Kayla & Matt’s Long Valley, NJ Engagement Story
Kayla and Matt’s love story began long before they officially started dating. Growing up just two miles apart in Long Valley, New Jersey, they had known of each other since second grade. However, it wasn’t until junior year of high school — in Physics class — that Matt developed a serious crush on Kayla and finally built up the courage to ask her out.
Although Kayla was always focused on school and sports, Matt stayed persistent. Eventually, she said yes, and the two officially became a couple in June 2015.
From High School Sweethearts to Long-Distance Love
After high school, life took Kayla and Matt in different directions. While they dated on and off through college and early adulthood, they always found their way back to each other. Then, in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, their connection rekindled for good.
This time, it was Kayla who pursued Matt — just as persistently as he once pursued her.
At that point, Matt had moved back to New Jersey while Kayla was living in Philadelphia. Later, Matt relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, which led them into several years of long-distance love. Eventually, in 2023, they finally reunited and built their life together in Charlotte.
The Proposal in Charlotte, North Carolina
Matt’s proposal was the perfect mix of heartfelt and spontaneous. Even though he’s usually a planner, this time he trusted his instincts. The weekend before, he asked Kayla’s parents for their blessing. With the ring in hand, he decided on a Friday night that he would propose the very next day.
The following morning, Kayla came home from a workout when Matt suggested a casual coffee walk and breakfast. Still in her workout clothes and not suspecting a thing, Kayla agreed.
After breakfast, they took a walk through a nearby park. When Matt spotted a charming wooden bridge tucked into the trees, he stopped, began talking about their future, and then got down on one knee to ask Kayla to marry him.
The newly engaged couple spent the weekend celebrating quietly with their dog, Ruby, before sharing the news with friends and family. Later, they gathered in Long Beach Island (LBI) for a joyful celebration with loved ones.
Engagement Session by the Beach
For their beach engagement photos, Kayla and Matt wanted something timeless, natural, and full of joy. They plan to include soft floral details — and of course, their sweet dog Ruby.
Because the ocean has always been special to them, the beach felt like the perfect setting. It reflects their love for travel, the water, and relaxed adventures together.
Life Together Now
When they’re not planning their June 2026 wedding — just 30 minutes from where their love story began — Kayla and Matt are enjoying everyday life with Ruby. You’ll often find them taking long walks with her, heading to the lake or beach, or simply cuddling at home.
They love hiking, discovering new restaurants, cheering for Notre Dame and the Buffalo Bills, and spending time in Long Beach Island. Matt is also an avid golfer, and he’s currently teaching Kayla so they can spend weekends on the course together.
A Love That Came Full Circle
Kayla and Matt’s Long Valley, NJ engagement story is a beautiful reminder that some love stories truly come full circle. From childhood classmates to long-distance partners and now soon-to-be husband and wife, their journey has been filled with persistence, laughter, and deep connection.
If you’re planning beach engagement photos in Long Beach Island (LBI) or dreaming of a romantic, natural setting for your portraits, I would love to help capture your love story.
✨ Learn more about my engagement photography here:
https://deborahannphotography.net
