When they met, it was like a scene out of a romantic comedy: A potential romantic interest Denie had not clicked with brought Tyler, who he knew through work, into Denie’s office.

“Denie, meet Tyler. Tyler, meet Denie,” he said. Then he left, leaving Denie a wee bit flustered. Tyler insisted that he’d been charmed — and from the way he looked at Denie as he insisted it, it was clear he wasn’t exaggerating. So that first meeting led to a first date, which led to a second date . . . which, several months later, led to a proposal that took Denie by surprise. But after some (happy) crying and (lots of) hugging, she said yes. Absolutely, emphatically yes.

And saying yes led to the gorgeous evening we had with Denie and Tyler last week — a warmup for their wedding at The Casements next month. But, as we told these two, they really didn’t need a warmup. They are so perfectly happy together.We headed out along The Loop and found a new favorite place to shoot. Minus the mosquitoes, it was heavenly!One of my favorite parts of an engagement session is not only getting to know the couple better, but getting to know why they love each other. I asked them to tell me what they most loved about each other, and there was no hesitation. Denie said Tyler oozes goodness, and she loves his faith. Tyler said Denie is incredibly sweet and thoughtful and generous. And then they both had to stop talking because they just wanted to smile at each other some more.You two! Seriously!Denie’s ring is so classy and gorgeous — I can’t wait to see it with her wedding band next month. And I can’t wait to see what she dreams up for their vintage-inspired wedding.From that gorgeous patch of sunlight, it was a short — really, really short — drive to the beach. Where Denie and Tyler kept up the love-dovey-ness, chased each other into the waves, and drew hearts in the sand. Basically, they made sure the evening just got better and better as the sun slipped away.Denie — wow!A favorite! (Then again . . . they’re all my favorites.)This last picture happened when Tyler was telling the story of his proposal. I think Denie’s smile sums up the story as well as any explanation ever could.Want to see more? Check out their slideshow!

Denie and Tyler, thank you for such a wonderful evening! Your wedding next month is going to be incredible, and we know your marriage will be even more blessed. See you two again in just a few more weeks!

~ Laura + Danny