Meeting Emily and Paul I knew they were going to be a fun down to Earth couple. They were in town from Louisiana celebrating their engagement with their families and we got to meet one morning for their engagement session.

Emily explained to me that she first met Paul during an afternoon lunch at the Sangamo Club. Paul was new to town, so Emily followed with an invitation to lunch to discuss getting more involved in the business community. Paul ultimately invited Emily on their first date for drinks at popular Jp Kelly’s. Two years later, Paul was living in Louisiana for his new job and he planned the perfect proposal to Emily. He made a surprise visit and Emily’s entire family was in on it. She arrived at her parents house on the lake for what she thought was an afternoon brunch, but instead was met by Paul on the dock by the water. Paul proposed and the rest is history! Seriously cute! Right?

Since they met downtown Springfield at the Sangamo Club and had their first date across the street at JP Kelly’s we thought how perfect to take their engagement photos in such a special place to them? We also enjoyed hitting other Springfield landmarks including the Old State Capitol and Lincoln’s Home. Their sweet Springer Spaniel, Maddy joined for a few shots as well! We thought we were going to have to beat a rain storm, but the weather held of and gave us a beautiful morning.

I am ecstatic and honored to get the opportunity to photograph Emily and Paul’s special day next summer!