Cross Estate Gardens, Bernardsville

There’s a special kind of glow that accompanies motherhood, and capturing that radiant anticipation is truly an honor. I recently had the immense pleasure of photographing a beautiful maternity session at the breathtaking Cross Estate Gardens in Bernardsville, New Jersey, and the results are nothing short of magical!

Cross Estate Gardens, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of New Jersey, provides the perfect backdrop for a maternity photoshoot. Its diverse landscapes offer an array of stunning settings, from the elegant Walled Garden with its vibrant blooms and charming pathways to the serene woodland trails that provide a sense of natural tranquility. Every corner of this historic estate seems to whisper stories of beauty and growth, perfectly mirroring the journey of expectant parents.

For this particular session with Nikki & Jon, we started at the front of the mansion and worked our way into the garden. The soft, diffused light filtering through the trees cast a dreamy glow, enhancing the ethereal beauty of our gorgeous mama-to-be. The natural beauty of the gardens allowed for a relaxed and organic feel, letting the genuine joy and connection of the couple shine through.

Nikki & Jon are big fans of Lord of the Rings and the forest feel of the stone steps made the two look straight out of the storybook! They even brought a little onesie with a quote from the popular film.

What I love most about Cross Estate Gardens for maternity sessions is its versatility. Whether you envision a whimsical, floral-infused shoot or a more serene, nature-inspired collection of images, the gardens deliver. The changing seasons also offer a unique opportunity to revisit this stunning location, each time offering a fresh perspective and a new palette of colors.

Maternity photography is about more than just capturing a bump; it’s about preserving the profound love, hope, and excitement that precede the arrival of a new life. And when you combine that incredible emotion with a setting as captivating as Cross Estate Gardens, you create timeless memories that will be cherished for generations.

Thinking about your own maternity session? Let’s chat about how we can capture this special time for you amidst the beauty of New Jersey’s most enchanting locations!