Since COVID-19 began, the wedding industry has seen a sudden shift from large-scale weddings to smaller microweddings and elopements.  A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of working alongside Elle Studios to photograph Marissa and Nick’s Promise Ridge wedding.   Like many 2020 couples, they pivoted from their original plans for a large wedding celebration to one that that included only a handful of their closest friends and family.  I have to say, though I do love a big party, I really loved the intimacy of Nick and Marissa’s Promise Ridge elopement.

Getting Ready

The day began like every other wedding day with the bride and groom getting ready at home.  Because they elected to not have a bridal party, it was easy for the two of them to keep the morning serene and calm.   (Thinking about nixing the bridal party?  Read 10 Reasons Why It’s OK to Ditch the Bridal Party!)

The First Look

Nick and Marissa opted for a First Look near a beautiful willow tree in Marissa’s parent’s back yard, where we captured a handful of portraits before making our way to Promise Ridge in Stroudsburg.   This was such a sweet time for the two of them to have alone prior to the ceremony.

The Venue: A Promise Ridge Wedding

Promise Ridge is a breathtaking ceremony and reception space at the home of celebrant Alisa Tongg.  It was created for couples who are looking for a casual space, surrounded by nature for their elopement or microwedding.  The venue’s incredible view of the Appalachian trail ridge is the perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding.

Upon arrival, we were able to capture details for their cocktail reception, then bride & groom portraits before the start of their sunset ceremony at Promise Ridge’s Living Wall.  Getting these photographs done before the ceremony was important to ensure enough natural light!

Their ceremony was officiated by a family friend and they incorporated a tree planting ceremony.  (I just love when couples make their wedding unique with their own special touches!)

The Reception

As the light faded, the couple treated their guests to a beautiful cocktail reception and a very big surprise–they’re expecting!  Everyone was overjoyed to hear the happy news that a little boy is due in January.  After the cake was cut, we left Nick, Marissa and their guests to continue celebrating under the cafe lights and the stars.

Hope & Stay Photography| Lehigh Valley Wedding Photographers | Allentown Wedding Photographers

If you’re searching for your own elopement photographers, please contact Alyssa to learn more.  Alyssa resides in the Lehigh Valley and documents love stories in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland & beyond.