Happy Father's Day!

  •  NEW JERSEY FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER •

"A father's love isn't measured in words, but in the countless ways he shows up every day."

When I think about what makes a great dad, I think about my husband.

He's the dad who always shows up, whether it's for school events, sports practices, late-night homework questions, or simply being there when the kids need him. He may not always have the perfect answer, but somehow he always knows how to make them laugh.

Over the years, I've watched him guide, encourage, and support our children through every stage of growing up. The days can feel long, but looking back, it's these ordinary moments that become the ones we treasure most.

Happy Father's Day 

to the man who makes our family stronger, steadier, and a lot more fun.

And today, I'm also thinking about my dad in Poland. Even though we're separated by miles, I'm grateful for the values he passed down to me and the love and support he continues to give our family.

Kocham Cię, Tato!

Amalfi Coast Inspired Bridal Shower at Liberty House

• NEW JERSEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER •

There are events you photograph, and then there are events you feel. Nicole's bridal shower was absolutely the latter.

Sharing this one from the archives — and it's just as beautiful as I remembered.

I had the pleasure of photographing Nicole's bridal shower at Liberty House in Jersey City, and these photos still make me smile every time I come across them. Later that same year, I got to watch her and Tim say "I do." But before all of that, there was this morning — full of color, laughter, and so much love.

Tucked inside the stunning Liberty House in Jersey City — with the Manhattan skyline shimmering across the water — the morning unfolded like a dream pulled straight from the Italian coast. Blues and yellows spilled across every corner, the kind of palette that was warm, joyful, and so entirely her.

Liberty House has a way of making every celebration feel cinematic, and this one was no exception. The Amalfi Coast theme wove itself through every detail with intention — cobalt blues paired with warm, sun-drenched yellows. Lemons and oranges tucked into the décor added that extra touch of Mediterranean warmth, and beyond the windows, the Manhattan skyline stretched across the water.

The stunning balloon arch and bloom bar — crafted by the talented Casey Creative + Co. — set the most gorgeous backdrop for the whole celebration. The bloom bar gave guests a chance to build their own little bouquets, laughing and lingering over stems and blooms, leaving with something handmade and meaningful. The dessert table was a showstopper in its own right, anchored by a beautiful cake featuring an Amalfi tile motif — the kind of detail that makes you stop and just appreciate how thoughtful everything was. The games kept the energy going, and when Tim was still around for the couples' game, the room absolutely lost it — the kind of laughter that fills a space and stays with you long after.

Behind every beautiful detail was the woman who knows Nicole best — her mom, who planned the entire celebration. Nicole's friends and family filled the room with exactly the kind of warmth she deserved, and watching her move through the morning — genuinely happy, completely surrounded by her people — was a gift to witness through a lens. As her photographer, I've had the honor of being part of her journey toward the wedding day, and days like this feel like a true privilege.

The afternoon had a highlight no one could have planned better: Tim brought Nicole to the shower, and then stuck around — which meant we also got to celebrate him, because it happened to be his birthday. A cake appeared, the room cheered, and just like that the celebration became two-in-one. We even snuck outside for a few photos with that iconic city skyline as the backdrop. Spontaneous, sweet, and one of my favorite moments of the day.

Nicole and Tim- wishing you all the happiness, always.

•••

photography Monika de Myer || venue Liberty House || balloon arch Casey Creative + Co 

bloom bar Casey Creative + Co

Happy Mother's Day!

 

“Motherhood: All love begins and ends there.” — Robert Browning

Motherhood has a way of changing everything, and at the same time, making everything feel exactly the way it’s meant to be. 

Before I had my kids, I thought I understood love. And then they came into my world, and suddenly everything expanded in a way I could have never imagined. It’s not just more love—it’s a different kind of love. Constant, overwhelming, and woven into every part of who I am.

Motherhood has taught me that the days may feel long, but the years truly move fast. Somewhere between the routines, the chaos, the laughter, and the quiet moments, an entire life is being built together. It’s not always perfect, but it’s deeply meaningful.

Happy Mother's Day!

And to my beloved mom in Poland—thank you for giving me the kind of love, support, and childhood memories I now try to create for my own kids every day.

Kocham Cię, Mamo!

Lavallette Beach Engagement Session • Arianna & Dean

 NEW JERSEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER 

There’s something about the beach at golden hour that always feels a little slower, a little softer. The light stretches out, the colors settle into those warm pastels, and everything just feels calm in the best way. That’s exactly how Arianna and Dean’s engagement session in Lavallette unfolded.

From the moment we started, they were completely at ease with each other. No overthinking, no trying too hard—just the two of them, laughing, talking, and naturally falling into step together. It’s always so special to witness that kind of connection, where everything feels effortless.

Their story started a few years ago in a math class at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. What began as a simple college connection turned into something lasting—they’ve now been together for five years. Hearing that, it made so much sense watching them together. There’s a comfort between them that only comes with time, with shared routines, and with truly knowing one another.

