Yesterday’s unseasonably warm weather may be gone now but here’s a sweet engagement session to bring us back to summer. I met up with Shalu and Dan at the gorgeous Skylands Manor last September. These two went to the same high school, but didn’t meet until mutual friends invited them to a pool party. They didn’t hit it off at first, but it was the start of several meet-ups before going on their first date! For their engagement session they chose to go back to Skylands Manor because it’s the place where Dan popped the question and Shalu said yes! I loved hearing the details of their proposal story and having them point out all the spots that are special to them. Skylands Manor is a bit of a hike from where we live in Monmouth County but I never get tired of going to this place – it’s just such a beautiful place all year round. Today I’m excited to re-visit these images – can’t wait for Shalu and Dan’s wedding this summer! A couple more months of cold and we’ll be right around the corner from their July wedding at the Valley Regency. Enjoy these favorites from my time with them!
Skylands Manor Engagement
The first date
Shalu: We were supposed to go out the week prior after I took my SATs, but I was very sick. I was still getting over my cold, so I remember sniffling like crazy. In the mall food court he asked if I was hungry, and I stupidly said no – my stomach rumbled so loudly in protest. I remember cuddling in his car, and being so happy and comfortable in his arms.
Dan: We went to the mall and got Wendy’s. I asked her if she wanted anything, and she said no, so all she got was to take my large fruit punch home with her.
When they knew they had found the one
Shalu: Honestly, I have no idea. Everything felt so right from the beginning.
Dan: I don’t really remember the first time I thought it, but I do remember thinking it in the Poconos at the winter festival in 2012. It was a really nice romantic spot and everything just felt right.
The proposal
Shalu: We woke up one Thursday morning, and he surprised me with a trip to Skylands Manor. We had a lovely dinner at which I thought for sure he would propose – nope, did not happen. The next day, we were walking the grounds near the gardens and he kept urging us on. We sat at a cute bench and he started telling me how much he loved me and bam…he went down on one knee, and of course I said yes! Obviously I freaked out about the ring, what it all meant, and we sat there a little while…til I said, “let’s go to Sonic for lunch to celebrate!”
Dan: I remember she said yes, and I forgot to put the ring on. Oops!
One thing they love about each other
Shalu: He is absolutely hilarious, in a dry and awful kind of way. I always make shocking comments, but he one ups mine like no one else. It’s awesome to hear everyone’s reaction because somehow they all think he’s a sweet baby angel. Ok, but he kind of is.
Dan: Her differences and similarities compliment me so well and bring out the best in both of us. We make a really good team!
Besides getting married, one thing they’re looking forward to on their wedding day:
Shalu: Reaping the benefits of almost 2 full years of wedding planning! Being surrounded by family and friends on such a special day will be worth all the craziness :)
Dan: We spent a lot of time planning and I hope to be able to see all of our efforts come to life. Seeing ALL of our families in one giant place for the first time will be a truly special experience.
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