This weekend, the temperature dropped here in DC. When Jade texted me earlier in the week, I was expecting her to want to reschedule due to the freezing temps. Instead, I opened the message to read, “It’s gonna be cold. I can’t contain my excitement!”

The sentiment in that text carried through the entire session. It was cold, it was early, but Jade and Justin couldn’t contain their excitement to document their love. They kept making sweet comments to each other in between shots. A quick “I love you.” “You’re so beautiful.” “Can you believe we’re getting married?!?”

Their ability to be optimistic is a trait I’ve seen in them since we met years ago. Justin, a psychologist, has worked through years and years of school to earn his career. Jade, an elementary school teacher at a DC charter school, puts in countless hours each week to make sure her students are getting the best of what she can possibly give them. All the while, through the late nights and early mornings, they always have smiles on their faces and love in their hearts for those around them. It gets cold. It gets hard. But no matter what, they are still excited.

Jade and Justin, congratulations on your engagement! I am so excited to witness you commit the rest of your lives to each other next year. For the couple that always puts others first, I can’t wait to spend an entire weekend celebrating YOU!

Fun Fact: Justin proposed to Jade after she won Teacher of the Year for her KIPP DC school, an award she dreamed of, but didn’t think she would win. After an incredible evening celebrating her award, he convinced to go out for one more celebratory drink before turning in. They stopped at a small spot and Justin guided her to a dimly lit private back room. There, their family and friends stood as he dropped to one knee and asked Jade to marry him 🙂 A wonderful evening planned for a wonderful woman!