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Your wedding day should feel relaxed, joyful, and completely yours.

I’m Alex Kaplan, a wedding photographer and videographer based in New Milford, NJ, serving Northern NJ, NYC, and the Hudson Valley. For over 30 years, I’ve helped couples enjoy their day without feeling rushed — while I quietly capture the real moments, natural portraits, and genuine emotions you’ll still love decades from now.

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Weddings New Jersey

Navi & Christian’s Elegant Engagement Party at The Armory NJ Restaurant | Perth Amboy NJ Photographer

October 13, 2025

When Navi and Christian chose The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, they knew they had found the perfect waterfront venue to celebrate their engagement surrounded by family and friends. As their engagement party photographer, I had the joy of capturing every emotional, elegant, and joy-filled moment of this unforgettable October evening.


Why Couples Love The Armory NJ Restaurant

Located at 200 Front St, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861, The Armory NJ Restaurant is one of Middlesex County’s premier event venues. Overlooking the scenic Perth Amboy waterfront, it combines modern sophistication with timeless elegance — the kind of space that feels both grand and inviting.

The venue features:

  • Floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking water views
  • A neutral color palette with gold accents and hardwood floors
  • Elegant chandeliers and curved white columns perfect for photos
  • A spacious terrace ideal for cocktail hour or golden-hour portraits

Whether you’re hosting a wedding, engagement, or milestone celebration, The Armory’s professional event team ensures every detail — from décor to dining — runs flawlessly.

Elegant reception setup at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy with tall blush and burgundy floral centerpieces, gold accents, and waterfront views captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Bride-to-be Navi and fiancé Christian sharing a kiss by the waterfront windows surrounded by lush blush and mauve floral arrangements at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Three-tier white buttercream cake decorated with cascading fresh roses and dahlias in burgundy, blush, and peach tones with eucalyptus leaves, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy.
Engaged couple Navi and Christian sharing a romantic moment by the Perth Amboy waterfront, with sailboats and soft afternoon light behind them, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography at The Armory NJ Restaurant.
Black and white portrait of Navi and Christian kissing along the Perth Amboy marina railing with sailboats in the background, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography during their engagement session at The Armory NJ Restaurant.
Engaged couple walking hand in hand along the Perth Amboy waterfront in elegant attire, featuring a white lace gown and black suit, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography at The Armory NJ Restaurant.
Engaged couple sitting together on the outdoor patio of The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, smiling and dressed elegantly for their waterfront celebration, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Groom-to-be kissing his fiancée on the forehead during a tender moment by the waterfront at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Elegant appetizer spread featuring hummus, pita, fresh mozzarella, tomato, and charcuterie arranged on rustic wooden boards at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Buffet display with gourmet Mediterranean dishes, grilled meats, breads, and sauces beautifully presented during an engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Appetizer table featuring samosas, fritters, and traditional Indian sauces including green chutney and tamarind dip, beautifully arranged at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Buffet selection of seafood dishes including shrimp, clams, and calamari served in stainless steel trays during an engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests serving themselves from a buffet featuring shrimp, clams, and assorted entrées during a waterfront engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Joyful family moment as guests greet one another and share laughter during an engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests enjoying the photo booth with playful props and oversized sunglasses during an engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Friends smiling and posing together at a beautifully decorated reception table during an engagement party at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests laughing and raising glasses in a joyful toast during an engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests raising their hands and cheering as a singer entertains the crowd during a lively engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests cheering and clapping as the couple joins the dance floor during an energetic engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests seated at elegantly decorated tables with floral centerpieces enjoying heartfelt speeches and laughter during an engagement celebration at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, captured by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Couple making a joyful grand entrance with sparklers at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Couple celebrating with family during grand entrance surrounded by sparklers at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Family giving a heartfelt speech during wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Bride and groom celebrating with family during a joyful wedding toast at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Bride and groom sharing their first dance surrounded by cloud effects at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Bride and groom dancing surrounded by guests on the dance floor at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Groom celebrating with friends and guests during wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Bride singing and dancing with guests during lively wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests sharing a joyful moment with fun props during wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Bride and groom posing with family wearing fun photo booth props during wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Groom lifted by friends during sunset celebration on the waterfront terrace at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests laughing and posing playfully during dinner reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests dancing and celebrating during the wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests laughing and dancing with colorful lights during the wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests cheering during a limbo dance on the wedding reception dance floor at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.
Guests laughing and playing limbo together on the dance floor during the wedding reception at The Armory NJ Restaurant in Perth Amboy, photographed by Alex Kaplan Photography.

