A Day to Remember: The Unforgettable New Jersey Wedding at The Stone Terrace
June 18, 2024
I’m Alex Kaplan, a wedding photographer and videographer based in New Milford, NJ, serving Northern NJ, NYC, and the Hudson Valley. For over 30 years, I’ve helped couples enjoy their day without feeling rushed — while I quietly capture the real moments, natural portraits, and genuine emotions you’ll still love decades from now.
June 18, 2024
On a beautiful Sunday, June 9th, 2024, Anna and Brandyn vowed to spend their lives together in an enchanting ceremony held at New Jersey’s The Stone Terrace by John Henry’s in Hamilton, NJ. This blog post takes you through their special day, filled with love, meticulous planning, and unforgettable moments, all set against the backdrop of one of New Jersey’s premier wedding venues.
As the sun rose on the 9th, both Anna and Brandyn began their day surrounded by friends and family at the same location, simplifying logistics and enhancing the intimate feel of their nuptials. A key piece of advice for any couple is to ensure that all hair and makeup activities are completed prior to the photographers’ arrival. For Anna and Brandyn, this meant telling their beauty teams to arrive thirty minutes earlier than scheduled, a small adjustment that paid huge dividends in keeping the day on track.
The ceremony started promptly at 4:30 PM in the lush gardens of The Stone Terrace. The venue was perfectly suited for an outdoor wedding, with a contingency plan of a romantic tent setup in case of rain. The highlight was undoubtedly the first look on the grand staircase, a moment filled with anticipation and joy, beautifully captured by the photographers stationed to catch every angle. The vows were exchanged under a sky that seemed to celebrate with them, followed by the couple’s first kiss, which was held long enough to allow photographers to capture this significant moment from multiple perspectives.
After a joyful cocktail hour, where guests mingled over fine hors d’oeuvres and personalized cocktails, the reception kicked off at 6 PM inside the Anthony Ballroom. The indoor setting provided a grand stage for the evening’s events, including heartfelt toasts that moved many to tears, a mother-daughter dance that highlighted the deep bonds in Anna’s family, and a unique twist on the traditional wedding cake that also celebrated the couple’s shared birthday.
For those planning a wedding, consider how the integration of photography and DJ services can impact your day. At Anna and Brandyn’s wedding, care was taken to position older guests away from the speakers to ensure comfort and the photographers coordinated with the DJ to avoid hazy, low-contrast photos due to smoke machines. The photographers were also fed simultaneously with the guests, ensuring they were ready to capture the evening’s key moments without interruption.
Perhaps one of the most memorable aspects of the wedding was the couple’s decision to use their wedding cake as a joint birthday celebration, symbolizing their shared lives in a very literal sense. This personal touch not only delighted the guests but also underscored the uniqueness of their bond.
The Stone Terrace offers a picturesque setting for weddings, with its beautiful gardens and elegant interiors. As a professional photographer, I have captured countless unforgettable moments at this venue.
Anna and Brandyn’s wedding was not just a celebration of their love but a showcase of how thoughtful details can enhance the joy and smooth flow of the wedding day. The Stone Terrace by John Henry’s proved to be a versatile venue that beautifully accommodated every part of their day, from a picturesque first look to a vibrant reception.
Inspired by Anna and Brandyn’s wedding story? Whether you’re planning your own wedding or looking for exceptional wedding photography, feel free to contact us or visit our portfolio for more beautiful wedding narratives and photography tips.
Every wedding at the Stone Terrace is unique. From the first look to the last dance, I strive to capture the essence of your special day. Here are some highlights from recent weddings:
The Stone Terrace is known for its exceptional service and breathtaking ambiance. It’s the perfect location for couples looking for a mix of elegance and charm. Here’s why:
“Alex Kaplan perfectly captured the magic of our wedding at the Stone Terrace. Every photo tells a story, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.” – Sarah & John
If you’re planning your wedding at the Stone Terrace, contact us to discuss how we can capture your special day. We offer a range of packages to suit every need.
Wedding Moments:
Moments: Vanderhoven Chapel, New Jersey
Timeless Ceremony at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Cathedral: The Wedding of Belle and Max
Photography & Tips:
Photography: How to Choose Your Perfect Wedding Photographer
Check out the rest of our blogs here!
About Me — But Really, It’s About You
The most meaningful wedding photos never come from stiff poses.
They come from the quiet laugh you didn’t think anyone saw.
The look on your partner’s face during the vows.
The warmth of your people all around you.
I’ve been doing this for over 30 years — and I still get nervous before every wedding.
Not because I’m uncertain, but because I know how much it matters.
After photographing hundreds of weddings over the past few decades, I’ve learned something simple:
The best photos happen when you feel fully present.
That’s why I work calmly, behind the scenes — guiding when it helps, then stepping back when the real moments unfold. I’m always anticipating what’s next, so you never have to think about a thing.
My goal is simple: to help you relax, feel confident, and walk away with photos that feel like you — not a filtered version of someone else’s idea of perfect.
Most of my couples say the same thing:
“We’re so glad we didn’t have to worry.”
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