Their first date already hinted at that thoughtfulness. Dean planned a night out in Philadelphia and surprised Arianna with dinner at a steakhouse, both of them dressed up for the occasion. It’s easy to imagine that excitement, that feeling of something new beginning. And even now, that hasn’t changed much—they still love going out to try new restaurants, calling themselves big foodies, while also appreciating the everyday moments like cooking dinner together or even running errands side by side.

As the sun started to dip, the sky turned into the softest mix of pinks and golds, almost like it was set up just for them. The kind of light that makes everything feel a little more meaningful, a little more memorable. It wrapped around them as they walked along the shoreline, barefoot in the sand, arms around each other like they had nowhere else to be.

They stayed close the whole time—laughing at the little things, stealing quiet moments in between, and just enjoying being there together. It never felt posed or forced. Just real, easy, and full of that kind of joy that you can’t fake.

In January, Dean proposed in their apartment, just the two of them. A quiet, private moment that felt true to who they are. The ring itself carries so much meaning—it features the diamond from his mother’s engagement ring and the band from his grandmother’s. It’s one of those details that says so much about family, history, and the life they’re building together.

Arianna shared that what she loves most about Dean is how outgoing, kind, and generous he is, and especially how he’s always fully himself no matter who he’s around. Dean described Arianna as his best friend and fiancé all in one, and said that no matter what they’re doing—even the most ordinary things—they always have a good time together. That really stayed with me, because it’s exactly what you see when you’re around them.

They describe themselves as go-with-the-flow, the kind of couple that enjoys the little things and doesn’t rush through life. They value time with family and friends, and they make space for fun, whether that’s trying a new restaurant or remembering their favorite trip together to Charleston and Kiawah Island.

Arianna and Dean have such a natural way of being together. It’s in the way they look at each other, the way they lean in without thinking, the way they laugh without holding back. The kind of love that doesn’t need direction—it just shows up on its own.

Sessions like this are always a reminder that the best moments aren’t complicated. It’s the simple ones—the soft light, the ocean in the background, and two people completely wrapped up in each other—that end up meaning the most. 

Congratulations, Arianna & Dean!

The Madison Hotel Wedding • Alexandra & Sean

•  NEW JERSEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER •

July showed up in the best way for Alexandra and Sean’s wedding at The Madison Hotel. Warm air, long golden light, and a room full of people ready to celebrate made it the kind of day you wish you could bottle up and relive.

From the moment the bridesmaids stepped into the room, you could feel the tone of the day. They brought serious style in gorgeous shades of blue that somehow felt both classic and fresh. The palette set the stage beautifully, especially paired with florals that were nothing short of unreal. 

But what truly made the day unforgettable was Alexandra and Sean themselves.

Their connection is the kind you can feel across the room. It’s fun without being flashy. Deep without being heavy. Totally effortless. They have this natural rhythm together, the kind that doesn’t need to be explained. You just see it in the way they look at each other, in the way they laugh mid-conversation, in the quiet moments between the big ones.

The speeches were a highlight of the night. Friends and family shared stories about how they met and how they just knew. There was laughter, a few happy tears, and that collective nodding from the crowd when someone tells a story that perfectly captures a couple. It was clear this wasn’t just a celebration of a wedding day. It was a celebration of a relationship that has been steady, joyful, and real from the start.

As the evening unfolded, the vibe only got better. The dance floor filled quickly and stayed that way. Conversations flowed. Glasses clinked. Every corner of the room felt alive.

What a night!

Alexandra and Sean, your July celebration was pure magic. 

Wishing you a lifetime of joy, laughter, and so much love.

Congratulations!

Parents-To-Be Session • Summer & Michael

 •  NEW JERSEY FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER • 

There’s something really special about photographing this stage of life.

It’s a season filled with waiting and wondering, where you know things are about to change, but right now still feels full and steady. That’s exactly what it felt like spending time with Summer and Michael.

We started their session in the studio, which set a calm, relaxed tone. With fewer distractions, it was easy to focus on the small things. The way they naturally leaned into each other. The quiet smiles. The comfort that comes from being fully at ease with someone. Nothing felt forced. It was just them, enjoying the moment they’re in.

Afterward, we headed outside to take advantage of the fall colors. The trees were glowing, the air was crisp, and the light was warm in that way only autumn can be. Being surrounded by all that color felt like the perfect backdrop for this chapter of their lives. Everything felt alive and changing, but still grounded.

As we walked and talked, the session became lighter and more playful. There was laughter, easy conversation, and that unmistakable sense of excitement for what’s ahead. You could feel how connected they are, not just as a couple, but as a team stepping into something new together.

Sessions like this are always a reminder that love doesn’t stay the same. It grows, shifts, and becomes something deeper over time. For Summer and Michael, this season isn’t just about waiting. It’s about becoming.

