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Ashley and Garrett’s engagement session at Chattooga Belle Farm had a relaxed, easy feel from the start. From the beginning, the wide mountain views, bold greens, and clear blue sky created a beautiful backdrop for the two of them. Overall, everything about the afternoon felt natural and true to who they are together.

Ashley shared something that shaped the heart of the session:
“We want these photos to capture how much we love each other and how happy we make each other. Then, when we look back, we want it to be evident and a precious reminder that through thick and thin, our bond is unbreakable. Finally, we hope our love continues to grow through each chapter of our lives.”

From the very first click of the shutter, that intention came to life. The light that day was bright and clear. It also highlighted every shade of green rolling across the landscape and each rich blue in the sky. Instead of the hazy warmth of golden hour, we had crisp clarity, with colors that popped naturally. The scenery seemed made for them. As a result, the images feel timeless, true-to-life, and full of joyful energy.

As we walked through the property, Ashley and Garrett fell into their own rhythm. Garrett pulled her close, and Ashley relaxed into him—minimal prompting needed. Meanwhile, their smiles came naturally, and their interaction made it easy for me to step back. They needed little direction—just time together in a place that suited them.

In the vineyard, the rows of green surrounded them, creating a simple, natural backdrop. Later, moving to the open fields, the mountains and clear blue sky gave a wider, fresh view. The colors didn’t just look pretty, they echoed the tone of their relationship: bright, steady, and hopeful.Throughout the session, they stayed relaxed and connected, whether walking to a new spot or preparing for a photo. These natural, unplanned moments showed their love just as clearly as any posed shot.

Chattooga Belle Farm highlights what’s already there, and for Ashley and Garrett, that meant a secure, joyful love. Additionally, their photos reflect the beauty of the farm and the clarity of the bond they’ve built together. Ashley and Garrett, thank you for trusting me with this part of your story. Hopefully, these images become the reminder you hope for—of your happiness and strong connection—I am truly honored. Here’s to continuing every chapter ahead.

Want photos that feel like you? Let’s chat — inquire now.

When couples start planning their wedding, the engagement sessions sometimes feels optional. It’s easy to think, “Do we really need these? We’ll get enough photos on the wedding day.” But engagement photos are about more than a pretty save-the-date. They shape your experience, not just your gallery.

Getting Comfortable in Front of the Camera

Most couples aren’t used to being photographed for hours. That’s where an engagement session helps. It gives you time to practice and relax. You’ll learn how to move, pose, and laugh naturally. You’ll see what feels comfortable and what doesn’t. By the time your wedding arrives, you’ll know exactly what to do. No stiff smiles. No awkward hands. Just the two of you, confident and relaxed.

Building a Relationship with Your Photographer

Your photographer isn’t just another vendor. They’ll be with you through almost every moment of your wedding day. That’s why trust matters. An engagement session gives you space to connect. You’ll learn how your photographer directs. They’ll learn what makes you laugh, what feels natural, and what matters most to you. Think of it like a rehearsal. On the wedding day, it won’t feel like a stranger holding the camera. It’ll feel like a friend cheering you on.

Capturing This Season of Life

Your engagement is short but special. It’s full of excitement and anticipation. You’re planning your future and dreaming about what’s ahead. Engagement photos capture this chapter. They’re relaxed, personal, and real. Wedding portraits are beautiful, but they often feel more formal. Engagement photos show who you are in everyday life. Years from now, you’ll look back and remember the joy, the nerves, and the sweetness of this time.

Personalizing Your Story

Engagement sessions are about more than location and outfits. They’re about telling your story. Maybe you take photos at the park where you walk your dog. Perhaps it’s the coffee shop where you had your first date. Maybe it’s the mountain view you both love. These places make your photos unique. They turn your session into a reflection of your life together.

Bonus: Practical Uses for the Photos

And yes, the photos come with perks. They’re perfect for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or guest books. You can even use them as décor at your reception. Parents and grandparents love them too. But the real gift isn’t how you use the photos. It’s the memories you make while taking them.

Engagement sessions aren’t just another box on the wedding checklist. They’re a way to prepare, connect, and celebrate this exciting season. When you look back, you’ll see more than poses. You’ll see your story—one that started long before the wedding day.

Want to see more engagement session: check out these blogs!

Earlier this year, Caleb proposed to Casey at Black Balsam Knob. It’s a well-loved hiking spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway, with sweeping views that feel endless. When it came time to plan their engagement photos, they knew exactly where they wanted to go. Returning to the same mountain where they got engaged felt both sentimental and meaningful. This mountain engagement session was not only about photos, but also about revisiting a place that had already become an important part of their story.

The Journey to the Summit

This past Thursday, I set out to meet them for their session. I drove two hours into the mountains, passing through winding roads that climbed higher with every mile. Once I arrived at the trailhead, we started the one-mile hike to the summit. It’s not a long trail, but it is steady uphill the entire way. At the top, we were rewarded with some of the most incredible views. Black Balsam Knob offers 365° scenery, with layers of mountains rolling into the distance. The open landscape made it easy to move around, explore different spots, and capture their photos against the dramatic backdrop.

