Some love stories feel like they were written in the stars, and JoDee and Tony’s is absolutely one of them! I had the honor of photographing this beautiful couple, and as I listened to their story and spent time with them, it was clear just how genuine and joyful their connection is!
Their journey began long before they became a couple. JoDee and Tony first officially met in preschool and then again later in high school. But it wasn’t until their senior trip to Alabama with their group of friends that something started to click. From there, their relationship grew into something truly special!
Their first date was simple, yet perfect, just the way all great love stories start. They chose El Jimador on the east side of Jefferson City, sharing their love for Mexican food and what would become one of many fun-filled meals together.
JoDee and Tony officially became a couple in August of 2019 . It didn’t take long for JoDee to know that Tony was the one for her! Within the first year of dating, she realized how easy it was to be around him. They were constantly laughing, always having fun, and never experiencing a dull moment! And when her parents voiced how much they liked Tony too, it sealed the deal in her heart!
Tony’s realization was simple but deeply meaningful, he couldn’t imagine life without JoDee. Sometimes, love doesn’t need fireworks or grand declarations. Sometimes, it’s just knowing that life is better, fuller, and more beautiful with the other person by your side!
The proposal happened on Christmas Eve 2024, and it was as cozy and heartfelt as their love story! The day began with breakfast and laughter, just like any normal morning together. Tony went out to the shop or maybe the farm, JoDee jokes that she’s never really sure what he’s up to out there on the farm in December! Later that evening, they got ready for Christmas Eve mass in Westphalia. Since moving in together three years prior, they had started hosting Christmas Eve dinner at their home, something that had become a favorite tradition for both of their families.
After church, they returned home, gathered for dinner, and then continued another tradition: taking Christmas Eve pictures in front of the tree before changing into pajamas. While posing with their sweet dog Dolly for one last photo, Tony surprised JoDee by pulling a ring out of his boot and proposing right there! The look on JoDee’s face says it all, pure surprise and joy! Their families were just as stunned and thrilled. It was a beautiful, intimate, and completely unforgettable moment.
Spending time with JoDee and Tony, it’s easy to see what makes their relationship so special. They love the simple joys of life together, taking gator rides around the farm, watching TV series from time to time, and spending quality time with their close-knit circle of friends and family!
JoDee admires Tony’s incredible work ethic and the way he dotes on his nephews. Tony, on the other hand, is smitten with JoDee’s smile, her easygoing nature, and of course, her love for their dog, who he jokes is actually “her” dog!
If you had to describe each other in three words? JoDee says Tony is loving, easygoing, and kind. Tony describes JoDee as beautiful, loving, and caring. After spending time with them, I couldn’t agree more! I loved their playful and fun personalities. They never stop laughing and giggling with each other! Their connection is pure and I loved documenting it! The farm locations they scouted out were the perfect spots to let their love shine. You could tell they were both truly in their element on the farm with their sweet pup Dolly! From tall grass fields to doing a cheers with their beers at the end of the session, I had the best time with these two!
As they look forward to their wedding day, JoDee is excited to spend time with the people they love most, and to finally become a Bock, marking the start of a beautiful new chapter! Tony is most looking forward to seeing JoDee walk down the aisle in her dress, and spending the day celebrating with their family and friends! I cannot wait to have them back in front of my camera again for their wedding day!
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