Gorgeous Engagement Photo Locations in NJ
I was so excited when Elizabeth and Dan chose their gorgeous summer engagement photo spots! Not only did I get to capture this sweet couple in the lush greenery of Deep Cut Gardens, I also got to venture with them to Sandy Hook Beach! Both spots are perfect engagement photo locations in New Jersey! Adding in an outfit change and a location change is a wonderful way to get even more beautiful photos from your engagement photo shoot!
Elizabeth and Dan’s Love Story
Elizabeth and Dan met at Rutgers during their senior year. As neighbors, they were often together in the dining hall and at social events and the sparks resulted in little crushes for each of them! They remained friends while at college and randomly ran into each other in Asbury Park a year after graduation. The chance encounter led to drinks at Porta where Elizabeth spilled the beans on her crush and the rest was history!
Last August, Elizabeth met up with her sister back on the Rutgers campus for what she thought was a cute little photo shoot and lunch. Elizabeth began to walk across the iconic “Kissing Bridge” on Cook Campus and was surprised to find Dan waiting for her at the other end! Dan explained the folklore of the bridge: if a girl crosses the bridge to meet a boy and kisses him, their love will be eternal. Dan kissed Elizabeth before getting down on one knee!
Deep Cut Gardens Engagement Photos
Elizabeth and Dan started their Deep Cut Gardens engagement session along the prettiest path that winded through a beautiful arch of leafy branches. The two smiled, twirled, and shared a sweet kiss as they basked in the summer sun and took in the gorgeous gardens. Elizabeth wore a lovely light pink floral dress while Dan looked dapper in navy and white. I loved seeing this adorable couple share laughs and fun during their engagement photos! While they love to spend time together working out, watching movies, cooking, and traveling, I think Elizabeth and Dan can add photo shoots to their list of favorite activities! They were so happy and relaxed in front of the camera!
Whimsical Deep Cut Gardens Engagement
Deep Cut Gardens provided the perfect scenic backdrop for Elizabeth and Dan’s engagement photos. The park was bursting with beautiful florals and lush greenery. The sky was a perfect pale blue and the clouds made for the softest light. We were so lucky it turned out to be such a stunning summer day! The forecast for this session was 100% rain and thunderstorms. It was POURING on my drive there! By some miracle, minutes before the session, the rain stopped and the sun came out. I’m still in awe of how beautiful the day turned out!
Sandy Hook Beach Engagement Photos
After capturing their lovely Deep Cut Gardens engagement photos, Elizabeth and Dan headed to the Sandy Hook beach to soak up the sun together. This sweet couple found a fun pop of color by the kayak stand which complimented Elizabeth’s gorgeous coral lip color! They joined hands and explored the beach, feeling the ocean breeze and sand between their toes. Dan scooped Elizabeth up and twirled her around as they both laughed together. It was such a sweet moment!
Beach Engagement Inspiration
Elizabeth and Dan showed off their adventurous side by venturing into the waves during their NJ beach engagement photos! The light from the setting sun reflected beautifully on the water and bathed them in a sparkling glow. The two joined hands and made their way to a towel on the dunes to dry off. Elizabeth and Dan cuddled up together and took a moment to enjoy the gorgeous sunset and each other’s company.
Elizabeth and Dan’s stunning engagement photos were so much fun to capture! I loved getting to go to two locations (and I always appreciate an outfit change!). I can’t wait to photograph their wedding next June at The Loft at Jack’s Barn!
Engagement Photo Locations: Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown, New Jersey and Sandy Hook Beach in Highlands, New Jersey
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See more beautiful beach engagement photos from this winter Sandy Hook Beach engagement session! Or contact me anytime to inquire about photography for your wedding!
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Karina Mekel is a romantically whimsical NJ wedding photographer capturing special moments throughout the East Coast. Follow along with these timeless love stories on Instagram @karinamekel or get in touch with Karina here.
