DANA + TOM — an Intimate Wedding at Rathaus Duisburg
My final wedding of the season brought me to a familiar and charming location — the Duisburg Rathaus — for Tom and Dana’s small and heartfelt celebration. It was a beautiful reminder of how joyful and meaningful a simple ceremony can be when you’re surrounded by the people who matter most.
Tom and Dana chose to keep things minimal and intimate. With just close friends and family in attendance, their Rathaus Duisburg Hochzeit (German for civil ceremony at city hall) felt personal, warm, and filled with authentic emotion. The ceremony itself was short and sweet, but no less powerful. As they exchanged vows under the soft light of the registry office, the love in the room was undeniable.
Afterward, we stepped outside for a celebratory champagne toast. The couple laughed, clinked glasses, and took in the moment with their guests. Although the fall day was mostly sunny, a surprise rain shower caught us just outside the courthouse. But instead of letting it interrupt the day, Tom and Dana embraced it.
That unexpected weather gave us the opportunity to capture some of the most unforgettable images. With umbrellas in hand, we explored the historic Duisburg Rathaus, taking portraits in front of the stone walls and along the rain-soaked streets. The moody atmosphere, combined with the elegance of their outfits, made for a dramatic and romantic gallery — proof that even rain can add a little magic.
Once the skies cleared, we continued with portraits around the courtyard. The timeless architecture of the Duisburg Rathaus never disappoints, offering a classic and elegant backdrop for intimate city weddings like this one. Tom and Dana were naturals in front of the camera — their joy and connection shining through every frame.
Later, we made our way to their reception. It was a relaxed gathering filled with heartfelt toasts, laughter, and the kind of warmth only close-knit celebrations can bring. Before the evening ended, I snuck away with Tom and Dana for a few golden hour portraits, capturing the quiet beauty of those final moments together.
As my last wedding of the year, I couldn’t have asked for a better couple to close the season with. Tom and Dana were warm, easygoing, and completely in love. Their Duisburg Rathaus wedding was a beautiful reminder that it’s not the size of the event that matters — it’s the heart behind it.
Whether you’re planning a large traditional wedding or an intimate city hall celebration, there’s always room for beauty, spontaneity, and storytelling. With a little sunshine — and even a little rain — your day can be unforgettable too.
Fun Fact:
I used to live in Duisburg (and now live just 20 minutes away when I’m in Germany). It was the first place I really got to know when I moved here, and it still feels like home. For those who are new here, I split my time between Canada and Germany — with most of my weddings still happening in Winnipeg. That said, I’m looking forward to my first wedding of the year in Niagara Falls coming up soon. Stay tuned!