I am so excited to share Clara and Dan’s Engagement Session on the blog today!

Clara + Dan’s Story

This story begins in Philadelphia. Clara’s first job after college took her to Philly. Dan, who grew up in the suburbs, was living in the city after finishing law school at Penn. One Fall Saturday, Dan and some friends were looking for something to fill their time. They ultimately ended up joining Dan’s law school classmate at a local bar for an “Alabama Watch Party”. Don’t be fooled – Dan is a Michigan fan – but this classmate had attended Alabama for undergrad, and what’s not to like about a football watch party? Clara, having attended Alabama herself, was a real Bama fan and had decided to attend the very same party (Roll Tide!). Dan and Clara met and spent the evening talking about family, golf, Alabama and Michigan football, Philly, and life in general. One thing led to another, phone numbers were exchanged, and a first date followed shortly afterwards at what would later become Dan and Clara’s favorite sushi restaurant. The rest, as they say, is history!

The Proposal!

Clara was away on a business trip when she received a phone call from Dan letting her know that they needed to go to Kiawah the following weekend for a last minute “family trip”. Clara was tired from traveling, and a little suspicious, but was nonetheless looking forward to the quick trip to South Carolina. On Saturday morning, Dan suggested that he and Clara go on a bike ride. At this point, all appeared normal to Clara, as going on morning bike rides was a common activity for the two in Kiawah. Traditionally, they would bike to Eagle Island, grab a drink from the halfway house, and sit on the bridge where they would talk and take in the beautiful marshland. The suggested Saturday morning bike ride seemed no different – to Clara at least! After they enjoyed their Saturday morning coffee, they hopped onto their bikes. At this point, Clara thought she was going on just another ride, so off they went! After passing through Eagle Island, they arrived at their favorite spot on the bridge. The day was beginning to warm up, and Dan suggested that they take a photo, to which Clara reluctantly obliged. Dan put his arm around Clara and said, “So the real reason we are here is…” and then Clara knew! Dan got on one knee, and, of course, Clara said yes! It is hard to believe, but the weekend got even more special when Dan surprised Clara with both of their families waiting back at the house to celebrate!

Clara and Dan are getting married in September 2020 in Kiawah, South Carolina! They are getting married at The River Course (a golf club on Kiawah island). Clara and Dan chose The River Course because Kiawah is a really special place to them as a couple. Dans family has been vacationing there for several years and as a couple they have had some great memories there, including getting engaged! Dan had always mentioned how incredible it would be to get married at the River Course and after getting engaged they immediately knew if they could get a date at that venue, they had to get married there! It overlooks beautiful marshland and has beautiful southern charm.

Here are some of my favorites from their engagement session! Their pup Franklin also tagged along for the fun!

Clara’s Dress: Gal Meets Glam Collection Celeste Fit & Flare Dress