An adventurous, heartfelt micro-wedding less than two hours from NYC

Brooke and Jason’s elopement day felt like a reminder of what weddings can be—intentional, emotional, wildly scenic, and full of personality. And the best part? Their entire celebration unfolded less than two hours from New York City, proving that an outdoor micro-wedding doesn’t have to mean hopping on a plane.

The morning began in Bergen County, New Jersey, where they got ready in the comfort of home—surrounded by family, lifelong friends, and even their cats. Brooke slipped into her stunning secondhand gown from Hand-Me-Gowns Bridal in Hammonton, NJ. With its soft detailing and the off-the-shoulder straps she made herself (yes, she’s that crafty!), she looked like a woodland fairy. Jason got ready nearby at his childhood home, adding even more layers of nostalgia to the day.

Their first look took place at the Laurelwood Arboretum in Wayne. It was the perfect backdrop: polished gardens that still feel wild and organic, winding trails, towering greenery. They wandered through the arboretum together, soaking in the quiet before the adventure ahead.

Waterfalls, lakes, cliffs & a sunset ceremony at Lake Minnewaska

From there, the real journey began—north to Lake Minnewaska in Gardiner, New York, one of the best-kept secrets for elopements and intimate weddings.

The first stop was Awosting Falls. At the base of the waterfall, with mist drifting around them, Brooke and Jason shared some of the most epic portraits of the day. Then the group traveled up toward the upper lake area, stopping briefly at Minnewaska Lake Beach to run around in the light drizzle. The mood was playful, romantic, almost cinematic.

The trail to their ceremony spot was a short, slightly uphill 15–20 minute walk along the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road. With easy parking and well-marked paths, their friends and family arrived without stress—another reason this location is perfect for micro-weddings. Near the boulder picnic area overlooking dramatic cliffs, shimmering water, and layered mountains, their loved ones helped put together a simple, sweet ceremony setup. No frills. Just nature at its most breathtaking.

Their ceremony was deeply emotional—sun glowing, lake shimmering, mountains watching in the distance. Afterwards, everyone gathered in the grassy picnic area to celebrate with refreshments, homemade cupcakes, and the couple’s wedding cake bursting with raspberry jam (a 10/10 spoiler). Guests signed vintage national park postcards, a nod to the couple’s love for hiking and travel, and Brooke and Jason handed each guest a personal handwritten note. Such a thoughtful touch.

As the sun dipped low—because yes, the sunsets up there are magic—they wandered the cliffs for golden hour portraits. It felt like the world had stopped just for them.

And because every great love story deserves a great ending, Brooke and Jason finished their night at McDonald’s. In a twist of fate that made Jason’s whole day, McDonald’s had finally brought back the McWraps—on their wedding day. So of course, post-wedding fries and McWraps were in order.

An elopement with waterfalls, cliffs, quiet moments, golden views, and fast food joy—Brooke and Jason’s day was truly unforgettable.