There’s something undeniably poetic about love that finds its rhythm quickly and confidently—just like Brad and Emily. Their whirlwind romance led from first spark to “yes” in just six months, a beautiful reminder that sometimes, when you know, you know. For their engagement session with Jaymi Joy Photo, they chose a location that echoed their hearts: quiet forest paths meeting the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan.
Captured in soft light and subtle emotion, the session was more than just portraits—it was a love letter to the landscape they hold dear and the joy they’ve found in each other. From laughter among the trees to quiet moments along the water, every image reflects the deep connection and ease between them.
“Brad and Emily weren’t just clients; they were dear friends. Their love story has always been fast and full of passion—they got engaged just six months after meeting and were married five months later. For their session, they envisioned a mix of forest and Lake Michigan views, a setting that felt true to them. But what really got me? Their matching cowboy boots. They’re the kindest, most in-love couple you’ll ever meet.” – Jaymi Joy Photo
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
We actually met through Brad’s sister. She and I were college friends. One day I went over to her parents house (my now in laws) and met the family, and played cards. They all were terrible at explaining this new card game to me, but Brad—steady and calm as ever— talked me through it so kindly. I thought he was sweet, he thought I was cute… for his younger brother!
Then half a year goes by and I come over again, this time being unknowingly set up by the family (they all wanted me and Brad to get together. I had yet to hear of these plans) and we laughed and had a great time. Then one day his sister and I were hanging out. She said “you should date Brad! And also he’s coming over here in two minutes so be cool” so I freaked out. And met him once again. This time through a new lens. She set us up and Brad snapped me the next day and we haven’t stopped talking since.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
We would both say family pressures. It can cause a lot of strain on relationships when you have two sides pulling you in different directions. It’s hard to try and make your day your own when everyone has different wants for you and your wedding. We had to change dates multiple times due to various different reasons. One being because we wanted the best photographer (jaymi) and she wasn’t available on our first date.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
We were the third generation to get married at Faith Lutheran church in my family. Emily’s great grandparents and grandparents both got married there. It was very special to have our names in the book of weddings alongside them.
Emily’s cousin was our officiant and did our marriage counseling with us.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
Having a skilled photographer and videographer. The day flew by in a blur so having those moments last lifetimes makes remembering the day so much easier. It’s so fun to look back and see everything that happened.
One of Emily’s favorite parts was getting to choreograph our first dance together. We did a bunch of dips and lifts which made it really fun for her as she used to be a dancer. She also surprised Brad with a surprise dance that she taught her bridesmaids at her bachelorette party.
Brads favorite part was seeing how happy Emily was and seeing her dream of becoming a wife come true.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
Brad’s favorite thing about Emily is her laugh And the smile that goes with it. He loves hearing about her dreams and wants to be the guiding light to help her achieve any goal she has.
Emily loves the comfort that Brad brings her. In a world that is so fast-paced, and continually changing he is so steady and strong. A rock solid man and a wonderful husband. He also has a phenomenal giggle.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Emily absolutely adored planning our wedding. She had a blast thinking up ideas for decoration. Her favorite part though would be making their own centerpieces. She had a girls day two days before the wedding and got to hear stories of her families weddings while arranging flowers for their bud vases.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Get organized quick. Think of your guests and meet them in the middle. A successful wedding is one where the guests feel sought after and welcomed. Yes the day is about you but people will leave if they are bored so give them games/photos/activities of any kind. And feed them lots of food!
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
True love is one of the greatest things anyone will ever experience. It will bring more joy than you have ever imagined, it will hurt more than you will ever imagine. True love means you will feel every pain that your spouse feels. But… you will also feel every joy that your spouse feels. True love will bring the most comfort you have ever imagined and more. It will feel so safe. It will feel like home when you are with your person and you will literally feel homesick when you are apart.
Photographer: Jaymi Joy Photo / @jaymijoyphoto
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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