elopements/microweddings →
weddings →
theatre →
portraits →
for photographers →
personal →
news →
helpful articles →
engagement →

explore by category

I capture the unspoken — the glances, the silences — drawing from New York's pulse and the richness of global cultures. Every wedding is its own intricate narrative. Rooted in theatre and life's everyday rhythms, I document moments both transient and timeless. 

Hey, I'm susan!

Tappan Hill Mansion Wedding

Tappan Hill Mansion in Tarrytown, New York sits on the former estate of Mark Twain, on a hilltop overlooking the Hudson River. The cream-and-gold rotunda with its grand spiral staircase. The Pavilion Room has exposed stone and sweeping windows. The outdoor terrace with Hudson River views. Abigail Kirsch catering consistently ranked among the best wedding food in the Hudson Valley. 45 minutes from Midtown Manhattan. I have photographed here. More at abigailkirsch.com/tappan-hill-mansion.

A wedding dress delicately hangs in front of a window in New York City. A black and white photograph of a bride's wedding dress in New York. A wedding ring from New York sits on a piece of lace. A black and white photograph of a wedding ring in New York. A black and white image of a ring on a black surface in New York. A pair of earrings in a box, photographed in black and white. A woman in New York is taking a picture of her shoes and flip flops. A bride in New York is excitedly getting ready for her wedding. A bride and her mother, both dressed in elegant wedding attire, share a tender moment as they gaze at each other through a window. In New York, a bride's mother lovingly helps her put on her wedding dress.

About the Venue

Located at 81 Highland Avenue in Tarrytown, New York, Tappan Hill Mansion is operated exclusively by Abigail Kirsch, the tri-state region’s most established catering and event company. The historic stone mansion sits on the southern Hudson Valley hilltop with panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades. Secluded and tranquil while remaining accessible from New York City by both car and Metro-North train.

The Event Spaces

The Pavilion Room accommodates 150 to 250 guests. Exposed stone walls, draping ceilings, and sweeping windows. A glass-enclosed brick-and-stone promenade connects the room to the outdoor terrace. The outdoor terrace itself offers extraordinary views of the Hudson River during the ceremony and at golden hour.

The Hudson Room accommodates 75 to 150 guests. Large windows, hardwood floors bathed in natural light, and access to a beautifully manicured garden terrace with an intricate fountain. A more intimate option than the Pavilion Room, with its own distinct character.

The cream-and-gold rotunda, with its grand spiral staircase, greets guests as they arrive and is one of the most photographed spaces in the venue. The domed ceiling and sweeping staircase make it ideal for formal portraits and grand entrances.

Why I Love Shooting Here

The rotunda staircase is extraordinary for portraits. The outdoor ceremony terrace with the Hudson River behind the couple is one of the most beautiful ceremony settings in Westchester. The grounds have mature trees, a roundabout in front of the stone facade, and a maple tree on the back lawn that photographs beautifully. The venue has understated elegance enhanced by its natural surroundings. Each wedding looks different here, which is the mark of a property with real depth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tappan Hill Mansion Weddings

Where is Tappan Hill Mansion located?

81 Highland Avenue in Tarrytown, New York, in Westchester County. 45 minutes from Midtown Manhattan by car, accessible by Metro-North train to the Tarrytown station. More at abigailkirsch.com/tappan-hill-mansion.

What is Tappan Hill Mansion?

A historic stone mansion on the former estate of Mark Twain, operated exclusively by Abigail Kirsch catering. On a hilltop overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY. Two event spaces: the Pavilion Room (up to 250 guests) and the Hudson Room (up to 150 guests). Cream-and-gold rotunda with grand spiral staircase, outdoor ceremony terrace with river views, garden terraces, and a getting-ready suite on site.

What makes Tappan Hill Mansion distinctive?

The combination of the historic stone mansion character and the Hudson River setting is genuinely unusual. The rotunda staircase is one of the most striking portrait locations in any Westchester venue. The outdoor ceremony terrace with sweeping river views is extraordinary. And the Abigail Kirsch food is consistently exceptional, which means guests are happy and the reception energy is good.

What are the best photo locations at Tappan Hill Mansion?

The rotunda and grand spiral staircase are under the domed ceiling. The outdoor ceremony terrace with Hudson River and Palisades views. The stone facade of the roundabout at the front of the mansion. The maple tree and the stepped patio on the back lawn. The garden terrace adjacent to the Hudson Room has its own fountain. Golden hour on the Hudson-facing terrace is extraordinary.

Who is the caterer at Tappan Hill Mansion?

Abigail Kirsch is the exclusive caterer. They have operated the venue for decades and are consistently one of the most praised caterers in Hudson Valley wedding reviews. The food quality is a significant reason couples choose this venue.

What time of year is best for a Tappan Hill Mansion wedding?

Spring through fall, the outdoor spaces and Hudson River views are at their best. The terraced gardens and mature trees are extraordinary in late spring and fall. October weddings here are some of the most beautifully lit I have photographed in Westchester. The indoor spaces work year-round.

Do you photograph weddings at Tappan Hill Mansion?

Yes. If your wedding is here, I would love to hear about it.

join now

Join the Susan Stripling inner circle for exclusive insights into the art of photography & firsthand updates.

meet susan →

Get to know the artist who captures NYC's essence. Discover Susan's journey, her inspirations, and the passion that drives her every click. 

behind the camera

connect with susan →

Have a moment or a vision you want captured forever? Reach out and let's discuss how we can bring your photographic dreams to life. 

let's create together

explore galleries →

Delve into a world where every frame tells a story, where dramatic elegance meets timeless beauty. Discover the story of multiple events through Susan's lens. 

artistry beyond the ordinary

where will your journey bring you next?