Turning moments into memories – that’s what I’m all about! And that is exactly what we did for Ellen and Mike’s engagement session. Aside from the adorable looks and rustic charm setting, there was magic in the air as I photographed these lovebirds. With their sweet glances, soft laughter, and caring smiles, it was almost like watching the love story between a Disney prince and princess come to life. Which was perfect, because Ellen and Mike are true Disney fans!

A Fairytale First Date

Although these two met in high school, they reconnected years later after Mike made the subtle, but slick move, to like one of Ellen’s photos on Instagram. The magic began to spark when Mike changed some of his plans around so that he could meet Ellen at Disney world, where she was vacationing with family. As far as first dates go, I’d say this one definitely has some enchanted fairytale tones to it – and it only gets better! For their second date, this cute couple went ring shopping! When you know it’s meant to be, there’s really no point in waiting.

Although Ellen says that they have moved pretty fast as far as most people’s standards go, they both just knew that they were the ones for each other. Ellen says that Mike is her other half, the missing piece of the puzzle. With him, everything just fits, and it’s like they have been together their entire lives. As a couple, they simply enjoy spending time with one another. Currently, they are in a long-distance relationship with Mike living in Alabama and Ellen living in Peoria, but that just makes the time they have together even more special! Both have said that long-distance has made them appreciate the time they do have, and they don’t take the small things for granted – like the simplicity of holding hands or going out to dinner. When they are in the same place at the same time, they enjoy doing normal things, such as eating, snuggling, playing games, or holding hands while they go shopping. And, of course, they love going to Disney – after all, that is where their dream began!

An Rustic Charm Engagement Session

For this fairytale prince and princess, we wanted to create a magical setting for their engagement photos, which meant incorporating a rustic charm they both love. We headed downtown to capture some sweet, intimate moments in front of worn-down buildings, exposed brick, and flaking paint. All in all, the rustic charm look came together effortlessly, made even more perfect by Ellen and Mike’s personalities! Their love story radiated naturally in front of the camera lens. This beautiful couple is looking forward to their upcoming wedding, where the magic of their story will continue. Can’t wait to see what they have in store for their big day!

Check out other swoon-worthy engagement sessions, like Anna and Jeff’s Chicago Lakefront Engagement.