Connecticut & NY Wedding & Family Photographer | Shaina Lee Photography
Cart 0
Home About Weddings
Portfolio Blog Inquire
Cart 0
HomeAboutWeddings
Connecticut & NY Wedding & Family Photographer | Shaina Lee Photography
PortfolioBlogInquire

Waveny Park Engagement Session in New Canaan, CT | Mariah & Alexi

waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo-21.jpg

Arturo and I have been at Waveny Park in New Canaan for engagement sessions a lot this fall, but we really can’t complain! It’s a beautiful park with endless options of backdrops for our couples’ photos! We had an absolute blast spending time with Mariah and Alexi during their session last week, chatting about their wedding plans and getting to know them better. Even with the chilly autumn winds that evening, these two didn’t let their smiles leave their faces! We had the most perfect golden glow during their session, which only added to the joy and radiance Mariah and Alexi share. When these guys came to visit Arturo and me at our studio last month, we connected with them instantly! We always enjoy hearing when our couples read through our website, and we knew immediately that Alexi and Mariah had done just that when they told us we share a mutual love of mojitos!

In early March, Mariah had planned to go to brunch with her sister and two best friends at one of their favorite local restaurants in Stamford, Connecticut by the marina. It was the day after a windy rainstorm, and Mariah’s friend mentioned that her dad had called and asked if the ladies could check on his boat to make sure there was no damage during the storm since they would be near the marina. As Mariah and her friends were walking towards the boats, she was chatting with them about her plans for the rest of the day. When the girls got closer to the docks, Mariah saw someone standing at the end of boardwalk and quickly realized it was Alexi. They have been together since they were 13 years old, so it’s pretty hard for Alexi to surprise Mariah at this point! As she approached him she immediately realized what was happening. He kneeled down on one knee and asked Mariah to marry him! She of course said yes, and the two celebrated that evening with a trip to New York City!

Mariah and Alexi are getting married at The Inn at Longshore in Westport, Connecticut in August and we couldn’t be more excited for their celebration!

waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo

When did you know you'd found "the one"?

Mariah: “It is hard to pinpoint the exact moment I knew Alexi was "the one". Looking back at our relationship, he was there for me during a time in my life when I needed him the most. He has given me endless support and has helped me grow as a person.”

Alexi: “Honestly, I always knew. Sounds cliché, but here we are now, 12 years later and engaged.”

waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo

What's one thing you love about your partner?

Mariah: “Alexi makes me laugh everyday, no matter what, but I love that each day he makes it a point to make me smile. It'll be 8 in the morning, he has already said something to make me laugh.”

Alexi: “Her commitment. Her commitment to me, her family, her friends, the gym, the list goes on and on. I admire her for it and strive to be like her everyday.”

waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo

Besides getting married, what is one thing you're looking forward to on your wedding day?

Mariah: “I am so excited to have everyone we love in the same place at the same time!”

Alexi: “Seeing Mariah. I am excited to see all of our family and friends, however find myself thinking of how beautiful Mariah will look walking down the aisle.”

waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo

What's one thing you're looking forward to about marriage?

Mariah: “I cannot wait to start a family with my best friend. He is going to be the most amazing dad.”

Alexi: “Having our own little family. It's been just us for so long. The bond Mariah and I have is unbreakable and unique; I know it will continue when we have a family.”

waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo
waveny-park-engagement-session-new-canaan-connecticut-top-wedding-photographer-shaina-lee-photography-photo

I hope you enjoyed this Waveny Park engagement session!  Do you know Mariah and Alexi?  Show them some love by commenting below!


ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shaina Lee Photography is a husband and wife photography team serving Connecticut, New York, Hawaii and beyond.  We specialize in timeless, elegant, and romantic weddings while celebrating all couples in love. 

Are you planning a proposal, engagement session or wedding?

View Our Portfolio
Check Our Availability
Other Posts You May Enjoy
Coastal Summer Engagement Session in Milford, CT | Clare & Jeff
July 15, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Coastal Summer Engagement Session in Milford, CT | Clare & Jeff
July 15, 2026
Engagements & Couples

It’s always so sweet to watch a couple laugh their way through an engagement session, even when Mother Nature decides to change the script. Clare and Jeff’s coastal Connecticut summer engagement session at Walnut Beach in Milford, Connecticut was the perfect reminder that the best photos often come from simply embracing the moment together.

Read more →
July 15, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Quintessential New England Engagement Session at Southport Harbor in Fairfield, CT | Devon & Kevin
May 27, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Quintessential New England Engagement Session at Southport Harbor in Fairfield, CT | Devon & Kevin
May 27, 2026
Engagements & Couples

A coastal New England spring is undeniably romantic. The salty breeze, the soft gray skies, the quiet charm of historic streets; it all creates the kind of atmosphere that feels straight out of a love story. Devon and Kevin’s engagement session at Southport Harbor and the historic streets of Southport Historic District was exactly that!

