I used to be so surprised when I could see how God connected me to other people. I don’t think I get quite as surprised now just because I am aware that God has been doing that since the day I was born, but I am still in awe of it - if that makes sense. That’s my story with these two.

I actually met McKayla back when I was working with Sozo Children in downtown Birmingham. I was a retail associate in the store & McKayla was an intern with the organization itself. If you know her, you know she literally is one of the sweetest, most beautiful, most helpful souls around. And goodness, have you seen her smile?! One of the days she was working, the two of us decided to get lunch on our break at Chick-fil-a. Pretty sure it was one of the last days of her internship, but we talked about Jesus & of course our boyfriends (Jake and I weren’t engaged yet). Fast forward a few years & I run a giveaway on my photography IG for an engagement session/couple session. Guess who wins? Not going to lie, I was pretty freaking stoked that McKayla & Ethan won the drawing. Mostly because getting to work with people you already know makes bringing that home-y atmosphere to a session so much easier!

A few weeks before their session, another Alabama wedding photographer friend of mind told me that he had been camping at this really cool spot that I had NEVER heard of. When I looked up pictures of this place, I knew I had to do a session there. I mean a freaking gorgeous mountainside covered in boulders. Alabama has a few boulder fields, but this one definitely won my heart. I sent those pics over to Ethan & McKayla, who loved it & were totally down to adventure. So, there’s that.

We spent a few hours weaving in & out of rocks, laughing, & shooting until it was dark outside. It was by far one of my favorite sessions I have ever done just because of getting to hang out with them. Not surprised, but still in awe - ya know? So thankful for these two sweethearts & so excited that they are tying the knot soon!

E&M - thank you guys so much for trusting me & giving me the opportunity to tell a part of your story. Praying blessings over your marriage & I know that you guys are going to do such incredible things for the Kingdom of God together!

XO, Dakota Chasity