"Do you want to come back next year and do a 1 Year Anniversary Photoshoot?" I asked "OMG yes!" Melissa responded. Melissa and Tom’s wedding day took us on a slightly different route than anticipated...
We all knew from the start that the Barnegat Lighthouse, the iconic landmark we had hoped to include in their wedding photos, would be covered in scaffolding due to renovations. It was a bit disappointing as we were eager to capture the charm of the lighthouse in their wedding memories. But, you know what? We weren't disheartened because there were plenty of other picturesque spots we had planned to explore together that day. As the day unfolded, little did we know that Mother Nature had other plans for us. Just right before we were to capture the first look between Melissa and Tom, the skies suddenly opened up, and the rain came pouring down. We had planned to stop at various outdoor locations along the way to their ceremony, but the heavy rain coming in sideways made it impossible.
We were crossing our fingers as we headed to Barnegat Lighthouse, being 30 minutes away, just maybe the rain would let up. Miraculously upon arriving at the lighthouse the rain settled to a sprinkle and we were able to explore underneath umbrellas.
As we arrived at Melissa and Tom's 1 Year Anniversary Photoshoot, a sense of surreal magic filled the air. It was a momentous occasion, celebrating one year of their beautiful journey together, and the excitement was palpable. Little did we know that the day would be filled with heartfelt moments and breathtaking memories, making it an experience we would never forget.
Our first stop was Fantasy Island Amusement Park, a place that would elicit laughter and joy. Though the front entrance had undergone a revamp, it did not deter the couple from reminiscing about the happy moments they shared here. The photo session began with lightheartedness and a sense of nostalgia.
Next on the list were the Village and Schooner's Wharf, providing a charming backdrop for the couple's photos. Amidst the cozy shops and scenic surroundings, Melissa and Tom's love radiated, creating timeless moments captured through the lens.
We added a touch of fun by visiting the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop—a place brimming with coastal charm and cherished memories. This impromptu visit became an unexpected treasure, adding an extra layer of charm to their already magical day and reminding us all that love embraces every adventure, no matter how simple or spontaneous.
However, the highlight of the day was still waiting—the Barnegat Lighthouse. We kicked off the photo session by venturing into the enchanting wooded trails surrounding the lighthouse. Surrounded by the whispers of nature, the couple's love seemed to blossom even further in the serene embrace of the lush greenery.
We strolled along the sandy shores with the majestic lighthouse standing tall in the background. Hand in hand, Melissa and Tom walked the beach, leaving their footprints on the sands of time. The setting sun painted the sky with hues of pink and orange, as if nature itself was celebrating their love. It was a picture-perfect scene that captured the essence of their journey together.
We couldn't resist seizing one last opportunity to immortalize a moment of pure bliss. Melissa and Tom stood hand in hand on the rocks, perfectly positioned between the majestic Barnegat Lighthouse and the vast expanse of the ocean. In that fleeting moment, all the elements aligned, and the magic of the day culminated in a picture-perfect scene. It was a moment frozen in time—a reminder of the love, joy, and laughter that filled the air throughout their 1 Year Anniversary Photoshoot.
Little did they know that their adventure was far from over...
As we got to our cars, we found ourselves accidentally locked inside the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park parking lot. Panic turned into laughter, and our only choice was to call for help. With the aid of a helpful local, we finally found our way out, cherishing yet another amusing memory to add to their collection.
The 1 Year Anniversary Photoshoot had turned out to be a day of love, laughter, and surprises—a true reflection of Melissa and Tom's journey together.
If you asked me if I want to come back next year and do another photo session, my answer would be an enthusiastic "OMG yes!" Because capturing the ever-evolving love between two people is a privilege and an honor that I would gladly embrace time and time again. Cheers to love, laughter, and many more chapters in Melissa and Tom's beautiful love story!