It was a leaf project for an environmental class. In high school. They both were procrastinators. The project was due and well, the leaves had to be collected. They spent the day together. Working. Well, kinda. The project was completed. But their story juuust started. =) High-school, college, and then grad and law school….all together nine sweet years later, Matt and Chanelle are ready to ‘officially’ take on life hand in hand.

They thrive on outdoors, being active, taking in the sights and sounds, coffee, working hard, and playing hard. They love visiting the market district in Pittsburgh to select local produce to grill for a late dinner. Or it might be camping, hiking, or picnicking. Maybe picking up ice cream. Always talking, being goofy, and making each other laugh…just loving time spent together.

I asked Matt about Chanelle….”Chanelle has the ability to make me smile at any moment no matter the the day I am having.  Her smile instantly brightens the room she is in.  I truly consider her my best friend and know that whenever I need someone to talk to, she will be by my side and listen to whatever I need to get off my chest. She is compassionate, hardworking and inspiring. And, well…I love her.”

Chanelle….” He always can make me laugh…he’s laid back yet driven and determined. He puts his whole heart into everything he does. He stands strong for what he believes. He supports me and treats me with utmost respect!”

My goal for each engagement session is to have it reflect who the couple is. It may be the location selected or several props included. I always have the couple decide on the location and if they would like to include anything. I may make suggestions, help pull it together, and add my spin. But what you see is largely planned and prepared by them. Matt & Chanelle decided on ‘home’ for the session. The entire session took place where Chanelle grow up…the home farm. They planned the session to reflect summer days with a day’s gone by feel. I loved it. When I arrived, the front porch was ready and waiting with an old milk can, flowers, rocking chairs, quilt, basket, and a scrabble game…all available as we wanted for the session. The quilt is her Grandma’s….loved it all. Everything fit them perfectly. =)

Nothing like big front porches…

Chanelle, Chanelle..so pretty.

Love field lanes!

We drove through quite a few fields to get this lime kiln. Loved the big stone structure. Chanelle’s Dad spent quite a bit time getting this weeded and cleaned up so it was ready for photos.

And the ring!