Corey + Ekua's Deep Ellum Engagement Session

After meeting online Corey and Ekua hit it off. Well, there was a 3 week delay before someone called someone else but we won't mention any names ;)  Fortunately, true love never fails, and the rest as they say is history! Corey, Ekua, and I had a great time in Deep Ellum and the Arts District in Dallas.  They brought their A-game in front of the camera, and I happily photographed away!  They are sweet, kind, and oh did I mention incredibly photogenic?  Talk about some gorgeous genes!

Esther and Shola's Yoruba Traditional Engagement Ceremony

Although the temperatures outside Divine Grace Church in Arlington were sweltering, inside, the shimmering colors Esther and Shola chose for their traditional engagement ceremony were cool and refreshing to the eyes. While Yinka with The Perfect Look tied the bride's gele to perfection, guests eagerly awaited the bride's grand entrance.

Esther, escorted by both brothers and her Aso Ebi, danced in joyfully as guests sprayed bills.  Many prayers were prayed and more than one eye filled with tears as emotions ran high from the weight of the occasion and the remembrance of those who have passed on.

Esther and Shola's Traditional was a feast for the senses!  Check out part two of their wedding weekend here.

Esther and Shola's Dallas Engagement Session

Esther and Shola had me rolling in laughter from our first meeting when Esther mentioned her dislike of what she and her sister call the "auntie/uncle hook-up." You know, the one where a well meaning relative encourages you to meet so-so-so and so, a nice young man from a great family. Fortunately, for her she was a tiny bit open to meeting Shola, and the rest as they say is history. I could tell that family played a huge role in their lives, so it came as no surprise to me that Esther's sister was on hand during their engagement session. What did blow me away is that her oh so talented sister is a make-up artist, hair stylist and also styled their entire shoot. I am secretly hoping my sister is reading this and getting the not so subtle hint ;)

Earlier in the year, Shola planned and executed an epic surprise proposal to Esther in Klyde Warren Park, so it was important to shoot in a place that held wonderful memories for them. As we moved from day to dusk, Esther and Shola's contagious smiles and laughter made photographing their shared joy a mutual delight.

I am looking forward to their big day this weekend!