Read more →
May 27, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Coastal Spring Engagement Session at Walnut Beach in Milford, CT | Marissa & Dante
May 13, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Coastal Spring Engagement Session at Walnut Beach in Milford, CT | Marissa & Dante
May 13, 2026
Engagements & Couples

There’s something undeniably romantic about a windy day by the water. The salty air, crashing waves, and movement in every frame create the kind of magic that can’t be staged, and Marissa and Dante’s coastal engagement session was the perfect example of that.

Read more →
May 13, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Spring Engagement Session at Hammonasset Beach in Madison, CT | Brenna & Stephen
April 29, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Spring Engagement Session at Hammonasset Beach in Madison, CT | Brenna & Stephen
April 29, 2026
Engagements & Couples

Brenna and Stephen’s Hammonasset Beach engagement session was the perfect reminder of just how beautiful this area of New England truly is. Set against the peaceful coastline of Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, Connecticut, their session felt effortless, romantic, and full of genuine connection.

Read more →
April 29, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Destination Engagement Session in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica | Sam & Miguel
January 28, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Destination Engagement Session in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica | Sam & Miguel
January 28, 2026
Engagements & Couples

Las Catalinas feels like a little slice of Europe dropped right onto the Pacific Ocean. With its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and relaxed coastal vibe, it’s a photographer’s dream and an incredibly romantic backdrop for an engagement session. Sam and Miguel’s destination engagement session was dreamy as ever, ending with an incredible Costa Rican sunset!

Read more →
January 28, 2026
Engagements & Couples
Fall Engagement Session in New Canaan, CT | Jackie & Alex
November 5, 2025
Engagements & Couples
Fall Engagement Session in New Canaan, CT | Jackie & Alex
November 5, 2025
Engagements & Couples

Fall engagement sessions in New England never disappoint, especially when they take place at Waveny Park! Jackie and Alex’s October session was filled with vibrant fall color, golden light, and the sweetest moments between two people who couldn’t stop smiling at each other.

Read more →
November 5, 2025
Engagements & Couples
Coastal Autumn Engagement Session in Southport, CT | Megan & Craig
September 19, 2025
Engagements & Couples
Coastal Autumn Engagement Session in Southport, CT | Megan & Craig
September 19, 2025
Engagements & Couples

I had the joy of photographing Megan and Craig’s engagement session in the charming neighborhood surrounding Southport Harbor. Southport is one of my favorite spots in Connecticut for portraits; it’s full of coastal New England charm, with its historic homes, quiet streets, and the harbor sparkling just as the sun begins to set.

Read more →
September 19, 2025
Engagements & Couples
Southport Beach Engagement Session in Fairfield, CT | Catie & Riley
January 22, 2025
Engagements & Couples
Southport Beach Engagement Session in Fairfield, CT | Catie & Riley
January 22, 2025
Engagements & Couples

Catie and Riley’s Southport Beach engagement session in Fairfield, Connecticut, was a dreamy one! Gentle waves, golden grasses, and crisp autumn air set the perfect stage for this heartwarming November engagement session.

Read more →
January 22, 2025
Engagements & Couples
Greenwich Point Beach Engagement Session in Greenwich, CT | Annie & Mike
June 19, 2024
Engagements & Couples
Greenwich Point Beach Engagement Session in Greenwich, CT | Annie & Mike
June 19, 2024
Engagements & Couples

Annie and Mike’s coastal engagement session at Greenwich Point Beach took place on a lovely spring evening in mid-April. I love waterfront locations for portraits when spring hasn’t 100% sprung, and this area never disappoints!

Read more →
June 19, 2024
Engagements & Couples
Spring Engagement Session at Waveny House in New Canaan, CT | Juliana & Nick
April 3, 2024
Engagements & Couples
Spring Engagement Session at Waveny House in New Canaan, CT | Juliana & Nick
April 3, 2024
Engagements & Couples

Juliana and Nick’s early spring engagement session at Waveny Park was nothing short of magical! The park's grounds and the timeless charm of the historic Waveny House set the stage for a perfect celebration of their love.

Read more →
April 3, 2024
Engagements & Couples
Fall Engagement Session at Eolia Mansion in Waterford, CT | Danielle & Jeff
October 6, 2023
Engagements & Couples
Fall Engagement Session at Eolia Mansion in Waterford, CT | Danielle & Jeff
October 6, 2023
Engagements & Couples

Danielle and Jeff’s engagement session was an absolute DREAM! It took place on a warm fall evening with the most beautiful golden hour. The sunlight shined through the gardens and trees, making these two glow even more than they already were!

