Valentine’s Portraits | Westfield NJ Children’s Photographer

Sweet Smiles & Playtime: Our Valentine’s Day Pop-Up at Small Town Play Cafe

Professional child's portrait taken during a Valentine's Day pop-up event in Union County.

As a Westfield NJ children’s photographer, there is nothing I love more than a high-energy holiday event! Our latest Valentine’s Day portraits at Small Town Play Cafe were a massive success. Between the stunning red backdrop and the custom balloon garland, we captured the perfect mix of professional quality and childhood wonder.

Love was in the air (and in the play pits!) at our recent Valentine’s Day Mini Session pop-up! We had an absolute blast hosting families at the beloved Small Town Play Cafe in Westfield, NJ.

If you’ve never been to one of our pop-up events, imagine this: a stunning custom balloon garland, a vibrant red backdrop, and a room full of kids ready to play. It’s the perfect recipe for capturing those genuine, joyful expressions.

The Best of Both Worlds: Portraits + Play

Our pop-up events are designed to be fast-paced and high-energy. We know that sitting still is a lot to ask of a toddler, so we lean into the fun!

  • Camera Ready: Kids show up in their Valentine’s best.
  • Professional Portraits: I capture high-quality, professional shots in a matter of minutes.
  • Open Play: Once the “work” is done, the kids get to dive right back into the amazing play space at the cafe.

These events have become a local favorite—you might remember our Personality Portraits from last season! We love offering these quick-hit sessions a few times a year to give families a chance to get professional art without the stress of a full-scale production.


Is the “Pop-Up” Pace Right for Your Child?

While the energy of a play cafe is infectious, I know it isn’t for everyone. If your little one:

  • Is a bit on the shy side
  • Has a hard time transitioning away from “play mode”
  • Becomes easily overwhelmed by sensory input or crowds

Don’t worry—I have the perfect solution.

Experience the Calm: Custom Studio Sessions in Scotch Plains

For families looking for a more tailored experience, I invite you to my cozy Scotch Plains Photography Studio.

Unlike the fast-paced pop-ups, my custom studio sessions are slow, intentional, and calm. We work on your child’s timeline, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable before I even pick up the camera.

Why book a custom studio session?

  1. Curated Style: We can customize the set and styling to perfectly match your home decor.
  2. Sensory Friendly: A quiet, private environment with zero distractions.
  3. Heirloom Products: I offer exclusive, high-end printed options and packages that aren’t available during pop-up events.

Don’t Miss the Next One!

Whether you love the “play and pose” vibe of our Westfield pop-ups or the boutique experience of my Scotch Plains studio, I can’t wait to capture your family’s story.

Click here to join my VIP Mailing List to be the first to know about our next pop-up date, or Contact me today to book your custom studio portrait session!

Welcome
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Joan Marie is an award winning Fine Art Portrait Photographer serving Scotch Plains, NJ and the surrounding Tri-State area. Joan specializes in Newborn, Child, Pet, High School, Family, Dating Profile and Corporate Headshot Photography. Joan prides herself in the products and personalized services she offers her Clients. She is utterly in love with photography and can't wait to share it with you.

"Set the gear shift for the high gear of your soul! You've got to run like an antelope, out of control!" ~ Phish

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joan marie

1589 E 2nd Street

Scotch Plains, NJ 07076

908.312.1788 | info@joanmariephotography.com

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