sarah tew photography

This adorable couple contacted me a few months ago as they were planning a trip to New York (from Sweden!) with both sets of their parents. They wanted to surprise their parents with a marriage ceremony in the park, so we planned for an early morning meet-time at the southeast corner of Central Park. When the day came, sure enough, the unsuspecting parents were awakened with the joyous news of the imminent ceremony, and despite what initially seemed like a chilly and potentially raining morning, everyone was in excellent spirits. As we walked further into the park the weather cleared up and the sun began warming us all up, but I will tell you poor Kathleen’s teeth were chattering for the first 20 minutes or so… I felt so bad for her– but as with most brides, it seemed that the adrenaline of the situation kept her feeling fine. When we got to their chosen ceremony location, Wagner Cove, we began to worry about the officiant being able to find it– the whole area has been blocked off for construction work, but this couple had their heart set on it, so they had planned for us to hop the fence and go down to the cove anyway! The upside was that it kept the ceremony nice and private– nobody else came down to the area the whole time we were there… After a little looking around, Kathleen’s father returned with the wonderful Beth Lamont, who had been walking the perimeter of the fence looking for a way in… Axel & Kathleen wrote their own vows, and the emotional ceremony was very moving for all present. After signing their certificate and doing a handful of portraits with their parents, we walked back through the park for more portraits along the route to Bethesda fountain. By the time we were finished the sun was shining and it was another gorgeous spring day. Congratulations, Kathleen & Axel– I am so happy for you two, may you enjoy every happiness!

To view the slideshow in higher res/larger size just click on the word ‘vimeo’– but don’t forget to come back and check out my favorite shots below!