Read more →
October 6, 2023
Engagements & Couples
Fall Engagement Session at Chamard Vineyards in Clinton, CT | Rose & Brian
October 2, 2023
Engagements & Couples
Fall Engagement Session at Chamard Vineyards in Clinton, CT | Rose & Brian
October 2, 2023
Engagements & Couples

It had been a while since Arturo and I photographed one of our couples at Chamard Vineyards, so it was great to be back there for Rose and Brian’s fall engagement session!

Read more →
October 2, 2023
Engagements & Couples
Engagements & CouplesShaina DiazOctober 22, 2018Waveny ParkShaina Lee Photography, top Westchester wedding photographer, top Connecticut wedding photographer, engagement session, Rye NY wedding photographer, New Haven CT wedding photographer, Hartford CT wedding photographer, Hawaii wedding photographer, Norwalk CT wedding photographer, Westport CT wedding photographer, Stamford CT wedding photographer, Waveny Park engagement session, New Canaan CT wedding photographer, New Canaan CT engagement photographer, CT fall engagement session, October wedding, CT October engagement session, CT October WeddingComment
Facebook0 Twitter LinkedIn0 Pinterest0 0 Likes
Previous

The Waterview Wedding in Monroe, CT | Sara & Andrew

WeddingsShaina DiazOctober 24, 2018The WaterviewShaina Lee Photography, top Westchester wedding photographer, top Connecticut wedding photographer, Rye NY wedding photographer, New Haven CT wedding photographer, Hartford CT wedding photographer, Hawaii wedding photographer, Stamford CT wedding photographer, Norwalk CT wedding photographer, The Waterview wedding, Monroe CT Wedding Photographer, CT fall wedding, CT October wedding, New England fall wedding, CT wedding venue, ballroom wedding, The Waterview, Karen Driscoll marriage officiant, Flowers By Danielle, W Hair & Color, DJ AB, Pnina Tornai wedding dress, Kleinfeld Bridal, Ellen Hunter NYC, David's Bridal bridesmaid dresses, Men's Warehouse, Minted wedding invitations, Kay Jewelers, October wedding, fall New England wedding, lake wedding1 Comment
Next

Waveny Park Engagement Session in New Canaan, CT | Jamie & Taylor

Engagements & CouplesShaina DiazOctober 19, 2018Waveny ParkShaina Lee Photography, top Westchester wedding photographer, top Connecticut wedding photographer, engagement session, Rye NY wedding photographer, New Haven CT wedding photographer, Hartford CT wedding photographer, Hawaii wedding photographer, Norwalk CT wedding photographer, Westport CT wedding photographer, Stamford CT wedding photographer, Waveny House engagement session, Waveny Park engagement session, October engagement session, fall engagement session, Connecticut fall engagement session, New Canaan CT wedding photographer, Stamford CT Wedding Photographer
 
Pineapple.jpg

shaina@shainaleephotography.com

navigate


HOME

ABOUT

DETAILS

PORTFOLIO

BLOG

INQUIRE

Shaina Lee Photography
Connecticut
2032477905 shaina@shainaleephotography.com
Hours
Mon 8am to 4pm
Tue 8am to 4pm
Wed 8am to 4pm
Thu 8am to 4pm
Fri 8am to 4pm
Your wedding details are more than beautiful objects; they’re the visual introduction to your story.⁠
⁠
The invitation suite, heirloom jewelry, perfume, cufflinks, handwritten notes… each piece contributes to the atmosphere and identity
Your engagement session is about so much more than beautiful photographs.⁠
⁠
It’s the first chapter of your wedding story; the opportunity to slow down, be present with one another, and celebrate this season before the pace of the wedding day a
Engagement sessions are about so much more than photos for your save-the-dates.⁠
⁠
They create space to build connection and trust with the person documenting one of the most meaningful seasons of your life.⁠
⁠
They allow you to:⁠
✔️ Become comfortab
Parents, be sure to play and have fun with your kids during your family session.  Pick the flowers.  Play in the sand.  These candid moments will be some of your most cherished photos in your gallery.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#ctfamilyphotographer #ctfamilyph
For your engagement session, choose a location that means something to you, or simply one that reflects who you are together.⁠
⁠
The most timeless photographs are rarely about chasing trends.  They’re about capturing connection in a setting tha
•BLOG POST•  A coastal New England spring is undeniably romantic.  The salty breeze, the soft gray skies, the quiet charm of historic streets; it all creates the kind of atmosphere that feels straight out of a love story.  Devon and Kevin&r
 

WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHERS IN CONNECTICUT, NEW YORK, & NEW ENGLAND

Inclusive photographers celebrating all people & cultures


AVAILABLE FOR DESTINATIONS

INQUIRE
 

T&C + PRIVACY POLICY | © 2010-2026 SHAINA LEE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC | A BLISSFUL WEBSITE