

An Intimate Elopement at Church of the Blessed Sacrament & Central Park in NYC

Stephanie Feliciano is the founder of Stephanie Michelle Photography, a Dallas-based luxury wedding studio specializing in story-driven film and digital imagery that blends documentary storytelling with an editorial perspective.
about the author | Steph





An Intimate Elopement on the Upper West Side: Callie and Derek at Church of the Blessed Sacrament
Estimated reading time: 12 minutes
Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the heartwarming images of Callie Hayes and Derek Braun’s intimate elopement at Church of the Blessed Sacrament in the heart of New York City. Nestled on W 71st St, at the historic Church of the Blessed Sacrament, this couple embarked on their forever journey in a beautiful Catholic ceremony surrounded by love.
First, a fascinating fact about the Church of the Blessed Sacrament in New York City is that it boasts a stunning interior adorned with intricate artwork, including a magnificent altarpiece designed by Tiffany & Co. This breathtaking masterpiece adds a touch of artistic grandeur to the church’s sacred atmosphere, captivating visitors with its beauty and craftsmanship.

Getting Ready
Trump International Hotel NYC – Upper West Side
From the moment Callie stepped into her gown, a tender bond between mother and daughter radiated throughout the day. Their sweet moment captured the essence of their relationship, adding an extra layer of sentimentality to this already emotional day. Then, the first look with her father was nothing short of precious – witnessing her in her bridal glory brought tears to his eyes, a moment frozen in time. She wore her mothers bridal robe to add a touch of elegance & nostalgia to the day.




The Ceremony
Church of Blessed Sacrament
The Parish of the Blessed Sacrament was founded in 1887.
The atmosphere? Pure serenity. Calm, casual, and stress-free. With only 18 of their nearest and dearest in attendance, the intimacy of the ceremony truly shone through, each moment cherished in the company of those who mattered most. Callie’s walk down the aisle with both of her parents was awe striking especially with the big beautiful Rose Window behind them.
At the heart of their union, Callie Hayes and Derek Braun embraced the rich traditions of their Catholic faith with a deeply meaningful ceremony. In a poignant gesture, they presented a bouquet to the Virgin Mary, a timeless tradition symbolizing their devotion and seeking her blessings for their journey ahead.







Roaming the Streets of New York
Portrait Time at Central Park West
After exchanging vows, the newlyweds ventured to Central Park, where the cherry blossoms adorned the landscape, a stroke of luck that added an ethereal touch to their day. Against the backdrop of Bethesda Terrace, I had the honor of capturing their love in timeless portraits, each frame encapsulating the essence of their bond after their elopement.
Let’s talk about Bethesda Terrace for a moment – a true gem of New York City. Steeped in history and romance. This iconic location has played host to countless love stories, both on and off the silver screen. From “Enchanted” to “The Avengers,” its grandeur has captivated audiences worldwide, and now, it served as the picturesque backdrop for Callie and Derek’s love story.





Wrapping Up
A love story for the ages
As we wrap up, Callie Hayes and Derek Braun, your love story is one for the ages – a testament to the enduring power of love, the beauty of intimacy, and the magic of New York City. As you journey through life hand in hand, may each day be filled with the same joy, love, and serenity that graced your special day in the heart of the city that never sleeps. See our other New York City portfolio work here!
















In case you’re new here
A warm welcome to you

I’m Stephanie, a wedding photographer based in Dallas, Texas, specializing in crafting story-centric luxury film wedding experiences.
My approach to photography is rooted in the belief that every love story deserves to be told with authenticity, passion, and a touch of warmth.
With a blend of documentary and editorial techniques, I strive to create imagery that is poetic, unrehearsed, and deeply personal.
So, if you’re head over heels in love and ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, you’re in the right place. Let’s create something beautiful together – a visual narrative that will stand the test of time and serve as a cherished reminder of the day you said “I do.”
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