See This Stunning Marriott Hotel Wedding in NY + Our Top Planning Tips
Ashley & Zach’s Dream Summer Day at Traditions at the Links: A Signature Wedding Venue in Syracuse
There’s nothing quite like a Central New York summer wedding—the light is gold, the air is sweet, and the joy is palpable. That’s exactly what Ashley and Zach captured for their BIG day at Traditions at the Links, a truly signature wedding venue in Syracuse. The moment we saw the incredible images by LaDonna Takyi Taylor, Photographer & Videographer at LT² Photography, we knew this was a celebration we had to share. LaDonna, the creative eye behind the stunning photoshoot, gave us the complete story of the day. Get ready to soak in every sun-drenched detail of this celebration, and stick around till the end for our top tips and a rundown of our five favorite wedding venues in Syracuse.
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
📸 The Photographer’s Story: Blush Tones and Personal Touches at Traditions at the Links
Ashley and Zach’s beautiful summer wedding at Traditions at the Links in East Syracuse, NY, was a joyful celebration defined by romance, laughter, and gorgeous blush-toned florals. The couple specifically designed their day to feel both warm and personal.
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
This included soft pink bridesmaid dresses in varying styles, and lush blooms by Willow Floral Studios that entirely transformed the outdoor ceremony space and the ballroom reception into a floral-forward dream. Ashley chose a timeless Martina Liana gown paired with sparkly Betsy Johnson heels, while Zach kept his look classic and understated.
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
The most emotional moments were shared privately: a private vow exchange and emotional first looks. By entering their reception together afterward—a powerful symbol of unity and partnership—they set the tone for a high-energy night of dancing, courtesy of United Sound. With no planner, Ashley brilliantly curated every detail herself, blending thoughtful design with effortless joy. The result was a wedding that was beautifully grounded, emotionally rich, and completely theirs.
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
LT² Photography
✅ Essential Planning Tips for CNY Weddings
Inspired by beautiful, stress-free days like Ashley and Zach’s, here are essential tips for planning your own celebration:
- Prioritize Your Budget: Be honest about your top three priorities (e.g., photography, food, ambiance) and dedicate your largest spending percentages there first.
- Trust Your Team: Hire local vendors—photographers, florists, DJs—whose work you love. A great Central New York team is your biggest asset.
- Designate a Day-Of Coordinator: Assign someone (professional or organized friend) to handle all vendor questions and minor issues so you can simply enjoy your wedding day.
- Personalize the Experience: Incorporate unique elements that reflect you as a couple, from a Syracuse-themed late-night snack to a special ceremony reading.
📸 Maximizing Your Imagery: The Photographer’s Perspective
A stunning location, like Traditions at the Links, deserves imagery that is just as memorable. Follow these tips:
- Seek the Golden Hour: Always prioritize time for portraits during the “Golden Hour” (the hour before sunset). This warm, flattering light is perfect for romantic couple shots.
- Embrace Candid Moments: The most memorable images often come from the unscripted moments: the tearful laugh, the quick hug, or a silly dance move.
- Utilize the First Look: Doing a private first look not only creates an emotional moment but can significantly free up your post-ceremony timeline, allowing you to actually enjoy your cocktail hour.
📍 Top Wedding Venues in Syracuse and Central New York
Finding the perfect wedding venue in Syracuse is key to successful planning. The region features remarkable diversity, offering both opulent city style and breathtaking natural beauty. When reviewing wedding venues in Syracuse, consider both your guest count and the required atmosphere:
Urban Chic and Historic Elegance
For couples seeking sophistication and convenience, downtown Syracuse has incredible historic options. The Marriott Syracuse Downtown stands out for its beautifully restored 1920s architecture, offering a truly classic, luxurious ballroom experience. This is a phenomenal location if you want all of your guests, from the wedding party to relatives, staying in one central, upscale spot. We’ve found the historic ballrooms, like the Persian Terrace, offer unparalleled grandeur for portraits, and the convenience of being downtown can’t be beat.
