Even before the shoot took place, I knew Emily and Brian’s engagement session at Great Marsh Estate in Bealeton, VA was going to be one of my favorites of the whole year. See, Emily is an amazing DC wedding photographer herself, so she knew exactly how to prep for a perfect shoot including professional hair and makeup and two flowy dresses from Lulus. It’s funny, even after all these years and photographing hundreds of different couples, I still get a little nervous about photographing another photographer! Luckily for me, Emily and Brian are also one of my sweetest couples of the year, so I knew I had nothing to worry about. 

These two, like Rob and I, are college sweethearts. They met at Indiana University as freshmen during a group movie night and to say they hit it off immediately would be a bit of an understatement — Emily said that, within a week, they were completely inseparable. Fast forward seven years later and, although they are living outside Washington, DC, Brian surprised Emily with a trip back to their alma matter — the first since they graduated 4 years prior! As they strolled past their favorite spot on campus, the wishing well, Brian lingered for a minute but they continued on their tour. They both had fond memories of this spot as they visited it on their first date and returned many times throughout their undergraduate career at IU. It wasn’t until the rain started that they made their way back to the wishing well for shelter from the storm. Moments later, Brian pulled out a classic solitaire diamond and Emily, of course, said “YES”! They sat discussing their wedding day dreams and what the future would hold. Little did Emily know, the future would hold just one more surprise. They arrived at their favorite breakfast location and Brian took Emily to a special spot in the back… a spot where she would find BOTH of their families waiting to share their joy! Brian’s family lives in Virginia and Emily’s about 5 hours north in Indiana, so the fact that they both traveled so far brought even more happiness, if possible. 

It’s clear these two have one of the strongest support systems which will only help nurture and grow their marriage for many years to come. Knowing this makes me even more excited to celebrate with Brian, Emily, and their amazing families at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club this August… that and the homemade cookie dough, of course ;)