Some wedding days just feel right from the moment you walk in. Alyssa and Michael’s celebration was one of those days — filled with love, tradition, and the kind of effortless joy that makes for unforgettable photos.

The day began at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes, where Alyssa got ready with her bridesmaids in the upstairs bridal suite. This venue is a dream to photograph in — clean, bright, and full of soft, natural light that flatters every moment. From the pajama shots to the quiet moments of final prep, it’s a space that’s both elegant and calm — perfect for capturing the anticipation before the ceremony. One of the reasons I love this venue is the flexibility it offers: there are beautiful outdoor backdrops, manicured gardens, and timeless interiors — all within steps of each other.

The color palette — a summery blend of sage green, slate blue, lilac, and soft creamsicle — brought a light, joyful energy to both the ceremony and the reception. From the bridesmaids’ dresses to the florals by Kim Auriemma Designs, everything felt cohesive and vibrant without being overdone.

From there, we traveled to Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel Roman Catholic Church in Cedar Knolls for the ceremony. If you’re looking for a meaningful Catholic ceremony with beautiful architecture and welcoming light, this church is a fantastic choice. Alyssa and Michael’s ceremony included a full Mass — with traditional readings, hymns, and heartfelt vows that filled the sanctuary with emotion. The church holds special meaning for their family, making the ceremony even more personal. They chose Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel not just for its architecture, but because it’s where Alyssa’s grandparents worshipped — a meaningful touch that made the day even more special. For photography, Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel offers rich wood tones, tall windows, and a center aisle that frames key moments beautifully. We took some of my favorite family portraits here, including a few candid moments with Alyssa’s students and cousins — full of laughter and hugs.

After the ceremony, we returned to The Mansion at Mountain Lakes for portraits and the evening celebration. The couple opted to do their formal photos during cocktail hour, and we took advantage of the gorgeous late-afternoon light. The portrait spots around the Mansion are always inspiring — from the clean lines of the stone patio to the romantic tree-lined driveway. Alyssa and Michael wanted a mix of posed and candid moments, and we were able to flow naturally between laughter, quiet moments, and some elegant editorial-style shots.

The reception? Pure energy. The Mansion’s ballroom is spacious, with high ceilings, soft uplighting, and plenty of room for dancing — and this group came ready to party. From a surprise cousin tradition (drinking from a vase!) to parent dances and heartfelt toasts, every part of the evening felt personal and real. One of my favorite shots of the night was Alyssa and Michael during their sparkler exit — a moment of celebration, light, and connection that capped off the day perfectly.

One of the most rewarding moments as a photographer came just before the sparkler exit — I gave Alyssa and Michael one simple direction, and they instantly melted into a moment of real connection. That’s the magic: less posing, more presence.

As a photographer, what stood out most was how present Alyssa and Michael were with each other and their guests. They trusted me to guide them when needed, and then they let go — allowing the day to unfold naturally. That trust is what makes these kinds of images possible.

If you’re getting married at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel or The Mansion at Mountain Lakes, I’d love to help you feel confident, relaxed, and fully in the moment. These are two of my favorite venues to photograph in New Jersey — not just because they’re beautiful, but because they allow space for real connection and timeless memories.

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Vendors:

Photography: Alex Kaplan (@alexkaplan)
Videography: Nulty Films (@nulty_films)
Photobooth: Alex Kaplan
DJ/Band: Mystical Entertainment Group – Nicco DiRenzi (@MysticalEntertainmentGroup)
Florist: Kim Auriemma Designs (@KimAuriemmaDesigns)
Dress: Arlene’s Bridal (@arlenesbridal)
Tux: The Black Tux (@theblacktux)
Rings: John Sophia Jewelers
Hair: Prostyled Bride (@prostyled.bride)
Makeup: Beauty on Location (@BeautyonLocationnj)
Transportation: American Charterline (@american_charterlines)

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Planning your wedding in Northern New Jersey? Let’s talk about what kind of moments you want to remember.