La Crosse Engagement Session at Veteran’s Park

The Location

Rachel and Connor’s nature inspired La Crosse, WI engagement session was years in the making! I couldn’t be happier with the fun we had, the connections that were strengthened, and of course, the images. When I spoke with Rachel about a location for their session, she was positive she wanted to be surrounded by nature. I’ve taken their pictures in more urban setting before, and she wanted to had some variety! One of my very favorite locations is Veteran’s Park in West Salem. The grounds are vast and full of variety. Specifically for their session, I wanted to use the trail that runs behind the park. It’s quiet, intimate and STUNNING.

We started the session among greenery for a brighter “summer” look. After an outfit change, we walked across the trail to an area with changing autumn colors. This setting gave them a different vibe completely! Together, the collection is still cohesive, but has a good deal of variety. It worked out perfectly! Scroll down to see what I’m describing!

Who They Are

As I mentioned before, Rachel and Connor have been together for years! These are real-life high school sweethearts!! I photographed the couple twice before and I had a feeling Connor would be proposing any day. As soon as they were engaged Rachel messaged me that they wanted me to be their wedding photographer. I was elated! Rachel and Connor are some of my favorite clients.  They are super easy going, trust my posing, and interact like a couple of goofballs. 🙂 It was super fun to watch them snuggle, giggle, and interact with one another. They both did a fantastic job!

What They Wore

I send out a style guide to all my clients before their engagement sessions. Rachel and Connor read through it and took what I had to say to heart! Rachel selected two flattering dressed with colors that complemented her skin tone so well. Dresses gave her a flirty and feminine look that made her stand out! She also had her hair professionally done. It was such a relief for her to not have to worry about frizz or fly-aways. Her hair dresser made sure it was in perfect condition for photos. Connor’s shirts were fitted to give him a great silhouette. Collared shirts add a touch of sophistication, even in a natural outdoor setting. I loved his shoes and watch as well. Those details brought his outfit to the next level.   As Rachel mentioned to Connor these images will be up on their walls so they wanted to look their best!

The Wedding

I am so excited for this wedding! I can’t believe I get to watch high school sweethearts tie the knot!  Their wedding is going to be the perfect summer day on the Mississippi River. I know the wedding is going to be so super joyful and full of laughter!  They have booked The Cargill Room at The Waterfront.  It’s an exceptional venue with amazing views, and even better service. I have worked there before and always have fantastic experiences with their staff and with spots on the property to shoot. I love all kinds of venues, but high-end venues make for the least amount of stress for the couple. It’s going to be so great to have the ceremony, portraits, and reception at one location.

Final Thoughts

Rachel and Connor, thank you so much for joining me at sunset for your engagement session. I hope you had just as much fun as I did! I am so happy you love your images, I cannot wait to see your gallery up in the new house. Thanks for being yourselves, see you super soon!

• Location: Veteran’s Park
• Photography: Emily Jean Photography
• Dress 1: Wrap Dress at Lulu’s
•  Dress 2: Wrap Dress at Express
• Rachel’s Hair: Choya at Melanin
• Engagement Ring: Holtan’s Jewelry (Rachel loves this place!)
  

  Look how beautifully her maxi dress flows!

  

  

  These two can be silly & giggly or super romantic together. I love the contrast in these two images.