My first engagement session of the year was a Manasquan Beach engagement session with Gaby and Fabian, and it was definitely a cold one—but such a beautiful one, too. We met in the afternoon just before sunset, and the entire beach was covered in a frozen sheet of ice, creating the most unique and dreamy winter backdrop along the Jersey Shore.

The icy shoreline reflected the soft winter light perfectly and made this session feel extra special. Winter engagement sessions in New Jersey have such a quiet, peaceful feel, and Manasquan Beach was absolutely stunning that afternoon.

When we first arrived, two deer were snacking on cut-up apples near the beach entrance before quickly running off as we got closer. Then, within just a few minutes of starting the session, a flock of seagulls flew in to grab the apples as well. The unexpected visitors made for some fun, candid moments—and a few adorable photo bombs throughout their engagement photos.

Despite the cold temperatures, Gaby and Fabian were total troopers, and their session is a perfect example of how beautiful a winter engagement session at Manasquan Beach can be. The frozen sand, coastal wildlife, and golden light just before sunset came together to create such a memorable setting.

I’m so excited to capture Gaby and Fabian’s wedding day this December at Crystal Point Yacht Club in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, and I can’t wait to continue documenting their story.

How Gaby & Fabian Met

Gaby and Fabian met through a mutual friend who happened to be Gaby’s childhood best friend and Fabian’s college friend. Over the years, they crossed paths many times in group settings and were always friendly. Everything changed at a New Year’s party hosted by Gaby, where a live band called 90s Night was playing.

That night, Fabian shared his interest with friends and eventually asked Gaby for her number. About a month later, the same band played a show in Hoboken, where Fabian was living at the time. He invited Gaby and the same New Year’s group to join him, and from there, the two continued talking. Before long, Fabian asked Gaby out on their first official date.

The Proposal at the Jersey Shore

Fabian proposed during a planned weekend getaway at their family’s shore house in Brick, NJ. On Friday night, they arrived for what Gaby thought was just a relaxing weekend away. The next morning, however, Fabian woke up unusually early already nervous and excited.

He waited outside on the porch with the ring in his pocket while Gaby got ready, which felt like an eternity to him. When she finally stepped outside, Fabian wrapped her in the biggest hug, told her how much he loved her, and shared that he wanted to spend the rest of their lives together.

He got down on one knee and proposed nearly dropping the ring as they both shook with excitement. Afterward, they went out to breakfast before returning home to celebrate with their closest friends and family who were waiting to surprise them.