Jersey shore beach wedding

A Love Story by the Shore | Caitlin and Mike’s Memorial Day Beach Wedding

Jersey Shore Beach Wedding. Some stories come full circle magically. Caitlin and Mike’s wedding was just that—a beautiful chapter that began long ago when I first met Caitlin and her two children during one of my Christmas mini-sessions in Pennsylvania. Over the years, I had the privilege of capturing memories for her family. But it wasn’t until last summer, during their vacation in Ocean City, NJ, that I met Mike. Caitlin had excitedly shared that they wanted a family session on the beach. It was a refreshing change from the snowy mountains of PA—and I was thrilled to oblige.

Little did Caitlin know that the session would turn into so much more. Midway through, Mike quietly shared with me that he planned to propose to Caitlin toward the end of our shoot. I was overjoyed to capture this life-changing moment. Mike popped the question as the sun set over the ocean, and Caitlin said yes. Witnessing their joy and love in that moment was such an honor. When I jokingly said they should call me if they ever decided to get married on the beach, I had no idea they’d take me up on it.

When Caitlin reached out to say they were planning a beach wedding and wanted me to capture their day, I couldn’t have been more thrilled. Their Memorial Day weekend wedding, on May 25, 2024, in Ocean City, NJ, was everything they dreamed of—and then some.

When I arrived, it was clear that Caitlin and Mike had planned their day with intention. They prioritize their love and loved ones over tradition and formalities. “We just wanted to get married on the beach with our closest family and friends and then relax and enjoy,” Caitlin told me, and that’s precisely what they did.

The weather was a photographer’s dream—warm, sunny, with just the right ocean breeze. Caitlin looked stunning in her simple yet sparkly beach gown, perfectly suited for a seaside celebration. Her bridesmaids wore muted shades of sage, champagne, and soft pink, complementing the natural tones of the beach. Mike and his groomsmen embraced a laid-back vibe in tan suits with white and sage accents. And in true beach style, shoes were optional—bare feet all around!

Their first look was one of the most emotional moments of the day. Although Caitlin was initially hesitant, she and Mike agreed to it, and it turned out to be a moment they’ll cherish forever. Mike’s reaction to seeing Caitlin was priceless, and their love was palpable as they exchanged private words before walking down the aisle.

Unique Touches That Made It Theirs

Caitlin and Mike’s wedding was all about personal touches and breaking the mold. Instead of a traditional sit-down dinner, they treated guests to a seafood boil prepared on-site by Outer Banks Boil Company—a perfect nod to their beach location. And for dessert? They skipped the cake and brought in Buddy’s Ice Cream Truck, serving frozen treats that were a huge hit with everyone.

Their floral arrangements, designed by a close friend, incorporated muted beach tones and delicate seashells, tying the theme together beautifully. During the ceremony, a heartfelt ring-warming ritual added a personal and emotional touch as family and friends passed the rings around, infusing them with love and well wishes.

After their intimate ceremony, we captured photos on the beach as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink. Caitlin and Mike were naturals in front of the camera, radiating joy with every shot. The celebration continued at a nearby Airbnb, where their casual yet thoughtful approach to the day allowed them to truly enjoy quality time with their guests. They didn’t just plan a wedding; they created a weekend of memories with the people they love most.

Advice from the newlyweds

Caitlin and Mike’s advice to future couples is simple and wise:

Do what feels right for you. Skip the extras and focus on what truly matters.
Embrace simplicity. Don’t sweat the small stuff—it’s all about celebrating your love.
Think outside the box. Who needs a wedding cake when you can have ice cream?!

Capturing Caitlin and Mike’s wedding was an absolute honor. Their day reminded me of why I love beach weddings—the natural beauty, the heartfelt moments, and the love shared under an open sky. I’m so grateful to have been part of their story, from Christmas minis in Pennsylvania to the shores of Ocean City. Mike and Caitlin, thank you for trusting me to document your love—you made my job a joy.