Photographing weddings in the mountainous and alluring Lake Placid, NY provides us a nearby destination during our summer season of photography.
The appeal of Lake Placid started over 100 years ago when the Lake Placid Club first opened. The early decision to keep the club open for the entire year helped assist the area in becoming internationally recognized as a destination for winter sports in general, including the Winter Olympics. The Lake Placid Club, dating back to 1895, was not named after the town, but rather the small portion of land known as Timbucto changed its named to the significantly more memorable Lake Placid in 1900. Now it is considered one of the three parts of the Tri-Lakes-Region, along with Tupper Lake and the larger Saranac Lake.
Part of the appeal of Lake Placid is its relatively secluded location in the Adirondacks, making it somewhat challenging to visit but well worth the trip. Burlington International Airport, even though it is across Lake Champlain in Vermont, is still the primary arrival point for those flying to the area. Albany to the south is the next closest large airport, but a smaller one in Plattsville, NY is more convenient for those who can easily access direct flights. We drive into the state over the Lake Champlain Bridge, which also allows us to stop and see the Samuel de Champlain Monument on the New York side. Driving up from New York City and the surrounding areas can take four to six hours in normal driving conditions.
Being secluded yet accessible and near to major population centers of the east coast help make Lake Placid a desirable town for destination connubial celebrations. Wedding photos can capture the feeling of the Adirondack area, but the iconic ski jumps always seem to sneak into background of the frame for those luckily enough to have a view from their venue. Whiteface mountain looms large on the horizon just thirteen miles away, and lends its name to more than one establishment in the surrounding towns. The Whiteface Lodge and the Whiteface Club and Resort are both in Lake Placid while the Whiteface Chalet is closer to the mountain itself in nearby Wilmington, NY.
Most venues in Lake Placid seem to balance the surrounding nature with a relaxed, albeit high-end ambiance. The Ausable Club in St. Huberts, NY is no exception, as it is commonly mentioned among the best golf clubs in America. Hotel Saranac and the Wild Center anchor the matrimonial draw in the neighboring town, extending the marriage theme throughout the Tri-Lakes area. Some more recognizable names pop up among the boutique offerings, including the Crowne Plaza Lake Placid and the Courtyard Marriott. Even if not selected to host the wedding, they certainly provide a sense of familiarity for traveling vendors and guests who will be part of the big day. High Peaks Resort and Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort both serve as worthy alternatives to the more famous option that literally had the town named after it.
Professionals from across the greater region enjoy opportunities to be Lake Placid Destination vendors, but we as Vermont wedding photographers consider it right next door.
Location: Lake Placid Club, 88 Morningside Dr, Lake Placid, NY 12946.
1/200; f/4.0; ISO 1000; 35.0 mm.