Meg + Joe Elopement | Islip Town Hall + Brookwood Park, Islip Long Island, NY
Today’s post is from 2018. One of my biggest fears in re-branding my business was the idea that the work I did as a different name would be lost. Pair that with the fortune of being busy, I haven’t blogged a lot of my early work.
This year, I want to change that. My work has evolved since 2018 and while I’m proud of far I’ve come as a photographer, I am also proud of the work that got me to where I am today. Every single couple, family, model, brand etc., that trusted me in my early years are the reason more and more people trust me now.
The best part about looking at old work again is seeing how there are some things that haven’t changed at all.
I re-visited Meg & Joe’s gallery this past weekend and I was immediately reminded of why I threw myself into weddings like I did in 2018. Their elopement was one of the most special days in my career because it was truly just me and them.
Meg reached out to me about a month before their scheduled elopement date at the Town Hall in Islip, New York. To this day, I’ll never forget her inquiry e-mail. Her first question was “what kind of gear do you use.”
At the time, I had just upgraded to my first full frame camera and while I was proud of that milestone, I was intimidated by the question. “My gear doesn’t define my style.” I thought to myself before responding. But, as soon as I told Meg I used Nikon she was relieved; “My parents work for Nikon and are photographer’s so I’m particular.” It was kismet, if you ask me.
Over the course of the next four weeks, we worked closely to make sure their elopement day was everything they imagined. We ironed out timelines, went over shot lists and by the time the day came, I felt like I knew them for my entire life.
We treated their day like any wedding day. After a small wardrobe malfunction, we did a first look on the front steps, and took it from there. After the ceremony, we went to Brookwood Hall a little over 5 minutes away. There, we celebrated with champagne, took portraits and I documented as this newlywed couple exchanged gifts. It was absolutely perfect.
Four years later, and Meg and I talk almost daily. Our love of Bravo and silly dogs keeps our Instagram messaging hilarious and I am so grateful for this soul in my life. I could be having a hard day, but her messages always lighten the mood.
I haven’t seen this incredible since 2019 but we are all hopeful we’ll reunite soon for a session. After all, it was our tradition before the world turned upside town.
Here are some of my favorite moments from the day:
