Tucked away in the quiet charm of Manchester, Vermont, June 30, 2025, turned out to be one of those soft, golden days that photographers dream about. It was the kind of afternoon where the breeze is just enough to stir the leaves, the air smells like wildflowers, and every moment feels calm, happy, and full of life. That’s exactly what it felt like documenting Caroline and David’s engagement at Manchester.
Before we even picked up the camera, I asked Caroline and David a bit about how they met. Their story started in a way many modern love stories do—on a dating app. But what makes theirs stand out is everything that followed. From that very first message, there was something easy and exciting about getting to know one another.
Their first date? A ramen spot and a cocktail lounge tucked into the East Village. Caroline told me, “It was perfect.” And when you hear her say it, you believe her. It wasn’t about fancy frills—it was about connection, conversation, and the kind of spark you only find once.
Fast-forward to a Saturday evening. Caroline had just returned home after getting her hair done when she stepped into a scene David had carefully set up just for her. Candles flickering. A bouquet of fresh flowers—complete with peonies, her absolute favorite. And right there in their living room, surrounded by familiar walls and comfort, David told her how much he loved her, got down on one knee, and asked the question.
She said yes.
Champagne was popped, close friends and family were called, and to top it all off, they ordered vodka pizza. “It’s my favorite,” Caroline shared with a laugh, as if every detail of that night still felt brand new.
When we talked about where to do their engagement session, they knew they wanted a location that felt calm, natural, and timeless. Manchester, Vermont checked all those boxes. The town has this peaceful rhythm to it—like everything moves a little slower, in the best way. Rolling meadows, towering trees, and flower-lined paths made for the perfect backdrop to their story.
There’s something special about photographing a couple who are simply themselves. Caroline wore a striped tank and a flowing cream skirt that caught the wind with every step. David kept it classic in a soft blue button-up and crisp white pants. Together, they stroll under trees, hold hands, and walk through tall grass like they’ve done it a thousand times before. Nothing felt posed. Nothing felt forced. It was just them.
One of my favorite things about this engagement at Manchester was how natural it all felt. Whether they were sitting on a stone bench under blooming branches or walking hand-in-hand through an open field, Caroline and David never stopped smiling.
Getting to know Caroline and David as we moved through the session felt like opening the pages of a really good book. They told me they love traveling together, checking out new restaurants, going to sports games, and watching rom coms at home. “We also take a lot of long walks and play tennis,” David added. It’s a mix of big adventures and simple routines—which, in many ways, is what makes their relationship so strong.
They also each have their own space to just be. Whether it’s solo hobbies or time with friends, they’ve found that balance of togetherness and independence that keeps things healthy and fun.
When I asked them what they’re looking forward to the most in their wedding, they didn’t talk about the decor or even the dress. Caroline said, “We’re just excited to show how much we love each other in front of our family and close friends.”
They’re keeping it small and intentional—and honestly, that makes perfect sense for them. They want to really be present. To sit with the people who mean the most. To savor the food, the conversations, the hugs, and the laughter. No distractions. No overplanning. Just a day that feels like them.
Like most couples, planning hasn’t been without a few bumps. But they’ve kept a great perspective. Caroline said, “Try not to let the little things get in the way. It’s naturally stressful to plan a wedding, but make it fun.”
Their approach? Keep it clear. Move quickly. Stay aligned. Since they’re working on a short timeline, they’ve learned how to make decisions fast without overthinking. And from what I can tell, it’s working.
Photographing Caroline and David’s engagement at Manchester was a reminder that the best love stories aren’t always loud or over-the-top. Sometimes, they’re quiet and steady. They unfold in text messages, in late-night ramen spots, in cozy living rooms lit by candles. And sometimes, they lead you to a field in Vermont on a soft summer afternoon, where you get to slow down and soak it all in.
Thank you, Caroline and David, for inviting me into this chapter of your story. I’m so excited to see what your wedding day brings—and even more excited for everything that comes after that.
Are you someone looking for an engagement photographer? Get in touch with me by just dropping me an email. Find inspiration by checking out A Charlestown Engagement: Christina & Michael, Engagement at Splash at the Boathouse: A Tale of Two Hearts, and Capturing City Romance: A NYC Engagement. Head to my Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to see more of my work!