I was so honored to be a part of Shaili and Abhishek’s city hall elopement in Worcester, and I’m thrilled to share their photos today! It was the perfect afternoon filled with so much love and intention. As a Boston wedding photographer, I love it when I get to capture truly special and intimate celebrations like theirs. If you’re planning an elopement in Massachusetts, keep reading for lots of great inspiration!
Why They Chose a Worcester City Hall Elopement
Shaili and Abhi had a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony planned for later on in Mussoorie, India. Since they had to register their marriage in the US, however, they opted to do so with a private elopement at city hall before their larger traditional celebration with family and friends in India.
They also wanted to take the opportunity to incorporate some elements that are traditional to American weddings, since things like written vows, white dresses, suits, and wedding rings are not a part of traditional Indian wedding celebrations.
So their elopement day in Worcester was the perfect way to blend the two cultures. It gave them the opportunity to share their love with one another through their vows, exchange rings, and document the day with just the two of them before their bigger celebration later on.
Their City Hall Elopement Day in Worcester
On the day of their elopement, I met up with Shaili and Abhi at Worcester City Hall shortly before their appointment time for some initial portrait photos. The historic building, with its stunning architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for their pictures. Shaili looked absolutely stunning in an elegant white satin dress, and she carried a simple bouquet of white calla lilies.
After their marriage intention appointment, we captured more portraits throughout the building, and they exchanged their handwritten vows. They were so excited about this part of the ceremony, knowing it wouldn’t be included in their traditional wedding in India. The intimacy of having this day just for the two of them, before celebrating with their entire family and friends abroad, made every moment feel even more special.
[Looking for more city hall elopement inspiration? Check out Madison and Kevin’s day in Boston.]
Celebrating at the Worcester Art Museum
After the ceremony, we headed to a nearby restaurant where they had some celebratory drinks and their wedding cake. Even in an elopement setting, you can absolutely incorporate traditional elements that matter to you. It’s these personal touches that make your day memorable and special!
From there, we headed to the Worcester Art Museum to keep the celebration going. We captured some editorial-style portraits there that honored their sophisticated aesthetic. And the museum’s galleries and architecture provided a completely different vibe from City Hall, adding variety to their wedding album.
We wrapped up the afternoon at Elm Park in Worcester with outdoor portraits in nature. The park’s peaceful setting was the perfect ending to their elopement day!
Boston Wedding Photographer
Shaili and Abhi booked four hours of photography coverage, which gave us plenty of time to move between locations without rushing and allowed them to truly be present in each moment of their day.
My documentary-style approach allowed us to capture a great mix of candid photos and more composed portraits, and they wound up with a gallery of images that tells the full story of their intimate celebration.
It was such a pleasure to document this beautiful day that was filled with so much intention. I’m so happy for Shaili and Abhishek!
If you’re planning your own elopement in Worcester, Boston, or beyond, I’d love to capture it for you. Whether you’re hoping for something just as intimate and intentional, or a larger celebration, it would be an honor to photograph it for you!
Reach out to me through my contact page, and I’ll be in touch to hear all about your vision for your celebration. I can’t wait to meet you!
