Rehearsal at Red River P

Valcour Inn and Boathouse

Amanda & Stephens Wedding

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

The Boathouse

Reception

Pavillion at Cumberland State Park

Farewell & Float

We're so excited to celebrate this new &amp; special chapter of our lives with the people who mean the most to us. As we prepare for our big day, we’ve created this website to keep you updated on all the details and share a glimpse into our love story. Whether it’s finding information about the venue, exploring travel tips for the ADKs, or learning more about our wedding party and honored guests, we hope this site helps you feel just as excited as we are! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

All Our Love, Amanda & Stephen

Our Wedding

When Holly Met Stephen 

In the winter of 2020, fate and a German Shorthaired Pointer named Holly brought Stephen and Amanda together. Escaping New York City to a park in New Jersey, where she could let her dog Holly run free, Amanda was walking back to her car when Holly raced over to Stephen's pickup and hopped into the cab, muddy paws and all. After apologizing and trying to get Holly out of the truck, they sparked a conversation that led to the beginning of their love story. A little over a month later, Stephen and Amanda spent every weekend together, fishing and hiking all over Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Stephen braved the streets of NYC, an event rarely seen, to take her on dates. By the summer, they were inseparable and Stephen joined in on a family vacation down to Cape May.

As autumn arrived, so did a new chapter for them both when Stephen was offered a job in Central New York. With Amanda able to work remotely, she and Holly packed their bags, and the trio relocated to the beautiful shores of Lake Oneida. That winter, they took long walks on the frozen lake and enjoyed the snowy seclusion of their beachfront apartment. Stephen and Amanda found themselves falling more deeply in love with each other and northern New York.

The following summer, they moved to their cozy home in Minoa, New York, a small town with a single stoplight (a recent addition) and a vintage car show every Friday night in the park by their house. They are surrounded by many fresh lakes (Stephen's dream), and Amanda loves having a big yard and tons of parks to explore with Holly. In June of 2023, their little family grew with the addition of another pointer named Minnow, who quickly captured their hearts just like Holly did.

Our Story

Stephen and Amanda chose Valcour for its personal significance, especially for Stephen, whose love for being on Lake Champlain runs deep. As an avid bass angler, Stephen frequently competes in fishing tournaments on the lake, and the couple often visits to swim, fish, and camp—creating some of their best memories together. Amanda, who has always loved the region, knew that it would be the perfect setting for them since so much of their relationship was built on trips to the mountains. Stephen's first visit to the Valcour Inn &amp; Boathouse was during college when an ecology class brought him there on a field trip. The SUNY Plattsburgh research boat docks at Valcour to study the lake’s water and wildlife, and Stephen immediately sensed the extraordinary atmosphere of the place. Throughout that semester, he noticed the Boathouse hosting beautiful weddings and events, imagining that one day, he might be married there too. That dream became a reality when Stephen proposed over the Fourth of July weekend. A few days later, the couple toured the Valcour Boathouse and instantly knew it was the perfect venue for their wedding—the first and only venue they visited. One year to the day after that tour, they will return to marry at the place that has become so special to them.

A Place by the Lake

Early history of Lake Champlain

The land and waters surrounding Valcour Inn and Boathouse have a long history, going back a million years to the formation of the great glaciers that crept across North America in the Pleistocene period. Lake Champlain was carved out about 12,000 years ago as the last of the glaciers retreated. The salt-water Champlain Sea was formed through its link to the Atlantic Ocean, and marine life, including whales, swam and thrived here. The contours of the modern-day shoreline were formed through climactic changes over thousands of years. It was gradually cut off from the ocean and formed a freshwater lake. There is evidence of Paleoindian habitation on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain from 9300 BC and of hunter-gatherers during the Woodland period. By the early 16th century, the Iroquois peoples had come to dominate the western shores and as far north as the St. Lawrence River — hunting, fishing and occupying seasonal settlements. In 1609, French explorer Samuel de Champlain traveled down the lake from the St. Lawrence with a party of Algonquins, Hurons and Montagnais warriors. Near Ticonderoga, Champlain, armed with gunpowder weapons, engaged in a confrontation with the Iroquois and began the long period of military battles for control of the lake.

