While this may not always be the case, sometimes the internet can be a wonderful place. Such was the case for Kat and Travis when they found me by Google search. And, more importantly, such was the case for Kat and Travis when they found each other!

I love getting to hear my couples' love stories during our engagement shoots and watching the two interact - helping each other through the rocky river and laughing all the while - proved that they more than lived up to the one word description they'd picked for themselves: strong. As it turns out, shortly after the pair began dating, Kat moved back home to New Jersey, so they worked hard for 2.5 years to keep their relationship solid before she moved back to North Carolina. 

Yet, it's their simple delight in each other that truly shines through. In their questionnaire, Kat noted that Travis "makes [her] laugh. Like, really laugh." And laugh they did! As I had them cuddle together on rocks or steal each others' ice cream - or just smile at each other - they couldn't contain their happiness, and I certainly wasn't complaining. 

While I've driven through Chimney Rock a couple times, I'd never actually stopped anywhere. So boy was I surprised with how perfect our locations were! For our cloudy day, the river bank with its numerous bridges provided the perfect natural setting for playful outdoorsy images. And how can you say no to an ice cream date at a quaint ice cream parlor? But it was the last spot that really got me excited - the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge. Not only was this roadside garden perfect for photos, but Kat and Travis's outfits coordinated with each other and the setting perfectly to really make some magic. 

The best part of all - aside from watching the now-seasoned models really open up and get comfortable in front of the camera - was that it began to rain for our last few shots. I'd come prepared with my bubble umbrellas so we kept on shooting, laughingly capturing rainy kisses before dashing for shelter. 

In a few short hours, the two will get "Pritched" (Travis's last name is Pritchard - ha!) and I'm so excited to get to capture their special day. Stay tuned for more photos of these two sweet souls!