This post is near and dear to my heart. I’ve been dreading shooting my brother’s engagement session for a while because, simply put, I didn’t want to let him down. I knew that this e-session would be different than every other one I’ve shot, and I wanted so badly to make sure I did my big brother proud.

What I underestimated was the force of love between the two of them. Each began this journey of love as a single parent in the military, he a Marine, she an Airman. They were both enrolled in one of the military’s most rigorous programs to learn Arabic at the Defense Language Institute in Monterrey, Cal, both facing painful struggles and the hardship of raising a little one by themselves while being in the military.

He saw her at a bar and loved her dark hair, remembering thinking she was gorgeous. She saw him in class and was definitely interested, but both of them were too afraid to be the first to show interest. It was only due to a burst of nerve on Jessica’s behalf (and some meddling by a certain wingman of Ethan’s) that they two finally met, and it’s been love ever since.

Ethan, you are my big brother, my family, and someone I am undeniably proud to call my friend. Jessica, I love you, if for no other reason than the fact that you’ve brought my brother to a level of happiness and joy that I’ve never seen before. I can’t wait to call you my sister and to see you all grow together.

The day began at daybreak, on top of a parking garage at Reston Town Center…
Hey Jess? You’re really pretty. Like… REALLY pretty.

This is my brother’s “smolder.” He rocks. Also? He has the best taste in clothing of any guy I’ve ever met.

I LOVE the image on the right!!

This next one may be my all-time favorite e-session image. Ever. I can’t get over how much I love this image.

It was a little chilly outside, so we stopped for some coffee at Cosi. If you’ve never been there, you haven’t lived.

You guys are such a stunning couple!

Oh hello, Anthropologie. Thank you for having a sweet storefront that I can use for my my own selfish needs.

The happiest of Fridays to you. 🙂