Olde Mill Inn, Basking Ridge NJ Wedding Photographer {Elyssa and Joe}

Before Joe ever met Elyssa, he was already in love with her. During his toast, Joe’s best man Lou recounted the story of how they met. While they were bonding over avoiding being recruited to the seminary, Joe told Lou how he felt God had someone out there for him. Joe continued on to describe his ideal bride. Little did either of them know,  he was describing Elyssa!

When Elyssa and Joe met later on, it was love at first sight for Joe. Not so, for Elyssa who found him annoying and even complained about him to a friend! As it turned out, they were both having a bad night but they had many more opportunities to get to know each other and needless to say, they were much more positive than that first night and they formed a friendship.  Elyssa finally realized that Joe was smitten and said “yes” when he asked her out. Over the next 15 months Elyssa and Joe’s relationship grew deeply as they fell in love with each other.

Joe planned his proposal thoroughly and chose a picnic for the two of them at Ringing Rocks Park. The name of the park carried a double meaning of both the ringing noise the rocks make and the engagement ring he was preparing to give to Elyssa. As they tell it,

“Carrying the picnic basket and a walking stick, Joe and Elyssa managed to navigate over the perilous rocks to the largest boulder in the field. Joe spread the blanket out and took each item out of the basket one by one. The last item was the ring, at which point he told Elyssa, “You might want to stand up for this.” Of course Elyssa said, “Yes!” and now they are husband and wife!

Elyssa and Joe are an adventurous and fun-loving couple. They enjoy exploring together and make each other so happy. It was beautiful to see the two of them together on their wedding day and the strength of their love. My heart melted throughout the day as Joe  would look deeply into Elyssa’s eyes admiring her beauty and saying “I love you so much”. Elyssa and Joe we wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin this new chapter of your lives together. Congratulations!

*Carolyn

 Ceremony Venue: St. Francis of Assisi Cathedral, Metuchen NJ

Portrait Location: Natirar Park, Peapack and Gladstone NJ

Venue: Olde Mill Inn

Photography: Paul Francis Photography

Videography: Ignacio of  Blue Moon Video Productions

Bridal Gown: Galina Signature

Groom and Groomsmen Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse

Florals: Gardenias Floral, Metuchen NJ

Cake: Palermo’s Bakery

DJ: Steve and James of Eclipse Entertainment