We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sascha Reinking. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sascha below.
Sascha, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I found my purpose through the perfect blend of my passions: helping people, photography, and my love for New York City. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting couples from all over the world, and I realized how overwhelming it can feel to plan a wedding, even if it’s just an elopement – especially in a place like NYC. That’s where I come in.
I want couples to experience the magic of the Big Apple without any of the stress. My purpose is to make the entire process fun, seamless, and deeply personal. Whether it’s finding the most iconic or hidden photo spots, handling logistics and paperwork, or just being their cheerleader on the day, I strive to create a wedding day that feels easy, unforgettable, and uniquely theirs.
At the heart of it, I get to combine my expertise in photography, my insider knowledge of the city, and my passion for making people feel at home – even when they’re halfway across the world. Helping couples take that leap into a new chapter of their lives while giving them an incredible NYC experience is what fuels me every single day.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m a photographer and elopement specialist based in New York City, and I’ve been fortunate enough to work with couples from all over the world. What I do is so much more than just capturing photos – it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for people on one of the most meaningful days of their lives.
My mission is to make getting married in New York City as easy, fun, and stress-free as possible. I handle everything from helping couples find the perfect location- whether that’s the iconic Central Park, a hidden rooftop with skyline views, or a cozy spot tucked away in the city- to capturing their love story in a way that’s uniquely them. I also take pride in being a calming, guiding presence on their big day, helping them navigate the details so they can simply enjoy the moment.
What makes what I do so special is the combination of my love for NYC and my deep respect for the couples I work with. Each elopement is a chance to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures, and I love hearing their stories and helping them create a day that feels like home, no matter where they’ve traveled from.
Professionally, I’m always focused on growing and finding new ways to serve couples better. At the end of the day, what fuels me is knowing I’ve played a part in creating a day that my couples will treasure forever. It’s truly the best job in the world.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
First, my creativity. I have a master’s degree in architecture, which has shaped how I see the world – especially through the lens of light, shadows, and structure. I use that perspective in my photography to highlight the beauty of New York City’s architecture and incorporate it into my work in ways that feel unique and dynamic.
Second, my deep connection to New York City. Having lived here for over 20 years, I’ve developed an insider’s knowledge of the city. Whether it’s discovering hidden photo spots, avoiding crowded areas, or timing a perfect shot with the city’s energy as the backdrop, this knowledge helps me create an extraordinary experience for my couples.
Lastly, my ability to genuinely connect with people. Being German has allowed me to build strong relationships with couples from Germany, but I also deeply value connecting with English-speaking couples from around the world. I’m naturally curious about their stories and lives, and I’m passionate about creating something special and personal for each of them.
For those just starting out, my biggest advice is: don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Some of my most valuable lessons came from missteps along the way. Growth isn’t always smooth, but those moments of trial and error will teach you things you can’t learn any other way.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
My wife, Jackie, has been the most helpful and influential person in my journey. She’s my rock and the steady foundation I rely on. Jackie approaches every challenge with a positive attitude – her glass is always half full – and she has this incredible ability to offer meaningful, smart advice, no matter the situation.
She’s also an officiant here in New York City and marries many of the couples I photograph. Together, we run our small business, “Jackie & Sascha | The New York City Elopement Team.” It’s amazing to work alongside someone who shares my passion for helping couples create unforgettable moments. Jackie’s calm and steady presence has taught me so much, and I honestly couldn’t do this without her.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.saschareinking.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saschareinkingphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaschaReinkingPhotography
- Twitter: https://x.com/saschareinking
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JackieandSascha
Image Credits
Sascha Reinking Photography
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