Hudson Valley Estate Gives Away $26K Wedding to Best Story

A beautifully restored 1895 estate in New York's Hudson Valley is celebrating its reopening as a wedding venue by giving away something pretty extraordinary: a completely free wedding worth over $26,000 to the couple with the most heartfelt story.

Pine Brook Manor sits on 110 acres of pine forests about 90 minutes from New York City. The property includes a pond, waterways, a Forest Chapel nestled beneath trees, and charming historic buildings perfect for saying "I do."

New owners Indiana and Colin Crilley wanted to mark the estate's next chapter with meaning. They launched "We Need More Love," inviting couples to share their stories through written and video submissions for the chance to win a free wedding at their venue.

"It is one of the few moments in life where people pause, come together, and celebrate something hopeful," Colin explains. The timing feels especially meaningful during a period when so many people feel disconnected.

The response has touched the owners deeply. Submissions have come from high school sweethearts raising children while still waiting for their chance to celebrate, couples who've overcome major illnesses together, and widows and widowers finding love again.

Why This Inspires

What started as a $10,000 prize package has grown into something much bigger. Local businesses heard about the contest and stepped up to help make one couple's dream day even more special.

A photography team donated a $10,000 premium package. An event coordinator offered $3,500 in services. A florist added a $1,500 credit, and a hair and makeup artist volunteered their skills.

The generosity brings the total prize value to over $26,000. The wedding package includes exclusive use of Pine Brook Manor, all ceremony and reception spaces, tables and chairs, getting ready rooms, and coordination support.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the property also features eight king and queen rooms for overnight stays. A new event hall was built using lumber reclaimed from the original barn, blending history with modern comfort.

"Places which bring people together still matter, and even more now than ever before," Indiana says. The couple moved across the country while welcoming their first child, making this venture feel deeply personal.

The Crilleys have extended the application deadline to June 30 because the response exceeded their wildest expectations. Winners will have one year to use their prize, subject to venue availability.

Sometimes all it takes is one generous gesture to remind an entire community what really matters.