Becoming Home

As I stepped into Alice and Trevor’s cozy home in Astoria, Queens, I knew this engagement session would be unlike any other. There was something incredibly sentimental about capturing their love story in the very place where they spent their most cherished moments together. They crafted a home filled with love, memories, and dreams, and I felt honored to capture these intimate moments through photographs.

Their love story was a testament to the power of connection, even in the most challenging of times. The pandemic had brought them together, yet it had also pulled them apart, leading to a period of long-distance romance. But distance only made their bond stronger, as they found solace in writing heartfelt letters. Each letter was a piece of their hearts, a connection to the home they had in one another, no matter where they were physically.

During the engagement session, we decided to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with Carole King‘s music setting the mood for a January morning full of warmth and love. As the soft winter light streamed through the windows, casting a golden glow on Alice and Trevor, it was evident that they were each other’s sun—radiating warmth and joy to one another.

Favorite Games + Meaningful Home Decor

Playing Scrabble became a playful reminder of the little things they cherished together. It was their favorite game, and they even used it to decide who would say their vows first on their wedding day—a beautiful blend of love, tradition, and playfulness.

As I delved deeper into their story, I realized that “home” held a special significance for them. It was more than just a place; it was the essence of their relationship. They weren’t just two individuals living together; they were each other’s sanctuary. Home became a symbol of their love, safety, and a place where they could truly be themselves. Their walls spoke volumes about their journey. Photographs of cherished moments adorned the walls, and mementos from their travels filled the shelves. A map hung proudly, marked with all the places they had explored together and individually—a testament to their shared love for adventure.

The Love Letters

What truly touched my heart was witnessing their continued tradition of writing letters to one another. Alice and Trevor sat on their living room couch and starting to open old love letters they had written each other throughout their time together. It was clear that they had not forgotten the magic of the words written as they read each word carefully. To honor their tradition, they sat at their dining room table during the session and wrote new letters, filled with love and excitement for the new chapter they were about to embark upon.

As they went out to the fire escape to read the letters to one another, I knew these photos would not just be pictures but timeless pieces of their love story. Their emotions flowed effortlessly, like scenes from a romantic movie, where two souls find their way back home—to each other.

Alice and Trevor’s in-home engagement session wasn’t just about capturing their love—it was about witnessing the essence of what truly mattered to them. Their love, their home, and the beautiful traditions they had built together made this session one for the books. In October, as they walk down the aisle to say their vows, I will be there, camera in hand, ready to capture another chapter of their epic love story. They are more than just a couple; they are the embodiment of what it means to find home in each other’s hearts. And I am grateful to be a witness to their beautiful journey.

YOUR Love Story

If you are filled with emotions of love, excitement, and sentiment, I would love to journey together as your love story unfolds. Creating a day that embodies your relationship is the most important piece, and I would be honored to make it happen together. Remember that an engagement session is ALWAYS included in your wedding package, so let’s get your wedding booked today! Check out these Pinterest Boards for more inspiration and follow me on Instagram.

Photos by: Abby Leigh Photography