Laura and John were introduced to each other by a mutual friend about 5 years ago. On June 6, 2016 John proposed to Laura on the sandy beaches of Cancun. Exactly one year from that day, they will be exchanging vows to each other and getting married at The Bradford House!

For now, we’re celebrating at this time with an engagement session around Athens! I came across this little place one random day as I was trying to navigate my way to a meeting with another couple. You see, I had gotten a bit lost on the way there that morning and when I stumbled upon this sweet spot with railroad tracks and a nifty water tower off in the distance, it was immediately my next “go-to” spot to shoot! AND, prior to all of that, this couple had requested railroad tracks for their engagement shoot — so this was a perfect location to photograph them! I scoped this little place out a few days before our shoot to determine the best time to shoot for the prettiest light. It was such a success! I’m so glad we shot there!

This photo shoot would not have been complete without Lucy, one of their beloved fur babies. As we frolicked around UGA’s north campus, Lucy joined us for several poses there. I was very impressed at how well-behaved Lucy was! She did such a great job! I always enjoy when couples bring their pets with them to portrait sessions. Having their sweet little companions there with them brings out such a natural joy and happiness, and of course, that always makes photos so much better! Plus, I love animals! So it’s fun for me too! 🙂 Lucy’s even going to be the ring bearer at the wedding! How cute will that be?!

Laura can light up any room and make friends with pretty much anyone. She’s humorous and encouraging. One of the first things she said to me when we first met at their consultation was “You are amazing!”. She continued to give me compliments over and over, and it was so sweet of her to say such great things to me. You know, we all have days when we need someone to give us encouraging words. I may call her the next time I’m feeling slimy about myself, haha!

I love the way John looks at Laura. It’s like you can tell he’s just soaking it all in. He adores her. It’s just precious, guys. John is a very friendly person, too! He has always been super nice to me. From the moment we met, and even at the engagement session I felt like we had known each other for forever! Yes, Laura and John are quite the cutie pies. They have a very fun and laid-back relationship, and you can tell they truly enjoy each others company.

I am on the edge of my seat for this summer to come because I know great things are in store for these two. I can’t wait to photograph their wedding day. I can only imagine how happy this couple will be for this day to come. We are all really looking forward to it! Until then, we’ll continue to dream about it!