Jacob & Daniel’s Multicultural Celebration at The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor
Jacob and Daniel’s September 27, 2025 wedding at The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor in Hazlet, New Jersey, was a breathtaking blend of tradition, love, and modern celebration. Captured by Red Bank Studio, their day beautifully intertwined two cultures and two hearts — featuring a vibrant Chinese tea ceremony followed by an elegant evening reception that perfectly reflected who they are as a couple.
From personalized vows to double-outfit portraits and live music, every detail at The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor came together to create an unforgettable day filled with emotion, artistry, and timeless beauty.
Getting Ready at The Gramercy
Both Jacob and Daniel chose to get ready on-site at The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor, allowing the day to flow seamlessly while highlighting the venue’s modern suites and classic details.
The preparation hours began at 2:00 PM, with Red Bank Studio documenting every meaningful detail — from the traditional Chinese robes that symbolized cultural heritage to the sharp suits waiting for the evening’s elegant celebration. The quiet moments before the ceremony, filled with anticipation and laughter, created intimate and emotional photos that reflected the depth of their bond.
Cultural Portraits and Pre-Ceremony Moments
Earlier in the afternoon, Jacob and Daniel met for their couple’s portraits at 1:00 PM, a session that beautifully captured both their personalities and the significance of their two outfits.
The first portion of their portraits featured traditional Chinese robes, photographed against The Gramercy’s signature architectural elements — the black iron gates, waterfall, and grand ballroom staircase — creating an editorial yet deeply personal series of images.
Afterward, they changed into their modern suits, allowing Red Bank Studio to blend classic wedding portraiture with cinematic storytelling. The lighting, textures, and soft color palette of The Gramercy’s interior spaces offered endless opportunities for creative, artistic imagery that celebrated both the couple and the venue.
Tea Ceremony and Family Portraits
At 4:30 PM, before the main ceremony, Jacob and Daniel held a traditional Chinese tea ceremony for close family members. Hosted in the cocktail hour space (outdoors, weather permitting), this heartfelt ritual symbolized respect and unity between families. Red Bank Studio captured every emotional exchange — from the pouring of tea to the laughter and blessings shared between generations.
Following the tea ceremony, family portraits took place at 3:00 PM on The Gramercy’s beautifully landscaped grounds, ensuring every loved one was included in this timeless story. The couple’s bridal party, consisting of two close friends, joined at 2:30 PM for quick yet joyful portraits full of laughter and connection.
Outdoor Ceremony at The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor
At 5:30 PM, guests gathered for a stunning outdoor ceremony at The Gramercy. The sun cast a golden glow over the lakeside backdrop as Jacob and Daniel exchanged personalized vows, exchanged rings, and shared their first kiss as husbands.
Officiated by their cousin, the ceremony was filled with authenticity and emotion — intimate yet grand, personal yet universal. With elegant floral arrangements and soft live music from Ceremonious Strings, the atmosphere was nothing short of magical.
Red Bank Studio captured every detail — from the subtle glances between the grooms to the reactions of their guests — ensuring the spirit of love and inclusivity that defined the day would be remembered forever.
Cocktail Hour and Reception Celebration
As the sun set over Hazlet, guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour at 6:00 PM, complete with live entertainment provided by This Is It Entertainment. The transition from ceremony to celebration flowed effortlessly thanks to the exceptional coordination and hospitality of The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor’s staff.
The reception began at 7:00 PM, featuring the couple’s first dance, heartfelt toasts from their Best People, and emotional parent dances. Every laugh and embrace illuminated the joy of the evening, perfectly framed by The Gramercy’s signature black-and-gold décor and softly glowing chandeliers.
Guests mingled and danced as Red Bank Studio captured table shots, décor details, and candid moments throughout the night. The evening concluded with a private cake cutting, a quiet moment shared between Jacob and Daniel that beautifully symbolized their partnership and shared journey.
Vendor Team
Jacob and Daniel’s unforgettable day came to life through the dedication and artistry of their wedding team:
The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor
The Gramercy at Lakeside Manor in Hazlet, NJ, offers photographers a picturesque setting that seamlessly blends elegance with modern design.
The venue’s grand ballroom features a draped ceiling adorned with chandeliers and a sweeping staircase, providing a stunning backdrop for capturing timeless moments. The outdoor pavilion, overlooking Natco Lake, offers serene views ideal for romantic portraits.
Clients frequently praise the venue’s attention to detail and exceptional service, noting that the staff goes above and beyond to ensure a flawless experience. The combination of beautiful interiors, scenic exteriors, and dedicated staff makes The Gramercy a top choice for creating memorable wedding photography.
