A Joyful 21 Brix Wedding | Madeline & Nolan

I’ve been waiting for this post since the day Nolan first reached out about an autumn engagement session at Chautauqua Institution. Fast forward through a Western New York winter, and I got to spend this June photographing Madeline and Nolan’s wedding day — and it did not disappoint.

The morning started at St. Elmo Spa at Chautauqua Institution, where Madeline got ready surrounded by her bridesmaids in matching sage pajamas, coffee in hand and laughter already rolling. A few miles down the road in Mayville, Nolan and his groomsmen were doing the same thing at his and Madeline’s own home — eight guys in black tuxes trying (and mostly failing) to keep a straight face for photos.

We made our way to 21 Brix Winery in Westfield for the ceremony and reception, and this venue does not miss. The rolling rows of grapevines were non-negotiable for Madeline’s portrait wishlist, and I couldn’t agree more — there’s something so timeless about a bride in lace wandering between vines with the lake breeze catching her veil. We tucked in close for quiet, foreheads-touching moments, then pulled back to let that big Chautauqua County sky do its thing behind the wedding party.

If I had to describe this day in one word, it would be joyful. From bridesmaids cheering as Madeline walked down the aisle, to the whole wedding party throwing their arms in the air after the ceremony, to Nolan and Madeline sneaking a golf cart kiss between vineyard rows — this crew brought the energy from sunrise to sparkler exit. And that lift-her-up-on-a-chair moment on the dance floor? Exactly the kind of chaos and joy I live for as a wedding photographer.

Madeline and Nolan, thank you for having me back for round two. Watching your story unfold from that autumn engagement session to your wedding day at 21 Brix has been one of my favorite things this year.

Getting married at 21 Brix or somewhere else on Chautauqua Lake? Inquire about your wedding date here — I’d love to hear your story.

Katie Graham Photography is a Chautauqua Lake and Westfield, NY wedding photographer, capturing candid, artistic weddings at 21 Brix Winery, Chautauqua Institution, and venues throughout Western New York.