There’s something so special about watching love come full circle — not just in the way relationships grow, but in the way my journey as a photographer intertwines with the couples I get to serve. Danielle and Elijah’s story is one of those full-circle moments that makes me pause and feel all the feels.

I first met Danielle back in 2021, when she was a bridesmaid at her brother and sister-in-law’s wedding. This was one of the first weddings I ever photographed as a lead shooter. I was still a newer photographer then, just getting my footing. So when she reached out to hire me for her wedding? I can’t even describe how honored I felt. It’s not just a booking: it truly is one of the proudest moments of my career. That kind of trust means everything.

And now, here we are… just six months away from Danielle and Elijah’s New Year’s Eve wedding at The Villa in Bridgewater!

For their engagement session, we chose the Japanese Garden at Roger Williams Park, right when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. It was a gorgeous April day (and yes, about a million people had the same idea to visit!), but somehow, through the magic of their love and a little creative framing, we made it look like they had the place entirely to themselves. The way they moved through the session was so playful, connected, and completely at ease that it made it easy to forget the crowds around us.

After soaking up all the springtime magic at the Japanese Garden, we made our way to the Rhode Island State House for a completely different vibe. Danielle and Elijah looked absolutely stunning against the grand marble architecture and the golden hour glow, and the setting gave us the perfect backdrop for some classic and romantic portraits. The shift from the soft, floral charm of the park to the timeless elegance of the State House captured their love in such a beautiful and well-rounded way. It felt like the perfect blend of playful and sophisticated.

This isn’t the first time I’ve photographed Danielle and Elijah, either. I actually did a couple’s session for them back in trhe fall of 2023, before they were engaged. So getting to now document their journey into marriage feels extra special.

Their story? It’s a powerful one. After being together for over two years, they went through a breakup, spent 8 months apart, dated other people, and then found their way back to each other — stronger, more grounded, and more in love than ever. In their own words:

“We’ve learned how to love not only each other, but ourselves independently. We have so many goals and plans for the future, growing from everything we’ve learned.”

Their relationship is built on intention and growth, and also a whole lot of fun. They love movie nights at home and hikes where they have their deepest conversations. The way they laugh together and the way they show up for each other creates the kind of love that feels light and joyful, yet deeply rooted.

They are the kind of couple I feel I could genuinely be friends with. They radiate warmth, they do not take life too seriously, and they truly see each other.

Danielle and Elijah — I adore you both, and I cannot wait to ring in 2026 with you, surrounded by love, laughter, confetti, and maybe a few happy tears. Let the countdown begin!