Alicia Rae and Jeremy’s vintage NYC elopement was truly a perfect day in the city. We planned a four-hour elopement that included everything from their vintage checkered cab ride to City Hall to grabbing pizza in Chinatown. We spent the afternoon documenting their love story and all the special moments in between. As an NYC elopement photographer, these are the days I love the most. The days when an elopement feels less like a traditional wedding and more like spending the afternoon with two people who love the city and each other.
Their vintage NYC elopement was featured on The Anti-Bride, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. There was no pressure to follow a typical wedding timeline or traditions. Instead, they chose to design a day around the things that mattered most, and I was happy to capture it all on camera.
From Hotel Chelsea to the Courthouse in a 1968 Checkered Cab
The day began with Alicia Rae and Jeremy getting ready at Hotel Chelsea. They booked a suite that had the most charming balcony overlooking the iconic Hotel Chelsea sign. It was a photographer’s dream. Alicia Rae wore a stunning long-sleeve vintage lace dress that was perfect for their October elopement. Not only did it photograph beautifully, but it also worked for all of the wandering around the city they had planned. It was a great reminder that when you’re planning a NYC elopement, choosing what to wear is truly so important.
One of the highlights from the day was the ‘68 Checkered Cab they rented for the drive to City Hall. The cab itself was so fun, but what surprised me even more was how many people stopped to stare as we drove to the City Clerk’s office. It felt like everyone we passed wanted to stop and look. I knew the vintage cab would be a fun part of the day, but it truly became one of the highlights.
Once we arrived at the courthouse, rings were exchanged, and vows were shared. We stole a few moments for photographs around the offices. While the courthouse might not be the most stunning background, that was never the point for these two. There is something so beautiful about the simplicity of taking a number and tying the knot. No frills, just saying yes to forever together. We, of course, had to add a bit of fun to the ceremony, so a confetti exit in front of the famous green doors was an absolute must.
Chinatown, NYC Subway & A Much Needed Pizza Stop
After the ceremony, we began wandering around the city. One of my favorite things about an NYC elopement is that as you leave City Hall, the entire city becomes the backdrop for stunning portraits. Our first stop? Chinatown for some quintessential NYC photos. This is such a fun neighborhood to photograph. The colors, the bold signage, and all the bustle in the background. The juxtaposition of the vintage outfits against the busy streets also made the photos so unique.
We of course had to head underground for one of my favorite photo locations – the subway. With confetti still in their hair, Alicia Rae and Jeremy shared such special moments laughing together on the subway and soaking up the first few hours of being married. You could see how happy they were, and that feeling really came through in the photos.
One of my favorite moments of the afternoon was our quick pizza stop before heading to the reception. Getting married led to Alicia Rae and Jeremy working up quite the appetite, and they didn’t want to wait until the reception before eating. This was music to my ears, as this unexpected pit stop turned into a perfect opportunity to capture such fun photos at Scarr’s while they indulged in some classic New York-style pizza!
Sometimes the best photo opportunities are the ones you don’t plan for. I am so grateful for Alicia-Rae and Jeremy being up for whatever the city threw our way that day.
Ending The Day With A Reception Dinner At Café China
After hours of exploring and wandering through the bustling New York City Streets, it was time to make our way to the reception dinner. I stopped by to photograph some of the stunning vintage details at Café China before saying goodbye to Alicia Rae and Jeremy as they headed into their intimate dinner.
From the details alone, you could truly tell they wanted their reception to feel personal instead of being bogged down by tradition. They embraced the things that felt meaningful to them: soft lighting, rich textures, good food, and of course, celebrating their love story with the people who matter most to them. The evening felt dreamy and romantic, exactly the way they wanted it.
Planning An Elopement Around What Matters Most
I love when a couple plans their wedding day around the things that matter most to them. Alicia Rae and Jeremy wanted their elopement to feel meaningful, and they truly prioritized what felt authentic to them while letting go of expectations and traditions that didn’t fit.
From the beginning, they told me that they wanted to prioritize photography. They didn’t want forced poses or an overly planned-out day. As a photographer, that is music to my ears. I love letting elopement days in the city unfold naturally. Sometimes the day turns out a little chaotic or unexpected, but they’re always real. And those are the moments that often make the best photographs.
If you are looking to lean into the unexpected moments that come with an NYC elopement, get in touch. I am excited to help you document your love story and create some true NYC magic.
Kind words from the happy couple:
“Sylvie is absolutely fantastic. When my wife and I got engaged, she was an absolute non-negotiable. We came with some ideas and she completed it with a beautiful vision. Outside of being fantastic at her job, she is thoughtful and completely understands the process. She provides you with all the information, timing, and reminders you need. We are incredibly happy with our photos and could not recommend her more.”
Vendors:
Photographer: Sylvie Rosokoff
Flowers: Jūra
Ceremony Location: Manhattan Courthouse
Reception (Dinner) Location: Café China
Hair Stylist: Front Page Hair Design
Dress: Kamperett
Suit: Indochino
Engagement Ring: Ascot Diamonds NY
Wedding Rings: (His) Mociun & (Hers) Kasia
Shoes: Floradeasoka & Scarosso
Hair Jewellery: Lelet
Vintage checkered cab: Film Cars