Madelyn + Jake | Jefferson City, Missouri Engagement Session

There are some couples you meet and immediately know they’re meant to be, Mattie and Jake are one of those couples!  Their love is effortless, grounded, and filled with humor, loyalty, and a shared love for long walks, good coffee, and watching the Kansas City Chiefs.

How They Met

Their story begins way before they even knew it.  As kids, Mattie spent countless days at her best friend Cailey’s house, while Jake was often there too, hanging out with Cailey’s older brother, Coleton.  Mattie and Cailey would spy on the boys, and even got picked on a bit in return, but the two were never close.  They were  just always… around each other!

Fast forward nearly a decade, and they found themselves face-to-face again at Coleton and his wife Lauren’s wedding!  Jake struck up a conversation, even playfully asking Mattie to pretend to be his girlfriend for the night!  She was surprised he even remembered her, but after the wedding, life took them in separate directions , at least for a little bit.

Summer rolled in, and with it, weekends at the Lake of the Ozarks!  This truly, is where their story began!  Jake says he had been “planning the ultimate summer attack,” and clearly, it worked.  From there, their relationship bloomed with long talks, laughter, and easy connection.

Their first date was a simple walk at Adrian Island in Jefferson City!  It set the tone for everything that would follow.

They made it official in summer of 2023, and it didn’t take long before both of them knew they’d found their person.  Jake says he knew just one month in: “There was no Plan B.”  For Mattie, it was a weekend at the lake, a moment she can’t quite pin down, but her heart just knew!

How He Asked

Fast forward to January 24, 2025,  Mattie thought she was headed home from school for a normal weekend and dinner with friends. Little did she know, Jake had cooked up a whirlwind plan in just two days!!  He set up the proposal at Mattie’s best friend’s newly renovated house, complete with roses, champagne, photos, and one very beautiful ring!  The surprises didn’t stop there; Jake had also gathered their closest friends and family for a celebration at The Millbottom.  Every moment was heartfelt, thoughtful, and so them!

Together, Mattie and Jake love exploring coffee shops, trying new restaurants, lifting weights, and just being in each other’s presence. Their bond is built on admiration: Mattie loves Jake’s confidence, loyalty, and passion. Jake is drawn to her patience, kind heart, and work ethic — plus her long legs and calming voice (his words, not mine!).

When I asked what they’re most excited about for the big day, Mattie said she’s looking forward to celebrating their love with all the people they hold dear. Jake? “Marrying my love — and drinking cold beer.” (A man who knows what he wants.)

This couple is the kind you root for!  Two souls who have grown up near each other, grown into themselves, and now, get to grow old together!  I can’t wait to capture every moment of their wedding day later this year!

Cheers to Madelyn and Jake!

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