Julie and Justin were officially married on New Year’s Eve last year, with only their immediate families in attendance. Although that was pure magic, they couldn’t wait until restrictions lifted so they could enjoy a larger celebration with their family and friends. On June 12, 2021, Julie and Justin hosted a private rooftop wedding reception at Hotel Monaco in Philadelphia and it was worth the wait. The entire day was filled with pure joy (and a very exciting announcement – keep reading!).
In case our paths haven’t crossed yet – I’m Devin, lead photographer here at Mile Square Moments. Although I am based in New Jersey, I frequently travel across New York, Pennsylvania (where this wedding was held!), and beyond. If you are looking for a wedding photographer as passionate about authentic moments as you are, you can learn more about working with me here. Or, if you have your wedding date already, contact me below so we can save your date on my calendar!
Cross Estate Gardens Engagement Photos
Last July, I met Julie and Justin at one of my favorite engagement photo locations, Cross Estate Gardens. If you are searching for a New Jersey engagement photos location outside, I highly recommend it! I had so much fun taking Julie and Justin’s engagement photos. We ended up with a healthy mix of romantic poses and so many candid moments. Toward the end of the session, we finished with a champagne pop! As a photographer, it’s always so much fun to see a couple’s reaction as the bottle explodes and then of course, as they enjoy a glass or two together! I can be a good fly on the wall so you two almost forget I am taking photos.
Getting Ready Photos at Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
We started their wedding photography later in the day (close to 6:30pm!) but I was still able to capture Julie’s final getting ready moments before their evening rooftop wedding reception. Because they weren’t having a formal ceremony again, they didn’t need wedding photography for the entire day. Julie and Justin really only needed coverage for a few hours in the evening. This is exactly why I always love to have a consultation before you book! Timelines can (and do) change but having an idea of what you really need for wedding photography coverage helps me make sure I am there for all of your most important moments.
As you scroll through the photos below, you might get a little hint as to what their exciting announcement was!
Repurposing Wedding Decor from their 2020 Micro Wedding
Another thing I loved about Julie and Justin’s wedding day, was how they repurposed some of the wedding decor from their 2020 micro wedding. After all, in 2021, there is no shame in having 2 or 3 chances to celebrate. The signage they had done up for their original wedding was stunning, and even though the date had changed, I was so happy for them that they had a chance to use it to its full potential.
A Rooftop Wedding with a Grand Reveal
When it was time for the wedding reception, everyone cheered as they welcomed the newlyweds onto the roof. Julie came in with a row of photos from her most recent ultrasound announcing that they were expecting their first baby! It was the most precious moment. After their entrance, they immediately went into their first dance and you could feel the love fill the air as everyone eagerly waited to hug and congratulate the happy couple! It was truly special and one of the most unique wedding reception surprises I’ve experienced!










After a sea of Congratulations, the party had begun. Julie and Justin served delicious appetizers, wedding cake, and even had an ice cream bar. They had live music and speeches throughout the night and everyone joined in celebrating not only the love these two have for one another but also the excitement for their newest addition. Halfway through the reception, after the first dance with each set of parents, Julie changed into a shorter reception dress so they could dance the night away comfortably!
Celebrating a Stunning Rooftop Wedding Celebration
I could not be happier for Julie and Justin and can’t wait to follow where their love takes them! The first year has already been full of excitement and I don’t see it slowing down anytime soon for them! Wishing them a huge congratulations as the next chapter unfolds!
If you are looking for a New Jersey wedding photographer, please don’t hesitate to contact me below. When I first moved to Hoboken, I didn’t imagine I would be living here so many years later. The truth is, I’ve become kind of obsessed with capturing love stories. For more information about what working together might look like, click the button below or learn more about my wedding photography packages here.
Vendor Team
Mile Square Moments | New Jersey Wedding Photographer
Mile Square Moments is a wedding photography company based in Hoboken, New Jersey. If you are new around here, you should know that we love getting to know each couple personally. Wondering if we would be the right fit? You might be a MSM couple if you aren’t afraid of getting a little up close and personal in photos. We love natural chemistry. A little PDA is encouraged around here! BUT, also enjoy a night in binge-watching Netflix. Are you planning a wedding in New Jersey? If you are, Contact us here to find out about our photography/videography packages. We also love stories on Instagram. If you want more outdoor wedding inspiration, check out our favorite 2020 micro weddings here. Enjoy!SHARE: