Donna and Alex’s fall wedding in New Jersey was an absolute stunner. From their warm terracotta color palette to an absolutely gorgeous venue at The Hill, their wedding had such a warmth to it that’s hard to put into words. Donna and Alex are absolutely best friends, and it shows. They’ve known each other since they were teenagers! Here at Mile Square Moments, my goal is to always capture the chemistry that naturally exists between each couple, instead of simply cycling through a set shot list. Donna and Alex made it so easy, and I can’t wait to share just a few of my favorite photos from this fall wedding in New Jersey.
Fall Engagement Photos
Almost exactly one before their wedding date – their engagement photos were November 6, 2020 and their wedding was November 5, 2021 – I met Donna and Alex to take their outdoor engagement photos. They were absolute naturals in front of the camera (but don’t worry if you are not – it’s absolutely not required for great engagement photos!).
They also had the dreamiest engagement story so if you are looking for a little proposal inspiration, this one is for you. Donna planned a weekend getaway to the Catskills and after hiking at Kaaterskill Falls, Alex took Donna out to “dinner at a restaurant”. At least she thought. Instead, Alex pulled into a dead end road and brought Donna down the steps of an Airbnb backyard to a beautiful path filled with white petals, lights, and amazing floating clear LED balloons that led down to a decorated arch. Safe to say – Donna cried about three times throughout the proposal as Alex shared how much he loved her and the future he wanted to share with her. She said yes! The friends who worked tirelessly to set up the Airbnb for them came out screaming and congratulating them both as they celebrated with Korean BBQ, drinks, dessert, and games!
Fun Getting Ready Photos
One of the things I love about taking “getting ready” photos at home, is how relaxed the environment is. I really felt like I was able to photograph Donna and her wedding party, and Alex with his, in their natural environments. There was just such an easy energy in the air and it was an absolute joy to photograph. I was able to grab photos of their details (I loved Donna’s reception Nikes next to her ceremony heels!), solo portraits of each of them, and photos of them laughing and enjoying the company of their family and friends.
An Outdoor First Look in Fort Lee Historic Park
Once they were ready, we met at Fort Lee Historic Park for their first look before the ceremony. The view and privacy was definitely worth the bit of a drive! The fall colors surrounding them were absolutely vibrant and Donna’s bridal bouquet complemented the natural outdoors perfectly. When she arrived on location, the way Alex turned and looked at her was absolutely priceless. After that, we took a mix of solo shots of each of them and those “classic” wedding couple portraits. They wanted at least one epic shot they could blow up and hang on their wall and I have to say, I think we nailed it!
After the wedding portraits, we headed to the ceremony location (Grace Community Chapel) to meet the rest of the wedding party for photos. I’ve said it before, but one of the main advantages of having a first look is getting the more “posed photos” out of the way before the ceremony! I’m a big fan of anything that helps you remain present in every moment and this timeline can really help.
An Intimate Church Wedding Ceremony
One of the things Donna and Alex mentioned they were looking forward to the most, was worshipping with their family and friends during their wedding ceremony. Although the two of them met as teenagers, they really connected in their adult lives at their community church. Their religion is extremely important to them, so naturally it played a large role in the wedding ceremony (and truly, the entire day). In fact, when I asked the two of them what they love most about each other, both mentioned their commitment to God. Their love filled the entire church throughout their wedding ceremony.
Fall Wedding at The Hill
I’m sure The Hill in Closter, NJ, is stunning at any time of year, but I have to say that it was an absolutely incredible fall wedding venue. Not only was the outdoor setting absolutely gorgeous, inside had a sort of rustic charm and warmth to it – complete with a fireplace behind Donna and Alex’s sweetheart table. The reception started with Donna and Alex’s first dance as husband and wife, and quickly transitioned to an evening of great food and heartfelt toasts. Halfway through, Donna swapped her heels for a pair of Nikes (to match her new husband!) and we finished off the evening outside with a sparkler exit for the newlyweds!
A quick tip from your New Jersey photographer: You don’t need to include every single guest in your sparkler exit! In fact, it can be easier (and faster to organize) if you have a smaller group like your wedding party!
Planning a Fall Wedding in New Jersey
This fall wedding at The Hill in New Jersey was absolutely stunning, but my favorite part was simply watching how Donna and Alex interacted with one another. Their relationship is about so much more than love. You could feel their strong friendship, and the respect and loyalty they have for one another. It was the most incredible feeling and it just radiated from them. If you are planning a fall wedding in New Jersey (or really – a wedding in any season!), let me wish a quick and sincere congratulations! Marriage is a big deal and deserves to be celebrated. For real wedding inspiration, make sure to check out the blog for more Mile Square Moments love stories across New Jersey, New York & beyond.
Vendor Squad
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 and a little PDA 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. Make sure to say hello there!
