Lauren & James – An Engagement in the Sunny Valley

The weekend of Lauren and James’ engagement session was an exciting one for me. In addition to their session, I had two others planned. It was going to be a busy weekend, but I was filled with creative energy. I felt as though the whole weekend would go perfectly, and the results exceeded my expectations, especially with Lauren and James.

On Saturday afternoon, I pulled into my parking space in the Cuyahoga Valley. I was just a little early, as always. I dug my gear out of the trunk and my phone rang. “How can we find this place,” Lauren asked. “Can you tell me where you are and I will guide you,” I responded. It’s amazing how many answers can spring from that one simple question. After going back and forth for a moment, I finally realized where Lauren and James were coming from. I watched as they descended into the valley from the hilltop and guided them into the parking lot.

We then met while standing in the parking lot, and for the first time. Like many of my clients, we first met only by phone. Both Lauren and James were beaming. Hardly nervous at all, they were ready to start their engagement session. We had a simply plan for that sunny Saturday afternoon in the valley. We would simply walk around, stopping to take pictures from time to time. The location offered everything we needed, so we chose to keep the session simple.

As we walked, we chatted about how they were engaged. Both Lauren and James love the outdoors, and often go on hikes together. So James planned a very special adventure for the proposal. He charted a course through the woods and laid treasure at the end. The next day, he lead Lauren on a hike. He gave her a compass and some simple instructions to follow. Soon they arrived at a hidden fire-circle in the woods. James then presented Lauren with a treasure map. She quickly located the stashed loot – a buried box containing highlights from their life together. It was at that moment that James proposed, while alone together in the woods.

I’d like to think that Lauren’s smile that day was like the one just below – full and beaming with joy.

Lauren and James were such naturals during their engagement session. I think the love really comes through. And the gorgeous light doesn’t hurt either. At this point, I’m just waiting to see them again at their Cleveland wedding. I’m certain it will be amazing!