Battle of Valcour Island

Valcour Island (island of pines) was claimed as part of New France until 1763. It was the site of one of the most important battles of the American Revolutionary War. The Continental Navy spent the summer of 1776 building ships on the southern end of the lake at present-day Whitehall, New York in preparation for a confrontation with the British navy. On September 30, under the command of General Benedict Arnold, fifteen vessels of various sizes, sheltered in Valcour Harbor in a position that Arnold found most advantageous for a surprise attack on the British fleet. On October 10, as the unknowing British sailed south past Valcour, the Continental Navy began a two-day battle and epic retreat down the lake that, while clearly a military defeat for the Americans, delayed the British from advancing past the fort at Crown Point. As winter began to set in, the British retreated back to Quebec, buying time for the Continental forces and setting the stage for the British defeat at Saratoga in 1777. There are many excellent books and online resources about this period of American history.

Port Jackson and the Sibley family

The defeat of the British at the Battle of Plattsburgh in the War of 1812 ushered in a period of peace and commercial development on Lake Champlain. In 1820, Robert Platt founded Port Jackson, which included the cove and property where the Inn and Boathouse are today. Port Jackson was a busy commercial wharf during the heyday of shipping on the lake. Sail boats, canal boats and steamboats tied up here and long lines of horse-drawn wagons loaded and unloaded goods. In the late 1870s, Valcour (renamed for the island) got its own railroad station and you could take the steamer Ticonderoga or the train to Plattsburgh for $0.18. In 1897, the property was sold to U.S. Congressman Joseph Sibley who built a large house and the boathouse that stands today. The original house was destroyed in a fire and rebuilt by Celia Sibley Wilson in 1926. That house (which is now the Inn) was in the family’s hands until 1951. In 1963 it was purchased by Plattsburgh State Teachers College Benevolent and Educational Association (now College Auxiliary Services - CAS) for use as a conference and retreat center. It is still owned by CAS today and hosts conferences, retreats and campus events for SUNY Plattsburgh, as well as the public.

Our Venue 

The Sock That Sealed the Deal

July 4th, 2024—already a day steeped in celebration—was about to take on a whole new meaning for Stephen and Amanda. They were spending the long holiday weekend at the Phipps family cabin, joined by Stephen's brothers and of course, the dogs. The morning began with everyone piling into trucks, fishing gear in tow, as they headed off to Saranac Lake for a day on the lake. It was the perfect July day—warm sun, a cool breeze, and sparkling water. By late afternoon, they returned to the cabin to grill up some dinner and relax, but Stephen had more exciting plans in mind.

After freshening up, Stephen suggested a trip to one of their favorite spots—where they watched the solar eclipse together that April. Normally, they would hop on the ATVs for the rocky trek up the mountain, but Stephen insisted on taking his truck this time, and of course, the dogs had to come along. Now, if you’ve ever been to the Adirondacks in July, you know the black flies are relentless. As they hiked through the meadow, Amanda was swatting away at the swarm, trying to keep the dogs from taking off into the woods. Suddenly, Stephen called out, “Hey Minnow, what do you have?” Amanda’s immediate thought was, Oh no, she caught an animal. Then she heard Stephen say, “She has a sock!” This was common for Minnow; she was always stealing socks, and no one’s laundry was safe. But where would she have found a sock in the middle of the meadow? Sure enough, Minnow came bounding over, something suspiciously sock-like in her mouth. Amanda barely had time to process what was happening before Stephen turned to her, locking eyes and smiling. But as he lowered himself to one knee, she caught sight of the small black velvet box tucked inside what was unmistakably one of Stephen’s socks. Her heart skipped a beat. Stephen quoted Maggie Rogers' “Love You for a Long Time,” one of their favorite songs. The song played in the back of Amanda’s mind as Stephen began to speak, telling her how much he loved her and recounting all the moments that had led them to this one. Before she could even think, the words tumbled out: “Are you sure?!” Stephen’s smile was all the answer she needed. And when he asked the all-important question, “Will you marry me?” Amanda didn’t hesitate. “Yes!”&nbsp;

Stephen opened the box, revealing the most beautiful ring Amanda could have ever imagined—an oval sapphire, Stephen’s birthstone, surrounded by a delicate halo of diamonds. It was perfect and meaningful.&nbsp; As they hugged and laughed, they suddenly heard a cheer from the nearby trees. Stephen’s brother, Charlie, had been hiding in the woods, secretly capturing the entire moment on camera—and also being swarmed by flies.&nbsp; They drove back down the mountain for the perfect evening around the campfire and lit up their sparklers, which now had a little extra sparkle.

