Mill Lakeside Manor Wedding | Spring Lake, NJ | Alisa & Erik

August 26, 2022

Last weekend, I photographed Alisa and Erik’s Mill Lakeside Manor Wedding in Spring Lake, NJ! My happy couple had a romantic and classic wedding day and one of the reasons they loved the Mill Lakeside Manor was because it is on a lake close to the shore, they say it has somewhat of a beachy feel, but also has a mellow, laid-back feel! Their day was filled with happy tears and after their first look at Divine Park in Spring Lake, they both read their personal vows to one another. Such a perfect way to end a sweet first look! Their sunny Summer day continued with portraits at the park before we concluded our portrait session at the Mill before their ceremony that was officiated by their good friend. Before these two partied the night away to Band of Gold Music, we snuck away for a few sunset photos!

Alisa and Erik met when Erik’s friend from college and Alisa’s sister got married six years ago, they were both in the bridal party together and magic happened! Their first date was at a sushi restaurant in their hometown of Long Valley, NJ in June of 2016. Alisa always knew Erik was the one because from day one they were always very compatible. They spent a lot of time together even though they both still lived with their parents at the time. Erik eventually got an apartment and soon after Alisa moved in. They quickly learned that they were excellent life partners and it was just a matter of time (and a ring) to make it official!

Engaged on 05/01/2021, the proposal from Alisa: “We went hiking in Morristown National Park. Erik had lots of help from Alisa’s sister and brother-in-law, they set up a tepee and blanket with flowers, champagne and snacks along a trail, then hid among the trees and waited for us to come along. So when we hit this spot, Erik started the proposal!” Last Summer, I captured their Cross Estate Gardens engagement session.

Some of the reasons that Erik loves Alisa is because she can get cases of the sillies! She sings songs and just acts kinda zany which makes Erik laugh and smile all the time. When Erik is stressed out, this will make him feel a lot better. And some of the reasons Alisa loves Erik is because he always knows when she needs to be cheered up and will go out of his way to bring her home flowers or will attempt to cook dinner for her! This is a big deal to her because he is normally the sous chef.

When these two weren’t planning their Mill Lakeside Manor wedding, they love to cook together, whether it’s their meals or something new and special. Even though the pandemic has put a damper on this, they also love to take trips to places they haven’t been to before so they can explore the restaurant and bar scenes. And they love to spend time outdoors, especially at the shore, hiking, or lounging on a deck or patio with a beverage!

Their advice for couple’s currently planning their wedding day is to not procrastinate planning and get the major things done as soon as possible! They were most looking forward to spending the day surrounded by family and friends while celebrating their love! Now married, their dreams include traveling, buying a house, getting a puppy, and eventually starting a family together.

Thank yuo to Alisa and Erik for choosing me to photograph your gorgeous Mill Lakeside Manor Wedding!