There’s a rare kind of love that feels poetic from the start — the kind that lingers like a melody. Andrew and Marie’s winter engagement session by Fauna & Film captures exactly that: a romance so warm it outshines the chill of a January day.
Photographed entirely on film, this session is a study in quiet beauty and connection. Beginning in the cozy coffee shop where their story first unfolded, they returned to the very same window seats that started it all. From there, they braved the Alabama cold — wind, snow flurries, and all — their chemistry radiating in every frame.
It’s no wonder this tender, light-filled session graces the cover of The White Wren Volume 7. What began as a simple engagement shoot became an intimate portrait of love’s sincerity — pure, joyful, and unguarded.
“We found our perfect weirdo in each other. It’s a rare gift and a wonderful reminder of how much God loves us.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
Like many modern romances, Andrew and Marie’s story began on a dating app. After some witty banter about cheap church coffee, they decided to meet up for a real cup themselves. On August 3rd, 2024, they had what could only be described as one of the best first dates ever — spending hours deep in conversation about “the usual” things: neurology, theology, psychology, fashion, and design. Afterwards, Marie went home and squealed to her mom and sister, “I really, REALLY like him!!” Meanwhile, Andrew remembers feeling so nervous!
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
We decided to elope with just our immediate families in a small, intimate ceremony at Huntsville City Hall. On the Tuesday morning before the big day, Andrew woke up with aching bones and a pounding headache. A rushed trip to urgent care confirmed it — he had the flu.
By Thursday morning, the day of the elopement — one of the coldest winter days Alabama had seen — we made it to City Hall. With temperatures hovering around 12 degrees, we managed to take a few shivering photos before huddling inside to exchange vows and rings. But just as Andrew leaned in to kiss his bride, Marie felt him slowly slump… and then sink to the floor. He’d passed out cold! Family rushed in to help, and thankfully, a little rest (and a few laughs) brought him back around. Turns out locking your knees during your vows isn’t the best idea. It’s a memory neither of us will ever forget.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
A wise friend once told us that “Marriage is the best… you get to have a sleepover every night with your favourite weirdo.” We’ve found our perfect weirdo in each other. As mutual Enneagram 4s, we feel so seen and understood — it’s a rare gift and a beautiful reminder of God’s love for us. Marie’s favorite thing about Andrew is his creative, philosophical mind that never ceases to amaze her, while Andrew is constantly mesmerized by Marie’s wit, sincerity, encouragement, and sense of adventure.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Get married sooner rather than later! While every couple’s timeline is different, for us there was no reason to delay the inevitable just for a big celebration. With half our bridal party expecting babies between February and June, we knew a larger gathering would have to wait. With our families’ blessing and the wisdom of pre-engagement counseling, we knew in our hearts — it was time. We simply couldn’t wait to live life together and honor God with our union.
As Seen on the Cover of The White Wren Volume 7
This story graces the cover of The White Wren Volume 7: Calm in the Chaos — a collection of love stories that find beauty in simplicity and meaning in the stillness. Photographed entirely on film, Andrew & Marie’s engagement captures the warmth of love in the coldest of days, a visual reminder that tenderness endures through every season.
Order your copy here.
Photography: Fauna & Film / @faunaandfilm
Film Development: Southerland’s Photo / @southerlands.hsv
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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