Ory and Brooke…what a great couple!  I can tell they love each other and would do just about anything for the other, because they braved a super, windy and chilly evening together to take their engagement portraits! 🙂 Seriously, though, just by watching Ory and Brooke look into each other’s eyes you can see they love and respect each other.

The location of choice for their shoot was their homes which are just a few miles apart…a beautiful wooded area at her home and an open pasture at his.  They chose to use these spots because they are unique and special to them, and within this simplicity they wanted their portraits to focus on them and their love!

Ory and Brooke grew up in the same town, started dating in high school, and then headed off to college together.  They enjoy quiet nights in, watching movies, relaxing, and playing games.

When I asked Ory what he loves about Brooke he said, “Everything!”  He went on to explain that he loves her smile, laugh and personality.

Brooke shared that Ory makes her laugh and that he’s kind, compassionate, honest, and a tad bit nerdy. 🙂  She said, “He has the ability to ground me.  I love the feeling of comfort and safety I have with him.”

Ory and Brooke, thanks for letting me spend the evening with you…I’m looking forward to your wedding!  I know it will be beautiful!

One of my favorites. I love the kiss of the sun!

Mark and Stacey wanted a rustic/country barn look for their engagement pictures and the location we used was probably one of the most “rustic” spots around!  In fact, I’m afraid the barn will probably not be around for too much longer.  Mark and Stacey were great to work with…they even had to be a bit adventurous to climb up into the old hay loft for a few shots!  I love the portraits where they are relating with each other—you can see love, fun, and even gentleness.

Stacey’s ring has an aquamarine stone instead of a diamond.  She wanted this particular stone because it’s Mark’s birthstone (March).  I think that’s pretty special!  And while we’re talking about what Stacey was “wearing” I have to mention her cute dress and great boots!!  Love the boots!

For me, this session was a “breath of fresh air” and a true joy!  I can’t really explain it, but taking and even editing these pics was just what I needed!

Mark and Stacey’s wedding is coming up on September 1!  Congratulations to you both and may God bless your relationship with His joy and direction.

Each love story is special, and Jeremy and Jen have a unique and interesting story that clearly shows God’s hand and leading in their lives.

How did Jeremy and Jen meet?  They met on eHarmony, and after emailing and talking for about a month they met for the first time in person.  See what I mean?!  What a unique story…God even uses the internet!  Jeremy and Jen shared with me that they have so much in common that it feels like they’ve always known each other!

Some of the things that Jeremy and Jen have in common are watching sports  (although some of their favorite teams are not the same :)), doing things outside like having cookouts with friends or playing corn hole, enjoying big Saturday morning breakfasts, and taking walks.  They said, “It may seem cliché, but we always have fun no matter what we’re doing together.”

Jeremy and Jen’s personalities mesh together so well.  Jeremy is easy going, has a big heart, and always thinks of the glass as being three-quarters full, and Jen is fun-loving, sweet, and thoughtful.

When I ask engaged couples to describe what they love about the other I love how they take the time to think about and describe the one they will soon be committing their lives to.  So, I’m going to let you read exactly what Jeremy and Jen shared about each other in their own words….

Jeremy what do you love about Jen?
“I love Jen’s infectious smile and beautiful eyes.  🙂   Those were things that initially drew me to her.  Her sweet and compassionate spirit shows that her beauty goes much more than skin deep and her selfless attitude is apparent as she is always putting others before herself.  I love how we can laugh together regardless of what we are doing and always have a great time together.  I love how she always shows an interest into whatever I might be doing.  She shows me unconditional love and hopefully I show it in return.”

Jen what do you love about your Jeremy?
“Jeremy is a godly man who strives to do the right thing and put God first in his life. He loves life and always has a positive attitude even in difficult situations.  He is someone I can trust and respect, and I know he will be there for me no matter what.  He has such a big, kind heart and that is evident in how he interacts with his family and friends.  I can count on him to make me laugh when I need it most. 🙂  I am so blessed to be marrying my best friend!”

Jeremy and Jen, God bless you as you prepare for your wedding day and serve the Lord together in your marriage!

Jeremy's grandmother made this beautiful quilt.

I love the sunlight on this pic!

Jeremy loves to play golf and Jen hopes to learn soon!

Zach and Allison—can there be any cuter or sweeter couple?!  Both Zach and Allison have personalities that are genuine, friendly, sweet, and caring.  The joy in their lives and their love for God is evident by the smiles they always seem to have on their faces!

Where did Zach and Allison meet?  Well, they grew up in the same community and went to the same school and church, so I guess you could say they’ve pretty much known each other their whole lives!  Their similarities and interests mesh together perfectly as they both enjoy going for walks, spending time with family, good conversations and coffee, and playing games–especially ping pong (Allison always wins!)

I asked both of them to share what they love about the other and I’m just going to let them say it in their own words, because they can say it better than I could ever interpret… and it’s just plain sweet!

Zach, what do you love about Allison?  “I love Alli’s infectious smile that brightens up a room.  She has a true servant heart.  She volunteers at Agora kids’ club and truly connects with the children there.  Alli has a way of relating with people that always seems to make them feel better about themselves after talking with her.  Alli’s greatest desire is to be in a passionate relationship with Jesus Christ.  She cooks good food. :)”

Allison, what do you love Zach? “I love that he can always make me smile and laugh, no matter how lame his jokes are.  🙂 I love that he is a country farm boy at heart.  It’s obvious he loves his nieces and nephew, and they love him.  He is a people person-very easy to talk to, friendly, with a good sense of humor.  And so much, much more….”

One more thing… I’m very proud to say that Allison is my niece and I love her dearly!  AND I’m excited to have Zach join our family–he’ll be a great addition!

Allison had the idea of using an old fashioned bicycle for some of the portraits. It was a fun addition to the session!

She's so pretty!