It was absolutely gorgeous day outside when Lauren, AJ, and I met at Maymont for their engagement session! The sun was shining bright, but not too hot, and there was the most pleasant breeze rustling through the trees of the park. It was so nice to be out in the beautiful spring weather, especially when Richmond can have some pretty crazy forecasts! I was so excited to finally get to meet Lauren and AJ, since we hadn’t been able to meet in person. Due to the lockdowns and quarantines, I had only been able to video chat with them so far! I love meeting my couples and getting to know them better, and it just isn’t the same over video chat. Thankfully we were blessed with a gorgeous day for their session!
Lauren and AJ met while working at Camp Hanover, and ended up stationed with the same group of middle schoolers for the summer. Later that summer they began dating, and they’ve now been together for 6 years! During our session, Lauren joked about how she was waiting and waiting for AJ to finally pop the question. He laughed as mentioned that he kept “ruining” the surprise for her by giving her fake dates and “almost” proposing! He was doing his best to keep her on her toes for sure 🙂
On October 21st, 2019 AJ insisted on a hiking trip at Shenandoah National Park, even though the weather was less than stellar. The fog ended up clearing at the top of Old Rag mountain with the rising sun for a stunning view! AJ said he had lost his phone and needed to look for it, leaving Lauren to take in the beautiful view. Next thing she knew, AJ was back and on one knee holding a special card he had made. The card read, “Will You,” and he started reading a note he had written her and then pulled out a ring from inside the card. Of course, Lauren was ecstatic and said yes!! Little did she know, AJ had snuck away while pretending to look for his phone to snap a few photos of Lauren in front of the view, for them to get to look back on later. I just think that is such the sweetest thing!
Lauren and AJ are all smiles and laughter, and I can tell that they are the best of friends. They keep each other on their toes, and can always find excitement and fun in the simplest things! They have plenty of little traditions that they keep up with year after year, including a yearly photo op at Maymont! There is a specific ledge that they have managed to get a photo at for the past 6 years that they have been dating, and of course we just had to continue the tradition and grab one during their session as well. I had so much fun with them, and I’m SO excited for their wedding in October! Congratulations again you two, and I can’t wait to see you again!
