Hannah and JJ’s international love story has my whole heart, and I can’t wait to share it with you on the blog today. After several deep conversations about relationships with her housemate, Hannah’s friend decided to set her up. She ended up finding JJ through JJ’s father (whom she used to work with before in the Philippines). From there, JJ sent Hannah a friend request on Facebook, Hannah accepted with a wave on messenger and the rest, safe to say, if history. I can’t wait to share their Jersey City City Hall elopement with you today!
Mile Square Moments Review
Before I share more from this stunning wedding day, I need to pause for a moment and gush over this sweet review. I’m beyond honored when any couple trusts me to capture their day and I couldn’t be more grateful Hannah and JJ trusted me with theirs.
My husband and I got married last July and having Devin as our wedding photographer was an incredible experience. We booked her with only over a month left before our day. She made us feel comfortable through all the Google Meets and made planning so easy. I didn’t book a wedding coordinator but I almost felt like she made everything run so smoothly during the day. We are so grateful to have found a photographer that’s easy to work with and did not make us feel awkward when we’re taking our photos. Thank you so much again Devin and more power to you.
Getting Ready Before Their Jersey City City Hall Elopement
Hannah and JJ’s international love story is truly remarkable, they were engaged the first time they met in person (during the summer of 2019) after only a few months of international dating. They both agreed that they just knew they had found the one.
On their wedding morning, Hannah and JJ opted to get ready separately at Hyatt House. The elegant surroundings of this stunning venue served as the perfect backdrop for their much-anticipated first look, overlooking the iconic NYC skyline. With hearts racing and emotions running high, they exchanged heartfelt personal vows, pouring out their love and promises to one another in that unforgettable moment. It was magical to witness.
Heading to Jersey City City Hall
Jersey City City Hall was only a short 10-minute walk away, so Hannah and JJ decided to walk there together. This was probably one of my favorite moments from the day, as it was so special to watch them just enjoy no-pressure candid moments together excited to see their family and friends at city hall and really soak up the day together. If you’re in the middle of planning your own elopement timeline, consider adding some of this time in, too!
Once the sweet nearlyweds arrived at city hall, their friends and family greeted them and congratulated them as they headed up the steps to get married!
Jersey City City Hall Elopement
While I love a traditional wedding, there is something so romantic about a Jersey City City Hall elopement. With less than 20 people in attendance, Hannah and JJ exchanged vows, said their I Do’s, and shared their first kiss as husband and wife. It’s hard to describe the feeling in the air with an intimate guest list but if this is something you’re considering for your own wedding, just know that it’s incredible. I couldn’t have been more honored to be capturing Hannah and JJ’s city hall ceremony.
Outdoor Wedding Portraits
After their ceremony, we headed outside to capture their wedding portraits. I gathered their family and friends for some group shots and then I snuck Hannah and JJ away for more “just married” wedding portraits. Hannah and JJ are both fun-loving romantics, and I loved being in their energy as they closed the gap on the distance that had kept them apart for over four years (Hannah moved from Ireland to Jersey City mere weeks before their engagement). These two had never had professional photos taken but were naturals in front of the camera. I had so much fun with them!
While we were wandering Jersey City for portraits, Hannah spotted this Ireland flag so naturally we had to stop for a photo! It was the perfect nod to where she was living when they first met, and I love how we were able to have a full circle moment for their wedding day.
Jersey City City Hall Elopement
Hannah and JJ’s elopement at City Hall was one of those days that simply unfolded flawlessly. As a wedding photographer, I appreciate how city hall elopements focus on the emotion rather than all the details. Instead of worrying about decorations and seating charts, you can truly just enjoy each other! As a romantic myself, this always makes my heart flutter. Their day finished off with a sweet treat at Bang Cookies in Jersey City!
It was truly an honor to be part of Hannah and JJ’s special day and I’m incredibly grateful they chose me to capture it. For more stories like theirs, make sure to follow me on Instagram or check out the blog here for more New Jersey wedding love stories.
Vendor Team
Mile Square Moments is a wedding photography based in Hoboken, New Jersey. As you might be able to tell, we love getting to know each couple personally. You are definitely a MSM couple if you love a night in binge-watching Netflix, but also aren’t afraid of a little PDA. Are you currently planning a wedding in Hoboken, New Jersey? Or planning a destination wedding? Get in touch here to inquire about our photography packages. We also love sharing fun love stories on Instagram. For more small wedding inspiration in New Jersey, check out Sarah and Ryan’s City Hall elopement.
