When you know, you know. That will forever be theme in my mind when thinking about Kristin and Ryan. First of all, Kristin and I met at a Starbucks that I frequent on Rush and Oak – it may be the comfy booths, the exposed brick walls, the hipster lounge music… okay maybe it’s the fact that they serve yummy flatbreads and wine – nonetheless – Kristin walked in and I knew we’d be fast friends as soon as she sat down in the booth next to me. Not to mention she blurted out within 5 minutes of meeting… “Okay I want you. What’s next?” Straight to the point, Kristin is. She assured me she looked through my site, loved everything I did, and knew she wanted me to capture her and Ryan’s wedding and engagement photos. Gotta love the enthusiasm.

Kristin and Ryan’s relationship started in a similar whirlwind fashion. About a year ago, they met through mutual friends, went on four dates within the first week they started dating… and then moved in together after about six months. Ryan proposed a few months ago with rose petals and candles, and the wedding planning has been moving on its way ever since.

We met for our Friday afternoon Engagement Session in Olive Park. Not gonna lie, it was cold. So cold that you can see the blocks of ice in Lake Michigan behind Kristin + Ryan. But that didn’t stop the happy couple from taking their coats off for a few pics (which I try to help out by letting them snuggle up for body warmth!). They even played in the snow for a few pics at the end sans gloves or mittens – total warriors! I will say that I had to do the same thing the next day at a wedding I was second shooting – and I did not handle it as well as them. Kristin + Ryan, I definitely thought of you guys in that moment and appreciated you even more for toughing it out! I hope you love your engagement photos – I think it’s clear to see how happy you are together. I’ll be honest though, after this freezing e-session, I’m pretty pumped for your wedding in July 2014. Bring on the heat! Until then, I hope you enjoy looking through this session together snuggled up on your couch under a blanket J Oh and ps., Kristin…. I love your dimples. K, thanks.