The Proposal 

Photos

Colleen Velluzzi

Amanda has chosen Colleen to be her Matron of Love, a title that reflects the quality she admires most about her—an ability to love fiercely—and the quality Amanda hopes most to bring into her marriage. Often called "Colleen’s other Amanda" (since Colleen already has a sister named Amanda), these two have been inseparable since childhood. Whether they were dressing up and belting songs from Wicked at the piano or practicing their toe touches at cheerleading, Amanda has always admired Colleen’s pure talent and ambition. In high school, they often hung out at Westerleigh Park, where Colleen met her now-husband and where all their families still walk their dogs every evening. Colleen and her family have always been so kind to Amanda, including her on family vacations and always making her feel at home. As they got older and became adults, they only got closer, by each other’s side for all the important milestones and achievements, rainy days and losses, and the everyday parts of life they can always find joy in. Recently, Colleen and her husband welcomed a beautiful daughter, Penelope Jane, who is pure sunshine. Penelope will bring a sparkle to the wedding festivities as Amanda and Stephen's flower girl.

Thomas Phipps

Stephen has chosen his brother, Thomas, as his Man of Honor. Thomas, the funniest of the Phipps brothers (sorry, Chuck), has always been Stephen’s right-hand man. Growing up, they conquered chopping many piles of firewood, wrestling matches, and numerous 1:1 basketball sessions (of which many Tommy won). Now, though not as close in proximity as they’ve always been, they remain close through phone calls during their work travels and are always there for one another. Stephen admires Thomas’ humor, loyalty, and the brotherly bond they’ve built over the years, and there’s no one better to stand beside Stephen as he marries the love of his life than Thomas, who has shown the couple so much support and love.&nbsp;

Emily Grace Waite

Emily is Amanda’s Maid of Grace, a title that suits her perfectly—not just because of her name, but because she embodies grace in every sense. Throughout their lives, Emily has been an example of calm, patience, and kindness—qualities Amanda hopes to bring into her new role as a wife. Emily and Amanda have been best cousins for life, or "BC4L," as they named themselves years ago when it was cool. As Amanda watched Emily grow up, she was in awe of how smart Emily was. She has been the little sister Amanda wished for growing up with only brothers. Unfortunately for Emily, she couldn't escape Amanda's makeover sessions, keyboard concerts, or making Emily catch frogs when it rained down in Maryland. There was never a time when the “Watcha doing this weekend?” text came through that Emily didn’t already have a bag packed for a trip down the coast. Beyond being Amanda’s go-to for advice, Emily has been a shoulder to cry on, a hand to high-five, a long hug, and a deep laugh until you can’t breathe—right when it’s needed most. They’ve been there for each other throughout their entire lives, and Amanda can’t imagine her wedding day without Em by her side.

Charles Phipps

Stephen’s youngest brother, Charlie, has earned the title of Man of Trust, a reflection of the deep confidence and faith Stephen places in him. Over the years, Charlie’s thoughtfulness and determination have made Stephen incredibly proud—qualities he admires most in his brother. Though Charlie’s NHL video game skills may be questionable, Stephen is beyond grateful to have him as a younger brother. Charlie has become the sweetest “uncle” to Holly and Minnow. Stephen is excited to have Charlie beside him, even on his best day, pal.

