I love outdoor shoots, but sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, the weather can switch up on you (that too on the night before!). However, the good part about engagement shoots is that rescheduling is usually not a hassle. And with couples like Monique and Madeleine, everything is super chill and easy. We couldn’t shoot the couple’s engagement photos on the decided day as we realized the forecast was questionable. But instead of feeling bummed out about their canceled shoot, the brides-to-be met me for dinner and drinks on the day we were supposed to shoot the engagement session!
I always say that I love making a real connection with my couples, and these dinner and drinks sessions certainly help! We spent some time getting to know each other, and then when we met early the next morning for our session at Alyson’s Orchard in Walpole, it just seemed like I was connecting with old friends again (this time as their engagement photographer!).
Monique and Madeleine drove up from Rhode Island to Alyson’s Orchard, and with a venue so beautiful and a couple so much in love, I got to take some stunning engagement photographs. When I asked the couple about their first date, Monique replied, “Our first date was at a small bar in Dorchester, MA. Madeleine sent me a message on Facebook asking if I would like to grab drinks and dinner with her. I agreed, and we set a date for the following week. Madeleine was a bit nervous the whole time, but she invited me over to her apartment afterward, where I met her roommates and some of her friends.”
Even though Madeleine made the first move, it was Monique who proposed in May 2018. She planned a long weekend trip from Friday-Monday in New Hampshire with an activity for each day (their dog Luna accompanied them as well). They camped, kayaked out to an island to stay the night, explored, and hiked Mt. Pierce, where Monique proposed to Madeleine at the summit.
And then Madeleine proposed to Monique in August 2018. It happened when they were going to France for a family reunion. They had flown out a couple of weeks early to take a road trip. They landed in Paris and then drove to Belgium, Amsterdam, Germany, and Luxemburg. While in Brodenbach, Germany, they stumbled upon a large castle which they got to explore. And when they got to the top of the castle, Madeleine proposed! I mean, does it get more fairy tale than this?
Just like their proposals, where my couple found happiness in making them unique for each other, even during their engagement session, I could see how much they cared about each other and got to witness the bond they shared. They were so romantic, and they constantly made each other laugh. I adore it when my couples just let the love flow! It gives me so much joy to capture those sweet and genuine moments between them. Their furry friend Luna was an adorable addition to the session too!
Monique and Madeleine, it was a pleasure spending time with you two and photographing your special moments. I loved how you handled everything and thank you for being so amazing! I wish you both many more adventures and happiness ahead. Also, I am looking forward to being a part of your future celebrations.
Click here to see their beautiful September Vermont Wedding!
If you enjoyed reading Monique and Madeleine’s story and liked the photos I took, I’ve got some more light and airy engagement and wedding images that you can check out. You can take a look at Liz and Brian’s Wedding at the Equinox, Casey and Kyle’s Engagement Session at Alyson’s Orchard, and Caitlin and Kyle’s Wedding at the Bedford Village Inn. If you or someone you know is looking for a similar photography experience, you can contact me. You can also drop me an email at kristen@klenoxphoto.com or ring me on (603) 703-2626.