This morning couldn’t have been more beautiful if I’d created it myself. I spent the morning wandering the historic district in Southern Pines with this newly engaged couple, Juliana and Ted. Couples like them are why I feel so lucky to be a photographer—I spend hours capturing everlasting photos of people who remind you that love exists, and Juliana and Ted did exactly that.

One of my favorite moments of the morning was when I convinced them to climb a tree (you know how the old rhyme goes… K-I-S-S-I-N-G), and they did it with smiles on their faces. I have to admit that I felt like this session was a two-for-one; not only did I get to photograph this gorgeous couple, but I also got to spend a few hours with their adorable pups, Bruce and Ollie. Bruce was playful and happy, ready for photos, and Ollie was quiet, sweet, and camera shy—a perfect duo.

After exploring the park, we took a walk downtown, ending up at the popular (and delicious) Betsy’s Crepes. This restaurant is picturesque and quirky, making for a gorgeous setting for photos that ended up being some of my favorites. I love the way there are looking at each other, like they never knew life before they met the other. These photographs perfectly capture the personality of their relationship—beautiful, playful, and ready to walk through life hand in hand.

Congratulations on your engagement, Juliana and Ted! I’m so happy I got to be a part of it in this small way.