Winter in Wisconsin often gets a bad rap for being cold, dreary and unpredictable. But for me, it’s a season bursting with magic, perfect for capturing love stories. And let me tell you, this last engagement session was a perfect example of that magic!
While planning their engagement session, Lily said she reallyyyyy wanted snow and Joe said he wanted whatever makes Lily happy. If you’re not from Wisconsin, you might be under the impression that from November to March we are buried under snow. Alas, we are not always so unlucky. Christmas came and went without a single snowflake, and we were all getting a little worried. However, the week of Lily & Joe’s engagement session, Mother Nature decided to DELIVER that winter wonderland. I texted Lily that morning asking her if she was a snow fairy, and to be honest I’m still not convinced that she isn’t. After Mike and I shoveled what felt like a metric shit ton of snow out of the driveway (with some help from the neighbor’s tractor), we all met at Lower Oschner’s Park in Baraboo to check out the landscape. Thankfully the city had already plowed the sidewalk and we were able to take a stroll along the Baraboo River with the sweetest couple ever and their dog, Ace!
But when we were all covered head to toe in snow, we knew it was time to find some warmth. And what better place to cozy up than a quiet little coffee shop nestled amidst charming downtown streets?
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries welcomed us into Nautical Coffee Co like a hug. Lily and Joe settled by the window, their fingers intertwined, sharing whispered secrets and stolen glances. The steam from their lattes danced in the air, creating a dreamy atmosphere as Mike and I captured all the giggles and smiles in between good conversation and our own laughter. It felt like hanging out with old friends, but with a camera in my hand.
After we captured Lily’s dream cafe window photos, we took a quick trip around the square to the AL. Ringling Brewery for a drink before heading our separate ways. Lily & Joe, we had the absolute best time with you two! I’ll never forget hearing the Gavioli organ for the first time, it was so cool! ( The big self-playing organ/band in some of the photos behind them.) To everyone reading: I recommend visiting the brewery just for that experience alone! Anyway, Mike and I can not wait for your wedding day! It’s going to be so much fun!
Some tips if you’d like a magical winter engagement session of your own:
- Embrace the outdoors: Think frosted landscapes, snow-covered fields, cozy cabins, frozen lakes, or twinkling festive lights. Consider places you love spending time together, like local parks, winter markets, or even your own backyard with some winter decorations.
- Incorporate Props: Hot cocoa, sleds, ice skates, fairy lights, or even a Christmas tree can add a festive touch and create interactive moments for your photos.
- Let the light guide you: The soft light of the golden hour just before sunset creates a magical glow in winter photographs. Plan your shoot accordingly to make the most of this natural lighting.
- Cozy up indoors: Not everything has to be outdoors. Capture the quiet moments of connection in a cozy coffee shop or a charming bookstore
- Relax and have fun! Laugh, snuggle, and enjoy the experience. Your genuine happiness will shine through in the photos.
I hope this post inspires you to embrace the wintery magic for your own engagement photos, or simply to cozy up with your loved ones and enjoy the season’s unique charm.
Xoxo,
Emily
P.S. Don’t forget to share your own winter love stories in the comments below!
P.P.S. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture your own winter wonderland engagement, feel free to reach out! I’m always up for an adventure.
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