There are certain sessions that feel like more than just photos and Abbey and Austin’s engagement session in Jefferson City was exactly that kind of full circle moment for me!
Years ago, Abbey stood in front of my camera as a high school senior, part of my 2018 model team. Back then, it was all about celebrating who she was in that season of life, full of dreams, excitement, and possibility. So getting to photograph her again, years later, stepping into a brand new chapter with the love of her life, it’s hard to even put into words how meaningful that is! These are the moments that remind me why I love what I do. Watching people come back, trusting me to document their milestones, it’s something I’ll never take for granted!
We started their session in downtown Jefferson City, right at the beautiful Missouri State Capitol. The forecast had been threatening rain at the start of the evening, and for a moment, it looked like we might be dodging rain drops the whole time but then, almost like it was meant to be, the clouds parted and the sun came out to give us the most beautiful evening light!
And these two? Absolute naturals in front of the camera!
Abbey and Austin have the kind of connection that doesn’t need direction, it just is effortless. They slipped into every moment so easily, laughing, leaning into each other, completely wrapped up in their own little world! Abbey has this way of lighting up when Austin makes her laugh, like she can’t quite contain the joy and it made photographing them feel easy in the best way!
We wandered around the Capitol grounds and explored a few nearby downtown spots, soaking in the charm of the city before making our way to a place that meant even more to them; Abbey’s grandparents’ property out in Osage Bend.
And if you know me, you know I’m always chasing that golden light, and wow, did it show up!
Rolling hills stretched out around us, the sun dipping low and casting the dreamiest glow across the landscape. It was one of those evenings where everything just clicks The light, the location, the energy, everything was perfect!
To make it even sweeter, Abbey and Austin brought along their two dogs, Annie and Ivy! Like most pups, they had their own ideas at first (lots of movement, lots of excitement), but after a few attempts and a little patience, they settled in and gave us the cutest moments. Honestly, it wouldn’t have been complete without them!
We ended the session wrapped in golden sunlight, laughter filling the evening as Abbey and Austin soaked in every second together! Those final moments with the soft glowy light, and a couple so full of joy, felt like the perfect way to end the session.
How It All Began
Abbey and Austin’s story started in a way that feels meant to be! They had a lot of mutual friends and had seen each other around at parties over time, but it wasn’t until a float trip together that things truly clicked. That trip turned into something more! It was filled with laughter, connection, and the start of something neither of them could ignore!
From that point on, they’ve been inseparable!!
Their first official date took place at El Jimador, but not long after, they decided to elevate things a bit and headed to Madison’s for dinner. They talked nonstop, completely wrapped up in conversation, both feeling the spark that was clearly growing into something deeper. They even say they knew from their very first kiss that they were meant to be together. It was one of those rare, undeniable moments!
The Proposal
On June 29, 2025, what started as a simple brunch day turned into one of the most unforgettable moments of Abbey’s life!
Her friends took her out to brunch at High Rise Bakery, and she didn’t suspect a thing. Afterward, they brought her back home where everything changed!
Austin was waiting for her in the driveway, holding an umbrella. The yard had been completely transformed, with round tables dressed in white tablecloths and flower bouquets placed throughout. The second she saw it all, Abbey started shaking and crying, overwhelmed in the best way!
Austin led her behind the barn to a quiet, beautiful spot in the field where he had mowed a small patch of grass just for this moment! Waiting there was a cozy setup, a rug, a basket of wildflowers, and champagne. It was intimate, thoughtful, and so perfectly them!
And then, surrounded by all that love and intention, he asked her to marry him!
Both of them were in tears…happy, emotional, unforgettable tears!!
Abbey, getting to photograph you again after all these years truly means so much to me! And Austin, you are the perfect match for her. I loved getting to see the way you two interact and care for each other! I already know your wedding day is going to be something incredibly special, and I cannot wait to have you both back in front of my camera later this year.
Abbey and Austin are such a darling pair! This special season of life is such a beautiful beginning to their next chapter!
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