From the White Bridge Where He Proposed to Their November Wedding Celebration
There’s something extra meaningful about photographing an engagement session in the same place where a proposal happened. Every path, overlook, and quiet corner carries memories that make the photos feel even more personal. Julia and Samuel’s Seven Islands engagement session was exactly that. Not only is Seven Islands State Birding Park one of my favorite locations for its beautiful scenery and peaceful walking trails, but it also holds such a special place in their story.
As we wandered through the park, Samuel shared the story of how he proposed. It immediately made one of the locations we had already planned on going even more significant. The beautiful white bridge you’ll see throughout their gallery wasn’t just a pretty backdrop. It was the exact place where Samuel asked Julia to marry him.
The proposal itself had me laughing. If you’ve ever been to Seven Islands, you know getting to the bridge requires a decent walk from the parking area. Apparently, Julia hadn’t worn the best shoes that day and couldn’t understand why Samuel insisted they keep walking farther and farther down the trail. She was tired, confused, and probably wondering if there was really something that special waiting ahead. Little did she know, Samuel had been planning one of the biggest moments of their lives.
Of course, every extra step became completely worth it when he got down on one knee.
One of my favorite moments from their engagement session was recreating part of that memory together. We walked back to the same bench they sat on after getting engaged. It was such a simple, peaceful moment that perfectly reflected who they are as a couple. Those are always some of my favorite photographs. Not the overly posed ones, but the quiet moments where couples simply enjoy being together.
Seven Islands is such an incredible location because it offers so much variety. From open fields and winding trails to river views and iconic landmarks like the white bridge, every turn provides another beautiful backdrop while still feeling natural and relaxed. It gives couples plenty of room to explore together instead of feeling like they’re standing in one spot for an entire session.
I loved spending the evening getting to know Julia and Samuel better before their wedding day. They are so kind, easy to talk with, and clearly enjoy simply being together. Sessions like this always make me even more excited for the wedding because it gives us the opportunity to build a relationship before the big day arrives.
I’m so thankful Julia and Samuel trusted me to document this sweet season of their lives. I can’t wait to tell the next chapter of their story this fall.
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See more from Amanda May Photos:
Family Session at The White Room
