Bernardsville, New Jersey
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Christine and Colin’s engagement session at Cross Estate Gardens was nothing short of magical. The skies looked like they were threatening to to open up all day, but we lucked out! Not a single drop fell during our time together and the soft, moody light made the spring blooms in the garden look even more vibrant.
These two have such a joyful, contagious energy, and their love story is as fun as it is serendipitous. It all began junior year at Syracuse University during a beer pong mixer between Colin’s fraternity and Christine’s sorority. Paired as opponents, Colin won the game (no surprise there!), but Christine definitely won the night. They spent the rest of the evening talking, dancing, and forming the kind of connection that lasts long after college ends — almost eight years later, here they are!
Christine had actually heard about Colin before they officially met, from friends who described him as “the cute one that everyone had a crush on.” She even knew his go-to karaoke song was Drops of Jupiter by Train, which just so happened to be the song she already had in mind for her future wedding. Coincidence? Maybe. Fate? Probably.
After so many years together, Christine had no idea that Colin was planning a proposal — and that was exactly how he wanted it! He planned everything on his own (using her Pinterest board for inspiration) and caught her completely off guard. The week leading up to the proposal had been a rough one for Christine, filled with stress and exhaustion. She almost canceled their planned “double date,” but powered through, unaware that Colin was trying to stick to a very important secret schedule.
While walking to meet their friends by the water (after being told dinner was delayed) Colin dropped to one knee and asked the question Christine never saw coming. The surprise quickly turned to celebration, and the next day their closest friends and family joined them to toast the newly engaged couple. It was, as Christine put it, the best weekend ever.
Currently living outside of Boston, Christine and Colin love anything that involves a little friendly competition. Whether it’s cornhole at a brewery or a spontaneous game night, they’re always up for a challenge — and they make a perfect team.
I had the best time photographing their engagement session among the blooming florals and winding garden paths at Cross Estate Gardens. Their chemistry, laughter, and warmth were contagious, and I’m so excited to capture their wedding day next June at Fiddler’s Elbow. It’s going to be an incredible celebration of a truly special love!
