Some weddings just feel like New York magic, and Jess & Amy’s Manhattan City Hall elopement was exactly that. Two brides from the UK, crossing the ocean to say “I do” in a city that pulses with energy, style, and a little bit of chaos. From rooftop views in Brooklyn to clinking glasses at Ruby’s in the West Village, this day was unapologetically them!
Getting Ready at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
We started the morning tucked away at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, where the vibe was equal parts calm and excited. Their details were chic and personal, vow books ready to be filled, champagne poured, the “I do” clutch glimmering on the table. Amy slipped into her lace-detailed jumpsuit while Jess glowed in a strapless gown that fit her like it was made for this very moment! I’d already spent time getting to know them through emails and our pre-session Zoom call. Those connections made the morning feel like catching up with friends instead of just photographing clients!
Ceremony at Manhattan City Hall
Once we headed into Manhattan City Hall, things moved fast. The beauty of eloping here is that the focus is entirely on love. Jess & Amy exchanged rings, kissed, and walked out those courthouse doors officially married. Personal Vows are important to some couples but not allowed inside City Hall but don’t worry, I always find the perfect way around that. Just outside, tucked against the grand courthouse steps, Jess & Amy shared their handwritten vows with each other, private and tear-filled. It was raw, it was real, and it might have been my favorite moment of the entire day.
Portraits & Polaroids in the West Village
After the “I do’s,” we hit the city, and New York delivered! We wandered through courthouse steps, darted across busy crosswalks, ducked into subway entrances, and let the West Village chaos be our backdrop. It felt cinematic, like Jess & Amy were the stars of their own rom-com set in downtown Manhattan. Videographer, Jay Dekony, joined me, filming alongside my photos so every look, laugh, and sidewalk twirl was captured in motion. We ended the day at Ruby’s Cafe, where they snagged an outdoor table, ordered cocktails, and laid out Polaroids from the day. Watching them sip wine and flip through those instant snapshots was the sweetest full-circle moment, two brides married in New York, celebrating in their own stylish, effortless way!
Ready For Your Dream Manhattan City Hall Elopement? Let’s Chat!
Angelisa Rios Photography | New York Elopement Photographer
Jess & Amy’s Manhattan City Hall elopement was proof that your wedding doesn’t have to follow a script. It can be stylish, emotional, chaotic, and relaxed all at once, exactly like this city. And when couples trust me enough to tell their story authentically, with all the in-between moments that make it theirs, that’s when the magic happens! Ready for me to capture yours? Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!
