Liberty State Park Engagement | Kyle + Adam

 

Liberty State Park | Jersey City, NJ

I will never forget how barren Liberty State Park was during this engagement photoshoot. It was a crisp, April evening in Jersey City during the covid pandemic and all I kept saying was “wow, I can’t believe we have this entire place to ourselves.” I come to this park often, since it’s about two miles from where I live, and I’m certain I won’t have this wonderful opportunity again. We took full advantage of it though, and tried to fit as many of the backdrops as we could with the little time we had on our hands. Initially we were going to have this session at Branch Brook Park during PEAK cherry blossom season, but we were so unlucky with the rain, and kept postposing our dates. Although that surely would have been super beautiful, there’s something about this set that I just love so much. Maybe it’s the urban setting. Maybe it’s because I get to showcase Jersey City (my backyard). Maybe it’s because the NYC skyline was just perfect that night. Or maybe it’s because there weren't 20 other photographers fighting for the same spot, and that allowed for a bit more intimacy. Whatever it was, I thought it was the perfect day. I can’t wait to be a guest at their wedding here at Maritime Parc this December!!

 

Bogey's Wedding | Becca + Austin

 

Bogey’s Cafe & Golf Club | Sewell, NJ

THROWBACKKK!! Becca and Austin’s wedding was my second full wedding of all time. I can’t believe that was almost two years ago now… and I also can’t believe how many weddings I’ve photographed since then. I have always been so transparent with my experience when booking couples, because I feel that’s only fair to them. But one thing I do always emphasize is that I am so WILLLING to work and learn. I value my relationships a lot and care so deeply about the people I work with. After every wedding, I always find one thing that I can improve on and although I’m nowhere near where I would like to be, I’m getting there. And I wouldn’t be able to do it without the ones who took a chance on me. I was so lucky with this couple and this group. They were such ideal clients — laid back, kind, understanding, patient, open, welcoming, and FUN!!! These groomsmen are still some of the funniest group of guys that I ever worked with. And this bridal party was the only one that not only the bride and groom wrote me sweet reviews, but also the majority of their wedding party. :’) I will always be so freaking grateful for my first few clients that trusted me and gave me honest feedback that helped me grow. Those first ones really stick with you.

Venue: Bogey’s // Dress: The Bridal Closet

 

Lake Lenape Engagement | Kelly + Nick

 

Kelly and Nick were my first couple of 2021!!! It felt so surreal getting back out there and photographing couples once again, after a LOOONG hiatus due to COVID-19. They kickstarted a BUSY BUSY season for me and for all wedding vendors. Seriously 2021-2022 is jam packed, so please be patient with your vendors out there. they’re trying their best. <3

Lake Lenape | Mays Landing, NJ

their love story

They met online on OkCupid, and their first date was at JDs pub in galloway, nj. Kelly has been battling cystic fibrosis, and is a double lung transplant survivor. (YAYY!!!) She said the most challenging part of their relationship were her hospital stays, constant coughing, being sick, and finally her transplant. They’d have date nights on Fridays and Nick was super supportive every step of the way — researching, learning, understanding her condition. He proposed on New Years Day after the ball dropped and they are planning on get married April of 2022 at Stone Harbor, NJ.

I used to row in high school and kelly was one of our coxswains. We used to have meets right on this lake!! I haven’t seen her since probably 2010?! but i’m not surprised at all by her strength in this whole CF recovery / battle. We had this session the Monday after Easter and I had leftover casarones from my in-law’s Easter celebration. I had them throw a little [biodegradable] confetti to end the night. Their connection was so sweet, gentle, and honest. A beautiful way to start the wedding season!