Evelyn and David’s Bergen County courthouse wedding at the Clerk’s Office in Hackensack shows exactly why couples love intimate ceremonies. As a Bergen County courthouse wedding photographer, I’ve photographed dozens of these celebrations- and this one had emotion from the very first moment.

Their three-year-old daughter Ava was the star. Watching this family of three make it official was something special. If you’re looking for a Bergen County courthouse wedding photographer who captures real moments, this is what those celebrations look like.

First Look at the Bergen County Courthouse Gazebo

Before their 10:00 AM ceremony, we met at the gazebo near the entrance at One Bergen County Plaza. This spot has become one of my favorite locations for courthouse couples- the natural light is beautiful, and it’s private enough for those quiet moments before the ceremony.

David’s reaction when he saw Evelyn was everything. Pure joy. And Ava stood right between them, holding both their hands. These are the moments that matter most.

Inside the Bergen County Clerk’s Office Ceremony

The ceremony lasted about 15 minutes, but it was intimate in the best way. No performing for 150 guests. Just Evelyn and David making promises to each other with their parents, David’s brother, and Ava as witnesses.

What I love about these Bergen County Clerk’s Office weddings? How personal they feel. The officiant was warm and professional. You could feel the genuine love in that room.

Photographing Ava (Age 3)

Evelyn had warned me: “Her favorite word is no, and she gets scared of strangers.” But Ava was an absolute star. We didn’t force anything. I just captured her being herself- holding her parents’ hands, looking a little serious during the ceremony, lighting up when they celebrated.

One of my favorite shots from the entire day is the three of them together right after they were pronounced married. That’s what it’s all about.

Courthouse Wedding Portraits at Waterside Restaurant

After the ceremony, we headed to Waterside Restaurant and Catering in North Bergen. The venue sits right on the Hudson River with incredible Manhattan skyline views.

This is where courthouse weddings get creative- since the ceremony is quick, you can choose any location for portraits. Evelyn and David wanted that iconic NYC backdrop. Waterside delivered.

We spent time at the waterfront, the gazebo, and along the promenade. The light was perfect.

Bergen County Clerk’s Office Wedding Details

Location: 1 Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack, NJ 07601
Parking: Available in the lot across from the building
Ceremony Space: Indoor ceremony room
Photography: Allowed during ceremonies
Best Portrait Spot: Gazebo near the courthouse entrance

Quick Planning Tips

Arrive 20-30 minutes early for pre-ceremony photos and last-minute details.

Choose your portrait location ahead of time. The gazebo works great, or head somewhere like Waterside afterward for skyline shots.

Keep it intimate. The ceremony space fits small gatherings perfectly. Evelyn and David had five people total.

Consider a split day. Morning ceremony with immediate family, evening celebration with everyone. Best of both worlds.

The Evening Celebration at Waterside

Evelyn and David didn’t stop at the courthouse. That evening, they hosted a reception at Waterside with 66 guests. We returned at 6:00 PM for their grand entrance, first dance, parent dances, and that gorgeous blue hour skyline.

The energy was incredible.

Ava danced with her parents. The photo booth was a huge hit — Evelyn even wore a crown. And we captured extended family portraits during blue hour with the Manhattan skyline lit up behind them.

Why Choose a Bergen County Courthouse Wedding?

After photographing weddings for over 30 years, I can tell you courthouse weddings have something special. They strip away the extras and focus on what matters: two people committing to each other.

Evelyn and David’s day proved you don’t need a big production for a meaningful wedding. Ava was part of every moment. Their parents and sibling witnessed their vows. They got stunning portraits with the NYC skyline. And they celebrated with everyone they love that evening.

The Bergen County Clerk’s Office gives you a simple, stress-free ceremony. Then you have complete freedom to celebrate however you want – whether that’s a waterfront reception with skyline views or an intimate dinner with family.

Bergen County Courthouse Wedding Photography Tips

Here’s what I recommend after photographing dozens of courthouse weddings:

Schedule a first look. That moment of seeing each other is magical, even for courthouse weddings.

Plan time for portraits. Give yourself at least an hour for couple and family photos.

Choose meaningful locations. Evelyn and David chose Waterside for the skyline. What matters to you?

Include your children. Make them central to your photos. These are family memories.

Think about evening photos. Reception light at sunset is completely different from morning. Both are beautiful.

Real Emotion, Genuine Connection, Moments That Matter

My approach has always been about capturing authentic moments. At courthouse weddings, there’s no hiding behind decor or choreography.

It’s just real people, real emotions, real connections.

What I loved about Evelyn and David’s Bergen County courthouse wedding: David’s joy during the first look. The way Evelyn looked at Ava throughout the day. The pride in her father’s eyes during their dance. The tender moment when they exchanged rings.

These are the moments that matter.

Planning Your Bergen County Courthouse Wedding

If you’re considering a courthouse wedding in Bergen County, New Jersey, I’d love to be part of your day. Whether you want just ceremony coverage or full-day documentation like Evelyn and David, I’m here for every meaningful moment.

As a Bergen County courthouse wedding photographer, I know all the best spots around Hackensack and Northern New Jersey. From the courthouse gazebo to waterfront locations with NYC skyline views, we’ll create images you’ll treasure.

Getting married at the Bergen County Clerk’s Office doesn’t mean sacrificing beautiful photography. It means focusing on what truly matters: your commitment to each other, surrounded by the people you love most.

Contact me today to talk about your courthouse wedding plans.

Looking for a Bergen County courthouse wedding photographer? I’d love to document your real emotions, genuine connections, and the moments that matter most at the Bergen County Clerk’s Office in Hackensack, NJ.