Classy. Sophisticated. Elegant. Unexpected….are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think about Hilary & Ryon.

The first three words may be self explanatory when you see their engagement photos below. I mean, these two are just incredibly adorable together! Not to mention, they have so much fun together and have a beautiful story and history together as well.

But when I say, unexpected…let me explain.

It was earlier this year when Hilary & I connected, and we discussed the possibility of meeting up for coffee and chatting about wedding photography. They would be getting married next year at the gorgeous L’Auberge Del Mar.

After a few emails back and forth, Hilary said that unfortunately coffee probably wouldn’t be an option since they live in LA. As soon as I pulled up her email, I was shocked because I had JUST arrived to LA for a conference! Coincidence? Or maybe it was just meant to be! ;)

We met up at a cute little coffee shop in LA. But you know what that means…cute coffee shop = super crowded. :( We ended up walking down the street a bit and had lunch at an adorable restaurant where we could breath and have a chance to actually talk, without being bombarded by people rushing in and out with their coffee!

Hilary & Ryon asked me lots of questions about wedding photography. They were both so sweet and easy to talk to, but I do remember Ryon asking me the “tough” questions and staying pretty professional throughout our time chatting.

I was so excited to hear that they decided I was the photographer for them! I couldn’t wait to capture their beautiful wedding next year. But what was extremely unexpected for me was when I showed up to photograph their engagement session, I found out that Ryon had a completely different side to him! So silly & fun!! Cracking jokes nonstop. I laughed with Hilary, asking where he was hiding this goofy side of his?

The entire engagement session was a blast! I loved all the little details. And thank you SO much to Zeyda of The Little Fleur Co. for creating the most beautiful bouquet for this session!!

It was such a pleasure getting to know these two better and I couldn’t be happier for them, as they prepare to celebrate this exciting new chapter in their lives.

By the time we made it down the beach, Hilary & Ryon said they were up for anything! They didn’t even flinch as they drifted out into the water for some romantic sunset photos. These were some of my favorite shots of the night!

As the sun went down, we finished up the photo shoot and they were so sweet and offered us some delicious Dom Perignon. We all sat on the beach together, drinking champagne and talking about life and about the exciting things ahead. 

I am counting down the days until their beautiful wedding at L’Auberge Del Mar! We are so excited to work with their coordinator, Korie of Bliss Events. We photographed a wedding last year and we were seriously blown away at how talented, professional and detail oriented she was! Her positive energy made such a difference throughout the day and we can’t wait to work with her again to make Hilary & Ryon’s wedding day better than they ever imagined!