It was a brisk February morning when I met Joanna & Sean for their Kirby’s Mill engagement session. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of South Jersey, Kirby’s Mill is a true hidden gem with its weathered wooden exterior and rustic charm.

Before heading to Kirby’s Mill, I met the couple at Brio Italian Grille in Marlton. The restaurant was a special to them because it’s where they had their first date, so we thought it would be a wonderful spot to start their engagement session. I reached out to the Manager at Brio beforehand and they graciously agreed to host us before the restaurant opened, so Joanna & Sean had the place all to themselves to reminisce.

Kirby’s Mill Engagement Session | How They Met

Joanna & Sean’s paths first crossed during an after-work happy hour, thanks to a mutual friend. Joanna couldn’t help but be drawn to Sean, but as fate would have it, their journey to romance took an unexpected twist.

Months later, Joanna planned a group outing to a Phillies game, hoping to spend quality time with friends, including Sean and their mutual friend, Dom. However, plans took an unforeseen turn when Sean and Dom decided to jet off to Florida instead. Undeterred, Joanna couldn’t resist reaching out to Sean, playfully teasing him about choosing Florida over a chilly April game. Little did they know that this playful banter would spark a connection that would change their lives forever.

Kirby’s Mill Engagement Session | The Proposal

Joanna & Sean had originally planned a family bowling night. However, Sean had a surprise up his sleeve. He texted Joanna, letting her know that their plans had changed and they’d be indulging in some pumpkin carving instead. Little did she know what awaited her!

Amidst the laughter and creativity flowing in the room, the pumpkin carving turned into a friendly competition. As the night progressed and the pumpkins began to take shape, Sean had an ingenious plan. Each of them was to place a candle inside their pumpkin and take a picture with it. Innocent enough, right?

Joanna, completely clueless, waited for her turn. She removed the lid of her pumpkin, peered inside, and to her utter surprise, she spotted a ring box nestled among the orange pulp. In that moment, time stood still as Sean made his way across the kitchen, dropped down on one knee, and asked the question she had been waiting to hear. With overwhelming joy, she said “Yes!”

Kirby’s Mill Engagement Session | The Artwork

Joanna & Sean designed a stunning, modern Fine Art Print Portfolio containing their favorite prints from their session. On the portfolio cover, they chose to display an image that they playfully dubbed as “the album cover”. Lol! That image would in time make its way onto a vinyl record which guests signed at their stunning wedding at The Inn at Fernbrook Farms the following May.

As their photographer, I felt honored to capture Joanna & Sean’s love and excitement. It was evident how deeply these two souls cared for each other, and the love that filled the air was infectious. If you’re an engaged couple seeking a photographer who will capture your unique love story with warmth, creativity, and a touch of magic, I’d be delighted to hear from you!

Once again, a special thanks to Mark – the General Manager at Brio Italian Grille in Marlton, and your full team for making us welcome for Joanna & Sean’s session!! My only regret is that we didn’t get a chance to stay for lunch that day! Next time…

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Gen Palmer is a Premier South Jersey wedding photographer who documents authentic photography for real couples. Gen documents Kirby’s Mills engagement sessions, and weddings around South Jersey and Philadelphia.

Gen loves working with couples who cherish relationships over things, and who value printed photographs to display and enjoy their memories every day. Sound like you? Let’s connect about your wedding!