Sonia and Aaron chose to celebrate their marriage with an intimate private rooftop micro wedding in New York. Originally, they had planned a larger Brooklyn wedding, but when the pandemic changed everything, they decided to focus on what mattered most. Surrounded by their closest loved ones, their cozy rooftop ceremony became the perfect reflection of resilience, love, and connection. For us as Hudson Valley and Catskills intimate wedding photographers, days like this are exactly why we do what we do: capturing small celebrations that feel deeply meaningful and personal.

Intimate Rooftop Celebration with Stunning City Views

Hosting their ceremony outdoors gave Sonia and Aaron the space and freedom to celebrate safely while taking in incredible skyline views. Their private rooftop offered sweeping sights of the Empire State Building and the golden light of sunset. The open-air setting provided a romantic and relaxed atmosphere that suited them perfectly. With plenty of space for loved ones to gather comfortably, it was proof that an intimate wedding can still feel extraordinary.

Planning a Personalized Micro Wedding in the Hudson Valley

For couples considering a similar celebration, Sonia and Aaron’s wedding is a perfect example of how to turn limitations into something beautiful. They worked with Ann Marie from Simply Styled Events to design a warm and modern setting that reflected their personalities. The tablescape featured soft floral tones, delicate candlelight, and thoughtful details that made guests feel at home. Whether your micro wedding takes place on a rooftop, in a mountain lodge, or beside the Hudson River, thoughtful planning helps transform any small space into something unforgettable.

Hudson Valley and Catskills Elopement Photography Approach

Before their rooftop ceremony, Sonia and Aaron met for a first look in the West Village. It was a playful and emotional moment—Sonia surprised Aaron with a quick squeeze that had them both laughing immediately. Capturing their energy and spontaneity is what we love most as Hudson Valley and Catskills wedding photographers. We followed them through cobblestone streets, past the glow of the setting sun, and into the rhythm of the city before heading to the rooftop where they would say “I do.”

A Meaningful Ceremony Surrounded by Loved Ones

As twilight settled, the couple stood beneath a chuppah on the rooftop, surrounded by family and friends in person and virtually. The ceremony felt peaceful and heartfelt, filled with laughter and tears in equal measure. They shared their vows as the city lights began to sparkle, blending the intimacy of a small gathering with the grandeur of the skyline. Their plan for a larger gathering later on felt like a sweet promise, but this evening was already perfect just as it was.

Dinner, Toasts, and Joy Under the Lights

After the ceremony, Sonia and Aaron transitioned into an intimate rooftop dinner. Sterling Affair crafted an elegant, safety-conscious menu with pre-portioned meals that were both thoughtful and delicious. As glasses clinked and laughter echoed, the couple’s guests offered spontaneous toasts beneath the string lights. Every moment felt natural and genuine, and by the end of the night, it was clear that their micro wedding had all the heart of a grand celebration.

New York & Hudson Valley Micro Wedding Vendors Who Made It Happen

The creative team that brought Sonia and Aaron’s celebration to life perfectly balanced style and emotion. Simply Styled Events guided the day with warmth and care, while Rosehip Social crafted romantic florals that softened the modern rooftop setting. Sterling Affair handled catering with grace, providing delicious meals that fit the couple’s vision for safety and elegance. Sweet touches from Empire Cake rounded out the evening with desserts that delighted everyone. As Hudson Valley and Catskills intimate wedding photographers, we were reminded how collaboration between creative vendors makes these small weddings feel so beautifully intentional.

Tips for Hosting Your Own Hudson Valley Rooftop Micro Wedding

If you’re inspired by Sonia and Aaron’s rooftop celebration, consider the logistics that make outdoor weddings successful. Always check the weather forecast and have a backup plan in case of rain. Their wedding day threatened showers, but the clouds cleared just in time for their ceremony. Whether your rooftop overlooks the Hudson River or the Catskill Mountains, make sure to secure your marriage license at least 24 hours in advance and confirm venue access for setup. When hosting a smaller event, every detail matters, from lighting to sound, so allow time to test everything before guests arrive.

From Rooftop Weddings to Hudson Valley Backyard Celebrations

While rooftop weddings are less common in the Hudson Valley, many couples embrace the same intimate atmosphere by hosting backyard weddings. The region’s rolling hills, riverfront properties, and cozy gardens make for an equally stunning backdrop. Backyard weddings offer the same privacy and flexibility as rooftop events, allowing couples to celebrate on their own terms. We’ve photographed Hudson Valley backyard weddings where couples incorporated string lights, fire pits, and local farm-to-table catering to create a warm, personal experience. Whether in a family backyard or a charming inn, these weddings reflect the same authenticity and connection that made Sonia and Aaron’s day so memorable.

Why Couples Love Intimate Weddings in the Hudson Valley

Small celebrations have a special kind of magic. Intimate weddings and elopements allow couples to slow down and focus on each other without distractions. The Hudson Valley and Catskills are ideal for this, offering endless opportunities for meaningful experiences—quiet riverside ceremonies, cozy winter lodges, and rustic outdoor receptions surrounded by nature. For couples who love the idea of a rooftop wedding but want something closer to home, backyard venues or boutique inns capture that same mix of romance and ease. As local wedding photographers, we’ve seen firsthand how intimate weddings allow couples to feel more present and connected with their guests.

Favorite Intimate Venues for Hudson Valley and Catskills Weddings

There are countless places in the Hudson Valley where you can recreate the cozy, elevated vibe of a rooftop micro wedding. The Roundhouse in Beacon offers stunning views and modern charm. Inness in Accord brings a mix of mountain scenery and design-forward spaces. The Abbey Inn & Spa in Peekskill is perfect for small luxury weddings, while Blooming Hill Farm and Hasbrouck House blend rustic beauty with a refined touch. Whether it’s under the stars or beneath the trees, the Hudson Valley offers countless intimate settings that rival any rooftop view.

Plan Your Hudson Valley or Catskills Elopement

Whether your dream day takes place on a private rooftop, in your family backyard, or on a quiet overlook in the Catskills, the Hudson Valley is the perfect place for a wedding that feels true to you. We love capturing small celebrations filled with big emotion, and we approach every wedding with care, creativity, and a documentary-style perspective. If you’re planning an intimate wedding or elopement in the Hudson Valley or Catskills, we’d love to help tell your story through timeless, candid images that reflect exactly how it felt to be there.