A Wedding at O'Brien's Sleepy Hollow
- Kierra Huihui-Gist
- Aug 16
- 4 min read
A Dreamy July at O’Brien’s Sleepy Hollow
Where wedding magic meets lush rustic elegance
When Jade and Brendan said “I do” this past July at the enchanting O’Brien’s Sleepy Hollow—nestled beside Buffalo Creek on five acres of tranquil beauty in East Aurora—it was a day steeped in love, laughter, and lasting memories. With 75 years of Irish hospitality behind it, this full-service wedding venue offered the perfect backdrop for a truly unforgettable celebration.
Why O’Brien’s Sleepy Hollow?
A beloved hidden gem in Western New York, ranked among the top rustic country outdoor wedding venues by couples and photographers alike.
Nestled on five lush acres along Buffalo Creek, offering both a gorgeous grove ceremony space and a charming banquet hall full of natural warmth.
Full-service wedding and banquet facility offering everything from homemade food—including buffet and plated dinners plus a premium bar package—to drop-off catering services.
Impeccable reputation with a 4.9/5 rating and raving reviews from 91 couples on WeddingWire, citing amazing food, communication, and service.
Ceremony Under the Canopy: A Sentimental Start
As the guests gathered under a canopy of trees, the officiant (and close friend) welcomed everyone with heartfelt gratitude:
“Each of you represent someone who is loved and someone who has given love in the separate but soon to be collective lives of Brendan and Jade.”
What followed during the maid of honor's reception speech was a soul-stirring reflection on the Butterfly Effect—how one small moment can trigger ripples that change the course of our lives. It mirrored their friendship beautifully: in 2016, upon arriving at Fredonia, Jade was already unpacked in their dorm room. That fateful introduction turned into a friendship that blossomed into the love of a lifetime—one “yes” that led to everything.
Friendship, Late-Night Secrets & Stars
Late-night dorm moments captured the essence of their bond: existential talks, impromptu laughter, and secret plans for an “otter pool” in their room. Then, those magical walks in the dark—cell phone lights guiding the way, and Jade playfully claiming, “No, your eyes will adjust to the light!” Only for them to lift their heads and marvel at the stars above. Those moments became the foundation of a friendship that transformed into something extraordinary.
The Hero of the Story Meets His Match
Brendan entered the scene: “the hero of the story,” a name that stuck. Humble, kind, and always striving to do right—he inspired his best man, Tyler, to be a better person. A quiet but powerful force in everyone’s life, especially Jade’s. Then Tyler chimed in with tales of middle-school cafeteria meets—one mentioned Yu-Gi-Oh, drums, and the rest was history.
On New Year’s Eve 2017, amidst good-natured teasing, Tyler told Brendan that Jade was “about to kiss you.” Awkward, nervous, and adorable—Brendan took the leap, and from that, Jade blushed “bright red,” and their journey truly began.
Vows, Tokens & Celtic Blessings
The day and the ceremony embraced tradition and sentiment:
A classic Celtic hand-fasting ritual, sealing their union with a symbolic binding of spirits.
The exchange of coins—in Irish tradition, a clink foresees blessings or children. Everyone held their breath as the coins met… (spoiler: they did clink, to much delight!).
Rings as a symbol of unending love and commitment—simple, timeless, and full of meaning.
And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for: “By the power vested in me by the State of New York, I now pronounce you married. You may seal this with a kiss.” Presenting, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Ryan!
Toasts, Poetry & Pure Nostalgia
Brendan and Jade’s love story is as poetic as it is passionate. Vows overflowing with devotion:
“You are my one true love … you complete me wholly and truly.”
Tyler’s toast? A heartfelt mix of nostalgia and humor. Seventeen years of friendship with Brendan, early days at Fredonia, a party, a kiss, and a confession: “They became the adults of the friend group … tied at the hip … the most noble people I know.”
Then came readings of romantic poetry at the outdoor ceremony next to the river—woven with cosmic imagery of “flames into green,” “notes in that great symphony,” and “all the lives world throbbing heart shall be one with our heart.”
An Unforgettable Evening of Celebration
The evening grew festive. The maid of honor grabbed everyone’s attention once more to toast:
“They are two people that bring out the best in each other … may the ripples continue for at least 110 years.”
Stories, dancing, silly antics, and pure joy filled every corner of O’Brien’s idyllic grounds. String lights glowed across the trees at night, giving the scene a magical, fairytale ambiance—perfect for photographs, hugs, and a dance floor full of joy.
Why O’Brien’s Sleepy Hollow Made Their Day Extraordinary
Rustic, romantic venue drenched in natural beauty—five acres of greenery, a grove for ceremonies, barn charm, and a creekside setting that's perfect year-round.
Full-service, family-run venue offering impeccable service, homemade food, and that authentic Irish warmth—veteran couples can attest it’s Western New York’s best-kept secret.
Consistently phenomenal reviews—a solid 4.9/5 across many reviews, glowing praise for communication, food, venue beauty, and staff dedication.
Excellent photography backdrop—twinkle lights, lush foliage, rustic architecture, and timeless ambiance—perfect for capturing love stories by photographers.
Final Reflections
Jade and Brendan’s wedding at O’Brien’s Sleepy Hollow that July was more than a ceremony—it was the beautiful merging of friendship, tradition, and timeless love. Set against a backdrop of greenery, historic charm, and heartfelt moments that spanned from dorm room memories to deeply poetic vows, their day was the living embodiment of destiny's butterfly effect.
May their love continue to ripple outward—bright, bold, and beautiful—for countless years to come.
Vendor Acknowledgments
Because you simply cannot have a beautiful, memorable, fabulous wedding without phenomenal supporting vendors that help to bring the whole day together.
Venue: O'Brien's Sleepy Hollow
Videographer: Candidly Kierra Productions
Photographer: Ewe Photography
Music: Buffalo Jazz Collective and The Honk Committee
Florals: Paper Craft Miracles
Dress: Victoria's Bridal Shoppe
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