Marianna & Andrew | Belmar Engagement Session

From the minute I started talking with Marianna and Andrew, I could tell their relationship was something special. When I asked Marianna to tell me a little more about their story, I was not expecting to be in tears. Marianna and Andrew met in 2011 at a mutual friend’s party, and have been together ever since through life’s crazy ups and downs, like in 2013 when Andrew donated a kidney to Marianna’s dad. When Marianna told me that I was left completely moved and inspired. It’s not everyday you find love like that.  Marianna said, “I truly know that Andrew came into my life for a reason! He makes me the happiest girl in the world!” Together, these two can take on anything life throws at them. It’s such an honor to document this season of their life together, and be their wedding photographer.

The day we took Marianna and Andrew’s engagement photos, couldn’t have been a more perfect day! It was an evening filled with laughter, joy, and love. They included some incredible details like a gorgeous bouquet crafted by Reynolds Garden Shop in Manahawkin, a starfish and sand dollar from when Andrew’s mom lived in the Virgin Islands, a beautiful engraved ring box, and more.

We started our shoot exploring Allaire State Park, and then headed to Belmar beach nearby for a perfectly pastel sunset. The water was warm, and the beach was beautiful, so we definitely took advantage and basically went swimming at the end of the shoot. 😉 It was pretty epic, if I do say so myself. And just when you think it couldn’t get any better, we finished the session with a cherry on top! We went to the legendary Coney Waffle for a sideshow shake! This place is amazing! They made a true work of art milkshake for Marianna and Andrew. These two are dessert connoisseurs and enjoy date nights together trying all different kinds of desserts. It was truly a perfect ending to our day. (And since I can’t go to an ice cream place without getting ice cream (obviously), I had a cannoli waffle that was seriously heavenly.) If you haven’t been to Coney Waffle yet, you have got to try it!

I had the BEST evening ever hanging out with these two and photographing them. Thank you so much Marianna and Andrew! I’m so lucky to work with amazing couples like you guys! Can’t wait for your wedding in 2018!

This beautiful bracelet with her mom’s handwriting, was a gift to Marianna in loving memory of her mom.

Literally the ‘sweetest’ ending to an engagement session! 😉 Especially for two dessert lovers like Marianna and Andrew!