Maya and Matthew’s connection spans decades. They first met as kids running summer track in Chicago, forging a friendship that lasted through different schools and miles between them. Then, in July 2022, Matthew surprised Maya with a heartfelt proposal at Buckingham Fountain—complete with a blindfold, a gorgeous floral arch, and a sprinkling of family and friends who flew in from all over the country to celebrate. It’s no wonder they were eager to keep that spirit of adventure alive, documenting another big moment in a city that means so much to them.
After their engagement, they briefly called Prospect Park home. Naturally, this Brooklyn neighborhood had to play a starring role in their love story. A place they once saw on daily walks quickly became the perfect backdrop for capturing genuine memories before returning to Chicago to plan their July 2024 wedding.
Admittedly, when Maya and Matthew told me they wanted an NYC engagement session in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, I could hardly wait to pack my bags. Truthfully, I’ll find any excuse to hop over to New York City—the majority of my family is from here, and it’s hands down one of my favorite places in the world.
When they said they wanted engagement photos in Prospect Park, I instantly felt the spark of possibility. This lush, winding park offers all the dreamy scenery of Central Park—minus the crowds—making it a gem for New York City engagement sessions. Everywhere you turn, there’s another postcard-worthy spot: tree-lined paths, stone bridges, spring blossoms just waiting to be photographed.
For Maya and Matthew, the location was more than just a pretty place. They spent countless weekends exploring the area, grabbing coffee, and planning wedding details nearby. Incorporating those familiar streets, benches, and blooming corners adds an extra layer of meaning to their pictures, turning simple snapshots into a visual record of where they truly felt “at home” in NYC.
Maya arrived in a breezy outfit that showcased her heirloom ring—an inheritance from her mother that glowed with history and sentiment. Matthew matched that energy with a casual-yet-confident style, ready to laugh at their inside jokes and dance around the park’s paths if the moment felt right. They were glowing, thrilled to be photographing another chapter of their story in a city that had become part of their journey.
Strolling through Prospect Park with them was like touring a favorite neighborhood with good friends, rather than conducting a formal shoot. Every so often, I’d pause to snap a candid moment—a shared laugh under a blooming tree or an impromptu dip near the stone arches. Moments like these, unplanned and genuine, are where I believe true photography magic happens.
What I love most about Maya and Matthew is the easy way they finish each other’s sentences and crack up over shared memories. Their bond is clearly built on a foundation of friendship, faith, and mutual respect. As a wedding photographer, I aim to preserve those real, unfiltered glimpses into who they are as a couple. Whether it’s a gentle forehead kiss or uncontrollable laughter, it’s these spontaneous beats that you can’t stage or script—and that’s exactly why their session felt so heartfelt.
They also opened up about their busy schedules—Maya at an consulting group, Matthew at an investment firm—and how these lighthearted moments keep them grounded. Hearing them describe balancing big careers with deep, personal faith reminded me that capturing love is about more than just pretty photos; it’s about reflecting each couple’s unique story.
Maya and Matthew’s NYC chapter is a brief but treasured stop along their journey. Next, they’ll be tying the knot in July 2024 at The Geraghty in Chicago, a celebration that promises personal touches galore, like sweet potato pie instead of a traditional cake. Listening to them talk about this next step, I can’t help but feel giddy for them—they’re about to blend everything they love (Chicago, family, faith) into one unforgettable day.
Whether you’re eyeing a Prospect Park engagement session or planning a picture-perfect wedding in Chicago, I’m here to capture every detail. If you’re on the lookout for a photographer who’s ready to chase those heartfelt moments wherever they happen—be it in the Big Apple or the Windy City—let’s connect. I’d love to help you tell your story, one genuine snapshot at a time.
MEET THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Jasmine Oliver; Owner of J Lauryn Photography
Hello there, and welcome to our journal. Our timeless wedding photography captures the true essence and emotions of a once-in-a-lifetime day so our clients can relive and share their individual love stories for generations to come. We work for unique & diverse couples who are focused on crafting a love-filled celebration of their wedding in Chicago, NYC and destinations worldwide. My passion is telling my clients unique, authentic love stories to enjoy and share for a lifetime.
