Marina and Josh’s engagement session at Willow River State Park was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the heart of Hudson, Wisconsin, the park’s scenic beauty—with its cascading waterfall, winding trails, and golden evening light—provided the perfect backdrop for capturing their love story. With their wedding just weeks away, this session felt like a peaceful moment of celebration before the big day.
A Love Story Years in the Making
Marina and Josh’s journey began years ago when they first met at a church youth group. Though life took them to different colleges and cities, God had a beautiful plan to bring them back together. After returning home, both families ended up attending a new church—where Marina and Josh reconnected as children’s ministry volunteers. It didn’t take long for their friendship to grow into something deeper and soon, they were inseparable.
They made their relationship official on December 23rd, 2024, a date that now holds even more significance in their story.
A Surprise Proposal at Their Favorite Park
Josh’s proposal was a moment straight out of a storybook. A few days before Christmas, the two took a stroll through their favorite park. As they walked, Josh subtly distracted Marina, and when she turned around, he was on one knee. The answer was an easy “yes,” and the newly engaged couple celebrated with family and friends over the holidays. It was a perfect mix of surprise, joy, and love.
Golden Light and Sweet Moments at Willow River
Willow River State Park turned out to be the ideal location for their engagement session. With sweeping views, woodsy paths, and the iconic waterfall, we were able to document so many tender moments between them. From laughter on the trail to quiet embraces near the river, their connection is beautiful and deeply rooted in years of shared memories, friendship, and faith.
Just Weeks Until “I Do”
Marina and Josh’s wedding is just around the corner, and if their engagement session is any reflection of what’s to come, their big day will be full of warmth, intentionality, and joy. It’s always such a privilege to witness love stories like theirs—grounded in faith, years of history, and a deep excitement for the future.
I can’t wait to celebrate with them soon and document the start of their next chapter as husband and wife.
Congratulations on your engagement! You’ve said “yes,” put the ring on your finger, and now you’re entering one of the most exciting chapters of your life. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories, and one thing I always tell my couples is that the engagement period is just as magical as the wedding day itself. It’s full of anticipation, excitement, and, of course, beautiful moments that you’ll want to cherish forever.
But once the initial excitement settles, the big question is: What do you do next? There are so many things to think about as you prepare for your wedding, but there are also small, meaningful steps that can help you enjoy the moment and set the tone for your upcoming wedding journey.
So from my perspective as a wedding photographer, here are the top 5 things you should do after getting engaged to make sure this time is unforgettable—and to help you capture every precious moment along the way.
1. Share the News with Family and Friends (But First, Celebrate the Moment!)
This is your time to bask in the joy of the moment before everything starts moving so quickly. Of course, you’ll want to share the news with your family and friends, but before you post that big engagement photo on Instagram, take a step back and enjoy your engagement just between the two of you (and maybe your closest family members).
Whether it’s an intimate celebration with your partner or a phone call to the people you love most, cherish those first moments when you get to tell your story. When you’re ready to share, post your engagement announcement with a heartfelt caption that reflects who you are as a couple.
Pro tip:Tag your partner and use a fun or meaningful hashtag (think #FederEngaged or #Engagedto(Partner’s Name) to start tracking all of your beautiful moments from now until your wedding day. This can be a special way to look back on everything as your big day approaches!
2. Update Your Social Media Profiles to Reflect Your New Status
After you’ve shared your news, take a moment to update your social media profiles. Change your profile picture to one that captures the excitement of this new chapter—whether it’s the moment right after the proposal or a sweet selfie with your partner. It’s the little details that count.
For many couples, this is also a good time to update your Instagram bio or Snap Chat description to reflect your engagement. I love seeing couples embrace their new status with captions like “Engaged to my forever” or something playful that reflects their personalities.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to includelinks to your wedding websiteif you have one, or at least a link to your engagement shoot gallery. It’s a great way to keep your followers and friends updated!
3. Document Your Engagement—The Photos Matter!
One of the most exciting things about being engaged is the chance to have beautiful photos that mark this moment in your relationship. If you’re planning an engagement session with a photographer (and I hope you do!), now’s the time to get it on the calendar! As a wedding photographer myself, I can’t stress enough how important it is to document this time in your life, as it’s so special.
You’ll cherish these images forever, whether they’re framed in your home or used for save-the-date cards, your wedding website, or even Instagram posts.
But even before the official engagement shoot, consider taking photos on the day of your proposal! The joy and emotion captured in those moments are priceless, and those raw feelings will stay with you forever.
