Elegant Spring Wedding Day at River House at Odette’s, New Hope, PA

As an East Coast wedding photographer serving New Jersey and Pennsylvania, I’m continually inspired by venues that offer a timeless feel. River House at Odette’s in New Hope, Pennsylvania, has become a favorite for New Jersey couples looking for a refined waterfront wedding venue just minutes from home. Set along the Delaware River, this luxury venue blends modern design with natural beauty. It creates a romantic and elevated setting for a truly unforgettable wedding day.

A destination-style venue for New Jersey couples

This wedding with Ariel and Tom unfolded effortlessly at the River House. Despite the misty atmosphere at the beginning of the day, everything was executed perfectly. From the quiet getting-ready moments to golden-hour portraits by the river, every detail reflected intentional beauty and genuine connection.

Getting Ready at River House at Odette’s

On-site accommodations for a relaxed wedding morning

One of the advantages of hosting a wedding at River House at Odette’s is the convenience of on-site accommodations. With friends and families already settled in from the night before, it created a picture-perfect atmosphere that was relaxing. It also has a lot of overhead options that are extremely helpful on rainy days. The couple began their day in thoughtfully designed suites filled with natural light, creating a relaxed and unhurried morning atmosphere.

Bridal details and quiet moments before the ceremony

The bride spent the morning with her bridesmaids, surrounded by soft window light and calm anticipation. I photographed her wedding dress, accessories, and meaningful details before documenting the emotional moments as she stepped into her gown. These quiet hours are essential to the wedding story and set the tone for the rest of the day. As her mom helped button the wedding gown, I could see her emotions with joy and excitement.

Groom and groomsmen preparations on the property

Nearby, the groom prepared with his groomsmen, sharing laughter and final touches before the ceremony. Capturing both perspectives allows couples to relive the full experience – from anticipation to celebration – through their photographs.

A Private First Look Along the River House

An intimate first look at the venue’s exterior

For their first look, we chose a quiet spot outside along the River House at Odette’s building. This location showcased the venue’s clean architectural lines, set against blooming greenery in the background. This location offered privacy, soft natural light, and a refined backdrop that felt both modern and timeless.

The groom waited along the building’s exterior as the bride approached from behind. When he turned around and saw her for the first time, I could see his happiness and love for her.

Sharing private vows before the ceremony

After the first look, the couple chose to share their personal vows in private, just the two of them. This exchange allowed them to slow down and be fully present together before stepping into the rest of the day.

As an East Coast wedding photographer serving New Jersey and Pennsylvania, I find these private vow moments incredibly powerful. Without an audience, couples often feel free to express their emotions openly – resulting in photographs that feel raw, intimate, and deeply meaningful. The stillness of the space, paired with the soft river light, made this moment feel sacred and unforgettable.

Keeping the wedding day seamless and unhurried

Choosing to do a first look and private vows at the venue allowed the day to unfold seamlessly. There was no travel, no rush – just intentional time together in a beautiful setting. This approach not only created emotional space for the couple but also resulted in elegant, editorial-style images that feel calm, romantic, and timeless.

Wedding Portraits at the River House at Odette’s

Romantic waterfront portraits along the Delaware River

After the first look, we moved into wedding portraits around River House at Odette’s. This venue offers a stunning variety of backdrops – from modern architectural lines to open riverfront views – making it ideal for couples who want both polished and natural imagery.

We captured romantic portraits of the bride and groom along the riverbank, using the soft reflections of the water and natural light to create luminous, editorial-style photographs. The wedding party and family then joined for group portraits, bringing energy, joy, and celebration into the frame.

As the sun lowered, the light became warm and golden, elevating every image. Golden hour at River House at Odette’s is truly special and one of the reasons so many New Jersey couples choose this venue for their wedding day.

An Elegant Indoor Wedding Ceremony

Indoor wedding ceremony at the River House

The wedding ceremony at River House at Odette’s took place overlooking the Delaware River, offering guests a serene and romantic setting. With the sound of the water and the surrounding landscape, the ceremony felt both elevated and intimate.

As the bride walked down the aisle, emotion filled the space. I focused on documenting the meaningful moments—the exchange of vows, hands held tightly, and quiet smiles shared between loved ones. The ceremony space allows every guest to feel connected, while the natural surroundings create a timeless backdrop for wedding photography.

The couple’s first kiss as newlyweds was met with joyful applause, marking the start of an unforgettable celebration.

Outdoor Sunset Portraits by the Delaware River

Quiet moments together after the ceremony

One of the most magical parts of the day was stepping away for golden hour portraits along the river. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the light softened and reflected beautifully off the water.

Wedding Portraits with scenic and architectural backdrops

These moments allowed the couple to reconnect privately after the ceremony while creating romantic, unposed images that felt natural and effortless. For New Jersey couples seeking a destination-style wedding experience without traveling far, golden hour at River House at Odette’s offers an unmatched atmosphere.

A Joyful Reception at Odette’s

The celebration continued inside with a lively and elegant wedding reception at River House at Odette’s. The interior space felt warm and inviting, designed to transition seamlessly from dinner to dancing. This wedding reception was stunning – filled with white and green florals carefully positioned on each reception table. Different candles were strategically placed to reflect the contrast of the floral designs. I am still in awe with this beautiful wedding reception setting at the River House at Odette’s.

Heartfelt toasts, first dances, and celebration

Ariel and Tom entered the reception dancefloor for their first dance as husband and wife. Their intimate moment was witnessed by all of their close friends and families. Heartfelt toasts, emotional parent dances, and an energetic dance floor filled the evening with joy. I documented candid moments throughout the reception – laughter between friends, embraces between family members, and spontaneous moments of celebration that truly define the wedding day.

Why New Jersey Couples Love River House at Odette’s

A Pennsylvania wedding venue just minutes from New Jersey

River House at Odette’s is especially popular with New Jersey couples because it offers the charm of a Pennsylvania wedding with the convenience of proximity. Located just across the river from towns like Lambertville, Stockton, Princeton, and Hunterdon County, it provides a destination feel while remaining easily accessible for NJ guests.

Popular with couples from Lambertville, Princeton, and Hunterdon County

With waterfront views, on-site accommodations, and a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal choice for couples who want an elevated wedding experience close to home.

Tips for New Jersey Couples Planning a Wedding

Plan transportation for NJ guests

While easily accessible, arranging shuttles helps ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

Take advantage of on-site accommodations

Staying on the property allows couples to fully enjoy the weekend without rushing.

Schedule sunset portraits

Golden hour along the Delaware River is one of the venue’s biggest highlights.

Hire a New Jersey & Pennsylvania wedding photographer

Working with someone familiar with both states ensures a seamless timeline and local expertise. Make sure to always get an engagement session in before the big wedding day. You never know what your wedding photographer will be like, and this is an important day! Check out Ariel and Tom’s fun summer engagement session at Lake Mohawk, NJ, before the wedding day!

Final Thoughts

This wedding at River House at Odette’s in New Hope, Pennsylvania, perfectly reflects why so many New Jersey couples are drawn to this venue. From peaceful riverfront moments to heartfelt vows and joyful celebration, every part of the day felt intentional and timeless.

As an East Coast wedding photographer serving New Jersey and Pennsylvania, documenting weddings at River House at Odette’s is always an honor. The venue’s elegance, natural beauty, and seamless flow create unforgettable wedding days – and photographs that couples will cherish for generations.