Lauren and Kevin had a few must-haves for their spring engagement session: signature cocktails and board games within the confines of their cozy living room. And if the weather was right (never a guarantee for an Iowa spring), some outdoor shots in nature.

I love to begin sessions in a place that’s comfortable for my clients. Being in a familiar environment allows them to ease into our time together and get comfortable having their photo taken. So we started our session off at Kevin and Lauren’s home in Des Moines, where my gracious hosts made cocktails. My margarita was to die for, thank you. We listened to music and chatted as they made the drinks.

We sipped on our drinks while Kevin and Lauren played a few games. Kevin patiently explained the rules of cribbage to me, which I promptly forgot, and Lauren consistently wow’ed me with her elite card shuffling skills. I also brought along a friends’ copy of the game Boop for them to try. I still have no idea how to play but it’s cute and has cats!

Next we went to the World Food Prize in downtown Des Moines. The space has a gorgeous building and a public garden, so double win for us. We weren’t alone, though! Some local high schools were having prom that weekend and also decided to take their photos there. I obviously can’t blame them.

We ventured out to Prairie City for our last location. One of Lauren’s favorite spots near Des Moines is Neal Smith Wildlife Reserve (they have buffalo!), so we had to make sure to fit that in. It was colder and cloudier than any of us anticipated, but she and Kevin were champs and made the most of it.

Want a cozy engagement session of your own? Inquire now!