Spending an October evening at Montissippi County Park with Marissa and Luke felt less like work, and more like catching up with old friends. From the moment we started walking the trails together, the energy was so natural! The energy was the kind that just makes being a photographer feel so easy.
And Montissippi County Park was the perfect backdrop for their engagement session too. I’ll sign up to photograph here any day.
There were tall pines lining the paths. Soft grass opened into quiet clearings. The light filtered through the trees in that gentle, early-Fall way. It was warm for October, but no one really cared. The setting invited them to slow down, move together, and just be themselves. When you’re in the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, this moment during your engagement session can be exactly what you need.
For her first outfit, Marissa wore a light, flowy dress that moved beautifully as she walked. It felt romantic and bridal, without feeling overdone. Luke kept things classic and relaxed, with neutral tones that paired effortlessly with his bride-to-be.
Later in the session, they changed into cozy fall layers. Soft sweaters, jeans, and boots gave the second half of their session a more laid-back feel. Both looks felt true to them, and I always encourage that for my couples. I will teach you how to elevate your normal wardrobe to look good on camera, but we don’t need to re-invent yourself for a photo session.
What stood out most was how naturally these two connect.
They laughed easily. They danced without thinking twice. Spending the session leaning into each other in a way that felt instinctive. That kind of chemistry makes documenting a session feel really carefree as a Minnesota photographer.
An engagement session at Montissippi County Park was perfect for them
As we wandered the trails, they shared pieces of their story. They met online and had their first date at a brewery, closing the place down on a Sunday night without even realizing how late it had gotten. That sense of losing track of time together still shows up in how they move through the world as a couple. They’re just best friends. And it shows!
Their proposal was thoughtful and layered with meaning. It included a walk through a familiar wooded path, a glowing “marry me” sign, and a surprise engagement party waiting at the end.
Marissa and Luke are true teammates.
From renovating their home together to supporting each other’s passions, they balance strengths and weaknesses with ease. That partnership came through in every frame of this session.
Their engagement session at Montissippi County Park felt like the beginning of something really special. I already can’t wait to see their story continue into their 2026 wedding day.
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