Diana Porcelli

Amanda couldn’t think of anyone more fit to be her Maid of Joy than Diana, a beautiful and kind person, a fierce and loyal friend, and an embodiment of what it means to spark joy. Working at their college newspaper together, Amanda and Diana quickly became great friends and haven’t been apart since. Diana has been a soundboard for all Amanda’s bad ideas, a lot of which Diana says yes to, like booking flights to Iceland on a whim, driving on the side of a volcano, and laughing so hard they had chocolate oat milk coming out of their noses. Through all the birthdays and bottles of wine, new jobs, dogs, engagements, and now weddings, they’ve stood by each other, always lifting each other higher and sharing in each other’s joy. Rarely does a day pass without them yapping on the phone, debriefing on their days and weekends, and always supporting one another. Diana and her fiancé, RJ, have shown Amanda and Stephen so much love, and they are grateful to be celebrating their wedding alongside such wonderful friends.

Max & Trevor Granberg

No one brings more laughter to Amanda and Stephen’s lives than Amanda’s little brothers, Trevor and Max, Stephen's Junior Groomsmen. Trevor, with his fearless spirit and sense of adventure, and Max, with his sharp wit and endless comedy, have created countless unforgettable moments. Each time they are together, there’s a new set of catchphrases and inside jokes to repeat until the next time they meet. Trevor and Max are the sweetest, most loving kids and are a reflection of their father, aside from also looking exactly alike. Stephen is honored and excited to be gaining them as brothers and is looking forward to all the memories they have yet to make.

Stephanie Phipps

Amanda is proud to have Stephen's sister Stephanie as her Maid of Courage, a title that captures her strength and spirit. As Amanda's future sister-in-law and a non-commissioned officer in the army, Stephanie embodies courage and resilience — qualities Amanda deeply admires and hopes to bring into her marriage. From the moment they met, Amanda knew Stephanie was someone special, with her kindness and empathy shining through. The couple is so proud of Sergeant Phipps and her dedication to being of service to her country. Both Amanda and Stephanie grew up with three brothers each, and now they finally have a sister in one another! Amanda feels deeply honored to have Stephanie by her side to celebrate love and create new memories together.

Wedding Party 

Moms are always right, and nothing could be more true for Georgeine, the smartest woman the couple knows, the best advice-giver, and a mom who always makes her kids feel so loved. As Georgeine’s first baby, Stephen has shared a close bond with his mom for as long as he can remember. He’s deeply grateful for the endless wisdom, faith, and values she’s instilled in him over the years. Georgeine is the best host, always ensuring her family is spending quality time together and has welcomed Amanda and her family in with open arms. Georgeine and Stephen Sr are celebrating their 36th wedding anniversary on July 1st of 2025, so please congratulate them at the wedding! Amanda and Stephen are beyond blessed to have them as a beautiful example of what love, family, and partnership mean.

Georgeine Phipps — Mother of the Groom 

The one who taught Amanda everything she knows. Amanda feels incredibly blessed to have a father who has shown her the most love and support since the day she was born when he claims to have "picked her from his nose." Amanda, Pieter’s favorite and only daughter, has been the luckiest girl to know unconditional love and to be raised by the strongest, most loving man. From teaching her to ride a bike and attending every musical and chorus concert to now walking her down the aisle. Pieter has been Amanda’s north star, encyclopedia, and biggest champion. His wisdom, patience, and love have shaped who Amanda is today, and she couldn’t imagine celebrating this day without him holding her hand, just as he has been every step of the way. As Amanda marries Stephen, she finds herself drawn to so many of the same qualities she admires in her father. Stephen shares Pieter's sense of humor, his unwavering capacity for unconditional love, and his endless patience and kindness. Amanda is grateful to be stepping into this next chapter with a partner who reflects the same traits she learned first from her father.&nbsp;

Pieter Granberg — Father of the Bride 

Stephen has always admired his dad, Stephen, for his hard work, wisdom, and unshakable values. Growing up, when Stephen would look to his father for advice, he remembers him saying, “If one man can do it, so can another…” That saying has been a guiding force in Stephen’s life, encouraging him to push forward, work hard, and never give up. Stephen's father has not only been a source of motivation, but he’s also instilled in his son a deep sense of responsibility, a love for the outdoors and a love for family. Stephen’s favorite memories are trips to camp with his father in snow, rain, and sunny days, climbing mountains, and building their family cabin. Amanda and Stephen cherish trips to Red River P with his parents and are the reason they have also fallen in love with the Adirondacks, thanks to the work of Stephen's parents.

