For MyAsia and Joann’s wedding day at Sayen House and Gardens, my solo coverage spanned two hours and gave us plenty of time for: first look photos; group photos with chosen family; individual portraits of the marriers; the ceremony; extended group photos; and additional portraits of the couple together before they headed out to a celebratory dinner.
At the beginning of my wedding photography career, my packages started at 7 hours and included an engagement session and second photographer. Now, marriers are given full control over: whether or not they’d like an engagement session; how much hourly coverage they’d like; and if they desire one or two photographers. Over the past year, while I offered second photographers to potential clients, I photographed everything solo. It’s my hope that providing flexibility creates more agency and accessibility for clients.
Sayen House and Gardens wedding
Sayen House and Gardens is set amongst 30 acres of picturesque botanical gardens in Hamilton, New Jersey. The Gardens were created by avid gardener Frederick Sayen. He surrounded a bungalow style home with plants and flowers he acquired while traveling the world.
For those who are in the planning phase and interested in more information, here are the Sayen House and Garden Rental fees as of late 2024:
• Monday-Thursday (5 hour rental): Resident: $650; Non-resident: $1,000
• Friday/Saturday/Sunday (5 hour rental): Resident: $750; Non-resident: $1,250
The maximum amount of guests permitted is 98, however 80-85 fit more comfortably. Feel free to check out their PDF brochure for more information regarding what is included in their rental fees. The Sayen House itself is wheelchair accessible, with a 2-person elevator in the back of the house. However, the bathroom is not wheelchair accessible.
Their wedding photography only reservation fee for Monday-Sunday is $150 for residents and $250 for non-residents. And $100 for residents and $150 for non-residents Monday through Sunday.
Sayen House and Gardens is open daily from dawn to dusk, year round with free admission. The Gardens require permits for wedding ceremonies and wedding photos. However, they don’t require permits for engagement photos or family photos.
I had the best time getting to know MyAsia and Joann when I photographed their surprise proposal in New Hope. I was honored they trusted me to document their wedding ceremony.
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