Pro tip: When planning your engagement shoot, choose a location that’s meaningful to both of you—whether it’s where you first met, a favorite date spot, or somewhere that just feels you. Think of it as a date you would love to go on, and just add me! Your photos will be that much more special!
4. Create Your Wedding Website—Start Organizing, and hire a planner!
Your wedding website is where all the important details come together, and it’s the perfect place to start organizing your big day. From your engagement story to your wedding date, venue, and travel info for out-of-town guests, this is the spot where you can keep everyone informed.
I always recommend couples create a wedding website early on, even before the invitations go out. It’ll save you tons of time later and allow guests to RSVP, check out your registry, and get excited about your wedding day.
Plus, a well-organized site is an excellent way to build your online presence and keep your friends and family updated. If you need help creating a wedding website, platforms like Zola, The Knot, and Wix offer easy-to-use templates that will make the process a breeze.
Pro tip: If you’re sharing budget allows, my biggest tip is HIRE A PLANNER!! I promise they will be worth every penny you spend. One of my favorite teams is Jenna Culley Events. The day goes smoother, you have to think about less and they are perfect for gathering all the details to make your day perfect for you!
5. Set Up Your Wedding Registry
Once you’ve shared the news and started planning, don’t forget to set up your wedding registry. This is one of the first practical steps in the wedding planning process, and it’s a great way to get organized early on.
Many couples opt for online registries through sites like Amazon, Target, or Crate & Barrel. These registries allow you to curate everything you need (or want!) for your new life together. Plus, it makes gift-giving easy for your guests. Make sure to add a variety of price points, and don’t forget to share the link with your friends and family via your wedding website or social media.
Pro tip: Keep in mind that many guests will appreciate knowing your style, preferences, and what you need most, so be sure to personalize your registry with thoughtful descriptions.
Final Thoughts
This is just the beginning of your beautiful engagement journey! While there are so many things to think about in the months leading up to your wedding day, I hope this list has given you some helpful pointers on how to make the most of this exciting time. As a photographer, I believe in the power of preserving memories—so make sure to capture every moment, from the proposal to the last dance at your wedding.
If you’re looking for a photographer to help tell your love story through stunning images,I’d love to chat. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, I’m here to capture every special moment.
Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and beautiful memories!
Warmly, Karen
P.S. If you’re planning your engagement session, I’d love to hear your vision! Reach out to me anytime, and let’s make some magic happen!
Love often finds us in the most unexpected ways, and for Avery and Tyler, it all began with a fortuitous introduction by a mutual friend. Avery was visiting her cousin in Indiana, and as luck would have it, this cousin was also a close friend of Tyler. The moment Avery and Tyler met, there was an undeniable spark. They hit it off immediately, enjoying each other’s company throughout her visit. The connection they formed during those days was the beginning of something truly special.
When Avery returned to Minneapolis, the physical distance did little to diminish their burgeoning relationship. In fact, it seemed to strengthen their bond. Long phone calls, text messages, and video chats became their lifelines, helping to bridge the miles between Minneapolis and Indiana. What started as a strong friendship gradually blossomed into a deep and loving relationship. They supported each other through the highs and lows, learning to navigate the challenges of a long-distance relationship with grace and commitment.
For months, Avery and Tyler cherished every opportunity to visit one another, making the most of weekends and holidays. Despite the distance, their love grew stronger, and they began to envision a future together. The turning point came when Tyler decided to move to Minnesota, closing the gap that had kept them apart for so long. This move was a testament to their dedication and the love they had nurtured across state lines.
This past spring, Tyler proposed, and Avery said yes. Their engagement marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, filled with anticipation and joy. Now, they are eagerly preparing for their wedding, which will take place this July in the picturesque setting of northern Minnesota. It promises to be a celebration filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Recently, we had the pleasure of capturing Avery and Tyler’s engagement session at Mill Ruins Park on a beautiful evening. The golden hour cast a magical glow over the park, providing the perfect backdrop for their photos. As the sun set, it painted the sky with hues of pink and gold, reflecting the warmth and love that Avery and Tyler share. The session was a small glimpse of how their wedding day will unfold – filled with beauty, romance, and joy.
As a photographer, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to capture Avery and Tyler’s wedding day. Their journey is a beautiful reminder of how love can grow and thrive even in the face of distance and challenges. I look forward to documenting the moments of joy, the heartfelt vows, and the loving glances that will define their special day. Avery and Tyler’s story is one of resilience, friendship, and the enduring power of love, and I am honored to be a part of it. Here’s to a beautiful wedding and a lifetime of happiness for this incredible couple!
