River Cafe Wedding : Emily & Harry : Brooklyn, NY

Emily and Harry celebrated their wedding at The River Cafe in Brooklyn on a perfect October afternoon.

The golden hues of fall provided a breathtaking backdrop for their special day, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for their ceremony and reception.

The day began at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, where Emily was getting ready. The crisp autumn sun and puffy white clouds painted the sky, offering stunning light for photography. If you’ve heard the phrase “perfect light,” this was it—the sun’s lower arc during the fall creates a soft, flattering glow at any time of day. Outside the hotel, the talented team from First Day Films was busy preparing their gear and capturing moments to set the scene. Having worked with them countless times, I knew we were in for a seamless day of capturing memories.

Inside the getting-ready suite, Emily’s flower girls watched in awe as she fastened the sculptural bow on her wedding gown. Moments like this, filled with childlike wonder, always tug at my heart—especially as a parent myself. Behind the scenes, SARAH BRENNAN EVENTS ensured that every detail was flawlessly executed and that the day stayed effortlessly on schedule, which kept everyone calm and happy.

Meanwhile, Harry and his groomsmen were prepping for the big day in a separate room. Our second photographer documented Harry as he buttoned his jacket, adjusted his tie, and toasted with his close friends. Soon after, it was time for the first look. We planned this magical moment with the iconic Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge as their backdrop, a view that never ceases to inspire. Despite curious onlookers, Emily and Harry seemed completely in sync, sharing a tender, private moment as if the world had melted away.

Following their first look, we strolled under the arches of the Brooklyn Bridge, capturing portraits steeped in the charm and history of New York. The couple’s energy made every frame effortless and full of personality. Afterward, we made our way to The River Cafe, where families gathered for portraits in the garden before the ceremony.

The River Cafe offers an unbeatable combination of elegance and magic. Nestled along the water, it feels like an oasis amid the buzz of the city. On an October afternoon, the garden truly shines—the dappled sunlight streaming through the trees and reflecting off the nearby buildings gave the ceremony a cinematic glow. Surrounded by nature, family, and friends, Emily and Harry exchanged vows in an intimate and heartfelt ceremony.

The decor inside The River Cafe was nothing short of stunning. SEAPORT FLOWERS & HOME transformed the room with arrangements that seemed to blend effortlessly with the space. The light-colored florals amplified the candlelight, casting a radiant warmth across the room. Emily and Harry’s thoughtful choices enhanced the already impeccable ambiance, making their day feel both sophisticated and deeply personal.

October weddings hold a special kind of charm, amplified by the season’s crisp air and vibrant colors. Emily and Harry’s wedding at The River Cafe proved, once again, why fall in New York is so special for weddings. From the touching moments in the garden to the artful decor that illuminated the venue, their wedding was nothing short of perfection.

To Emily and Harry—thank you for allowing me to photograph your beautiful day at The River Cafe. Your wedding was one for the storybooks, and I couldn’t be more honored to have been part of it.

Plan Your Dream Wedding at The River Cafe

If you’re searching for an iconic venue for your Brooklyn wedding, The River Cafe offers the perfect blend of timeless elegance and sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Its garden, riverside charm, and exceptional cuisine make it an unforgettable destination for your special day. Check out some more River Cafe weddings here, here, and here. Keep going? Ok cool: how about this one, or this one, or, maybe this one on a rainy day.

TriBeCa Rooftop Wedding : Katie & John : New York, NY

Katie & John’s TriBeCa Rooftop wedding photos in lower Manhattan on September 7th.

Getting ready nearby at The Roxy Hotel, Katie’s expansive suite and terrace was the perfect setting for her entourage to get ready before we geared up for a first look on the roof at TriBeCa Rooftop. I loved the rich tones and textures throughout the room. Working alongside Emma Cleary Video, we captured the wedding party as final touches were applied and then made our way for Katie to see John for the first time in her wedding gown.

