College Sweethearts Turned Soulmates

Stephanie and Tyler first met during their freshman year at the University of Wisconsin. Living on the same dorm floor, they quickly became best friends—and their connection only grew stronger. Their first date was straight out of a movie, featuring dinner, delicious ice cream, and a sunset over the lake.

A Surprise Proposal in Arizona

Six years later, while visiting Arizona for Thanksgiving, Tyler planned the perfect proposal. He told Stephanie they were heading to dinner for his brother’s birthday but had a secret surprise in store. Arriving at a resort “early,” they grabbed drinks before Tyler led her down a path scattered with rose petals. At the end of the trail, a single rose and a ring box awaited her. With the most heartfelt speech, Tyler got down on one knee and asked Stephanie to marry him. Their engagement celebration was just as special—dinner in a wine cellar surrounded by their families and best friends.

Exploring Lincoln Park for Their Chicago Engagement Photos

On a busy Monday in Chicago, I finally got to capture Stephanie and Tyler’s engagement session! Our original date had to be postponed due to heavy clouds, but their trust in rescheduling paid off—we had the most stunning, warm, sunny day for their session.

We started our shoot in Lincoln Park, one of the most popular spots for Lincoln Park Chicago engagement pictures. With lush greenery and the Honeycomb Pavilion in the background, every moment felt like pure magic.

Capturing Iconic Skyline Views by the Water

After soaking in the beauty of Lincoln Park, we made a quick location swap due to the holiday weekend and headed toward the water. Downtown Chicago engagement photos wouldn’t be complete without capturing the city’s breathtaking skyline. The golden hour light mixed with the shimmering skyline made for the perfect ending to their session.

I absolutely cannot wait to celebrate Stephanie and Tyler at Monte Bello Estate in Chicago next August! If you’re searching for Chicago engagement photographers to document your love story, I’d love to chat!