Evening on the Mountain

The weather was cloudy but calm for most of the session. The clouds added depth and mood to the sky without blocking the views. Casey and Caleb enjoyed being back in a place that already held so much meaning, and we took time exploring different angles of the summit. Each spot gave us a new perspective of the mountains, and every direction felt like the perfect backdrop.

As we wrapped up and began the hike back, the rain started to fall. At first it was a light drizzle, but by the time we reached the tree line, it had become steadier. We made the one-mile hike down in the dark and wet, using a flashlight to light the trail. Once I left the trailhead, the drive home was another two hours through thunderstorms. The evening turned into an adventure from start to finish, but it felt fitting for such an epic location.

Why Mountain Engagement Sessions Stand Out

Mountain engagement sessions are about more than just the views. They are about the experience of being in a location that means something to you. For Casey and Caleb, Black Balsam Knob was the perfect choice because it marked both their proposal and their engagement photos. It tied their story together in a way that was unique and true to them. If you’re considering a mountain engagement session, let this be your encouragement—it may take a little extra effort, but the views and memories are always worth it.

If you are dreaming of a mountain engagement session, let this be your sign. The hike may be steep, and the weather unpredictable, but the reward is always worth it. Reach out now! Contact.

Want to see more of the mountains? Check out this blog of Anna & Tylers Mountain Wedding.

Taylor Swift’s engagement made the internet collectively gasp. Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or a casual observer, there’s no denying that her wedding will ripple far beyond the couple themselves. Much like the way Princess Diana and Prince Charles’ wedding in the ‘80s shaped bridal fashion for a generation, or how Justin and Hailey Bieber set off a wave of pared-down, modern bridal looks, Taylor’s choices will influence countless weddings to come. The sheer scale of her fanbase means the wedding industry is about to see a seismic shift.

But here’s the thing: trends are fun, inspiring, and exciting—but your wedding should still feel like you. Let’s look at a few areas where we’ll likely see Swift’s influence, and how you can make them your own.

1. Photography: Finding Your Style

Taylor leans toward a moodier, cinematic aesthetic in the photos she shares. If her wedding images reflect this style, expect couples everywhere to ask for dark, romantic tones. Here’s my gentle reminder: you don’t need to copy her to have beautiful images. Photography is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make, and your photos should reflect your story—not just the latest trend. If you love timeless, true-to-color images that never feel dated, that’s where my style shines. Trends will come and go, but your wedding photos are forever. Reach out to me for that true-to-color vibe.

2. Flowers: Big, Bold, and Possibly Unexpected

If there’s one place Taylor might surprise us, it’s florals. She’s known for her storytelling, so I imagine her flowers will carry hidden meanings—think Shakespearean references, nods to her songs, or blooms connected to love stories in history. Suddenly, we may see couples requesting florals inspired by lyrics or symbolism (lavender haze bouquets, anyone?). This is where it gets fun: while Taylor’s flowers will set a tone, you can use her creativity as inspiration without losing yourself in it. Want flowers that speak your love story? Choose blooms tied to your own memories—maybe the wildflowers you picked on your first date, or the peonies your grandmother grew.

3. Dresses: All the Outfit Changes

If there’s one thing we can predict, it’s that Taylor will not stop at one dress. She has always leaned into transformation, so we could see a ceremony gown, a reception gown, and maybe even a surprise after-party look. Designers will rush to release multi-look bridal collections, and suddenly, everyone will want more than one outfit. My take? Have fun with this idea, but also keep your budget and personality in mind. One thoughtfully chosen gown that makes you feel like yourself will always outshine three dresses that don’t.

4. Music & Entertainment: Experiences Over Playlists

It feels safe to assume that Taylor’s wedding will have unforgettable music moments—whether it’s a surprise guest, live orchestral arrangements, or carefully crafted playlists. This could usher in a wave of couples placing greater emphasis on entertainment: think immersive performances, string quartets playing modern hits, or personalized first dance songs. Music has always been central to weddings, but Taylor might push couples to dream bigger about how entertainment can set the tone of their day.

What Taylor Swift’s Engagement Means for Your Wedding

Taylor Swift’s engagement will undoubtedly influence trends, but your wedding isn’t a stadium tour—it’s your story. Whether you lean into her style or chart your own path, the most lasting wedding trend will always be authenticity. My clients are the kind of people who want timeless images that tell their story, not someone else’s. And that’s something no trend can replace.

As the buzz around Taylor Swift’s engagement continues to grow, it’s exciting to imagine the inspiration her wedding will spark. Just remember: inspiration is wonderful, but your wedding should be a reflection of you.

✨ Inspired by the buzz around Taylor Swift’s engagement but want photos that feel timeless and true to you? ✨
 Let’s chat about capturing your wedding day in a way that’s uniquely yours. Say Hi Here to start the conversation—I’d love to hear your story.

