New York Elopement Photography: Chad + Hans at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau
With all the recent news about the Oregon marriage ban having its day in court, I’ve been thinking about Chad and Hans’ delightful New York City elopement a lot lately. Much like here in Oregon, their home state doesn’t recognize same-sex marriages, so last fall we all traveled to New York to make their union legal and celebrate their love. It was a day filled with laughter and tears of joy, friendships old and new (from all over the country), and two stinking adorable grooms, and I loved every minute of it. Still, it makes me sad to think of these dear friends and all of the same-sex couples here in Oregon having to cross state lines in order to make legal commitments to the ones they love. I love my Oregon, but it is long past time for us to get on the right side of history on the subject of marriage equality.
The day started early and went late, but everyone was in amazingly good spirits throughout. It was especially fun for me because I got to cross several things off my bucket list — 1. Though I was was born and raised in NY, I had never before walked the Brooklyn Bridge. It was a gorgeous day for it. 2. This was my first time photographing an elopement, and Chad and Hans generously devoted a large part of their big day to allowing me to photograph them, which was amazing, and 3. Despite a veritable gaggle of gay friends (largely earned through my many years studying and working in theater), this was my first opportunity to photograph a gay wedding. I did my best to make the most of the chance — for Chad and Hans, whom I love, and for added diversity in my portfolio! Through either the courts or the ballot box here in Oregon, I’m optimistic that there will be lots more beautiful weddings on the horizon, and I can’t wait to be a part of them as the wedding photographer. Love is love!
