As a New York City wedding photographer, I find myself constantly inspired by the elegance, energy, and timeless romance that this city brings to a wedding day. Every corner of Manhattan holds a story. Claire and James chose iconic locations for their spring wedding day. Their celebration occurred at the Loews Regency Hotel, Central Park, and the Harold Pratt House. I am happy to have captured such a visual masterpiece encompassing all the moments for this city wedding day.
This wedding seamlessly moved through three distinct yet complementary settings: the refined luxury of Loews Regency Hotel, the lush and romantic landscapes of Central Park, and the historic elegance of the Harold Pratt House. Documenting the love story across these iconic New York wedding venues created a day filled with emotion, beauty, and unforgettable moments.
Getting Ready at Loews Regency Hotel
A chic Manhattan hotel for wedding mornings
The wedding day began at the Loews Regency Hotel, a chic Manhattan landmark located on Park Avenue. This hotel is a favorite among couples seeking a stylish and comfortable space for their wedding morning. Its suites are spacious and filled with natural light. Their easily accessible balcony also made it ideal for bridal portraits and candid getting-ready photographs.
Capturing bridal details at Loews Regency Hotel
The bride and her bridesmaids filled the room with laughter and excited chatter as they got their hair and makeup done. I photographed the carefully chosen details – the wedding dress hanging against the beautiful wall, sparkling blue shoes on the chaise lounge as a “something blue” item, and her heirloom jewelry. Each of these details told part of Claire’s story and reflected her life. Additionally, the sophisticated backdrop of Loews Regency gave them a polished editorial feel.
Groom and groomsmen preparations in style
Meanwhile, in another suite, the groom and his groomsmen were also preparing. There’s always a special energy in the groom’s room – ties being adjusted, cufflinks clicked into place, and nervous excitement building as the ceremony draws closer. Capturing both sides of the morning allows me to weave the couple’s stories together, showing the anticipation that builds just before they see each other for the first time.
One of the best parts of photographing weddings at Loews Regency is the combination of modern interiors and sweeping city views. As a photographer, I love how this venue balances timeless elegance with the unmistakable feel of New York City.
A Romantic, Private First Look in NYC
An intimate moment at the Loews Regency Hotel Suite
The couple chose to share their first look in a private suite at the Loews Regency Hotel. It was a perfect choice – quiet, intimate, and filled with soft natural light that created a gentle, romantic atmosphere. It was a moment filled with raw emotion and pure joy.
The groom stood on the balcony, staring at the NYC skyline, as the bride approached him. The moment he turned around, the suite filled with emotion – smiles, laughter, and the kind of genuine connection that makes a wedding day unforgettable. Photographing a first look indoors can be just as striking as outdoor portraits; the clean lines, neutral palette, and elegant textures of the Loews Regency suite created a timeless, editorial feel.
This intimate setting allowed the couple to have a private moment together before stepping into the day’s energy. It grounded the entire experience and gave us stunning images that feel both sophisticated and deeply personal. We took advantage of this moment for some beautiful bride and groom portraits on the balcony. It was such an intimate session with the NYC skyscrapers as the backdrop.
Romantic Wedding Portraits in Central Park
After the first look, we traveled together to Central Park for portraits. The contrast between the hotel’s modern luxury and the natural beauty of the park created beautiful diversity in the wedding gallery.
Fun and elegant portraits with the wedding party
The wedding party joined us for group portraits, and the atmosphere shifted into celebration mode. Bridesmaids in chic dresses and groomsmen in tailored suits filled the park with laughter. Their energy brought out some of the couple’s most genuine smiles. Photographing a wedding party in Central Park is always a highlight – it balances the grandeur of the city with the playful spirit of friends celebrating love.
Iconic Central Park wedding photography locations
After the wedding party portraits were completed, we proceeded to the couple’s wedding portraits. The couple chose Bethesda Terrace, one of the most iconic and romantic spots in Central Park, as one of their portrait locations. The arches and fountain created a cinematic backdrop, and when the groom turned to see his bride for the first time, the moment was both intimate and unforgettable.
As a wedding photographer, I live for these unscripted reactions – the tears, the laughter, the pauses in between. Capturing all the candid moments in Central Park allows me to create photographs that feel natural, emotional, and timeless.