There’s something truly magical about love when it blooms in sync with nature’s beauty. I had the incredible privilege of witnessing this enchanting blend during Kelly and Sean’s engagement session at Millennium Gardens in Plymouth, MN. Their story is one that resonates with warmth, laughter, and the promise of forever, and I’m thrilled to share their journey with you.
Imagine stepping into a garden adorned with cherry blossoms in full bloom, their delicate petals creating a canopy of soft hues. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of spring, adding an extra layer of romance to an already dreamy setting. From the moment they arrived, it was evident that Kelly and Sean shared a love that was as vibrant as the blossoms surrounding them. Their laughter echoed through the garden, punctuated by stolen glances and tender embraces. It was heartwarming to witness how effortlessly they connected.
As we wandered through the garden, capturing each precious moment, I couldn’t help but be swept away by the beauty of their love story. The budding trees seemed to mirror their excitement for the future, each new leaf a symbol of the adventures that awaited them as a couple. It was a privilege to freeze these fleeting moments in time, preserving the essence of their love for eternity.
I can’t wait to photograph their wedding at The Outpost in Chaska this July. It will be a celebration not just of their union but of the love, laughter, and cherished memories they’ve already created together. I am beyond grateful to be a part of their special day, knowing that I’ll be capturing the beginning of a new chapter in their beautiful love story.
To Kelly and Sean, may your love continue to bloom and grow with each passing season, just like the cherry blossoms that graced our engagement session. Your journey together is a testament to the beauty of love, and I can’t wait to capture more moments that reflect the depth of your connection.
A Personal Reflection: Being a part of Kelly and Sean’s engagement session was a reminder of why I love what I do. It’s not just about capturing images but about preserving moments that tell a story of love, joy, and togetherness. Their session at Millennium Gardens was a true testament to the magic of love in full bloom.
Fall in Minneapolis brings a magical blend of golden hues, crisp air, and the promise of new beginnings. For Katie and Nick, this season marked a significant step in their journey together as they embarked on their urban engagement session, setting the stage for their upcoming wedding at 7 Vines Vineyard this June.
Our adventure began at Gold Medal Park, a picturesque spot nestled in the heart of Minneapolis. As the leaves danced in the autumn breeze, Katie and Nick arrived with their furry companion, a playful pup who added an extra touch of joy to the day. Decked in a cute sign announcing their engagement, the pup stole the show and served as a delightful herald of their love story.
As the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the city, we ventured to a Minneapolis parking lot with a breathtaking view. The skyline stretched before us, a tapestry of urban lights and architectural wonders. Against this mesmerizing backdrop, Katie and Nick shared intimate moments, lost in each other’s eyes with the city as their witness.
The juxtaposition of nature and urbanity in their session mirrored the blend of their personalities – adventurous yet grounded, modern yet timeless. Every photograph captured the essence of their love story, a narrative of two souls intertwining amidst the vibrant pulse of the city.
Now, as their wedding day approaches, I find myself eagerly anticipating the opportunity to document the next chapter of their journey. Their summer wedding at 7 Vines Vineyardpromises to be a celebration of love, laughter, and cherished moments. From the urban landscapes of Minneapolis to the rustic charm of the vineyard, Katie and Nick’s love story continues to unfold in a tapestry of beauty and joy.
I can’t wait to photograph their wedding day, congratulations Katie and Nick!
Rob and Sarah’s wedding day was a beautiful blend of faith, family, and thoughtful design. Inspired by Monet’s garden paintings, their celebration was filled with soft spring colors, meaningful heirlooms, and intentional details at every turn.
After a joyful ceremony at Eagle Brook Church, surrounded by family and friends, they celebrated the night away at Silverwood Park with beautiful florals, heartfelt speeches, lakeside portraits, and dancing.
One of my favorite details? Sarah changed into her mother’s wedding dress for the reception, while flowers made from that same gown were sewn into her veil.
Welcome, to the world sweet Julia! It was such a blessing to see Travis, Marisa, and Jalen again! What joy Julia has brought to this family! Congratulations!!
A quick look at Sarah and Robert’s beautiful garden soirée themed wedding day! I love catching these behind the scenes moments!Congratulations Sarah and Robert
Watching families grow over the years is one of the greatest joys of my job.
I recently photographed sweet baby Noah’s newborn session, and it was so special getting to capture this season for Sarah + Brandon after photographing their engagement, wedding, and growing family through the years.
His big sister absolutely adored him, and those sibling moments melted my heart
I shared more from their session on the blog today! If your family is growing and you’re looking for newborn or family photos in Minnesota, I’d love to connect.
