Jake + Abigail
If there’s one thing I definitely missed during 2020, it was the joy on an entire crowd of faces as someone they love dearly gets married. Of course I’m always a big cheerleader for any of my couples to elope (it’s seriously so much fun!), but sometimes you can’t beat the magic of a classic wedding where you are surrounded by your favorite people.
I had the honor of photographing Jake and Abigail’s wedding in Middletown, New Jersey, and while I normally stick to the west coast, I had an incredible time on my first ever visit to The Garden State, and will need to add “capture more east coast weddings” to my bucket list!
Jake and Abigail found me after another photographer friend referred them my way, and I couldn’t have been happier to work with them for their stunning intimate wedding. (And let’s be honest, escaping the Californian heat is always a plus in my book!) The venue was absolutely to die for as the house looked like it was straight out of Father of the Bride.
I love getting to know my couples over the course of zoom, emails, and phone calls… But getting to finally meet them in real life solidified what a wonderful couple they truly are. Abigail was a vivacious bride, filled with energy, kindness, and happiness. Jake matched her energy and was just as welcoming to me, they truly made me feel like we were old friends.
Getting ready had a laid back vibe, I took dress photos along with the groom’s portraits while others were getting ready. The minimal decor in the venue made it so easy to capture all the important details. Once Abigail was in her gorgeous dress that she found at Made with Love Bridal, and had her makeup finished by Hot Mess Bridal, it was time to photograph bridal portraits, you can’t beat all that beautiful natural light that we had for this day, between her perfect glam, and the joy she was radiating, it’s no surprise that she had that quintessential bridal glow.
Instead of the trendy first look that so many go for, the two opted for the more traditional route, and saw each other for the first time as she walked down the aisle. I’m always a sucker for the aisle first look, there’s rarely a dry eye in the crowd!
One design choice they made for their wedding was a wide aisle, which lended to focusing all the attention on the couple as they exchanged their vows, as well as showcasing the beautiful backdrop of greenery from the trees. It was a touch that you don’t get to see at indoor weddings, and one I hope more couples who do outdoor ceremonies will adopt.
The happy couple kept the flow of the evening going so smoothly by having their first dance during the cocktail hour, which then transitioned into their reception where they had a fabulous live jazz band which played the entire evening. I love when couples go for live entertainment at their reception, the atmosphere is absolutely electric!
Thank you Jake and Abigail, it was so special being able to capture you as a couple as you celebrated the most exciting and beautiful day. It truly was magical, and I’m beyond grateful I was able to share in the joy of your wedding day with you!
