He waited for the perfect time. He even waited until after Christmas, and after New Year’s, a time when many other men were popping the question. He knew that the time was coming, they would be in the perfect spot soon, and he could be patient. They packed their bags for the short stay-cation at the resort her Mom had booked for her birthday. And when they got there, he had it all set up. There were candles and flowers in the room.  It was beautiful and romantic. It was like every girl’s dream of how a man would ask for her hand. It was a perfect proposal. And there, in that room, on the beach, she said yes, and they began their plans for their wedding.

The plans would only take a year. 365 Days. 52 Weeks. 12 Months. 1 Year… to the day, in fact, from the day she said I will, to the day they’ll say I do. It just so happened that the date was available. Easy to remember, that way, the day that it all happened. Dan had planned the perfect proposal, and together, he and Erin have planned the perfect wedding.  In 1 year.  And they’ll never forget their anniversary. J

We met at Papago Park over the Christmas holiday for their engagement session. It was one of the coldest days of the year, and the wind wouldn’t stop. But Erin and Dan were troopers, and we had a blast (no cold weather pun intended)!

The park is always full of desert beauty, cactuses and palm trees and palo verdes. We had to stop and soak in this gorgeous Sonoran backdrop.

Dan was so sweet, trying to shield Erin from the cold & wind.

And of course, no trip to Papago is complete without a visit to Hole in the Rock.

It’s a short hike up, and there are several nooks and crannies in the rock formation that are good for a cuddle.

Who doesn’t love a stunning engagement ring against a crisp white shirt? I mean really?

Despite the chilly wind, Dan was all smiles with Erin in his arms.

Snuggle in a blanket on top of the world with the man/woman of your dreams? Yes please.

I have to end with this epic view of Erin & Dan, in love on the mountain top, Erin’s hair flying in the wind.  It’s times like this that remind me how much I love my job, and simply take my breath away! Erin & Dan, I wish you a lifetime of epic views.  💕

“Love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it.” ~ Nicholas Sparks

Congratulations Erin and Dan! I cannot wait for your wedding at McCormick Ranch!

©Mindy Deluca, Life Story Photography.