Danielle & Trevor // Autumn Ballyowen Golf Club Wedding
Danielle and Trevor got married at Ballyowen Golf Club at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, New Jersey on October 5th and it was one of those days where everything just comes together perfectly. Golden fall light, the most gorgeous outdoor ceremony, and a group of people who were there to have the best time. Scroll on for a look at their day!
Starting with the Details
Firstly, the details. The invitation suite had the most beautiful black and white design with Danielle and Trevor’s DT monogram woven throughout, including on the stationery, on a custom cake plate, even on the engraved cake forks. Everything felt so intentional and cohesive. Danielle’s Badgley Mischka bridal shoes were a favorite too!
The Bridal Morning
Danielle and her girls got ready right on site at Ballyowen. The energy in this group was everything. They did matching black pajama sets with Danielle in white, and the flower girl had the cutest little matching outfit too. There was so much laughter and genuine excitement. You could feel how close this group was! This sweet moment between Danielle and her flower girl on the brick pathway is one of my favorites too! We always love a mini bridesmaid!
The First Look
Before the ceremony, Danielle and Trevor had their first look on the Ballyowen grounds and it was such a sweet moment. Trevor’s face when he turned around said everything. Doing a first look meant we got the most incredible time on the fairways together before the ceremony, with that gorgeous early October light. Danielle’s strapless ballgown with its long flowing train looked incredible against the green fairways and tall grass. They were so relaxed and happy together and the portraits just flowed naturally.
Bridal Party Photos
After the first look we did bridal party portraits on the course. The bridesmaids in their black gowns against the fall landscape looked so striking. The contrast against the green fairways and golden grasses was gorgeous. The whole bridal party had the best energy and there was so much laughter throughout. One of my favorite shots is the bridesmaids helping spread out Danielle’s train on the hillside with the course stretching out behind them.
A Dreamy Outdoor Ceremony & Elegant Reception Under the Stars
The open-air setting allows for stunning ceremony photos, especially during golden hour when the sun sets over the hills. Whether you choose a floral arch, a simple greenery-adorned arbor, or a classic white aisle runner, every wedding feels magical.
After the vows were exchanged, the celebration continued with a reception inside Ballyowen’s rustic yet refined clubhouse. Featuring exposed wooden beams, large windows framing the stunning views, and an inviting stone fireplace, the reception space exuded warmth and charm. Their centerpieces, filled with white roses and baby’s breath, perfectly complemented the soft, romantic ambiance of the evening.
Adding a personalized touch, their monogram appeared again on the table setting menus. It seamlessly ties together their wedding aesthetic. Every element of Danielle & Trevor’s day at Ballyowen Golf Club reflected their vision of a timeless yet contemporary wedding.
Inspiration from Ballyowen Golf Club at Crystal Springs Resort Wedding Venue
If you are looking for a wedding venue in New Jersey with truly jaw-dropping scenery, Ballyowen Golf Club at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, Sussex County should be on your radar. I have photographed here and every single time I arrive the views take my breath away. The rolling fairways, golden grasses, and open sky give you so much to work with as a photographer.
The ceremony takes place outdoors overlooking the course with a rustic wooden arbor as the backdrop and fall foliage framing the whole scene. The reception is held in the clubhouse which has a warm, lodge-like feel with exposed beams, large windows, and great light. The venue also sits on the Crystal Springs Resort property which means guests have easy access to accommodations right on site. It is a wonderful choice for couples who want a venue that feels different from the typical New Jersey ballroom.
Some of my favorite things about shooting at Ballyowen:
- The open fairways for golden hour portraits with sweeping views
- The rustic outdoor ceremony space with mountain and foliage backdrops
- The golden grasses and wildflowers that make every portrait feel editorial
- The warm reception space with string lights and a great dance floor
- On-site accommodations for guests at Crystal Springs Resort
Are you planning a wedding at Ballyowen Golf Club? Let’s chat about capturing your perfect day!
Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Karina Mekel Photography
Planning: Jacqueline Paccione
Floral Design: Conroys Florist
Beauty: Lauren B. at Craft Hair Studio NJ
Beauty: Makeup by Dre
Venue: Ballyowen Golf Club at Crystal Springs
Wedding Dress: Jude Jowilson Bridal
Entertainment: Elite Entertainment
See more wedding photos from this Estate at Florentine Gardens Wedding | River Vale, NJ! Or contact me anytime to inquire about photography for your wedding!
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Karina Mekel is a romantically whimsical NJ wedding photographer capturing special moments throughout the East Coast. Follow along with these timeless love stories on Instagram @karinamekel or get in touch with Karina here.
