The very first time I met Gretchen & Mike… It was after the main floor flooded in our home and prior to the basement flooding. I had emailed Gretchen to tell her what had happened and give her a disclaimer for why it was going to be such a mess around here. I think I also offered a reschedule or another location, but her response was simply that it was fine, they don’t mind at all. They know what homeownership is like.

I knew right then this couple was going to be great. We had to meet in my basement because there was no other space that was not under construction. They didn’t care at all! (Not to say they didn’t empathize with the pitfalls of homeownership; they didn’t mind the mess that was going on.) I don’t think they even realized how they leaned toward each other or smiled when they spoke of how they first met. It was so evident from that very first moment with them, that commitment is the most important thing and love is all that matters.

Their engagement session this past Friday was going to happen rain or shine. It’s partly because they both have busy schedules, but mostly because these two decided to go with the flow for their engagement session. I loved their attitude!

We started out in downtown Muscatine at Wine Nutz, a local wine shop. It has beautiful exposed brick and tall windows. It’s located in Pearl Plaza and we were able to browse around and make use of the grand staircase.

Go on, Gretchen. Go on…

Gretchen and her mom made this beautiful quilt. I wanted to take it home with me and snuggle up. It came in extra handy since it was cold and rainy during the shoot. Also, this is one of my favorite images!

I think this was around the time that I basically told Gretchen I have a girl-crush on her. Who wouldn’t with that smile??? Mike admitted that her smile and her eyes were very distracting when he first met her. Gretchen, you’re beautiful.

Totally love that Birdie got in on the action. She’s such a sweet dog!!

G & M, I’m so unabashedly excited for your wedding this November!!! I have loved capturing your lives together already and can’t wait to photograph you as you promise forever. All the love in the world! -E