Navi & Christian’s Engagement Party

A Luxurious Waterfront Celebration

The celebration began in the late afternoon, allowing time to capture the pristine ballroom before guests arrived. The décor featured tall floral centerpieces in blush, mauve, and burgundy tones accented with lush greenery and white blooms. Gold stands elevated the florals, while sage-green linens and crystal glassware completed the elegant design.

The Couple’s Look

Navi looked radiant in an off-shoulder white lace gown with long sleeves — a perfect mix of romance and refinement. Christian paired his black suit with a champagne tie, complementing her beautifully. Together, they exuded effortless grace.


Photography Highlights

Pre-Event Venue Details

Arriving early allowed me to capture clean architectural shots of The Armory’s ballroom, décor, and lighting before guests entered — perfect for couples researching Perth Amboy event venues.

Romantic Waterfront Portraits

The outdoor terrace offered a stunning waterfront backdrop for their portraits. The soft October light reflected off the water, adding a gentle glow to every frame.

Grand Entrance & First Dance

Their entrance was full of excitement — guests cheered as Navi and Christian entered, surrounded by family and love. Their first dance, enhanced by cold sparklers and fog, looked like a scene from a fairytale. Custom name screens and the glowing atmosphere made it unforgettable.

Family & Candid Moments

From laughter during speeches to parents tearing up during the dances, the night was filled with warmth and emotion. Some of my favorite photos came from these unposed, candid interactions that show the true essence of the celebration.

Culinary Highlights

The Armory’s team impressed guests with a gourmet buffet and beautifully styled appetizers, including charcuterie boards, hummus platters, and fresh displays. Every detail was executed with care — a testament to the venue’s commitment to excellence.

Cake & Dancing

The three-tier white buttercream cake adorned with fresh roses in burgundy, blush, and peach tones was a show-stopper. The dance floor stayed packed all night, with laughter, energy, and spontaneous group moments that made the evening unforgettable.


Why Choose The Armory NJ Restaurant

If you’re searching for Perth Amboy engagement party venues or Middlesex County wedding locations, here’s what sets The Armory apart:

  • Stunning Waterfront Views perfect for sunset portraits
  • Versatile event space suitable for intimate or large celebrations
  • Delicious in-house catering with elegant presentation
  • Professional service that keeps events running seamlessly
  • Architectural beauty that enhances every photo

Planning Your Event at The Armory

A few tips for couples:

  1. Book early — waterfront weekends fill fast.
  2. Visit the space in person to visualize your layout and lighting.
  3. Arrive before guests for clean venue and couple photos.
  4. Leverage both indoor and terrace areas for visual variety.
  5. Trust the venue team — they’re experts at creating seamless events.

Thank You, Navi & Christian

Navi and Christian, it was an absolute honor to photograph your engagement celebration. Your warmth, joy, and connection made every moment meaningful. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness as you continue your wedding journey.


Venue Contact

The Armory NJ Restaurant
200 Front St, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
📞 (732) 826-6000
🌐 www.armorynj.com


Ready to Capture Your Event?

If you’re planning a wedding, engagement party, or special event in New Jersey, I’d love to tell your story through timeless, emotional photography.
👉 Contact me today to check availability.

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The Calm Behind the Camera

About Me — But Really, It’s About You

The most meaningful wedding photos never come from stiff poses.
They come from the quiet laugh you didn’t think anyone saw.
The look on your partner’s face during the vows.
The warmth of your people all around you.

I’ve been doing this for over 30 years — and I still get nervous before every wedding.
Not because I’m uncertain, but because I know how much it matters.

After photographing hundreds of weddings over the past few decades, I’ve learned something simple:
The best photos happen when you feel fully present.

That’s why I work calmly, behind the scenes — guiding when it helps, then stepping back when the real moments unfold. I’m always anticipating what’s next, so you never have to think about a thing.

My goal is simple: to help you relax, feel confident, and walk away with photos that feel like you — not a filtered version of someone else’s idea of perfect.

Most of my couples say the same thing:
We’re so glad we didn’t have to worry.”

Behind the Camera

Alex made everything feel effortless — and the photos are incredible.”

Free parts of our entire wedding. 

“One of the most stress

— Kevin & Sarah
Alex Kaplan Weddings

Alex captured a version of me that actually felt confident and real.”

I look in photos

“I’ve always hated how 

— Tina R.
Alex Kaplan Weddings

it’s all there. Looking through our gallery feels like reliving the day.”

moment. Every laugh, every tear

“Alex didn’t miss a single 

— Alyssa & Brandon
Alex Kaplan Weddings

 ★★★★★ 560+REVIEWS

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