You Need Planning Support

While the venue offers incredible potential for a magical weekend, it's important to note that planning a wedding here requires a bit more attention to detail. At the very least, you’ll need partial planning to help with logistics and coordination. However, based on our experience, we highly recommend opting for full-service planning support to ensure everything runs smoothly. A wedding at Lion Rock Inn is an all-day, all-weekend affair, and having an experienced planner on-site from the start of the rehearsal to the final guest’s departure after the post-checkout is essential for a seamless experience.

A dedicated planner will help navigate the venue’s requirements, stay on top of the schedule, and ensure that all aspects of the wedding are executed flawlessly. Trust us, when you’re dealing with multiple events over several days, it makes a world of difference to have someone with the expertise and experience to handle everything for you.

Vendor Details and Flexibility

The beauty of Lion Rock Inn also lies in its flexibility when it comes to vendors. The venue encourages couples to use their preferred catering service, and for good reason – the caterers do an exceptional job in creating memorable meals for your guests. That said, if you prefer to bring in a different catering team, you can do so for an additional fee.

In our case, we had the privilege of helping our clients budget and manage everything from the florals, rentals, and music, to photography and every other element that makes a wedding unique. It’s a complex process, but with meticulous planning and coordination, everything came together beautifully.

The Design Process

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a wedding planner is the design process. For this wedding, we spent several months perfecting the design deck, collaborating with the couple to capture their vision, and fine-tuning every detail. Seeing that vision come to life on the wedding day was truly one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. The final setup was almost identical to the design plan, a testament to the power of detailed preparation and teamwork.

The Magical Moment: Seeing the Vision Come to Life

There’s no feeling quite like seeing the couple’s reaction to the final result. After all the months of planning, meetings, and adjustments, it’s a beautiful moment to see the designs, colors, and ideas transformed into a stunning reality. The couple’s joy and excitement as they take in the results of all the hard work make everything worth it. The looks of awe on their faces, as well as the compliments from their guests, are the best rewards for a wedding planner.

Final Thoughts

A wedding at Lion Rock Inn is a truly special experience that offers so much more than just the ceremony itself. With multiple events spread out over a weekend, it’s a celebration that brings everyone together in a way few venues can offer. While it requires thoughtful planning and coordination, having the right planning team can ensure every detail is executed seamlessly, allowing you to enjoy the day without any stress. For couples looking to create a memorable, all-inclusive wedding experience, Lion Rock Inn is an exceptional choice, and with the right planning and design, your dream wedding can become a reality.

Venue Lion Rock Farm

Catering Hunt and Harvest

Planning Skylar Arden Events

Rentals Peak Event Services

Photography Ashlee Huff Wedding

Florals Bloom Study

Tented wedding event design & planning

Behind the Scenes: From Design Direction to Gorgeous Florals – A Look at Our Latest Wedding Production

Planning a wedding involves so many moving parts, from the big picture vision down to the tiniest details. At the heart of it all is the design direction—a roadmap that sets the tone and guides the creative process. We recently had the pleasure of working on a truly special project, and we wanted to share a little bit about our approach, our collaboration with vendors, and the steps that went into turning this wedding vision into reality.

Crafting the Design Direction

Every wedding starts with a design direction. This is the foundation for everything we create—setting the vibe, colors, and overall aesthetic that will bring the couple’s vision to life. Our team works closely with our clients to develop a design deck that’s both inspiring and practical. We take into account the couple’s personal style, the venue, and any key elements they envision for their day. Once that’s in place, we create a cohesive look that ties everything together.

For us, the design direction is more than just colors and decor; it’s about creating an experience. Every detail should feel like it belongs and contributes to the atmosphere we're working to build. Whether it’s selecting the perfect linens, choosing the right lighting, or curating the perfect table settings, we take a holistic approach to the design, ensuring that every element feels intentional and refined.

Trusting Our Florist Partners

One of the most exciting aspects of the wedding design process is the florals. We absolutely love collaborating with florists to create breathtaking arrangements that elevate the entire event. We’ve built strong partnerships with our preferred florists over the years, but we’re also happy to work with other florists our clients may bring on board. In either case, communication is key.

We provide florists with access to our design deck so they can see the full picture of the wedding’s vibe and color palette. From there, we trust their expertise to choose the best florals for the season, ensuring that everything will be fresh, available, and in line with our design direction. Florists know what’s in season, what’s trending, and what’s going to look amazing on the big day. We always defer to their creative instincts when it comes to the final arrangements. Trusting our vendors—especially florists—is absolutely essential to making the process run smoothly. They bring the expertise and creativity that elevate our designs to the next level.

The Full-Service Approach: Beyond Design

For our full-service clients, we believe in offering a truly comprehensive experience. This goes beyond just the decor and florals. We’re here to help with every aspect of the event design, from table mock-ups and rental selections to color direction and even attire recommendations for the wedding party.

Helping our clients choose the perfect attire to complement the overall vibe of the wedding is one of our favorite parts of the process. We work closely with them to ensure that their wardrobe choices align with the color palette and theme we’ve developed. Whether it’s selecting bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, or the perfect pair of shoes, we offer guidance to ensure that every member of the wedding party looks and feels their best.

From Design to Reality: The Final Product

Seeing the design come to life on the day of the wedding is always the most rewarding part of the process. It’s like watching a beautiful vision transform into reality. The florals, the tablescapes, the rentals—all the elements come together in a stunning way that’s both cohesive and uniquely tailored to the couple’s vision. It’s a true team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of how this particular wedding turned out.

Working on this project was such a fun and rewarding experience. We’re grateful for the amazing vendors we get to collaborate with and the couples who trust us to bring their dreams to life. Designing a wedding is a labor of love, and we’re so honored to be part of these special moments.

If you’re planning your own wedding and looking for help bringing your vision to life, we’d love to chat. Let’s create something beautiful together!

Feel free to reach out to us for a consultation or to see more of our past work. The journey from design direction to execution is always an exciting one, and we’d love to make it an unforgettable experience for you too!

Photography @alexandraevelandphoto Planner @skylararden Florals @apetaltopeddle Venue @skylandsmanor_frungillos Signage @the_gold_edit Linens @bbjlatavola Accent rentals @broadwaypartyrentals #skylarardenevents #nyweddingplanner #nyeventplanner #nyeventdesign #njwed #skylandmanorwedding #tentedweddingreception