From there, we explored the park for wedding portraits. Central Park is a dream for photography because it offers such variety within walking distance: lush greenery, architectural landmarks, bridges, and sweeping city views. We took portraits by The Mall, the Bow Bridge, and tucked-away garden paths that added intimacy to the gallery. This is one of my favorite locations to photograph couples in NYC. I am honoured to be able to create such beautiful portraits for Claire and James for their big day.
A Romantic Ceremony at Harold Pratt House
Historic charm on the Upper East Side
The final chapter of the day unfolded at the Harold Pratt House, a historic Upper East Side mansion and one of New York’s most sought-after wedding venues. With its stately architecture, rich wood paneling, grand arched staircase, and elegant rooms, the Harold Pratt House exudes timeless sophistication.
Guests were welcomed into the space, and the ceremony was held in one of the elegant ballrooms, the Altschul Room. The warm candlelight and classic décor created an atmosphere that felt both intimate and grand. The couple was tucked away in the Hauser room before the big moment. When it was time, everyone in the room smiled with excitement and joy. As the bride walked down the aisle, the room filled with emotion – tears of joy, heartfelt glances, and quiet anticipation.
Emotional wedding moments in a timeless setting
Photographing ceremonies at the Harold Pratt House is a dream. The refined interiors add depth and texture to every image. Meanwhile, the intimacy of the setting makes each photograph feel personal. I focused on capturing not just the big moments- the vows, the first kiss – but also the smaller, fleeting ones: a parent’s proud smile, the couple’s hands intertwined, and the joy radiating through the room.
Elegant ballroom reception photography
After the ceremony, guests transitioned seamlessly into the cocktail hour at the Rubin Library. Everyone was able to enjoy the historic charm of the house. This interior library suits this New York couple perfectly. It reminded me of their fall engagement session, where we got intimate couple portraits in front of their bookshelf. The reception carried on at the Rockefeller Ballroom with loud laughter and toasts. We went back downstairs to the Altschul Room for dancing for part of the night. I continued to document the celebration with a mix of candid storytelling and elegant editorial portraits.
Why These Venues Are Perfect Together
What made this wedding so extraordinary was the flow between venues. Each location played a different role in telling the couple’s story:
- Loews Regency Hotel: Chic and sophisticated, perfect for modern wedding preparation photos.
- Central Park: Iconic and romantic, offering endless backdrops for portraits and wedding party photos.
- Harold Pratt House: Historic, intimate, and timeless, ideal for an elegant ceremony and reception.
Together, these venues created a narrative that felt uniquely New York City – luxurious, romantic, and full of character. As a NYC wedding photographer, I love couples who choose venues that allow their wedding day to unfold in layers, with each chapter adding depth and beauty to the story.
Tips for Couples Planning a NYC Wedding at These Venues
If you’re considering a wedding that blends modern luxury, outdoor beauty, and historic elegance, here are a few tips:
Schedule enough time for portraits in Central Park
With so many iconic locations, it’s worth planning extra time for photography.
Consider transportation
Moving between venues in Manhattan can take time – factor this into your wedding timeline.
Use the Loews Regency Hotel suites for detail shots
The natural light and chic interiors are perfect for bridal details and candid moments.
Embrace the historic elegance of Harold Pratt House
Its interiors photograph beautifully with minimal décor—you can let the venue’s character shine.
Closing Thoughts as a NYC Wedding Photographer
This wedding at Loews Regency Hotel, Central Park, and Harold Pratt House perfectly captured the essence of a New York City wedding. From the laughter-filled morning preparations to the heartfelt vows and joyful celebration, every moment reflected love and timeless elegance.
As a NYC wedding photographer, my goal is to create a visual story that can be relived for years. Documenting a wedding that unfolds through these incredible venues is a reminder of why I love photographing in New York. I admire every image that becomes part of a legacy, framed by the beauty and spirit of the city.
Want to see more from this couple? Check out Claire and James’ Chelsea engagement session! I always encourage my couples to have an engagement session with me before the big day. This session throughout the city was stunning, romantic, and added to the city wedding day that they had!
Vendors
Photography: Connie Zhong Photography
Venue: Harold Pratt House
Planner: An Affair to Remember
Florals: Wildflowers New York
DJ / Entertainment / Band: Atomic Funk Project
Bride’s Wedding Gown: Lunanovias
Bridesmaid Dresses: Lula Kate
Wedding Shoes: Inez
Groom’s Suit: Rothmans NYC
Groom’s Shoes: Ted Baker
Cake: Park Avenue Catering
Transportation: The Checker Cab
