When you think of an NYC courthouse elopement, what comes to mind? A quick exchange of vows before blending back into the city’s bustling crowd? Maybe. But this December Brooklyn elopement proved that a courthouse wedding can be an all-day celebration of love, adventure, and the magic of the city—with a hint of editorial glam. Let me take you through this unforgettable day.
Meet Tatie and Akshay
Tatie and Akshay are an incredible duo with a love story that’s both modern and timeless. Tatie is wrapping up school in March and will be moving from D.C. to New York in the spring to start the next chapter of their lives together. They’ve got their sights set on the Upper East Side, where they plan to dive into their careers and make NYC their home. This destination courthouse wedding on December 5th was all about being “married on paper” before their big celebration next year in Barcelona.
This intimate day was filled with laughter, love, and their unique personalities shining through every moment. With their best friend Andrew officiating, they exchanged vows at the Brooklyn Borough Courthouse, dedicating the day entirely to themselves—and of course, I was there to capture it all.
Starting in the Heart of Brooklyn
We began the day on the rooftop of their Brooklyn neighborhood. It was the perfect spot to soak in the charm of their beloved borough before the whirlwind of their wedding day began. Tatie looked stunning in her blazer-style suit dress, while Akshay complemented her effortlessly with his sharp yet relaxed style. The crisp December air and city skyline created a backdrop that was both dreamy and iconic. I captured a few memorable shots of their laughter on digital + film—creating keepsake images that felt alive and tangible.
Incorporating Film and Digital for a Timeless Look
Throughout the day, I used a mix of film and digital photography to capture their story in a way that felt both modern and timeless. Film adds a rich, nostalgic quality to their photos, giving their images a tactile, almost cinematic feeling. Meanwhile, using my digital camera also allows me to capture those fleeting, high-energy moments—like crossing the street or playing basketball—without missing a beat. This combination created a gallery that was dynamic and layered, with each medium bringing out something unique. It’s a storytelling approach I love because it honors both the artistry of film and the versatility of digital.
Anyone Game for some Pool?
Before heading out for the day, we couldn’t resist a game of pool for some playful and stylish portraits. The couple’s chemistry was undeniable, and the shots were effortlessly striking—a mix of fun, bold, and alluring. These moments felt like a snapshot of their dynamic: relaxed yet filled with energy and connection. With the editorial edge of flash photography, these images brought their personalities to life in a way that felt authentic and timeless.
Crossing the Streets of Brooklyn
As we made our way to the subway, we took a detour for some lively street shots. The couple strolled hand-in-hand through their neighborhood, laughing and sharing spontaneous moments that felt so undeniably New York. Capturing them crossing the street, surrounded by the city’s hustle, added a layer of urban charm to their story. Each frame felt like a candid glimpse into their love against the vibrant backdrop of the city.
Editorial Moments Underground
Next, we hopped on the subway for those quintessential New York City shots. There’s something cinematic about New York’s subway system—the grit, the rhythm, the urban living of it all. I leaned into the moodiness of the space to capture them in their wedding attire, stealing glances and sharing kisses as the train car rumbled past us. These shots felt like something out of a movie!
A Courthouse Wedding to Remember
Their ceremony took place at the Brooklyn Borough Courthouse on Joralemon Street. The intimacy and relaxed nature of a courthouse wedding is unmatched. Surrounded by other dressy couples just married and their closest friend & witness Andrew right by their side, the couple was giddy with excitement. The casual and lighthearted atmosphere made the experience even more special—filled with laughter, love, and no extra formalities. After signing their marriage certificate, they exchanged vows, and we captured a mix of formal and candid moments, both inside and on the courthouse steps. These moments—raw and real—are why I love elopements so much. There’s no pressure to perform, just the joy of being fully present.
NYC Waterfront Magic
After their courthouse ceremony, Tatie and Akshay celebrated with a quick stop at a halal truck just outside. The candid shots from this stop added even more personality to their day! We hopped in a cab and headed to Brooklyn Bridge Park for an iconic NYC backdrop. As the sun began to set, casting that golden, glowy light, Tatie and Akshay—still in their wedding attire—found an empty basketball court. Being big basketball fans (he loves the Brooklyn Nets, and she roots for the Miami Heat), they couldn’t resist a quick one-on-one game. The contrast of their elegant outfits against the urban court—with the skyline as their backdrop—created images that felt electric. It was love in motion, captured on digital & film.
We stayed near the bridge as the city transitioned to night, capturing romantic, glowing skyline shots. The lights of the city twinkled behind them, creating a scene that felt like pure magic.
A Slice of Romance at Norm’s Pizza
To end their day, we headed to Norm’s Pizza. Picture this: a bride and groom, still dressed to the nines, sharing slices of pizza under neon lights. It was equal parts playful, romantic AND delicious. The editorial style of these shots brought out the couple’s personality and connection, and felt like the perfect way to end our amazing day together.
Why Elopements Are the Ultimate Adventure
This day was a perfect example of why elopements are so special. They’re intimate, adventurous, and completely tailored to the couple. There’s no script, no rules—just you, your love, and the experiences that make the day uniquely yours.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement that feels like a true celebration of your story, I’m here to make it happen. Whether you’re planning a courthouse wedding in NYC, an elopement in the mountains, or an adventure halfway around the world, I’ll be there with my camera (and film!) to capture every unforgettable moment.
Ready to create magic together? Let’s do this. Your story deserves to be told—wherever in the world it takes you.
