About the couple
Courtney & Derek’s love story is truly out of a movie. They met when they were kids and practically grew up together. Their love is so easy and sweet. When I spoke with them on our introductory call, it was clear they just adore each other so much.
Choosing a beach elopement was something they both wanted. They are both super adventurous and light-hearted people. They wanted to celebrate their love in a way that was true to them. The big show of a traditional wedding meant nothing to them; they just wanted something fun and intimate to share with each other and the people they love most.
A nerve-wracking, stormy morning on the beach
They had their ceremony and vows on the beach at sunrise… but oh my goodness, was it SOMETHING to remember! It was raining, cold, and so, so windy. The sun hadn’t come up yet, and even when it did, it was too cloudy, foggy, and misty to see. For many couples, this would be a complete disaster, but not for Courtney and Derek. Their reaction to this chaos was truly unforgettable.
There’s one moment in particular that perfectly sums them up. The wind was picking up and it was raining like crazy. Nobody knew where to stand, Courtney was fixing her dress, and everyone was completely occupied with the mayhem around them. But Derek? He was just looking at Courtney with this huge smile on his face, completely unfazed by everything going on. I absolutely adore the rawness of this moment.
Despite everything, I was still able to capture the most important moments of the day – the ceremony, their vows, family portraits, and bride and groom photos. The wind actually worked in our favor for the bridal shots, making for some really great pictures of Courtney’s cape blowing in the wind.
Intimate cake cutting with loved ones
The ceremony wasn’t immediately followed by a traditional reception. Instead, they’re planning an intimate dinner with about 60 family members and friends for a later date. However, they didn’t miss out on one classic wedding moment – cutting the cake!
Under one of the gazebos, Courtney and Derek shared a sweet tradition with their families. They had a small heart-shaped cake with all white icing and “just married” written on it. To make it extra special, they topped it with a few Polaroids we had taken that day. Of course, they also popped some champagne bottles – always a fun thing to see!
An impromptu jump in the ocean
After the ceremony and cake cutting, Courtney had a quick dress change. Then, they ended up jumping into the ocean together for a more personal and romantic moment – the whole experience truly was a blast! It was everything you hoped for – they just wanted to enjoy each other and didn’t care how they looked or what anyone thought. It was just pure love and messy fun!
NJ & Destination Elopement Photographer | Chrissy Marie Photo Co.
Being able to document this beach elopement has made me so excited to meet more couples and tell their love stories. I love that Courtney and Derek’s love prevailed over their unexpected weather issues and that everyone was having an amazing time despite it all.
If your dream is to have an intimate beach wedding, whether it’s in NJ or anywhere else, I’d be honored to document your special day.
As an elopement photographer who loves to travel, I have bucket-list locations I’m dying to visit. And here’s a bonus – I offer discounted rates if you book with me for these dream destinations!
Elopement Photography Packages Made For You
As someone who has photographed weddings and elopements of many kinds, I understand there’s no one-size-fits-all package that works for every couple. Sometimes couples only want their vows captured, and I return home while they enjoy a sit-down dinner with their families. Or, they might invite me to come back on a separate day for their celebration. Regardless of what you need, my elopement photography packages are specifically tailored to each couple to make sure you’re getting exactly what you want.
You can find out more about me & my philosophy for documentary-style wedding & elopement photography here, and if you already get the vibe that I would be a good fit, you can contact me here. I can’t wait to be with you every step of the way to create the elopement experience you’ve been dreaming of!
