After a whole week of rain and overcast skies, Rachael, Zach, and I spent a sunny New Year’s day in Laguna beach. We ran around the beach laughing and splashing until the sun was completely gone and dark. We had so much fun and it felt like we’ve been friends forever.

Rachael and Zach met at a small private Lutheran school in Michigan, but it wasn’t until after graduation where they both separately moved out to Southern California. They got in contact again and quickly became friends and fell in love. They’ve been together for 4 1/2 years now and are getting married this October in Sonoma! When we did this shoot, they were on a strict timeline because Rachael is heading out to Chicago to finish her master’s program. These photos will be something they can treasure while they are apart and fill them with those happy memories together.

They love traveling together, but mostly they enjoy just living life together. It’s the little things for them: dancing in the kitchen, making cocktails, and binging shows at home. I believe the best things in life are in those little moments too.

But their proposal was anything BUT ordinary. While in Vegas with all their friends and family (using a friend’s birthday as a cover), they snuck away to the Stratosphere on the Strip, where Zach proposed. It was romantic, spectacular, and glamorous. They met up with their friends and family to celebrate and enjoy the rest of their trip in Vegas.

Below are some of my fave shots from their engagement shoot! I love how their energetic, outgoing personalities shine through every image. I hope you love them just as much as we do!

WANT FUN ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS? HOLLAH AT ME!

I’m Bree, a San Diego & Vegas based wedding photographer (but I’ll travel anywhere for you ). I specialize in adventurous, fun, and romantic photos that show off your candid and authentic selves. I want to capture your JOY and make it fun & easy while doing so. Learn more here and send me an email!