A Day to Remember: Vanderhoven Chapel Wedding

In the heart of New Jersey, nestled within the serene confines of Hazel Wood Cemetery, lies the charming Vanderhoven Chapel. It was here, on a bright morning in March, that the bride and groom chose to exchange their vows in an intimate ceremony, surrounded by the closest of friends and family. This unique setting provided a backdrop full of character and tranquility, contrasting the usual hustle and bustle of wedding venues.

The day began early for me, with preparations underway well before the first light crept through the chapel’s stained glass. As the sole photographer, I was tasked with capturing the essence of the couple’s love story, ensuring every moment was shared and savored.

The journey to the chapel was an adventure in itself, navigating through the historic streets of Colonia and Rahway. The instructions were clear: to enter through the cemetery’s main gate at the intersection of Lake Ave. and Beechwood Rd. Despite the GPS’s best efforts to lead me astray, I found my way to the chapel, standing proudly on the left, just past the entrance.

The ceremony was set to start at 11:30 a.m., but the chapel doors opened earlier, welcoming me into its warmth and history. The officiant, Sheryl Alemany, a name familiar to me through previous joyous occasions, began the ceremony, weaving the couple’s stories into the fabric of the day. The ceremony was brief, lasting no more than ten minutes, but within that short time, a lifetime of memories was made.

The couple’s request was simple: they sought candid moments, a true reflection of their day, captured without the need for posed or contrived shots. I moved with the flow of the day, from the solemnity of the ceremony inside the chapel to the laughter and light outside, where the verdant surrounds of the cemetery provided a stunning canvas for their love.

A special request had been made for photographs on the chapel’s balcony, an idea that promised and delivered romance and beauty in equal measure. From this vantage point, I captured the couple, a vision of love and happiness, against the backdrop of the chapel and its grounds.

As the ceremony concluded, and the bride and groom walked hand in hand, I took the opportunity to explore the area, capturing moments of intimacy and celebration. The witnesses and officiant joined in, adding to the joy and the sense of community that enveloped the day.

In just two hours, a lifetime of memories was captured, reflecting the essence of the couple’s love story. The casual, unforced nature of the day allowed for genuine moments to shine through, each photograph a testament to their journey together.

As I packed up, leaving the chapel and its quiet beauty behind, I carried with me the joy and love of the day. This intimate ceremony, set against the unique backdrop of Vanderhoven Chapel, was a reminder of the simple beauty that love brings into our lives.

Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, love, and memories together.

• Alex Kaplan, Professional Photographer

For those who wish to catch a glimpse of this beautiful day and the moments I captured, follow me on Instagram at @alexkaplan. And remember, love finds its place, even in the most unexpected locations.