Natalie and McKay are the sweetest couple. They were set up on a blind date by Natalie’s uncle, and the rest is history! They fit each other perfectly, and Natalie was really excited to learn that McKay also speaks Spanish, which is something she hoped for in a future husband.

Before their formal session, I talked about having a First Look with the couple. Natalie was all for it, but McKay was a little hesitant. I don’t think he wanted to feel put on the spot or made to feel like he needed to show a lot of emotion. I convinced him that First Looks totally don’t have to be that way. It’s a special moment for a couple to see themselves for the first time in that bride/groom role and to just be excited for their future together, and I’m just there to document it while they have their private moment. And if they didn’t want to use those pictures in the future, that’s fine — at least they had them!

After we arrived at Conservation Garden Park, McKay went up ahead to wait by the entrance while Natalie was helping into her bridal attire by her family. When she was ready, we approached McKay and I documented her calling his name, and his heartfelt reaction as he turned around to see his blushing bride. He definitely shed a tear or two (but don’t tell him I told you!). It was adorable to see them share this sweet moment with one another, and I can’t wait for more sweet moments to come as I document their wedding day.

We spent a long time in the botanical gardens, shooting lots of photos in the lavender because Natalie loved the colors. Needless to say, it was a very calming session with all that lavender (and I happened to sleep very well that night, thank you very much!). After we got what we needed at the Botanical Gardens, we headed over to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple to take more photos. I’d never shot at this temple before, and I now only have 3 temples left before I’ve shot at every one in the state of Utah.

Stay tuned for photos from this darling couple’s wedding day here on the blog!