A Sophisticated Countryside Wedding at Blue Hill at Stone Barns

Though Phyllis Lally and Leonard Seevers call New York City home, it’s no surprise that the couple headed out into nature for their wedding celebration. After all, Leonard did propose at the summit of their favorite hike while on vacation in Aspen! So when it came time to say “I do,” the New York City-based pair invited their guests to leave Manhattan behind and head upstate to Blue Hill at Stone Barns. There, they surrounded themselves with the bucolic countryside that's surprisingly a mere stone’s throw from the city (not really—but it is just a 30-minute drive!).

With their venue set, the couple worked with Jung Lee of Fête NY to bring a "little downtown edge" to their celebration. To achieve that look, especially in such a bucolic setting, Phyllis, Leonard, and their design team turned to a deep color palette and lots of candlelight (ultimately, it worked to add drama to the already-gorgeous farm setting). They also enlisted photographer Justin Lane of Brian Dorsey Studio to capture all the party's details. So keep reading to see all of the glam details—from the bride’s high-fashion moments to the all-night dance party!

For her first look, the bride donned a fringed Naeem Khan cocktail dress, which she paired with feathered Jimmy Choo sandals that coordinated perfectly. And, of course, given the proximity to New York City, the bride planned a photoshoot in city streets before she and her girls left for the country. It was a fabulous idea as her party dress looked perfect against the streets of Manhattan.

For another stark contrast, her bridesmaids all donned black evening gowns. The most important member of the bridal party, though, was Rocky, Phyllis, and Leonard’s miniature Australian shepherd. The couple knew they had to include him in their big day as he had been there for the proposal, after all!

As a surprise for their guests, Leonard and Phyllis hosted a cocktail hour before the ceremony, making the most of the opportunity to socialize with their guests before the big moment. Guests snacked on the freshest produce from the farm and sipped champagne before finding their seats for the ceremony.

For the main event, Phyllis changed into a classic Carolina Herrera style, with a sheath silhouette beneath a full tulle overskirt. She carried a white composite rose bouquet.

Leonard and Phyllis exchanged vows beneath a towering tree, flanked by dark bookcases filled with candles.

The bride walked down the aisle—which was lined with chocolate cosmos and dark anemones—with her father. She met Leonard at the altar.

After saying “I do,” the newlyweds made their way back up the aisle to join guests for a sophisticated dinner party.

Instead of traditional escort cards, each guest was handed a white rose with the guests' names and table numbers calligraphed onto the leaves (what a creative way to direct guests to their seat assignments!).

Inside the venue, dramatic black lacquer tables were topped with white flowers in modern vases and glowing taper candles. Guests were treated to a three-course meal that highlighted seasonal ingredients and garden vegetables, while they were entertained with a series of intimate toasts.

The couple's sleek wedding cake was shaped in a square formation and topped with white roses.

After dinner, the party headed back outside to the custom dance floor, where a band—and then a DJ!—had guests dancing for five hours straight. Nearby lounge areas invited guests to catch their breath, while an espresso bar ensured the party kept going. Guests danced, drank, ate delicious late-night treats, and danced some more—sounds like the perfect way to kick off a marriage!

Wedding Venue: Blue Hill at Stone Barns || Wedding Planner: Jung Lee of Fête NY || Bride's Cocktail Dress: Naeem Khan || Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo || Wedding Dress: Carolina Herrera || Photographer: Justin Lane of Brian Dorsey Studio