This season I found myself photographing three TriBeca Rooftop weddings which I’m enjoying more than ever with their newly laid out space. The room keeps going and going with those endless skyline views. For a venue which offers such a nice outdoor space for a ceremony, it’s a luxury to have an equally nice setting indoors when the weather is iffy. With the panoramic views through all the windows, the outside is brought within.

As cocktail hour was underway, right on queue the heavens opened up to reveal the most glorious sunset I’ve seen in a while. It didn’t take long for guests to find a way outside as I brought the bride and groom out for a few minutes of photos with the setting sun. While we captured these wonderful moments of guests greeting Katie & John following their vows, Christina Whitney Events worked with Fleurs du Mois to create a breathtaking reception room. It was just a few months since I had last worked with Christina at TriBeCa Rooftop. Having that long established rapport with planners is so helpful to making it a seamless day. We work together with the ebbs and flows of the day to make things go smoothly.

I was unsurprised to find the bride and groom letting absolutely loose on the dance floor which was framed by gorgeous lighting, excellent entertainment and the signature TriBeCa Rooftop cuisine. This was one of those weddings that positively sails by and I had a wonderful time capturing these memories. It’s made all the more special when my efforts are reflected in a glowing online review by the couple :-). Thank you Katie & John!

Metropolitan Club Wedding : Hallie & Jake : New York, NY

Hallie & Jake were married at The Metropolitan Club on 5th Ave in Midtown Manhattan, NYC.

A wedding at a historic venue like The Metropolitan Club is essentially a gala event with vows. The space is so many things: Magnificent. Gilded. Impressive. Immense. The challenge for the photographer at marquee venues in this corridor of so many (The Pierre, The Plaza, The Met Club, The University Club, The Mandarin and numerous others) is to capture the breath of the event while keeping an intimate feel that still feels personal. Hallie & Jake made that easy as they were surrounded by a spirited and outwardly loving group of friends and family.

Photography: Brian Hatton | NYC Wedding Photographer
Planning: Stillwell Events
Cake: Padoca Bakery
Florist: Ariston
Stationery: Sesame Letterpress
Hair & Makeup: Marissa Gold
Officiant: Cantor Laura Stein
Lighting: Frost Productions
Band: Element Music - Element 79
Wedding Gown: L’Fay Bridal/Maria Farbinni
Bride’s Shoes: Loewe
Rings: Cartier
Groom’s Attire: Loro Piana/Michael Thomas Clothiers

Lafayette Grand Cafe Wedding : Caroline & Richard : New York, NY

Caroline & Richard held their wedding at Lafayette Grand Cafe in New York, NY.

My first conversation with Caroline & Richard was so comfortable and easy. I knew this would be a wedding I’d enjoy covering. A wedding at Lafayette is as upscale as it is relaxed. I love that you can have an exquisite meal with family and friends served in such a way that says “welcome to my home”.

I began this particular day of coverage jumping head first into family photos. From time to time I’ll meet a couple that would prefer to allocate time to the party coverage in lieu of the getting ready session. Either way is ok with me. We walked over to Washington Mews just North of Washington Square Park off of 5th Ave. I’ll never forget stumbling upon this picturesque, Old World European style side street and I’m still slightly taken off guard each time I return here. Being a stones throw (or so) from Lafayette, it’s a great option for a photo session backdrop.

Roundhouse Wedding : Alex & Kim : Beacon, NY

Alex & Kim were married at The Roundhouse in Beacon, NY in August.

I tend to let weddings marinate a bit with the couple before I get around to posting them. So, it’s always great to get a chance to relive these events myself later on. This particular wedding at The Roundhouse this past summer was one that had a resounding undertone of fun throughout the day. It was an overcast August afternoon but the smiles and enthusiasm stood in for the sun. I was fortunate to be introduced to Alex & Kim by one of my former couples who later randomly became my across the street neighbor. Small world.