A fall wedding at Gatsby on the Ocean offers couples a rare balance of waterfront elegance and relaxed intimacy. Carey and Matt’s wedding day was a thoughtful reflection of what mattered most to them: meaningful pacing, strong family presence, and the ability to stay present with one another from beginning to end.

Rather than focusing on spectacle, their celebration centered on connection. From a lively morning at home to a quiet ceremony overlooking the water, each part of the day unfolded with intention and ease. As a result, their wedding felt elevated yet deeply personal.

Getting Ready in Merrick With Family and Their Dog

Carey and Matt began their wedding day at their home in Merrick, surrounded by family and familiar energy. The atmosphere was lively, with conversations overlapping and laughter filling the rooms as final preparations took place. Because everyone gathered in one place, the morning felt grounded rather than rushed.

One of the most meaningful elements of the morning was having their dog present. Including a pet added a sense of comfort and familiarity, which helped anchor the experience emotionally. Additionally, it allowed Carey and Matt to remain relaxed and connected as the day began.

Getting ready together was a conscious decision. Instead of separating into different locations, they shared the early moments of the day side by side. This choice set a calm tone that carried naturally through the rest of the wedding.

Once preparations were complete, they transitioned to Gatsby on the Ocean to finish getting ready and prepare for their first look.

An Emotional First Look at Gatsby on the Ocean

Shortly after arriving at Gatsby on the Ocean, Carey and Matt shared an emotional first look. Because the moment was intentionally unhurried, it gave them the space to be fully present with one another before the day continued.

For many couples, a first look serves as a grounding pause, and this was especially true here. Amid an otherwise energetic day, this quiet moment created balance and emotional clarity. As a result, both Carey and Matt approached the remainder of the day feeling centered and connected.

Following the first look, we captured portraits nearby. The surrounding grounds and architectural details of Gatsby on the Ocean offered a refined backdrop that complemented the couple without overwhelming the moment.

Bridal Party Portraits With Energy and Ease

After their portraits together, Carey and Matt were joined by their bridal party. At this point in the day, the energy shifted naturally from quiet connection to shared celebration.

Rather than feeling posed or rigid, the bridal party portraits reflected genuine relationships and ease. Because the timeline allowed for breathing room, the group remained present and relaxed. This approach kept the flow of the day natural and helped the transition into the ceremony feel seamless.

An Intimate East Patio Ceremony

Carey and Matt exchanged vows on the East Patio at Gatsby on the Ocean, a space known for its sweeping water views and intimate scale. The ceremony felt intentional and personal, with close family and friends gathered nearby.

The setting allowed guests to feel deeply connected to the moment while still enjoying the openness of the waterfront. Additionally, florals by Black Dahlia enhanced the ceremony space with texture and movement without overpowering the venue’s natural beauty.

The floral design complemented the surroundings rather than competing with them. As a result, the ceremony environment felt elegant, balanced, and emotionally resonant.

A Refined Fall Wedding Experience at Gatsby on the Ocean

Ultimately, Carey and Matt’s fall wedding at Gatsby on the Ocean was defined by presence and thoughtful decision-making. Beginning the day at home with family, sharing a meaningful first look, and choosing an intimate ceremony location all contributed to an experience that felt calm and intentional.

Gatsby on the Ocean continues to be an ideal venue for couples who want a polished waterfront setting while still prioritizing intimacy and flexibility. This wedding is a strong example of how pacing, planning, and meaningful details can create a celebration that feels effortless and deeply personal.

Ready to Begin Your Own Story?

If you are planning a fall wedding at Gatsby on the Ocean and value imagery that feels intentional, emotional, and timeless, we would love to connect. At Heritage House, we focus on preserving not just how your wedding looked, but how it felt.

Planning FAQs for a Fall Wedding at Gatsby on the Ocean

Is Gatsby on the Ocean a good venue for a fall wedding?

Yes. Gatsby on the Ocean is especially well suited for fall weddings due to its waterfront views, flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, and soft seasonal light. The East Patio remains a favorite for fall ceremonies because it offers intimacy without sacrificing scenery.

Where can couples get ready for a Gatsby on the Ocean wedding?

Couples may get ready on-site or begin the day at a private home or nearby location. Carey and Matt chose to start their day at home, which allowed for comfort and flexibility before transitioning to the venue.

Does Gatsby on the Ocean work well for intimate ceremonies?

Absolutely. The East Patio is ideal for smaller, more intimate ceremonies. Its layout allows guests to feel close to the couple while maintaining an elevated atmosphere.

How important is floral design at Gatsby on the Ocean?

Floral design plays an important role in shaping the ceremony and reception experience. Thoughtful floristry adds depth and cohesion while allowing the waterfront setting to remain the focal point.

Is a first look recommended at Gatsby on the Ocean?

While not required, many couples find that a first look helps create calm and flexibility in the timeline. It also allows for portraits earlier in the day, which can reduce time constraints later on.

Our approach centers on calm guidance, thoughtful pacing, and storytelling rooted in legacy. Reach out to begin a pressure-free conversation about documenting your wedding day with care and intention.

About the Photographer

Stephen Mayo is the founder and lead photographer of Heritage House, a boutique wedding photography studio based in New York. Known for refined, emotionally grounded storytelling, Stephen’s work has been featured in Sophisticated Weddings and Fearless Photographers. Trusted by couples and planners across the Tri-State area, he is dedicated to creating photographs that preserve legacy, connection, and experience for generations.