Five years ago, I was doing senior portraits for Brittany Lee in Williamston. I was also going to take a few family portraits, so Brittany’s brother Austin was there with his new girlfriend Tori. Tori wasn’t there to take pictures. She was about to leave and I thought she was so precious and they looked so sweet together that I asked if I could take a few pictures of them. The first picture you see is one of those! I love it and am so glad I snapped those images of them early in their relationship.

Fast forward a few years and I was doing Tori’s college graduation portraits (along with her besties Rachel & Erin). We had the best time together! It’s been great to see all of Tori’s life updates on social media. Then their families contacted me about the big proposal. I was supposed to be off last night, but quickly told her I would be honored to capture this once in a lifetime moment for them!

Now, fast forward to yesterday evening! Have you ever taken portraits while running?? I have! I arrived at Zinchouse Winery in Durham yesterday at 4:30 so I could look around and see the spot where he would propose and find a good hiding spot. There wasn’t really a hiding spot, so i went around to several groups of patrons and explained what I was doing and asked if I could stand with them and pretend to be friends! Geez! Finally, the moment came. They walked out and went down by the water. I didn’t think they were going down as far as they did so I had to run behind them and hide behind one tall tree trunk that was out in the middle of nothing! I kept peeking out to see if Austin had dropped to one knee. Once he did, I ran down to them snapping as I went. The first images may not be quite as sharp as they should be but again, I was RUNNING!

It was the biggest honor to witness the love between Austin & Tori. They are adorable. Then I was able to see the true joy that Erin, Mason & Rachel had for them. They are such good friends to each other.

Finally, Tori spotted all of her family! They all ran to each other and celebrated with lots of hugs and smiles. It was super hot but absolutely perfect!! I loved every minute!

THANK YOU so much for letting me have a little part in it!!!