Congress Hall Wedding : Jenn + Scott : Cape May, NJ
A Celebration at a Classic Cape May Wedding Venue
When Jenn and Scott were planning their Cape May destination wedding, they knew it had to meet their very high standards. After visiting many venues, they ultimately chose a Congress Hall Cape May wedding.
As America’s oldest seaside resort, Congress Hall has everything one would want from a destination wedding venue. It’s conveniently located in Cape May’s historic district near unique shops and restaurants, and it sits right on the beach! So a walk in the sand or a swim in the ocean is no trouble at all.
These Manhattanites were surrounded by their closest family and friends as they tied the knot on a perfect day for their Cape May destination wedding.
Getting Ready for a Congress Hall Cape May Wedding
Jenn’s wedding ensemble is fabulous! Her understated gown and colorful bouquet are the perfect match. However, her Rene Caovilla shoes are some of the most gorgeous I’ve ever seen!
In addition, her shoes feature “I Do” inscription on the sole.
Pro tip: To capture hairspray well, make sure the subject is backlit by a window or a light!
I love the bridal suite at Congress Hall! It’s big and roomy and, in addition, is very colorful without being super gaudy!
Jenn and her mother are all smiles as they prepare for the ceremony.
As Jenn makes her way to the shuttle, guests at Congress Hall applaud as she walks through the halls!
Sometimes it’s about finding little details that help fill in the gaps of the story. For example , Jenn’s veil covers not only her shoes but those of her bridesmaid.
Jenn and her bridesmaids post in the trolley on the way to the church!
Groom Getting Ready at Congress Hall
As his groomsmen look on, Scott puts on his dapper bowtie.
I love when couples add personal details! For example, this ice chest with their last name on it full of beer and champagne.
What goes in must come out! Scott and his groomsmen make quick work of the beer in the shuttle.
Ceremony Photos at Saint Paul’s Catholic Church in Stone Harbor
The wedding ceremony was held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Stone Harbor, NJ.
Jenn and Scott ceremony features details such as bouquets hanging on the pews and a lovely ceremony program.
I’m always keeping an eye out for wonderful moments backstage. For example, this flower girl practicing dropping flower petals as the bridesmaids line up. When you’re a flower girl, practice is key.
Jenn and her father walk down the aisle at the church.
St. John’s Church in Stone Harbor is a wonderful place for a New Jersey Catholic wedding ceremony!
During a traditional Catholic wedding mass, which usually runs over an hour, it’s easy to become complacent. But I’m always looking for little moments between the bride and groom as they look share a look or a laugh.
And with a long kiss, Scott and Jenn are married!
With her bouquet raised, Jenn and Scott head out of the church to their adoring friends and family. and then sneak a kiss.
The newly married couple are showered with flower petals by their guests.
Bridal Party Photos in Cape May
While scouting the day before, I spotted this old pier and thought it would be a great spot for a bridal party photo. I think I got lucky the thing didn’t collapse.
On the same scouting drive, I spotted gorgeous property with an old barn, which was much safer.
Bride and Groom Photos in Downtown Cape May
Before their Congress Hall wedding reception, we found some time to cruise around Cape May for some portraits. And doing it with a cocktail makes it all the better!
Congress Hall Wedding Reception
I love wedding venues that are so grand there it little need for a lot of decor, and Congress Hall fits that bill. For example, the large columns and stately architecture require not much more than simple floral arrangements.
Guests gather for cocktail hour on Congress Hall’s large lawn that faces the ocean.
For their Congress Hall wedding reception, Jenn and Scott let the hotel do the talking and chose simple details. For example, delicate centerpieces and table numbers and blue uplighting. However, the two cakes feature a ton of details!
The grand ballroom is the perfect spot for a Congress Hall wedding reception. For example, it’s large enough to fit a ton of people; however, its natural details make it feel intimate.
Scott and Jenn make one of the most raucous grand entrances I’ve ever seen!
And then it’s right into their first dance! With the live band rocking from the get-go, Jenn and Scott sing along!
After reception ends, it’s down to the Boiler Room, Congress Hall’s underground pizzeria and music club, for the after party. This is another great reason to have a Congress Hall wedding reception.
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