When Alliyah and Matt reached out about their engagement session in Hartford, they wanted something that felt totally "them"—fun, laid-back, and a little off the beaten path. We started in the heart of the city at Bushnell Park, where they strolled hand-in-hand, sharing laughs and stories against the backdrop of the city and the park’s lush greenery. The clouds were rolling in, but that only added to the cozy vibe of the shoot.

As we explored the park, Alliyah and Matt's playful energy was contagious. They joked around, struck a few silly poses, and even had a little impromptu dance-off. I was just there to capture the magic as it unfolded—every moment was full of genuine smiles and that effortless connection that makes photographing couples like them so much fun.

After our park adventure, we made our way to Little River Restoratives, the bar where they had their very first date. Starting at the exact table! This spot clearly holds a special place in their hearts, and it was easy to see why. The cozy, vintage vibe was the perfect backdrop for the next round of photos. They grabbed their usual drinks and settled into their favorite booth, reminiscing about that first date and how far they've come since then.

Shooting in a place that means so much to them added a layer of intimacy to the session. It wasn't just about the photos; it was about capturing the essence of who they are as a couple. From their shared jokes to the way they looked at each other, every shot told a piece of their story.

Here’s to Alliyah and Matt—a couple who knows how to keep things real, have a good time, and make every moment an adventure. I can’t wait to see what’s next for these two and capture their wedding at The Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill next summer!