Bali + James’ Editorial Destination Wedding at The Sablewood in New York

Dani Parada
Aug 12
2 min read

There’s something wildly inspiring about photographing a destination wedding in a place as peaceful and magical as The Sablewood in New York. Bali and James’ wedding was the perfect blend of elegance and editorial flair. Their day had everything you could dream of—rolling green hills, an all-white chapel ceremony, and a moody shift in weather that made the entire celebration feel straight out of a film.

Bride and groom stand under veil in lush green field, holding white flowers. Overcast sky and trees in the background create a serene mood.

Light, Layers, and a Whole Lot of Fun

As a photographer, light is everything. It sets the tone, enhances mood, and helps tell the story. For Bali and James, I worked with a mix of tools to craft the exact vibe they envisioned. Cinebloom lens filters for that soft, glowy feel, a combo of direct and backlight to shape emotion, and both on and off-camera flash to add drama and depth. When the rain started to roll in, I couldn’t help but get excited. Unpredictable weather might scare some folks, but for me, it’s where the magic happens.

from getting ready to the first dance at the sablewood

The day started with glam and laughter, Bali surrounded by her girls, wrapped in lace and joy. Their ceremony in The Sablewood’s light-filled chapel was elegant, emotional, and intentional. Afterward, we roamed the property for portraits. Running through fields, twirling under veils, and embracing the wind and rain with clear umbrellas! Their reception was warm and romantic, filled with good music, candlelight, and a killer dance floor moment for their first spin as husband and wife.

A joyful couple dances at a wedding; the man lifts the woman in a lace dress. Guests watch in a warmly lit rustic setting.

dani parada | miami + destination wedding and couples photographer

This wedding was such a beautiful reminder that destination weddings don’t have to mean far-off tropical beaches. Sometimes, all you need is the right location, the right light, and people who aren’t afraid to laugh, dance, and kiss in the rain.

If you're dreaming of photos that feel a little more cinematic and a little less posed, I'd love to be your photographer. Whether you're planning something intimate or going all out, let's make magic together!