Stephen Phipps — Father of the Groom 

Edith, a seasoned actor and director, is the source of Amanda's flair for theatrics, creativity, passion for life, and her keen eye for antiques. Edith played a central role in raising Amanda, becoming a second mother, and creating countless memories each summer in Maryland. Adventures with her alongside her brother Tyler, from indulging in crabs covered in Old Bay on the Chesapeake to swinging on the porch swing during thunderstorms, these moments shaped Amanda's childhood. Alongside her late husband, Frederick Granberg, who passed in 2017, Edith provided Amanda with a second home on Howard Court, where a flag always waved out front, and music filled the kitchen. It's always been there that Amanda envisions when she thinks of “home.” Edith is not only one of the funniest and most vibrant people Amanda knows, but she’s also the first person Amanda turns to for news, a comforting conversation, or a much-needed laugh. Her grandmother's unwavering love and support have been invaluable throughout Amanda’s life, and Amanda strives to always make her proud, carrying forward the legacy of joy, creativity, and strength that Edith instilled in her.

Edith Barrett Granberg — Grandmother of the Bride 

Tiffany (yes, the T-Phini) is the undisputed life of every party. Tiffany has always been the person Amanda looks to for advice, an ear when needed most, and, above all else, laughs. Tiffany, a boat captain and outdoor educator by day, tour guide of the Chesapeake and karaoke master by night — a trip down to aunt Tiffany’s house in Annapolis is always one to remember. From teaching her how to catch crabs for dinner and how to ride a horse as a little girl to drinking orange crushes bayside as an adult, Amanda has always found that zest for life she is looking for in her aunt Tiffany. Tiffany has shown Stephen and Amanda so much love and is always a source of encouragement, laughter, and happiness.

Tiffany Granberg — Aunt of the Bride 

Guests of Honor 

Q + A

The Shamrock Inn at the Adirondacks has a long history of providing travelers with a warm, welcoming place to stay to enjoy the great outdoors. Originally opened in 1949, The Shamrock Inn most recently changed ownership and underwent major renovations in 2020. The new owners are proud to carry on this tradition and will provide guests with friendly and welcoming hospitality, focusing on attention to detail. Sitting on 15 acres, our family-friendly property provides guests with an outdoor fire pit, grill, horseshoes, corn-hole, picnic table, and large covered patio. This Inn is five minutes from our wedding venue and a great option for an authentic north country stay. Contact Ann Marie to stay at the Shamrock; she knows we're all coming to town!

The Shamrock Inn

Valcour Cottages are located on the shores of Lake Champlain across from Valcour Island in Plattsburgh, NY.&nbsp;They are a humble and affordable option for people who want to enjoy a more rustic stay in one of their four quaint cottages or a larger, two-bedroom front house.&nbsp;These cottages are located next to our wedding site, a two-minute drive north. They have a large, shared backyard with multiple fire pits (must provide own wood), propane/charcoal grills, stair access to the rock shoreline, parking for vehicles and even smaller boats (with management notice), picnic tables, chairs, and a beautiful view of the island and marina.&nbsp; Contact Gregory via phone or email; he'll be expecting reservations soon!

Valcour Cottages

Also a tried-and-true stay option, the Comfort Inn &amp; Suites is pet-friendly &amp; close to a lot of great spots! The Comfort Inn is next to the Plattsburgh Brewing Company, a Phipps brother favorite for delicious cold drinks and great food. To book a room for any dates within the room block reservations, you'll must call the front desk at (518) 562-2730 Room Block Name: PHIPPS WEDDING

Comfort Inn & Suites Plattsburgh - Morrisonville

Located just a 15-minute drive north of our venue at the Valcour Inn &amp; Boathouse, the Hampton Inn offers a reliable and comfortable stay in Plattsburgh. Modern amenities and cozy accommodations make it a perfect choice for guests seeking convenience and everyday comfort during the wedding festivities. A room block has been reserved at discounted rates. Please reserve via the link or by calling the front desk and mentioning the PHIPPS WEDDING.

