Hudson Valley wedding & elopement photographer 

Proof That Not All Love Stories Need Years of Planning

Some love stories feel like they’re meant to unfold in the most serendipitous way. Rebecca and Shane’s elopement was one of those unforgettable days that remind me why I love documenting weddings so much.

After 15 years together, these two decided to officially tie the knot in the Catskills. They gave me just two days’ notice to help plan and capture their elopement at Minnewaska State Park. Even though it was last minute, the day came together more perfectly than any of us could have imagined.

Rebecca and Shane chose the one-year anniversary of their engagement to say “I do.” To make the day even more special, Rebecca is six months pregnant, carrying their first child a true celebration of the family they’ve already built together and the future they’re stepping into.

Their immediate family joined us, creating a warm and personal atmosphere that felt more like a sacred family moment than a traditional wedding. It was the kind of celebration where every hug, every laugh, and every tear felt intentional.

We began with their first look, a quiet and emotional moment that set the tone. Then we ventured down to Awosting Falls, where the sound of rushing water surrounded us as I captured portraits of the two of them soaking in the moment.

From there, we hiked up to the cliffs overlooking Lake Minnewaska for their ceremony. Against sweeping mountain views, they exchanged vows as the sun dipped lower in the sky. Afterward, we celebrated with a small cake cutting, champagne and cider toasts, and the kind of joy that can only come when you’re surrounded by the people who matter most.

Rebecca had prayed for red skies and Minnewaska delivered. The sunset painted the entire landscape in fiery shades of pink, orange, and red, the most breathtaking I’ve ever witnessed at the park.

What I love most about Rebecca and Shane’s story is that it proves you don’t need months (or even weeks!) of planning to create a meaningful, beautiful elopement. With the right location, a few thoughtful details, and a focus on what really matters, your love and your people, you can have an unforgettable wedding day that feels like it was meant to be.

Rebecca and Shane’s Minnewaska elopement was the perfect reminder that sometimes the most magical days come together when you simply trust the timing, let go of expectations, and embrace the moment.

Planning a Catskills or Hudson Valley elopement?
Whether you want to plan ahead or you’re thinking of a last minute “let’s just do it” kind of day, I’d love to help you create and capture your dream elopement. Reach out here to start planning your unforgettable day.

If you’ve ever dreamed of eloping in the Adirondacks, let Cassidy and Tyler’s day be your sign to go for it. Their elopement was the perfect mix of adventure, intimacy, and pure fun, the kind of day that’s only possible when you ditch the rulebook and craft a celebration that’s completely your own.

The Adirondacks are a hidden gem for elopements. Towering peaks, quiet forests, and mountain air that just hits different, it’s the perfect setting for couples who want stunning views, peaceful moments, and an experience that feels personal from start to finish.

Cassidy and Tyler’s day started slow, with couples massages at their cozy Airbnb (yes, that’s a thing and yes, it’s the best idea ever). Cassidy then pieced together her wooden bouquet, a unique touch that added a little DIY magic to their day. Instead of getting ready separately, they helped each other with final touches, the kind of quiet intimacy that traditional weddings often miss.

Our first adventure was to Marcy Field, where we took portraits with the Adirondack High Peaks in the distance. It’s an easy-access spot that still delivers epic views, especially if you want mountain vibes without a full hike.

Then we made our way to Whiteface Mountain, one of the few places in the ADK where you can drive to a summit. Cassidy and Tyler booked an after-hours session, meaning we had the entire peak to ourselves during golden hour. No crowds. No rush. Just them, the wind, and the softest light as they exchanged vows overlooking the mountains.

After their ceremony, they toasted with tequila shots and popped champagne as the sun dipped below the horizon. It was pure magic — the kind of golden-hour glow that you only get in the mountains.

They ended their night with a private dinner, followed by a laid-back celebration at a dive bar in Lake Placid. Picture flash photos, pool tables, foosball, and that just-married joy. It was absolutely unforgettable.

Kind words from Cassidy and Tyler

“Choosing Jenna as our elopement photographer was one of the best decisions we made. From the very beginning, she went above and beyond – helping us choose the perfect location and planning a timeline for our day. My husband and I had never gotten professional photos done before, and it felt like spending the day with a friend, not a stranger. The pictures are absolutely stunning. Jenna’s work is nothing short of phenomenal. She perfectly captured every moment of our elopement from getting ready together, exploring areas around the Adirondacks, the actual ceremony, and going to a local bar afterwards. Every single person we’ve shared the photos with has commented on how incredible they are. Jenna’s warmth, professionalism, and talent are unmatched, and we’ll treasure these photos for the rest of our lives. I highly highly recommend booking Jenna for your photography needs!!”

Thinking About Eloping in the Adirondacks?

Here’s why you should:

• Epic scenery without the crowds – There are so many hidden spots and accessible overlooks that are perfect for elopements.
• Four seasons of beauty – Whether you want fall colors, snowy peaks, or summer sunsets, the ADK delivers year-round.
• Flexibility + freedom – You can plan a full-day adventure like Cassidy and Tyler or keep it low-key and local.
• Activities galore – From mountaintop ceremonies to post-vow dive bars, you can blend romance with real-life fun.

If you’re dreaming of an intentional, unforgettable elopement in the Adirondacks? Let’s make it happen.

There’s something truly magical about Acadia National Park

Where rugged cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Atlantic and every corner feels like it was made for romance. It’s the only National Park in New England and is totally slept on in my opinion. I had the absolute joy of capturing Meagan and Jason’s engagement session here, and let me tell you… it was pure Maine magic.

We kicked off our evening adventure at Sand Beach, where Meagan and Jason brought along their adorable dog, Maui. There’s nothing like watching a couple run barefoot through the surf with their pup chasing after them!!

As the sun began to lower, we made our way to one of my favorite spots in the entire park, Otter Cliffs. With dramatic views of the rocky coastline and the soft, warm glow of sunset behind them, Meagan and Jason held each other close as the sun went behind the cliffs.

This session was everything I love about Acadia:

The natural beauty, the sense of adventure, and capturing the love between two people (and their pup!). Whether you’re dreaming of running barefoot on the beach or watching the sun set on the cliffs, this is the perfect location. We ended Meagan and Jasons engagement session by going into Bar Harbor for lobster rolls, a Maine staple.

Thinking about your own engagement session at Acadia?
Let’s plan an adventure that feels like you. Whether you’re locals or making Acadia part of your love story getaway, I’d love to capture your chapter in this incredible landscape.

Now booking 2026 — reach out here to get started.