Alissa and Gary's Engagement

I drove through the forest, on a slow, curvy road, enjoying the scenery.  It was a crisp, cool morning and all the leaves were brilliant shades of red, yellow, orange, and vibrant greens.  I could feel it was going to be a magical day.  Alissa and Gary arrived in the parking lot with their dog, Princess, ready to rock 'n' roll.  Until the squirrels came out, practically taunting poor Princess, who watched wide-eyed while they danced up the trees and called out to her -- darn leashes!  Luckily, thanks to Gary's sister, we were able to distract Princess long enough to get some shots with her before she couldn't sit still any longer.  Thanks for holding back Princess--you look beautiful!

As we wondered around the park, I couldn't help but continuously refer to them as being "cute".  It was one of those words I was stuck on this day because it just fit so perfectly! 















Alissa and Gary were together for 6 years before they decided to get engaged to be married.  It might just be me, but it seems like the concept of "making it official" has reignited a playful feeling between them, like they are looking at each other with new eyes.

As they looked into each other's blue eyes, they couldn't help but smile at each other; and almost every time, Alissa would let out a little giggle!  And that girl's giggle can make anyone smile! 

 

These two are such laid back and genuine people, they really didn't care what I told them to do or how much mud I asked them to walk through; they just kept asking me what I wanted them to do next.  So I was pleasantly surprised when she voiced an idea for a classic shot....

It seemed like even the forest wanted to feel the love...

They made a wish in the bird bath, then kissed to seal the deal :)

Ring shot!

I love these ones!

By the time we left the park, we were all starving--we had walked around a while, so naturally, we had built up our appetites.  So, off we went to Old Town Pizza--which was where they had their very first date!  Our mouths were practically watering as we walked up to the restaurant--mmmmm it smelled so good!

This was the same table they sat at on their first date too!

They even ordered exactly what they had on their first date....

a Pepperoni pizza and Newcastle Brown Ale....mmmmmm

So it was time for me to stop shooting, put down the camera, and let them enjoy

making new memories of pizza and beer.  Cheers!

Check back later this year to see their wedding day photographs!