Not every couple dreams of a traditional engagement session

and that’s exactly what made A+E’s bridal portrait session so special.

Instead of envisioning the typical engagement photos, they had something else in mind. They wanted to spend the morning visiting the places that make up their everyday life together. The twist? They were fully dressed in their wedding attire.

Inspired by iconic Korean and Hong Kong bridal photography from the 1980s and 1990s,

they envisioned a gallery filled with nostalgic, and candid images that felt authentic to who they are as a couple.

The result? Something so special.

We started their bridal portrait session with a first look at a neighborhood playground.

It may not be a typical wedding photography location, but that’s exactly why it worked. The carefree energy of the playground perfectly reflected their personalities and set the tone for the rest of the morning.

Our next stop was the local Drug Mart, a place they frequent regularly.

I was most excited for this location. It definitely was unexpected seeing a bride and groom casually shopping the aisles in full wedding attire. These photographs blended everyday life with elevated fashion-inspired imagery, creating a unique documentary-style bridal session.

From there, we headed to the Lakewood Library.

Unfortunately, we hadn’t reserved an indoor space ahead of time, so we photographed around the exterior instead. Honestly, it ended up being a blessing in disguise. The beautiful architecture outside created a stunning backdrop for some of my favorite portraits from the day. These images added a touch of elegance to their gallery while celebrating the unique charm that makes Lakewood such a special place.

We wrapped up the session at one of their favorite date spots, The Root Cafe.

Sitting together in a place filled with memories allowed them to relax completely and simply enjoy being present with one another and sink into laughing with each other. Some of my favorite images from the day came from these final moments.

A+E made it their own and crafted a bridal session so deeply personal.

Rather than following traditions that didn’t resonate with them, they chose to document the spaces, routines, and experiences that tell the story of their relationship.

You deserve photos that feel like a reflection of who you are together, not making up a version of your relationship to look how someone else’s looks. The moments you’ll treasure most aren’t always the perfectly posed ones. They’re the images that bring you right back to how it felt: the comfort, the laughter, the little routines, and the places that became part of your story together.

The most meaningful photographs happen when you embrace what makes your relationship uniquely yours.

Years from now, you and your children, and your grandchildren, will want to see who you were in this season of life.

If you’re dreaming of wedding photos that feel nostalgic, authentic, and deeply personal, I’d love to help you create a gallery that tells your story exactly as it is.

XOXO, Shawnae