Courtney + Mike’s Winter Elopement in Franklin Square Park

Elopements hold a special place in my heart, so I was thrilled when Courtney and Mike reached out. They wanted to plan a winter elopement just after Christmas in downtown Syracuse, so I was enlisted to photograph and help plan the exciting event!

These two got engaged on January 1, 2021 (or 1/1/21), so they set their wedding day for January 1, 2022. They just loved the number 1/1/22 and I’m a huge fan of repetitive numbers as well. I find the meanings behind numbers so fascinating, and adore it when my couples think so too!

2021 was a challenging year for Courtney and Mike, so they decided to ring in the New Year by flying from Oregon to New York to get married in Syracuse with their friend Shelby as the witness. There were a lot of details to think through, so I helped them find a planner, choose a location for the ceremony, and scout out spots in downtown Syracuse to take portraits afterward.

The day kicked off with a touching first look. Courtney was carrying a large bouquet of white flowers and greenery, wearing a beautiful (and cozy) fur shawl, and donning the biggest smile. With no traditional fanfare to deal with, we went straight from the first look into the ceremony of their Franklin Square Park wedding.

Once the “I Dos” were done, we took a few photos around the park before walking further into downtown for some pictures at Clinton Square and the riverwalk. We ended with a few shots in front of the ice rink - nothing says a Syracuse winter quite like it!

I seriously love a good elopement. Please reach out if you’re looking for a New York elopement photographer. I would love to help you plan out the intimate wedding of your dreams! Speaking of plan, it was such an honor to work alongside Beth of Utano Events. She is such an excellent planner and Officiant - I really hope we get the chance to work together again in the future.

What a lovely winter elopement! I wish these two a lifetime of happiness.