Amber and Chris are this outdoorsy, sweet, down-to-earth couple. They’re planning a laid back, earthy, wedding in the middle of the pines so when they came to me with their idea of a campfire engagement session I was like OF COURSE (how did I not think of it!?) Inspiration took over and we began planning for our upcoming time together.

During our brainstorming Amber let me in that they were a little hesitant at first on an engagement session (hello awkward posing – I hear ya loud and clear) but once this campfire idea took off it just turned into excitement and huge peace of mind for them. They no longer were focused on the posing aspect and were way more comfortable knowing their time with me would reflect their style and their relationship. I share this because I’m sure so many others feel this way (I personally know I was nervous for my own engagement session!) I get it, you’re posing in front of a stranger and being lovey dovey. It’s kinda weird if you actually stop and think about it. But my mission and hope is for my couples to never leave feeling like they just spent an hour or two posing in front of a camera. But more like “aw that wasn’t so bad” because they felt themselves, in a setting that made sense for them. I love, love taking the extra time to plan out the perfect way to tell your story so it feels less like posing and a lot more like the two of you just being YOU. This session is a great example of how “props” can be natural, and can help showcase all the awesome ways that make your relationship unique.

We scouted out campsites at High Cliff State Park and found one with a cabin-y vibe right on a trail. We had everything we needed nearby including their two fur children Bella & Wrigley. Chris and  Amber looked right at home in the great outdoors and honestly, our session felt like we were truly out there camping! We cleaned off picnic tables for food (okay s’mores), did some wandering, built a fire when it got dark. When all was said and done we sat down, relaxed, made ourselves a s’more, talked about our travel goals. Amber and Chris thank you for being so down-to-earth and giving me so much inspiration (and even for getting me out of my comfort zone and trying something new – darkness and FIRE!) So excited for their wedding at Burlap and Bells next October! Enjoy!