The wedding morning sets the tone for the entire day. It’s a time filled with excitement, nerves, and anticipation. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen how a little preparation makes all the difference. The right items can keep you calm, organized, and fully present. Here are my top five essentials you should have for a for stress-free getting-ready Photos!

The 5 Tips For Stress-Free Getting Ready Photos

1. A Thoughtful Getting-Ready Space

Your wedding morning photos start with your surroundings. Choose a space with good natural light and minimal clutter. A clean, bright room helps your wedding photographer capture timeless images. Think about the backdrop—neutral tones and tidy details make your portraits shine. Bonus: you’ll feel more relaxed in a beautiful environment.

2. All Your Wedding Details in One Place

Gather your invitation suite, rings, jewelry, perfume, and any heirlooms in advance. Place them in a small box or bag for easy access. Having everything together saves stress and ensures your photographer can style them beautifully. These detail shots tell part of your story and add depth to your gallery.

3. Comfortable Getting-Ready Attire

You’ll want to look good before slipping into your dress. Choose a robe, matching pajama set, or something cozy. Avoid tight necklines so you don’t mess up your hair and makeup later. Comfortable outfits also create fun, cohesive photos of you and your bridal party during prep.

4. A Timeline That Builds in Buffer Time

The morning often runs behind schedule without a little extra padding. Share a timeline with your hair stylist, makeup artist, and photographer. Add at least 20 minutes of buffer time before your ceremony. This keeps the morning calm and allows space for unexpected delays. A relaxed couple photographs much better than a rushed one.

5. Snacks and Hydration

With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget food and water. Keep snacks, fruit, and water bottles nearby. A balanced snack can keep your energy steady before the ceremony. No one wants a growling stomach during vows—or fainting mid-portrait session. Your wedding photographer will thank you for staying hydrated and energized.

Ready for some more advice on how to have a stress-free getting-ready photos? Check out this interview with Katie Cotton from Cotton Rouge & Co.

Let’s talk about styled shoots. You might be asking: what is a styled shoot? But I promise, you’ve definitely seen them.

A stunning couple in designer outfits. A jaw-dropping bouquet. A reception table that looks like it belongs in a magazine. And maybe you’ve thought: “That’s can’t be a real wedding.”

You’re absolutely right. It’s not. Anyway, here’s the thing—styled shoots aren’t pretending to be real weddings.

They’re here to inspire you. And as a wedding photographer, I’m here to say: styled shoots are actually a gift to couples.Here’s why.

Think of Styled Shoots as a Wedding Mood Board—But Better

When you’re scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest then saving all those swoon-worthy images, chances are a lot of them come from styled shoots. And that’s not a bad thing! These styled sessions give you a chance to see how ideas come together in real life.

• You can see what a burnt orange color palette looks like at golden hour.
• You can see how velvet napkins photograph.
• You can even figure out if you love (or hate) the look of a dramatic cathedral veil.

Styled shoots give you the freedom to dream without the pressure of logistics. No need to worry about what fits your guest count or your venue restrictions just yet—you’re simply gathering inspiration.

It’s like flipping through a wedding magazine, but the ideas feel more current, more creative, and more possible. Styled Shoots Across America, for example, brings together incredible vendor teams to create these inspirational setups specifically to spark ideas for couples like you.

They’re Not Fake—They’re Focused

One of the biggest misunderstandings about styled shoots is that they’re “fake.” But let’s reframe that.

Styled shoots are intentionally curated. That means there’s time to fluff the dress, perfect the table, and wait for the light to hit just right.

It’s not meant to reflect the pace of a real wedding day—it’s meant to highlight possibilities.

They show what’s possible when the details are thoughtfully planned and the timeline allows space for creativity. And while your wedding may be more fast-paced and joyfully chaotic, seeing these types of images helps you decide what matters to you.

Love the flat lay of vintage stamps and hand-torn paper? Awesome—now you know to ask your stationer for that.
Drawn to the soft, romantic light in a specific photo? That’s a clue you might want golden hour portraits in your timeline.

Styled shoots give you tools to translate your vision into real wedding-day decisions.

Final Thoughts: Use Styled Shoots to Clarify, Not Compare

Here’s the truth: your real wedding doesn’t need to look like a styled shoot to be beautiful.

Styled sessions are here to inspire you, not overwhelm you. They’re creative playgrounds where vendors explore new trends, show off their work, and spark ideas for couples planning weddings of their own.

So next time you’re scrolling and saving, don’t stress about whether it’s a styled shoot or a real wedding. Ask yourself: What do I love about this? How can I bring this feeling into our day—our way?

Use styled shoots to clarify what you want—not to compare your wedding to someone else’s.

Because trust me, your love story, your people, your joy? That’s the real magic. And no styled shoot can top that.

P.S. If you ever wonder whether something in my portfolio was part of a styled shoot or a real wedding—just ask! I’m always happy to share and help you use inspiration in a way that feels like you. 💛