When I set out for DA Ranch to meet this incredible couple for their engagement photos, I was ready for a day of beautiful moments and stunning scenery. What I didn’t anticipate was driving through a full-on microburst! As I navigated through sheets of rain, every car around me was pulling over to the side of the road. I’ll admit, I was a little worried, but I knew I had to keep going. My couple had already arrived at DA Ranch a couple of hours ahead, sipping on wine and soaking in the significance of the location.
DA Ranch isn’t just any vineyard to them; it’s where their love story quietly began. The first time they visited, they weren’t even dating yet—just friends, brought together by their jobs in radiology. She was still a student when they met, and during that first visit, they were with a group of friends when the rain started to fall. They ended up dancing under a willow tree, oblivious to the fact that this was the beginning of their romance.
Fast forward to their engagement shoot, and we found ourselves in a similar situation—rainy skies and a moody atmosphere that brought back all those early memories for them. It felt like we were stepping back in time as we captured photos under that same willow tree.
As an engagement photographer, I’m always excited to bring my clients’ visions to life. This couple wanted black and white photos, and while I’m usually drawn to the vibrant pops of color, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the timeless elegance of their choice. The grainy texture added a nostalgic feel, perfectly complementing their story. But I’ll be honest, the moments we captured in color still hold a special place in my heart. There’s something about those vibrant hues that adds a layer of warmth and emotion to every shot.
And of course, being a wine lover myself, I couldn’t leave DA Ranch without picking up a bottle of their Red Barn Wine. It was the perfect way to cap off a day filled with love, memories, and a little bit of rain.
So whether it’s capturing a love story at a place as special as DA Ranch or braving the elements to make sure every moment is preserved, I’m reminded why I love what I do. Every couple has a unique story, and it’s an honor to help them tell it through my lens.