Hampton Inn & Suites Plattsburgh

Stay at this historic property where U.S. Presidents, baseball great Babe Ruth, and business tycoons like the Astors and Vanderbilts vacationed. Located south of Plattsburgh in northern New York, Bluff Point Golf Resort is a special sanctuary for golfers. Golf and Stay Packages make Bluff Point Golf Resort a golf lover's dream. Two styles of Lodging, our Cottages and Suites are tucked away between the 4th and 6th fairways and are a pitching wedge away from the shores Lake Champlain. The views of Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and evening silhouettes of the Adirondacks of New York, make Bluff Point is the area’s most scenic golf course and lodge. This stay option is a five-minute drive north of our venue.

Bluff Point Golf Resort

Accomodations

The drive from New York City to Peru, New York, is about five hours, so we recommend traveling a day or two before the wedding since it's a holiday weekend. Along the way, you'll pass through the scenic Hudson Valley, past the stunning Lake George, and wind through the southeastern Adirondacks. The route is filled with exceptional views and plenty of spots to pull over and take in the natural beauty of Northern New York.

From New York City

For our family traveling from Orange County and the Hudson Valley, the drive is approximately four hours. Along the way, you'll pass through the scenic Hudson Valley, past the stunning Lake George, and wind through the southeastern Adirondacks. The route is filled with exceptional views and plenty of spots to pull over and take in the natural beauty of Northern New York.

From Orange County 

If flying to the region, consider arriving at Plattsburgh International Airport, a short distance from our venue at Valcour.

By Plane 

Getting There 

Being in the Adirondack mountains, there are so many accessible hiking trails, scenic views, and breathtaking adventures at your fingertips. Here are a few favorites:<a href="https://www.pokeomoonshine.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Poke-O-Moonshine Firetower</a>: 3.7 miles round trip, 18 minutes from Valcour<a href="https://whiteface.com/mountain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Whiteface Mountain:</a> 10 miles roundtrip, 50 minutes from ValcourAlso accessible via car and a popular skiing spot<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/rattlesnake-mountain--3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rattlesnake Mountain:</a> 2 miles roundtrip, 16 minutes from Valcour

Hiking!

A few days after Amanda and Stephen and were engaged, they drove up through the clouds to the summit of Whiteface to spectacular views and a 20-degree temperature drop! The summit is driveable, and once you get to the top, it is easily walkable; but you can also take the cave elevator or climb the stairs to the very top for a 360-degree view of the Adirondack mountain range, Lake Placid, Vermont Green Mountain range, and, on a clear day, Montreal!

Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway

Lakefront has its perks! You can rent one of our boat slips and have easy access getting on and off the water. Don’t have a boat? You can rent kayaks and canoes from <a href="http://www.adirondackriverrentals.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Adirondack River Rentals</a> or take a pontoon boat out for the day with <a href="https://www.snugharbormarinainc.com/--our-rentals" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Snug Harbor Marina</a>, both within 10 minutes of Valcour Inn.In addition to the Inn’s waterfront, you can take a paddle out to Valcour Island or head down to <a href="https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/24452.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ausable Point</a> and enjoy the day on the beach.

Set Sail! 

Also known as the Grand Canyon of the ADK's Ausable Chasm, an unparalleled destination in the Adirondacks. Immerse yourself in a journey through time at one of the United States' oldest natural attractions (Established in 1870). Hike, float, or climb amidst the primeval Adirondack forest, encountering captivating landmarks such as Rainbow Falls, Elephant's Head, Column Rock, Hyde's Cave, and the serene Mystic Gorge. Delve hundreds of feet below to traverse natural stone walkways, marveling at the eons of geologic history etched in stone.

Ausable Chasm

Whenever Stephen and I are at the Phipps Camp, we always make a day trip to this beach. The calm, cold, clear water of Cumberland Bay, views of Vermont, and warm sand are the best upstate New York beaches have to offer. There is a lifeguard area with dropped-off shallow swimming for quick dips, bathrooms, a BBQ, and more.