Early on a June morning, Claire and Zach got ready to elope in quaint city of Ithaca, New York. They woke up in their Airbnb right on the southern shore of Cayuga Lake. With some very sentimental attire on such as a necklace Zach’s mother had given him and a Claire’s small music box, they got ready for their first look right on the nearby dock. They got a look at each other right as the sun’s soft glow was waking up the world.

Then we all road to the nearby Robert Treman State Park for a very intimate ceremony. With great honor, I officiated and photographed Claire and Zach. They shared their hand written vows on a quiet morning with a soft breeze and awakening birds surrounding them. Sunshine finally filled the winding trails through the gorge. We ventured on, spending the morning of their wedding day exploring the nearby cascading waterfalls. Zach collected wildflowers for Claire as they scaled the area.

Imagine having your first dance in one of the outstanding natural attractions of the Northeast. Claire and Zach danced as newlyweds under the Taughannock Falls that plunges 215 feet past rocky cliffs. It is truly surreal being at the base of Taughannock Falls State Park. You feel like you’re in the belly of a great beast, awe-inspiring.

After all this hiking and exploring, it was time for a proper break with good, simple snacks. Claire and Zach went to their favorite picnic spot with a wooden basket and a thrifted blanket in hand. Inside was the most precious food including homemade sandwhichs, some pops, and gourmet cheese. They laid under a wide tree, soaking in the flickering sunlight that escaped through the leafs. To end on a sweeter note, they bought a little cake from a local shop, Rashida Sawyer Bakery. And yes, I did climb that tree for the last shot haha.

Did you think the day was over? Not even close! Claire and Zach enjoyed an afternoon with Spindrift Sailing Charters. We took some photos in the beginning of the trip, but the rest of ride the couple just wanted to enjoy themselves fully. Floating gently on Cayuga Lake. It was simply the purest form of bliss.

Claire and Zach enjoyed a private dinner before returning back to their Airbnb where they ended their elopement day with a splash, literally! They did what so many dream of doing – jumping into a lake at sunset!!!

Claire and Zach had a slow elopement day rooted in being present. No phones, no strict timelines, no stress. They were surrounded by the sounds and feels of nature and the overwhelming love they share. It was truly incredible and I admire them deeply for setting such a pure example of intentionality.