For a more contemporary vibe, SKY Armory provides an industrial loft aesthetic in the heart of Armory Square. The customizable colored lighting in their spaces allows for incredible themed receptions, and the built-in, urban-cool aesthetic means you don’t need excessive decor. Brides always rave about the staff’s professionalism and how seamlessly the cocktail hour and reception flow together in this multi-level wedding venue in Syracuse.
Just outside the city, The Sinclair of Skaneateles offers a historic, elegant, and unique setting on Skaneateles Creek, perfect for a refined Finger Lakes feel. The unique location right over the creek offers a beautiful backdrop that is truly different from typical venues. Guests love being able to stroll the charming village of Skaneateles, and the restored industrial building delivers a distinctive charm.
Rustic Charm and Natural Beauty
If you dream of a country escape, the surrounding wedding venues in Syracuse deliver. Wolf Oak Acres is a stunning 206-acre property featuring a gorgeous rustic barn structure, ideal for a true countryside experience. Couples who choose this spot often talk about the variety of photo locations, from the wooded areas to the water features, making every image unique. The sheer amount of space allows for large guest counts without ever feeling crowded.
Similarly, Old Hickory Farm offers a beautifully restored barn set on rolling acres, providing a laid-back and beautiful farm atmosphere easily accessible to Syracuse. The authentic, warm wood interior of the barn is perfect for capturing a cozy, romantic feel, especially in the evening. Brides who host here appreciate the flexibility in bringing in outside vendors while still having a stunning canvas to work with.
Our Top Favorite Wedding Venues in Syracuse
| Venue | Vibe | Location Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| **Traditions at the Links** | Classic Elegance | East Syracuse (Golf Club) | Seamless indoor/outdoor flow |
| **Marriott Syracuse Downtown** | Historic & Grand | Downtown Syracuse | 1920s architecture (Persian Terrace) |
| **SKY Armory** | Modern & Industrial | Downtown Syracuse (Armory Square) | Customizable lighting & loft spaces |
| **The Sinclair of Skaneateles** | Refined & Unique | Skaneateles (Lakeside Village) | Historic building on Skaneateles Creek |
| **Wolf Oak Acres** | Luxury Rustic | Upstate Countryside | 206-acre property with a massive barn |
| **Emerson Park Pavilion** | Waterfront Classic | Owasco Lake (Finger Lakes) | Panoramic lake views & outdoor ceremony spot |
Finally, for a classic waterfront setting, the Emerson Park Pavilion sits right on Owasco Lake, providing panoramic lake views and a charming spot for an outdoor ceremony. The light off the water is incredible for portraits, and the classic pavilion structure works well for a range of styles, from nautical to classic elegance. We often hear from guests that the feeling of dancing right by the water at sunset is something they’ll never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some of the most common questions couples have when planning a wedding in the Syracuse area:
- What is the best time of year for a CNY wedding? The peak season runs from May through October. The fall (late September/early October) is highly sought after for the vibrant foliage, but summer months offer the best chance for late-evening outdoor celebrations. Book these dates 12–18 months in advance.
- How far in advance should I book my venue? For premium wedding venues in Syracuse and popular dates (Saturdays in the summer and fall), you should aim to book 12 to 18 months out. For off-peak dates or Fridays/Sundays, 9–12 months may be sufficient.
- Are outdoor ceremonies reliable in Syracuse? While the summer is lovely, always ensure your venue has a solid indoor rain plan (like the beautiful ballroom at Traditions at the Links). Weather can change quickly, so a great plan B is essential for peace of mind.
- Do I need a local wedding planner? While some couples like Ashley do a wonderful job planning themselves, hiring a Day-of Coordinator (DOC) is highly recommended. A local DOC specializes in managing CNY-specific logistics, vendors, and venue requirements, which frees you up to enjoy the day.
