When I first met Annie and Eli years ago it was to photograph their engagement session. We had wildly different plans for their wedding day. But in 2024, four years after the start of the pandemic, COVID was what changed everything for them.

I woke up on the morning of their wedding to texts and voicemails from a tearful sounding Annie who had chosen to cancel their wedding in order to keep everyone involved healthy. We obviously were there to stand by them during such a difficult time and told them to just reach out when they were ready.

The pair ended up actually getting married on their wedding day under a tree in a park just across the street from their apartment. They cancelled all other plans, but kept that one. A few months later, they called me to take their portraits and begin to plan for their bigger reception event. And THIS is the magic we ended up with from that portrait session!

Eli loves Boston City Hall plaza so we decided to go there after starting under the matrimonial tree. It was such a special day! And a testament to flexibility and trust.

One thing we’ve learned as wedding photographers is that flexibility is everything. No matter how carefully you plan, the best weddings are the ones where couples embrace the unexpected and make the most of what the day brings. This is especially true when you choose to elope or host a small, intimate ceremony in a public space. Boston's City Hall Plaza, for example, may not be the first place that comes to mind when picturing a romantic elopement, but its unique qualities—paired with some recent improvements—make it a hidden gem for adventurous couples.

Weddings, especially elopements, require couples to roll with the punches. Whether it’s the weather, last-minute changes, or simply finding the right spot for those perfect photos, flexibility helps turn what might seem like a challenge into something unforgettable. When you’re open to embracing the vibe of the moment, your wedding day becomes a true reflection of your personality and love story. That’s why we encourage couples to think outside the box, especially when considering venues in a city as dynamic as Boston.

At first glance, Boston's City Hall Plaza, with its striking brutalist architecture, might not seem like an obvious choice for an elopement. The stark, concrete design of City Hall itself can feel intimidating or cold—but for couples who appreciate modern, urban landscapes, it offers a bold, minimalist backdrop that makes a statement.

And thanks to recent renovations, City Hall Plaza has undergone some exciting changes. The once vast and mostly empty expanse is now more welcoming, with new landscaping, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and improved accessibility. These updates have softened the harshness of the original design, creating a space that’s surprisingly inviting. The openness of the plaza allows for lots of natural light, and there are plenty of nooks and areas that provide unique photo opportunities. The contrast of the modern architecture with the vibrant energy of the city adds a sense of adventure to your elopement photos.

What makes City Hall Plaza an exciting spot for elopement is the way it represents the heartbeat of Boston. You’re right in the center of it all, with government buildings, historical landmarks, and bustling city life surrounding you. For couples who love the energy of the city and want their elopement to feel spontaneous, there’s nothing quite like saying “I do” in the middle of downtown Boston.

Despite the brutalism of City Hall itself, the plaza offers a perfect blend of old and new Boston. From there, you can capture iconic city views, walk to nearby historical sites, or stroll through the newly designed green spaces that make the area feel more alive than ever before. It’s a place where urban meets natural, where the city’s history meets its future—a fitting metaphor for couples starting their next chapter together.

If you’re considering eloping at City Hall Plaza, the key is to embrace the space for what it is: a bold, unconventional choice (replete with cop slide!!!). Bring your sense of adventure and openness, and let the city’s energy flow into your wedding day. The simplicity of the setting allows you to focus on what really matters: your love story. With the right photographer (we know a great one!), City Hall Plaza becomes more than just a backdrop—it becomes part of your story, reflecting your shared love for the city and each other.

In the end, eloping at City Hall Plaza in Boston is about making a statement, embracing modern architecture, and celebrating your love in the heart of the city. And with the recent improvements, this once-overlooked space has transformed into an exciting venue for couples who value flexibility, urban adventure, and a little bit of edge in their wedding day photos.