Charming Fall Jersey City Engagement Session | Ashley + Matt

Paulus Hook | Jersey City, New Jersey

I’m beyond thrilled to share Ashley and Matt’s fall Jersey City engagement session with you! Ashley and Matt are one of my incredible 2024 couples! I had the honor of photographing their engagement session amidst the vibrant streets of Jersey City’s Paulus Hook area.

Their Love Story

Ashley and Matt’s love story began in a modern-day fairy tale fashion—through a Bumble match in March 2020, just before the world paused due to the global pandemic. Despite the initial setback in their plans, their connection only grew stronger during those months, fostering a bond through FaceTime dates while Ashley was with her parents in Minnesota until they finally met in person that August.

The Proposal

Fast forward to March 2023, when Matt orchestrated a heartfelt proposal. Ashley was suspicious when Matt had “secretly” gone to Minnesota in February to stay with her parents while she was on vacation to the Bahamas.  She quickly put it together and knew it was coming!

Matt had incorporated sentimental details from their first date in the lead-up to his proposal. One of their favorite restaurants in Jersey City is Satis Bistro, where they had their first date. Matt had made a reservation there for dinner one evening. Before dinner, they brought their dog Winston out on a walk along the river. Matt asked Ashley to sit on the same bench they sat on before their first date, and he proposed! They ended the evening celebrating at Satis Bistro.

In Their Own Words

Ashley and Matt enjoy simple yet meaningful moments together. Whether exploring new spots with Winston, cheering for Wisconsin sports, or relishing date nights at their favorite places like Lighthorse Tavern and The Archer, their relationship radiates joy and comfort. 

When I asked Ashley and Matt what they love most about each other, they told me, “Matt is my best friend; he challenges me to try new things, is very supportive, and makes me feel special. He is very logical and puts up with my messiness. Ashley is an extremely thoughtful, caring person who constantly puts the needs of her friends and family before her own. And she is the best dog mom to Winston, who doesn’t fully understand how lucky he is.”

Scroll through the gallery below to see more from their fall Jersey City engagement session. Stay tuned as we eagerly anticipate Ashley and Matt’s fall wedding at Porto Leggero!