From the moment Chana and Nate reached out, I knew their wedding was going to be something special. These two are the kind of couple who show up fully as themselves—fun, stylish, and all about making their day reflect their story. And they nailed it. Their wedding at The Wave Resort in Long Branch, New Jersey was packed with color, energy, and a ton of heart. From their unique wedding weekend plans (yes, we kicked things off at a bowling alley) to the vintage-inspired cake and emotional moments with family, everything about this day felt personal and true to them. If you’re planning a wedding at The Wave (or just love the idea of a celebration that breaks the mold) Chana and Nate’s day is full of inspiration.

The Wave Venue

Chana & Nate held their wedding at The Wave Resort. This venue is located in Long Branch, right on the Jersey Shore near the state line with Philly. It’s a modern, luxury beachfront hotel with sleek architecture, ocean views, and a ton of flexibility when it comes to photo locations. Because this wedding took place in November, Chana didn’t want to risk stepping outside and having the wind wreck her hair. To be totally honest, it didn’t even matter! There were so many indoor photo ops you’d never even notice we didn’t step foot on the beach. I’m a very detail-oriented photographer, and I was amazed at how many creative opportunities there were inside the venue. To make things even better, the wedding party and photographers had private access to all the floors, which made the timeline run so much more smoothly. The hotel’s design elements, decor, and the fun color palette all came together to match the couple’s energy. The vibes at this wedding were truly immaculate!

Effortlessly Cool Wedding Long Branch NJ

One of my favorite parts of photographing weddings is getting to know the couple and learning more about their story. Nate was bartending the night he met Chana, and, as they say, the rest was history. We brought their story full circle during portraits when they asked for special permission to get behind the bar and recreate that moment. Everything about their wedding felt like a direct reflection of who they are. It was unique, a little quirky, and effortlessly cool—just like them. From their color palette and wardrobe choices to the music, decor, and overall vibe, everything was on point and so much fun to capture. They trusted me with a lot of creative freedom and they specifically requested plenty of film. This combo made my detail-loving heart so happy.

Long Branch NJ Wedding with Heart 

Instead of a traditional engagement session, Chana and Nate asked me to photograph their wedding welcome party at a local bowling alley. Needless to say, I’d 100% do that again. I love when couples think outside the box and bring me into more of their weekend. It also makes everything feel more relaxed and familiar when I get to meet the wedding party/family in advance. Photos feel easier, and the whole day flows more naturally. And their people? Just as amazing as the couple themselves. 

The Wave Long Branch Wedding Reception

A few of them even played major roles in the celebration. For example, Chana’s dad  is a rabbi & he officiated their ceremony which only made it that much more special. The traditions carried over into the reception, another favorite of mine from their wedding day! I love a good Horah, and their crew brought it. The energy was electric. The reception, just like the rest of the day, was an experience in every sense of the word. They had private bottle dancers for entertainment, and their wedding cake was vintage-inspired to match so much of the day’s aesthetic. Every part of it radiated Chana and Nate & I am so honored to have been able to capture it for them.

Central PA Wedding Photographers

If you’re dreaming of wedding photos that feel like a punch of nostalgia, you’re in the right place. Hey, I’m Rachel, a PA based wedding photographer here to capture your legacy, the way you really lived it. Whether you’re planning a blowout bash or a barefoot elopement in the woods, I’m ready to bring the film-fueled magic and ride-or-die energy to match. Ready to make some wildly human, deeply you memories together? Check out my pricing + investment details here and head this way to get in touch and lock in your date.

NJ Wedding Vendors

Photo: Rachel Bond Photography
Venue: Wave Resort
Dress: House of Bridal
Sima Coutoure
Cake: The Vintage Cake 
Hair: Emboldened Hair Artistry 
Make Up: Artsi Artistry  
Florist: Wild Aura 
DJ: Elegant Music Group 
Bottle Dancers: Bottle Dancers