Verona Park Engagement Session ::
New Jersey Wedding Photographer

Photographer: Susan Elizabeth Photography
Makeup: Christina Trotta and Co.
Bouquet: Trader Joe’s
Dress: Vici

Ashley and Mike had the most beautiful golden light at their Verona Park engagement session. These two are naturals in front of the camera! Months earlier, Ashley asked me if her and Mike could recreate 2 photos of her grandparents from 1939 and it is the sweetest.thing.ever! By far it was my favorite part of the session!

How did you meet:

Mike and I started chatting through a dating app. We exchanged numbers but it eventually fizzled out like most of them do. A few months and a lot of bad dates later, I deleted the app. I got a text message one night from a guy named Mike who said we had chatted a few months back. He still had my number and was wondering if I wanted to meet for a drink. Here’s the problem – I didn’t remember who he was! After he sent over some pictures, I remembered the cute guy (in the embarrassing NY Giants pants from the 80s) from the photos and agreed to meet up with him for a drink. Before we knew it 3 hours went by and we were still chatting away. We’ve been together ever since!

The proposal:

I grew up spending my summers at my family’s beach house in Wildwood Crest. Memorial Day weekend is always the kickoff to our summer so Mike and I headed down the shore for the weekend. The weekend was a complete washout so as soon as I saw the sun peeking out I suggested that we go for a walk. We ended up at an old historic fishing pier (one of my favorite spots) that has a beautiful view of the ocean. We were looking out at the water when I saw the sweetest elderly couple holding hands at the end of the pier. I gushed at them and told Mike how cute they were. He responded, “Well that could be us if you say yes.” I turned around to see him on one knee with the most beautiful ring. I was shocked. So shocked that I asked a million questions and didn’t even put the ring on for almost 5 minutes, haha! He had the ring with him the entire weekend and was waiting for me to give him the perfect opportunity. It was so special because he proposed in my favorite place where I have so many childhood memories. I have baby pictures on that same pier he proposed on! He completely surprised me. We were able to celebrate with family the rest of the weekend. He had asked my dad months back but he kept the details of the proposal a secret. Oh and that sweet elderly couple is in the background of the proposal video my future brother and sister in law secretly took!

What’s your favorite thing about each other?

Mike: Ashley is as selfless as they come. She goes out of her way to help others whether it’s a friend, family member or co-worker. Ashley’s the first person I want to share good news with because she’s always genuinely happy for other people’s successes. I especially appreciate her selflessness when she asks me to go to a brewery when I know it’s the last place on earth she wants to be.
Ashley: Mike is incredibly hardworking and determined. From his job to our relationship, he puts his all into everything he does. From the very beginning, I always felt that I could be myself around him. He makes me feel so loved. We truly bring out the best in each other and I can’t wait to call him my hubby!

Here it is!!! Is this not the cutest idea? We had a few laughs recreating these and I’m so glad we were able to honor her sweet grandparents in this way!