An Artistic and Iconic Chicago E-Session: The Engagement of Haley and Sam

When a love story begins in the middle of a global pandemic, you know it’s going to be a good one! For Haley and Sam, what started with a swipe on Hinge during COVID turned into a mountaintop proposal and a timeless engagement session in the heart of Chicago. During the height of the pandemic, Haley was working as a nightshift nurse in Chicago. With the city shut down and traditional ways of meeting people off the table, she decided to give dating apps a chance—even though they’d never really been her thing. “I’m so glad I gave them a shot,” Haley shared. And the rest, as they say, is history!

Sam planned a proposal that was nothing short of breathtaking. After a long hike in Banff, he popped the question at the top of a mountain, surrounded by the kind of views you only see in postcards. Adventurous, intentional and incredibly romantic—it was the perfect reflection of their relationship.

When it came to the ring, Haley and Sam looked at styles and shapes together. Haley knew she wanted something simple and classic, but she left the final details like the band and setting up to Sam so there would still be an element of surprise. “What he chose was absolutely perfect and I love it,” she shares. And truly, it couldn’t suit her more: timeless, elegant and beautifully understated!

For their engagement photos, Haley found their photographer, Gabby, on Instagram and immediately fell in love with her editing style. What stood out most was Gabby’s use of movement and blur, a technique that captures the in-between moments, the laughter, the natural energy that makes a love story feel real.

They chose the stunning Chicago Cultural Center as their backdrop—one of Haley’s favorite downtown spots. With its intricate tilework, grand architecture and ever-changing exhibits, it provided a setting that felt both artistic and iconic. The elegant interior perfectly complemented the formal aesthetic they envisioned!

Haley and Sam opted for a more formal look for their session to align with the overall vibe of their wedding day. Choosing outfits that felt elegant and classic was important to them. The result? Sophisticated, romantic images that feel just as timeless as their love story!

While they had a few must-haves in mind when they got engaged, there were also plenty of details they hadn’t considered yet. Now, ten months out from their big day, they’re in a great place—most major vendors are booked, and the remaining to-dos feel manageable. “Wedding planning has been so fun thus far!” Haley shares. We can’t wait to see their timeless vision come to life on their wedding day!

 

 

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