Last year, I had the absolute honor to photograph many untraditional (and extremely joyful) wedding days. Ali and Spencer’s Brooklyn wedding though was truly one of a kind. I loved everything about the two of them – their love of life was absolutely addicting and so much fun to be around. The effortless way they seemed to interact with one another was inspiring to watch (and a dream to photograph). The two of them just have fun together. Although they were nervous to be the center of attention among their family and friends, everyone was psyched to celebrate with them and enjoyed their casual brewery wedding!
Engaged During the Pandemic
Who doesn’t love a good engagement story (and engagement photos where they bring their dog – in this case a sweet little boy named Pancho!)? Ali and Spencer were engaged right at the start of the pandemic, when Spencer planned a “fake vacation to Jamaica” (since nobody could really travel). The two of them got dressed in their swimsuits and made Pina Coladas. Spencer told Ali that he had a secret beach to take her to, which ended being the roof of their New York City apartment building (where they had never been before). Once they got to the roof, he proposed.
She said yes (obviously) and the rest is history. One of the things Ali said she loves most about Spencer? That he’s a great dog dad! I loved meeting their fur baby during their engagement photos. They really are the sweetest little family of three.
This Brooklyn Wedding began at Henry Norman Hotel
One of the benefits to a micro wedding is often a more relaxed timeline. I met Ali in her room around noon to capture their getting ready photos and headed to Spencer’s room shortly after to catch the finishing touches there (the groom putting on his jacket is always a must-have shot!). From there, we headed to the hotel rooftop for Ali and Spencer’s sweet and cheerful first look. They embraced one another with open arms and it was the sweetest thing to witness. After a few candid photos of their first moments, and then a couple more classic portraits, Ali’s girlfriends met her on the roof for a couple of fun group shots with their heart-shaped sunglasses (which were so much fun – the entire day).
Wedding Reception at Threes Brewing
Like I’ve mentioned, Ali and Spencer just love to have fun together. Their micro wedding reception at Threes Brewing was an absolutely perfect fit. Guests enjoyed beers, cocktails, heartfelt speeches, and the gorgeous fall sunset outside on the patio of Threes Brewing. Although the two of them enjoyed mixing and mingling with all of their family and friends, it was fun for me to try and catch the stolen glances between them throughout the reception. Nothing could wipe off their infectious larger-than-life smiles!
Looking for fun (and untraditional) wedding ideas? Why not Karaoke at your Wedding Reception?
Toward the end of their cocktail reception, they brought out some Karaoke! Honestly, it was the perfect ending to an unforgettably fun evening and it just made me smile. Spencer kicked things off with a song to Ali, and it didn’t take long for everyone to jump in and grab their own turn with the microphone. If you’ve been waiting to bring something you love into your wedding that is just a little untraditional (like Karaoke!), this is your sign to just do it! Everyone absolutely loved singing their hearts out.
A Brewery Wedding Success
As much as I love some of the more traditional wedding venues I’ve mentioned on the blog here (Battello, Antique Loft, Kolo Klub, and so many more), I have to admit: I love an untraditional wedding venue. Threes Brewing brought everything I knew Ali and Spencer would want and more. The weather cooperated (and in the fall season, you never know!) and I really believe the sun shined a little brighter on Ali and Spencer’s wedding day. Whether you are planning an elopement, a micro wedding, or want all the bells and whistles of a traditional wedding, I hope you love your decision as much as they loved theirs! If you are looking for more real wedding inspiration in New Jersey, New York and beyond, make sure to check out the other love stories we share here on the blog!
Vendor Squad
Mile Square Moments is a New Jersey wedding photographer. We love telling our couples’ love stories through their photos. And we love getting to know each couple personally before we ever start taking photos. Getting to know our couples before the camera comes out allows us to better capture the chemistry that already exists between each couple. Do you love a night in binge-watching Netflix and aren’t afraid of a little PDA? Planning a wedding in Hoboken, NJ or beyond? Get in touch to inquire about our photography services. Or follow along for some fun love stories on Instagram. For more micro wedding inspiration, check out this New Jersey yacht wedding!
Wow! What a simple yet cool and magical wedding theme. Great photography too. must have been an amazing day for the couple.
Yes! It was such a great day for a fun, casual wedding!