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Amanda & Matt

New York City, NY

NYC Sunrise Elopement at Central Park & LIC

Amanda & Matt’s NYC sunrise elopement felt like something out of a quiet love story — unfolding under soft gray skies before the city fully woke. On a misty summer morning, we met at dawn in Central Park, wandered through its iconic paths, and then crossed the river to Long Island City (LIC), where their sweet pup joined us for waterfront photos.

Later that morning, they exchanged vows at Manhattan City Hall — but this session captured the heartbeat of it all. Just the two of them (and their photogenic Pomeranian), savoring the calm before “I do.”

How Amanda & Matt Made Their NYC Sunrise Elopement Personal

Amanda is originally from São Paulo, Brazil, and moved to New York over seven years ago. It’s here that she met Matt — and their connection is instant and easy.

With a wedding celebration planned in Brazil later this year, they wanted to honor their life together in New York. This NYC sunrise elopement gave them space to slow down and soak in the joy of the moment.

Central Park & LIC: Dreamy NYC Elopement Photo Locations

Amanda had a clear vision: an editorial yet relaxed session that felt like them. She chose Central Park for its iconic romance and LIC for its personal meaning — it’s where they live, walk their dog, and build a life together.

We started just after sunrise at Bethesda Terrace. From there, we strolled toward Bow Bridge and The Mall, capturing soft, candid moments along the way.

Next, we headed to LIC’s Gantry Plaza and Hunters Point. This peaceful waterfront neighborhood offers stunning skyline views and quiet charm — especially beautiful on a rainy morning.

Embracing the Rain

By the time we arrived at LIC, the rain had started to fall — gently and steadily. Instead of rushing or rescheduling, Amanda & Matt embraced it.

Their umbrella became a sweet prop, and the light drizzle made every image feel cinematic. Amanda later told us she loved the LIC photos more than the ones from Central Park — a beautiful reminder that imperfect moments can become favorites.

Their Pomeranian joined us here too, bringing energy and warmth. If you’re including your dog in your session, LIC is one of the most pet-friendly elopement locations in NYC.

Final Stop at City Hall

After a quick outfit change and pup drop-off, we met Amanda & Matt outside Manhattan City Hall for a few final portraits. These frames felt full-circle — the legal moment that sealed what the morning had already made clear.

They didn’t need a big audience or grand venue. Their NYC sunrise elopement was heartfelt, beautiful, and deeply intentional.

Planning Your Own NYC Elopement?

If you’re considering a NYC sunrise elopement — whether it’s Central Park, LIC, Dumbo, or somewhere personal — we’d love to help you tell your story.

Our approach blends artistic direction with honest storytelling. We capture the real stuff: glances, laughter, and the in-between moments that linger long after the day ends. Inquire Here →

Couple embracing beneath the arched stained glass window at Bethesda Terrace in Central Park during their NYC sunrise elopement

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April 2, 2025

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