When we were brainstorming for their engagement session, Susan and Ken mentioned that they wanted to really personalize the shoot, perhaps with some props. I adore a stylized session that thoughtfully incorporates bits and pieces of who the couple is, and after delving a bit more into their relationship we found the perfect additions – their adorable pups! They also brought along a beautiful quilt that Susan had made for Ken years back, which proved perfect for them to cuddle up in once the wind picked up at our second location on the beach :)

I had so much fun with them and am so excited for their Cafe Pinot wedding this year!

How completely sweet are these two? I was so happy when Kristen found me from Tori & Kate’s session, and planned a fun lifestyle shoot as a surprise for her girlfriend Michelle. We brainstormed ways to incorporate little aspects of their relationship – like their love for books, and the sweet notes they write to each other on coffee cups – and finished up the session with a few rounds at the ice skating rink!

I felt a bit emotional as I was going through and editing these photos – the love these two have for each other was in each and every image, and I seriously feel so lucky to have been able to capture a snippet of it, and to be able to share them openly here. I felt this extra strong sense of I want people to see these photos. I want them to see this love, the kind of love that comes in all shapes and forms, that is honest and innocent and real and unstoppable. That it is such a beautiful thing :)

it’s that time of year
when the world falls in love
every song you hear seems to say
“merry christmas
may your new year’s dreams come true”

and this song of mine
in three-quarter time
wishes you and yours
the same thing, too

Thank you to Style Me Pretty for featuring this shoot! You can view more here…