Jessica and Shawn had just returned from a four-month deployment when we met to take their engagement photos. They were happy to be home, to say the least, and we had a really fun evening running around windy North Point State Park taking these images.

Jessica is very efficient and basically planned their entire wedding from Afghanistan! She and Shawn are both in the Air Force. It was me and Carla’s first time calling an overseas bride and from the time we spent chatting, we knew Jessica and Shawn are exactly the kind of couple we love to work with. They are excited for their Stone Manor Country Club wedding, but don’t feel the need to go overboard or overcomplicated. The focus of the day will be celebrating this next chapter after being together for five years with those they love most.

Jessica’s daughter Mackenzie is seven-years-old and has appointed herself “special maid of honor” for the occasion (“junior bridesmaid” simply won’t do). She helped me throughout this session by fluffing her mom’s dress, pointing out pretty spots, and telling her mom and Shawn how great they looked 🙂 I know our shared love of Taylor Swift and dresses that twirl means we will have lots of fun on the big day this September!

Congratulations, Jessica + Shawn! Welcome home, thank you for your service, and happy almost wedding!