I would have never guessed this engagement session at the NJ Botanical Gardens was taken in SEPTEMBER by the looks of the flowers all blooming, but Carly and Dan’s garden engagement session was full of fresh flowers, wine and cheese, guitar playing, and TONS of laughter.

 

They contacted me to shoot their engagement session immediately after getting engaged just 6 weeks ago and the minute we got off the phone, I knew we’d have a blast working together. Carly and Dan are the definition of a Laura Lee Couple: easy going, and fun-loving. They are best friends that enjoy being together, supporting one another, and cracking jokes, (constantly!) As I said, our session was FULL of laughter!

 

Carly and Dan met on a mission trip to 9th Ward, New Orleans, LA to help rebuild homes after Hurricane Katrina while in High School. They were both given the same assignment to build the bathtub and shower in a bathroom in one of the homes, and from there, they become great friends!

 

It wasn’t until college that their relationship blossomed into something more when Carly went down to University of Virginia for a weekend to visit Dan at college. On the first night of their weekend together Dan took Carly to a beautiful old world concert hall on campus to hear the UVA Jazz Band play!

 

Six years later, on the promenade overlooking the Hudson River and the skyline while walking their dog Lola, Dan proposed when Carly was least expecting it. Dan proposed with a stand in ring because they spoke in detail about picking out the engagement ring together, and I have to say it was one of the most beautiful rings I’ve ever photographed!! Three days later, they picked out Carly’s dream engagement ring in the Diamond District in Manhattan!

When I asked them both what they loved about each other this is what they said:

 

Carly: I love that Dan is my best friend. I love how he supports me and cares for me no matter what I am going through. I love his handsome smile and hair flip. 🙂 I love how he values what we both feel are truly the important things in life and his remarkable and inspiring loyalty. I love how although getting married made him nervous for the future, he took such a huge step because he knows that it is me that will be there by his side. Dan makes me feel safe and unbelievably loved.

 

Dan: How silly and funny she is, her pretty face, I love her caring nature, her loyalty, and her love.

 

Throughout the entire session, we had so much fun.  Dan surprised me with his really good guitar skills while they sipped champagne, and after the sun went down we all enjoyed some cheese and crackers. Honestly, my couples spoil me. Best dinner ever!!

 

I hope these pictures bring a smile to your face like they do mine!

 

Carly and Dan, thank you for bringing me into your life to document this wonderful and joyous time for you! I hope to see you again soon!