Marilyn & Dan's Central Park Elopement

Hi everyone! I'm so excited to be updating my blog, site, portfolio etc. now that I am in a new season in my life. I have been hard at work shooting for other companies and putting my focus and my all into that, while letting my own business continue through referrals from some amazing clients. I have been so blessed to continue working in this industry while meeting some really fun, creative and passionate clients who have left an impact on my life. 

Now that I'm back in New York and surrounded by an incredibly loving (and patient!) support system, I feel now more than ever that strong urge to re-launch my brand and really kick it into high gear.

I recently had the absolute pleasure of photographing Marilyn and Dan's intimate ceremony in Central Park. And when I say the stars aligned for this beautiful and loving couple, I mean EVERYTHING fell into place for them, in every way imaginable. Beginning with the weather cooperating on what should have been a chilly afternoon. 

The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, the wind was still, and the Earth was dry enough for this stunningly gorgeous couple from the UK to tie the knot barefoot, surrounded by nature. 

I had been speaking to Marilyn and Dan entirely through email since they first booked me to capture their nuptials. They felt my images really captured other couples happiness, personality and the general ambiance of the entire day. On their big day, when we finally met, I immediately felt a connection with them, they were so positive, happy and full of excitement. I would be lying if I said I didn't feel the exact same way!

We made our way up a steep trail, through walls of bushes, past sky high trees and eventually found a spot that had "perfect wedding ceremony" written all over it!

Their officiant had brought sage to burn to cleanse the location and make sure it was just right before beginning the rest of their lives together. And so we quietly watched from a short distance as Marilyn and Dan took slow, long steps, gently motioned the smoke up, down and around the entire area. Once the ritual was complete, we were ready to begin. 

I tip toed around the proud, smiling couple as I captured their vows, their I do's, and of course the much anticipated first kiss as husband and wife. 

After the ceremony was over, I took them over to some more isolated spots and captured the undeniable intense chemistry, love and affection between these two love birds. We even recreated a few images they had requested via email. We then made our way to their hotel for some fun shots in the lobby and on the rooftop lounge.

Once we arrived and asked the staff permission, we were told the other guests tend to get very upset when they are in the background of professional photos. We completely understood, politely said thank you and turned around until we heard a voice say.. "Wait! Just a second. I never showed you this." And signaled for us to follow him. We made our way past an EMPLOYEES ONLY sign, though a narrow hall and past waiters and busboys enjoying their lunch break. He held the door open with a smile and said, "I'm leaving and I never saw you here." We were on THE rooftop! Complete privacy with incredible views of NYC near Bryant Park. 

After capturing those fun shots, we said our very grateful thank yous to the gentleman who helped make their photos even more memorable, and made our way towards the New York Public Library. We even stopped for some soft serve in order to make their NYC elopement as NYC as it gets!

Everything just seemed to line up for these two. From the officiant bringing the sage, finding the ideal, isolated spot to perform the ceremony, having a private rooftop photo shoot and having everyone smile and shout "Congratulations!" on every corner.

 It was a day filled with smiles, hugs, excitement and so many memorable moments. I couldn't be happier for these two and am still in awe that I had the honor of capturing the most important day of their lives. Here's to the happy couple, may you always find happiness and love in one another as well as in all things that surround you!