Manuela and Frank’s love story began in the most unexpected of ways—during gym class on the first day of school. It was her sophomore year and his senior year. Frank first saw Manuela from the bleachers, walking in alongside a mutual friend. Immediately curious, he asked their friend about her. Fate seemed to be on their side when Manuela switched electives and found herself in the same class as Frank shortly afterward.

Their connection deepened quickly. One day, Frank showed up to one of Manuela’s tennis matches. While she played, Frank’s friend teased him loudly from the sidelines, causing such a distraction that Manuela had to pause mid-game to tell them she could hear everything. Frank, slightly mortified but also seeing his in, messaged Manuela on Facebook later that night. The two talked every day for a month after that first message until, while watching Finding Nemo (such a classic) he asked her to be his girlfriend. They’ve been locked in as a pair ever since!

Summer Wedding at Camp Sacajawea, NJ

Couple getting married at a summer camp holding hands Sacajawea NJ

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Weddings

Alyssa and Kevin’s journey is one of those magical, “small world” romances that makes you believe the universe really does have a plan.

Growing up just 20 minutes apart on the Jersey Shore—Kevin in Oakhurst and Alyssa in Ocean Grove—they never crossed paths. They went to the same college (University of San Diego!), spent summers just towns apart, and even shared mutual friends. But it took a dating app and a well-timed match to finally bring them face-to-face.

Non-Traditional Wedding In Asbury Park, NJ

Asbury Park Boardwalk Wedding Photos

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Weddings

Love often finds its way in the most unexpected moments, and for Desiree and Matt, it all began on a lively night on Long Island, New York. Desiree was visiting friends from college when she stumbled into The Inn, a bustling bar where fate had something special in store for her. Meanwhile, Matt, a Long Island native, was dancing with his friends upstairs. As Desiree searched for her missing friends, she crossed paths with Matt, who playfully asked her to dance. Shyly, she declined, explaining her mission to find her friends, but she made a promise—a pinky promise, no less—that she would return if they remained lost.

Spring Wedding at The Whitechapel Projects

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Weddings

As you know from reading past blog posts, I believe that in order for us to know how this absolutely stunning couple got here- to their engagement session- we should start with how they began. We should start with how they found each other and, in turn, fell in love.

Samantha and Alex’s love story began in the most unexpected yet perfectly fitting way—over a casual dinner in their college dining hall. It was August 25, 2018 (yes we have the receipts), just three days into their freshman year, when mutual friends introduced them. The moment Samantha noticed Alex’s prominent birthmark on his neck, her natural boldness took over. Without hesitation, she blurted out, “Wow, the third day and you already have a hickey on your neck?” That direct and playful comment set the tone for their dynamic from the very start.

Spring Engagement Session at The Beekman Hotel

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Couples

When a couple realizes they fell in love at The MET, it’s a no-brainer that we must return to the beginning of their love story for their engagement session! So, let’s go back to the beginning: The night Jordan met Sam, New York City was buried under a thick blanket of snow. It was their friend Emmy’s birthday, and she had invited a smattering of pals out to celebrate at Madam Marie’s, a cozy little bar in Queens. At first, Jordan wasn’t sure about making the trek from Flatbush—the thought of navigating the city in a blizzard wasn’t exactly appealing. But something made her decide to go.

Spring Engagement Session at The MET & Central Park

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Couples

Love stories come in all forms, but there’s something extra special about a modern-day Tinder success story! Arianna and Damiano’s love story began with a simple swipe and led to an unforgettable first date over sushi. They talked for hours, lost track of time, and have been inseparable ever since.

Spring New York Public Library & Central Park Engagement Shoot

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Couples

Sam and Jacob’s scenic New Jersey engagement session felt like a movie- they focused on each other with loving looks, laughter and kisses. They chose to have their engagement photos taken where they had their first date- a bench on the top of a hill at Round Valley Reservoir.

Couples

Summer Round Valley Reservoir Engagement Session | Samantha + Jacob

I'm Kayla Lavallee

A New Jersey Wedding and Elopement Photographer!

Capturing intimate and intentional moments to eternalize your memories.  It's all built on human connection, being comfortable with your photographer is the most important part of the experience in order to have photos you will be absolutely obsessed with.  

I can't wait to get to know you and bring your vision to life!

I hope this blog page can help you feel inspired to envision your own milestone photo moments.  

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