They both signed up for six years. Joined the military after realizing that college was not in the budget. They knew it would bring them skills and opportunity. What they didn’t know is that it would bring them love. They worked in the same unit. Mark met Shelby and knew he had to learn more about this pretty girl. He asked her to work with him on a job. She agreed, and found that this tall, dark & handsome soldier made her work much more interesting. They agreed to a movie date, and stayed up for six hours afterward talking, laughing, and not wanting the night to end.

It happened fast, but sometimes you just know when it’s right. The military schedule is unpredictable, and you never know when (or if) you’re going to get re-stationed, possibly overseas. Mark knew that they were meant to be together. “I just didn’t want to risk being without her.” So when they went to Ohio to meet her family, like a true gentleman, Mark asked Shelby’s dad for her hand in marriage. They’re planning a wedding in a few months, so they spent a couple mornings together for their engagement session in Scottsdale and Glendale, enjoying the beautiful sunrise light in the garden & park despite the hot & humid June weather.

The morning light and the magic of the garden make this an easy place to get lost together…

This day of the session ended sweetly, sharing a “Peach Fizz” juice made fresh with produce from the garden…

Bright and early the next morning, we met for a sunrise session at Sahuaro Ranch Park in Glendale. The light was gorgeous, and these two Patriots were stunning…

We even got treated to a quite a show by the local wildlife. Super fitting, as one of Shelby & Mark’s wedding colors is teal blue, just like these beautiful peacock feathers…

I couldn’t have asked for a sweeter, more joyful couple to photograph. Shelby and Mark, THANK YOU, for letting me be witness to your love. <3