Jenna & Mars’ Secret Garden Wedding at Maison Albion
by Ember Event Management – Wedding Planner in Rochester, NY
Photo by: Tali Conic Photography
Jenna and Mars’ September wedding at Maison Albionwas the perfect example of how a smaller guest list can create such a meaningful and memorable experience. Neither of them are originally from the area—they both came to the area for school—so they reached out early in the planning process looking for guidance on local venues and vendors.
From the start, they knew they wanted something outdoorsy and earthy that really reflected who they are as a couple. It was also important that their wedding felt like an experience for their guests, since most people would be traveling in. With a smaller guest count of around 30, finding a venue that felt just right in size while still offering charm and flexibility took a bit of searching—but we ultimately found the perfect fit in Maison Albion.
The space offered everything they were looking for: character, flexibility, and on-site accommodations that made the whole weekend feel intentional and easy for guests. From there, Jenna and Mars were incredibly trusting throughout the planning process, which allowed our team to really step in and help shape the flow and overall vision for the day.
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
We decided on a ceremony on the back lawn, followed by the rest of the evening in the venue’s tucked-away garden space. The “secret garden” setting ended up being the perfect backdrop for cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. With greenery surrounding the space and string lights overhead, it created such a cozy and inviting atmosphere for their group.
Because the layout is a little unique, we worked closely with the venue to map out a floor plan that would feel natural and comfortable for the evening. We also built out rain plans just in case—but luckily, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect.
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Jenna and Mars trusted us with most of the vendor selection, which made it especially fun to bring together a team that matched their vibe so well. Midnight Moss absolutely nailed the florals, creating a whimsical, garden-inspired look that felt both elevated and organic. One of the standout moments was the ceremony backdrop—Mars had a vision for a rounded arbor, which we sourced through Something Borrowed, and the florals truly brought it to life.
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Catering was provided by Zambistro through Maison Albion’s micro-wedding package, and they did an amazing job. It fit the scale of the day perfectly and made for a really enjoyable, relaxed dining experience for guests.
One of the most important things to Jenna and Mars was that the day didn’t feel overly structured or rushed. The morning was super laid-back, with a casual first look and family photos done before more guests arrived. The reception followed that same energy, with open mic speeches and a simple playlist playing in the background—nothing overproduced, just really genuine moments.
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
We did make sure to carve out time for golden hour photos (because the property is just too pretty not to), and it ended up being one of the most beautiful parts of the day.
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
Photo by:Tali Conic Photography
As the night wrapped up, guests headed back to their accommodations while we gathered personal items and made sure everything was packed up for the couple.
Jenna and Mars’ wedding was relaxed, intentional, and full of so much love. With such a small group, every moment felt personal and connected—it truly felt like the perfect reflection of them as a couple.