As Hudson Valley elopement photographers, we love documenting cozy celebrations where every moment feels personal and heartfelt. Bridget and Stefan’s intimate fall micro-wedding in New York was full of color, emotion, and warmth. They exchanged vows surrounded by vibrant foliage in Prospect Park before heading home for an intimate backyard reception that perfectly reflected who they are.

An Autumn Elopement Filled with Personal Touches

The couple chose a simple, meaningful plan that centered on time together instead of formalities. With fewer than 50 guests, they created space for laughter, deep connection, and creativity. It reminded us of the heartfelt celebrations we’ve photographed in our Hudson Valley elopement photos at a backyard wedding ceremony, where intimacy always shines through the lens.

Why We Love Photographing Micro-Weddings and Elopements

Small weddings let couples slow down and truly savor their day. You can greet every guest, stay relaxed, and explore beautiful photo locations without rushing. These are the experiences we value most as Hudson Valley elopement photographers; capturing natural connection and effortless joy from beginning to end.

Getting Ready for an Intimate Hudson Valley-Style Elopement

Bridget spent her morning getting ready at a bright Airbnb surrounded by loved ones. The space felt calm yet joyful, setting the perfect tone for the day. Stefan got ready nearby so their first look could still feel like a beautiful surprise.

A First Look Before the Ceremony

The couple’s first look in Prospect Park was emotional and lighthearted. Stefan tapped Bridget’s shoulder from behind, reversing the traditional roles and creating an unforgettable, laughter-filled moment. These spontaneous gestures are the kinds of memories we love preserving, just like we did for couples in our intimate Sagamore wedding photos on the Morgan Cruise.

Fall Foliage and Natural Beauty in Prospect Park

Prospect Park’s fall colors created a cinematic backdrop for their portraits. Leaves in gold, orange, and crimson surrounded them, echoing the natural palette of Hudson Valley locations like Little Stony Point Park and Long Dock Park. Even though their celebration took place in New York, the textures and tones mirrored the organic landscapes we often photograph throughout the Hudson Valley.

An Intimate Outdoor Ceremony Surrounded by Loved Ones

Bridget and Stefan exchanged vows near Prospect Park Lake, where the sunset filtered through autumn leaves. Their small circle of friends and family formed a heartfelt audience as they promised forever to each other.

Personal Ceremony Details with a Touch of Whimsy

Before the ceremony, the couple handed out small bags of colorful leaves they had gathered themselves. Guests tossed the leaves as the newlyweds made their walk together after the vows, filling the air with color and movement. Thoughtful details like this make every micro-wedding unique, much like what we captured in our colorful Hudson Valley micro-wedding with tented backyard.

Romantic Sunset Portraits After the Ceremony

Once the vows were complete, Bridget and Stefan wandered through the park for portraits. The fading light reflected off the lake as we photographed them hand in hand. These peaceful, end-of-day photos captured the calm that often follows intimate ceremonies, something we always prioritize in our elopement timelines.

Exploring Scenic Locations for Hudson Valley Elopement Photos

After leaving Prospect Park, we took portraits that celebrated both the couple’s love story and the neighborhoods that shaped them. They visited an ice cream shop tied to their proposal story before finishing their evening portraits near the canal.

Meaningful Photo Stops with Sentimental Value

Their stop at the local ice cream shop added a sweet, nostalgic touch to their gallery. Revisiting special places makes your photos feel personal and grounded in your shared history. We love encouraging couples to incorporate locations that mean something to them, just like we do when photographing elopements at Dockside Park or Minnewaska State Park Preserve.

Golden Hour and Evening Portrait Inspiration

As twilight set in, we captured a final series of portraits by the water. The soft evening glow and city reflections made for timeless, romantic images. It’s a reminder that light and love, no matter the setting, can transform even the simplest moment into something extraordinary.

Cozy Backyard Reception After the Micro-Wedding

After their portraits, Bridget and Stefan headed home for a backyard dinner surrounded by candles and laughter. Their family had prepared an intimate table under string lights, setting the stage for a relaxed celebration.

Celebrating With Family in a Personal Space

The backyard reception was filled with heartfelt toasts and spontaneous laughter. These small gatherings feel especially magical in the Hudson Valley, where open landscapes and quiet nights create the perfect environment for connection. The atmosphere reminded us of the community-driven energy from our happy valley arcade wedding reception photos in Beacon.

Why We Love Backyard Weddings and Elopements

Backyard weddings and micro-receptions bring out the essence of what a wedding day is about: love, laughter, and presence. Whether in the Catskills, Beacon, or Cold Spring, we help couples plan spaces that photograph beautifully while staying true to who they are. For more inspiration, explore our Beacon City Hall wedding with Cold Spring elopement portraits.

Plan Your Intimate Hudson Valley Elopement With Us

Bridget and Stefan’s micro-wedding embodied everything we love about photographing small, meaningful celebrations. From fall leaves to backyard dinners, every detail told their story beautifully. Whether your day unfolds in Prospect Park, at Long Dock Park, or beneath the cliffs of Minnewaska State Park Preserve, we’d love to help you plan your dream elopement. Reach out to your Hudson Valley elopement photographer team today so we can start capturing the intimate story you’ve always imagined.