Mick and Maddie’s engagement session was a beautiful celebration of their love story, photographed by a St. Louis wedding photographer while they build their life together in Chicago. Though their wedding will take place in St. Louis, their Chicago engagement session reflected the season of life they’re currently in — exploring the city they now call home.

How They Met

Mick and Maddie’s story began long before adulthood, back in sixth grade. They grew up together within the same friend group, sharing middle school memories and even a brief high-school romance that didn’t quite stick the first time around. Life had other plans. After remaining close friends through the years, they found their way back to each other during their junior year of high school in 2015.

Their first official date was simple and sweet — walking through Christmas lights in a park in St. Louis — a fitting start to a relationship rooted in connection and nostalgia. From there, their love grew through years of long distance during college and graduate school, eventually leading them to build a life together in Chicago.

Favorite Things to do together

At their core, Mick and Maddie are best friends. They love doing life side by side, whether that means going on long walks or exploring somewhere new together. From traveling and discovering new places to trying new restaurants and bars around Chicago, they thrive on shared experiences and making memories together — always seeking the next adventure.

How they describe eachother

Mick is known for his kindness, humor, and infectious energy. He’s incredibly intelligent yet effortlessly goofy, someone who makes every room feel lighter just by being in it. Maddie loves his passion — for his career, for the people he cares about, and especially for her.

Maddie, in turn, is deeply caring, thoughtful, and fiercely loyal. She’s the kind of person who makes sure the people she loves always feel seen and valued. Smart, driven, and incredibly hardworking, she balances her kindness with strength — never afraid to stand up for herself or others, and always leading with heart.

How He Proposed

After traveling through Vietnam and Thailand together, Mick proposed on the remote island of Koh Yao Noi in Thailand. With no rigid plan or set date, the proposal was spontaneous, heartfelt, and perfectly “them.” The ring had been tucked away in his fanny pack for the entire trip — a secret carried across the world — making the moment all the more special.

Their Dreams for the Future

Mick and Maddie dream of a life filled with time together — growing old side by side, raising a family, and continuing to explore the world hand in hand. A future built on love, adventure, and shared experiences, wherever life may take them next.

Mick and Maddie’s Chicago engagement session was a beautiful reflection of who they are together — genuine, connected, and full of joy. Documenting this season of their story in the city they now call home was an honor, and creating images that feel timeless and meaningful for years to come is always at the heart of my work.

If you’re ready to book your engagement session in St. Louis or anywhere you now call home, I would love to connect and bring your vision to life. Contact me here!