Tessa and Shaun wanted an engagement session that felt really comfortable and personal to them. I love that! It’s always a priority to take thoughtful and authentic portraits of my couples. Whether they are more laid back or prefer to get all dressed up, I’m for it. I believe an engagement session should make you feel comfortable and confident, and be a true, honest reflection of your relationship.

 

We spent quite some time thinking through portrait locations and Tessa and Shaun picked places they love. We started in Chagrin Falls because they often visit the cute downtown area for dates. After we walked by the falls and boutiques, we explored some of the alleys by the large historic homes nearby. Those pictures were some of my favorites! Then we headed to Sunny Lake Park in Aurora. Shaun plays at the baseball diamonds across the road, so we stopped their first. Then we headed into the park. Shaun and Tessa have two sweet dogs they walk at Sunny Lake so they knew all the best spots for pictures, including a tree with a large low branch you can sit on in the back.

 

After the engagement session was over, I knew it was extra special because Niko and I got to see what a day in Shaun and Tessa’s life is like. We really got to know them more personally. I shouldn’t have been surprised, though, because Tessa was so sweet and personal from our very first email conversation. Every conversation since has been remarkably intentional and sincere. These are the sweet, authentic relationships that make my job so rewarding. To go from strangers to friends is the best gift.

 

Stay tuned for more of this gorgeous couple, as I blog their wedding at the Bertram Inn in just a short while!