Today we head to the desert for a beautiful engagement session captured in such a lovely way by Katie Chang, and we get to hear a little bit from Megan & Danial about their relationship and some things they have learned along the way. This sun kissed couple took to the Las Vegas desert for some romantic photos that showcase their love for each other!
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
D: We first met at a friend’s house in his backyard. She was breathtakingly beautiful and spoke unapologetically.
M: During my senior year of high school, I accepted an invite for free beer and met the dorky kid I’d marry 11 years later. He was covered in grease and reeked of Copenhagen, so of course, I asked why he was so “dirty and gross.” He graciously explained that he had just gotten off work, to which I followed with a speech about proper bathing habits. He now showers regularly, and I’m less of a jerk.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
D: When planning unnamed kayaking trips; plan for a 20-mile route when it says 15-miles. Also, when you stay in a town with two motels, you’re better off staying in another town.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
D: I ran away from my Meg three times claiming, I should be a hermit. It’s a miracle she puts up with me.
(He means he broke up with me because he had hardcore commitment issues and never saw himself getting married. Serious eye roll.)
M: I had, and still have, a lot of trouble staying in one place and having a traditional relationship. Before reconnecting with Danial, I was traveling the world, living full-time overseas, and thoroughly enjoying uncomfortable/new situations. He doesn’t enjoy traveling, and although he encourages me to continue exploring, it’s completely different. I now work full-time to help save up for a house and our future, which is fair. I guess it’s hard because I’ve had to learn how to accept loving something/someone more than traveling, which feels unfamiliar.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
D: Our marriage is for us; so we have not put a strong emphasis on family involvement.
M: At the risk of sounding selfish, we firmly believe that our marriage is about us and the commitment we’re making to each other, without others input. When we discussed eloping, we agreed that the intimacy of that moment was sacred to us, and it would be best to do it alone.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
D: Every single day will be as important as the others to me. The crazy part for me will be remembering it’s not a dream when I see Megan in a white dress, walking towards me.
M: I think about our vows often. I poke fun at Danial A LOT, so having a serious moment to share how I feel about him will be very meaningful. I sometimes find myself planning my future vows, but I’m too much of a goober to share those feelings in the moment, so having a designated time to be nice to him will be helpful. LOL
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
D: Megan is the first, last, and perfect girl I have lived with. The best thing I have been learning to put my wife’s interests ahead of my own.
M: I didn’t realize Danial did that. Now I feel like a jerk. What is he faking interest in??
I have learned to love myself through his smothering love. He is constantly reminding me how talented, smart, and capable I am. Realistically, none of those things are true, but he is so believable! All jokes aside, he has taught me to see myself as he sees me, and that feels so good. Thanks, Franky
What is your favorite thing about each other?
D: My favorite thing about us is that we can work through any problem. Talking is something that I am very proud of us as a couple for.
M: A man can be strong and capable, but dishonest. He can be wise and creative but lack motivation. He can change the world with ease but disregard your love and support. A man can be many wonderful things but fall short of important qualities that make him “good.” Danial is one of the rare men in this world that embodies all of the characteristics of a “good” man, and I am eternally grateful for that.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
D: It’s a work in progress.
M: The honeymoon!
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
D: You have to have open dialogue. In no way do I intend to counsel, coach, or mentor any couples; however, as a couple you are partners. You have to trust each other completely and be committed to helping better each other.
M: Be honest even when it hurts and over communicate. We joke that I have no boundaries with my honesty, and despite how awkward that can be, it creates a solid foundation for us to be upfront with one another.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
D: Love is an experience. When you find the right person, it is much more than just a feeling. It is a complicated gift. I am very blessed to have it.
M: I believe love is a choice. Every day I choose to love him, even when I’d like to throw him out the window. The euphoric feeling of love fades with time and reappears intermittently. If you rely on the highs to get you through your relationship, you’re in for a lot of disappointment, but if you make the conscious decision to love your spouse every day, specifically through the dry seasons, you’ll find that love is worth the effort.
Photographer: Katie Chang Photography / floral designer: Ali Fredrickson / dress boutique: Forever 21
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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