Wisconsin Engagement Session At UW Arboretum in Madison, WI

THE LOCATION

Lauren and Joe’s autumn engagement session at the UW Arboretum was a super fun adventure! I had never photographed at the arboretum before so it was a fun new experience! When the couple and I discussed locations for their engagement photos, they were positive they wanted to be surrounded by nature. I love all the bright colors of trees in the fall and so I totally agreed! They told me all about  the UW arboretum near their home. It was even more beautiful than I ever imagined. We did photos along the trail near birch trees, colorful leaves, large rocks, and more. We used a little bit of everything for this session. I took extra time with the couple because I was having so much fun exploring with them! The park was busy because it was a warm and sunny fall day. Although we weren’t there alone, their photos feel close, private, and intimate. Scroll down to see!

WHO THEY ARE

I have been photographing Joe and his family for years (including Joe’s senior photos). I was totally thrilled when I found out he was getting married and wanted me to be the wedding photographer. Lauren and Joe are super fun people; they are perfect together. You can tell that they love hanging out together, too. It was no surprise to me that they were comfortable in front of the camera right away. I could tell they were having a good time during the shoot, my ultimate goal. They giggled, smiled, and snuggled each other all through the session with total ease. Their personalities are super similar in all the best ways. They’re easy going, incredibly nice, and overall just warm people.

WHAT THEY WORE

I send out a style guide to all my clients before their engagement sessions. Lauren and Joe read through it and took some tips for what to wear. They decided on a dressy outfit and a more casual cozy outfit.

First, was outfit #1:

Lauren selected the cutest feminine, flowy dress with a multi-colored floral pattern. Her heels were also so stinking adorable! They were a lighter neutral color and didn’t distract from the dress or her face at all. There is some height difference between the couple, so the heels also helped keep their faces closer together when they were standing. Joe decided to wear a collared shirt in a color that matched Lauren’s dress. The shape of his fitted and tucked-in button up shirt flattered his figure perfectly and added some sophistication. I loved his belt and shoes as well. Those details brought his outfit to the next level!

Next, was outfit #2: The couple selected comfortable neutral sweaters and jeans along with brown boots. Jeans and sweaters are usually hard to pull off, but they did it! They took somewhat casual outfits and brought it to the next level. How? Joe layered his zip up with a V-neck shirt. Lauren picked fitted jeans and dainty earrings. Voila! Casual and cute!

Additionally, Lauren understood the importance of professional hair and makeup so she treated herself! Her skin and hair looked flawless! I always say that beauty artists know how to make you look beautiful so you can feel confident and worry-free while getting ready for your photoshoot.

THE WEDDING

Lauren and Joe’s wedding is going to be a little road trip for me! They booked the Bridgewood Resort in Neenah, WI. I am so excited to visit a new venue. Summer is my favorite season for photos because of the long golden hour. I am so stoked to take some gorgeous sunset photos of them next year. It’s going to be perfect, I just know it. For now, let the countdown continue!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Lauren and Joe, thank you so much for inviting me to join you at the UW Arboretum. I am so grateful you introduced me to this new location; I’ll be sure to use it again! I’m glad you had just as much fun as I did. Thanks for being so kind to me. See you super soon!

• Location: UW Arboretum
• Photography: Emily Jean Photography
• Engagement Ring: Howe’s Diamond Jewelers
• Hair and Makeup: Erin Rausch at Anaala Salon and Spa