Stroudsmoor Country Inn Wedding Photos {Abigail & Joe}

Photographers often dream about shooting weddings in exotic locations, surrounded by nature and dripping with charm. Alas, New Jersey wedding photographers (me included) typically spend our weekends in traditional Jersey wedding factories. But for at least one day this year, I had the chance to document the wedding of one of my favorite couples, Abby and Joe, at the most striking locations I’ve ever photographed.

Let’s step back for a moment. Abby refused to settle on anything traditional for her wedding. She spent months combing through venue pamphlets, looking for a location that would be both spiritual and one with nature. She finally chose the Stroudsmoor Inn in Pennsylvania, nestled just a few miles from the Jersey border. Abby put an insane amount of thought and effort into every detail of her wedding. From the place cards to the flowers (her mom designed them) to her favors—everything was handmade and tied to the theme of love and nature.

And then there’s Joe. Joe is one of the most relaxed, kind, chill dudes I’ve ever met. He brings a sense of blue-collar charm to Abby’s elegance and you just know he has your back if you ever need him. The two met after a chance encounter and Joe’s restaurant, and love blossomed over good food and wine. At their wedding, Abby and Joe exchanged tear-jerking vows in front of their closest friends and family, under a canopy of trees and flora. As I made my way around the ceremony, I couldn’t help but pull myself away from the lens to take in the love and beauty that surrounded me. The only thing that could be heard were the thoughtful words from officiant, the sound of leaves crackling and a stream trickling in the distance. I don’t think anyone could have asked for a more perfect day or wedding. Here are some of my favorite photos.