Leah & Derrick

Engaged couples, take note: nothing makes your engagement portraits special quite like taking them in your own backyard! When Leah suggested possibly having her and Derrick’s engagement session at home and mentioned the words “willow tree”, I jumped at the idea. They live just ten minutes away from me, and this made it easier for their new pup, Finley, to join us too. Such a no brainer!

It was so, so hot the day of their engagement session. There was literally an extreme heat warning, but you’d never know it from looking at these portraits! I’m so glad we decided to stick it out, because the weather and light were absolutely perfect otherwise. As soon as I pulled into their driveway, I knew that shooting at their home had been the right decision.

Leah and Derrick’s home shares a property line with Leah’s parents, so the location is incredibly special to their family. They’ve turned the shared space between their homes into a beautiful little garden, featuring this stunning willow tree, tons of blooms and tomatoes growing on vines. Leah’s mother used to say that Leah might get married under that willow tree someday, but I think taking engagement portraits under it might be a close second!

After we wrapped up at their house in record time, we headed over to the beach at Jefferson Patterson Park in their second outfit! This second location gave us better access to the gorgeous sunset headed our way, and the breeze was fantastic on such a warm evening. It’s honestly hard to choose a favorite because I love them all so much!

Leah and Derrick, thank you so much for choosing me as your wedding photographer! I can’t wait to celebrate at Herrington on the Bay next July!