And capturing that, right here in the middle of it all, is what makes these sessions so meaningful.

The Meadow Wood Wedding • Jenna & Dan

 • NEW JERSEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER •

Last summer, Jenna and Dan said their vows at The Meadow Wood, and from the very first moment, it was clear this day was going to be something special.

Their ceremony took place outdoors beneath a wide, open sky. It felt calm and intimate, even with a crowd gathered. When they shared their vows, everything else seemed to fade away. The words were personal and thoughtful, and the way they looked at each other made it obvious this wasn’t about putting on a show. It was about the two of them, fully present and completely in love.

That feeling carried through the entire day. Friends and family brought so much energy, especially during the speeches. One minute the room was filled with laughter, the next it was quiet with happy tears. It was heartfelt without being heavy, fun without feeling forced. A perfect reflection of Jenna and Dan themselves.

The design tied everything together beautifully. Elegant florals paired with bold, deep pink accents added just the right amount of drama and warmth. Every detail felt intentional, but nothing felt overdone. The space looked incredible, but more than that, it felt alive.

What stood out most wasn’t the setting or the decor. It was the emotion in the room. Joy, excitement, gratitude, and a deep, steady love that you could feel no matter where you stood.

This wasn’t just a wedding day. It was the start of a new chapter, celebrated exactly the way it should be—surrounded by the people who matter most, soaking in every moment.

Congratulations, Jenna and Dan!

Your day was unforgettable in all the right ways.

A ROMANTIC PROPOSAL AT THE HIGHLAW IN WEST ORANGE, NJ • KAYLEE & FRANK

  • NEW JERSEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER •

Some proposals look effortless. 

That’s usually because a lot of care happened quietly beforehand.

Weeks before the proposal, Frank reached out to me with a clear intention. He wanted the moment to feel natural, meaningful, and completely centered on Kaylee. No big production. No distractions. Just something that felt like them.

We met at The Highlawn ahead of time and walked the property together. We talked through the flow of the day, where the light fell, and which spots felt the most intimate. Frank already had a vision. The gazebo stood out immediately. Tucked away, calm, and quietly beautiful.

He planned everything down to the details. The timing. The placement. Asking his brother to bring in two floral arrangements to frame the space without giving anything away. Then all that was left to do was wait.

On the day of the proposal, the weather shifted. A light drizzle settled in. Fog rolled across the skyline, softening the view of New York City until it nearly disappeared. Instead of changing the plan, we leaned into it. The fog made everything feel more private. More still.

When Frank got down on one knee, the world seemed to slow. Kaylee’s reaction came first. Surprise. Emotion. That quiet intake of breath when you realize what’s happening. And then, without hesitation, she said yes.

No crowd gathered. No phones raised. Just a real moment, exactly as he hoped it would be.

Afterward, they made their way to the upper patio. Champagne popped. Laughter followed. The kind of celebration that doesn’t need much more than a shared look and a few deep breaths.

Rain or shine, it was perfect.

Congratulations, Kaylee + Frank!

Merry Christmas from The de Myers

As Christmas arrives, I hope your home is filled with warmth, laughter, and the comfort of familiar traditions. May your table be surrounded by loved ones, your conversations linger a little longer, and your heart feel lighter with each simple moment shared. 

Wishing you a season that feels both joyful and deeply comforting.

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Taylor & Suhan • Valley Regency Wedding

 NEW JERSEY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Taylor and Suhan’s wedding at Valley Regency was the kind of day that just felt right from beginning to end. It was relaxed, emotional, and full of the quiet moments that make a wedding feel personal.

Taylor wore a classic ballgown that suited her perfectly—elegant without being over the top. Her bouquet of white roses and hydrangeas set the tone for the rest of the day: clean, timeless, and full of soft beauty. Her bridesmaids matched the style effortlessly in black dresses that gave everything a chic, modern edge.

Suhan and his groomsmen balanced the look with navy and black tuxedos, keeping the overall palette sharp and refined. Together, the entire wedding party looked coordinated in a way that felt natural, not forced.

The ceremony was emotional in all the best ways. You could see how much this day meant to them, and you could feel how much joy it brought to their families. There were tears, laughs, and a lot of those stolen glances that say more than words.

The reception carried that same warmth. The tables were dressed in white with black accents—simple, crisp, and undeniably stylish. Guests enjoyed the kind of night that flows easily: heartfelt toasts, good music, and a dance floor that filled up fast.

What stood out most wasn’t a single moment but the overall feeling. Taylor and Suhan were completely present with each other, soaking in their day. Their families blended naturally, their friends showed up with full hearts, and the whole celebration felt grounded in love.

It was a beautiful start to their life together—classic, genuine, and unforgettable in the quietest, most meaningful ways.

Congratulations, Taylor & Suhan!