If you’re looking for a beautiful spot in NYC to get married with amazing light and no crowds, look no further then a sunrise elopement in Central Park. One of the many reasons I love elopements so much is there is a much greater chance for flexibility in time. You’re not having to worry about accommodating lots of guests so you can truly do whatever makes you the happiest. When couples ask me what time of day they should elope in New York, I often tell them how much I love sunrise. While some locations are much better for sunset if you’re considering lighting, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a prime example of this, if you want to avoid the crowds, sunrise is always your best option.
Whenever couples opt for sunrise in Central Park, I always get excited. Yes, it’s an early wake-up call, but there’s something so special about the park at this early hour. You have it to almost to yourself and everything is quiet and calm. The exact time of sunrise obviously varies throughout the year, a winter sunrise is going to be much more reasonable of an hour then summer, however Charlotte and Nathan knew they were morning people and opted to go for a wedding ceremony at sunrise in Central Park on June 1st!
This was a VERY early morning in the park, but it was gorgeous! We were all mightily rewarded for our early alarm clocks. Charlotte and Nathan exchanged vows right on the edge of the pond in Central Park with the NYC skyline behind them. This spot is usually incredibly busy with tourists at most hours of the day, however at sunrise on this beautiful morning we didn’t see another person. It was magical.
Dani from Once Upon a Vow performed their ceremony and did and amazing job. Afterward we got to wander the park and the couple enjoyed many sweet snuggles in that gorgeous morning light. Also props to Charlotte and Nathan for looking especially fabulous. Her lace gown and him in a full tux? I’m here for it!
Gapstow Bridge is another spot that is always swarmed with people. In the morning? A quiet oasis.
Did I make them stop on this random road to get that glowing golden light behind them? You bet I did.
Bethesda terrace at sunrise is the only time you will get these steps without people.
I didn’t even have to photoshop out people! A romantic dance with just the two of them by the fountain in Central Park.
After enjoying the sunrise in Central Park, we hopped in a cab south. First stop? Times Square! This area is always a little bit chaotic, but it’s part of what makes it iconic. When Nathan spontaneously went for the heel click it was perfection!
Our final stop of the morning was down to Brooklyn Bridge Park. We strolled the boardwalk with the Brooklyn Bridge in the background. They showed off some dance moves and we went up through Dumbo for the iconic Manhattan Bridge photo.
I will never ask you to do a jumping photo, but if you request it? Who am I to refuse? These two were so much fun!
Are you looking for more information on how to have your own sunrise wedding in Central Park? I have a whole guide packed with info on Central Park Weddings and Elopements.
