Bright, bold, vibrant, and fun – all words that I would use to describe these stunning engagement portraits by Shelby Darling Photography, and also all words that I would use to describe Allison and Charlie.
Spoiler Alert! There is absolutely NO objectivity in this post! In the interest of clarity:
- The future groom is my baby brother.
- The future bride is my best friend, and was my maid of honor when I got married.
- The proposal was perfect, and their wedding day will also be perfect!
- They will live happily every after!
Allison and Charlie spent the day wandering through downtown Oxford—a town that holds a special place in their hearts, already filled with countless memories of boating, ice cream, and surprise birthday parties. They can now add engagement portraits to the cherished moments that have happened in Oxford. The vibrant autumn leaves were in full display, bursting with shades of orange and yellow, mirroring the brightness of Allison’s beautiful personality and her shining smile. What I love most about this gallery, aside from the fact that it features two of my most favorite people, is how perfectly it captures the essence of Allison and Charlie, both as individuals and as a couple. Their love for laughter shines through in every shot, and Shelby did an exquisite job of preserving the pure joy that bubbles from their relationship no matter where they venture. To know Allison and Charlie is to know that love truly does exist.
Allison and Charlie,
I adore you both and I hope you two have as much fun growing old together as Charlie and I did growing up together.
Thank you for trusting me with sharing your love story. I hope I’ve done it justice, and I cannot wait to celebrate your love and your life on your big day. Cheers, to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and so many more memories!
About the ring: Originally our mother’s, it was set with a garnet stone in the center—my birthstone. In time, she gave it to me, and it became a precious heirloom. When Charlie began planning his proposal, he sought both our mom’s and my guidance to find the perfect ring. After a few unsuccessful attempts at jewelry stores, we returned home and began sifting through family treasures. That’s when I remembered this ring—our ring. It felt destined. Charlie reconstructed the ring with a radiant center stone, but kept the original diamonds in the gold band, combining timeless elegance and family tradition with a classic stone perfect for Allison. Charlie truly created the dream ring for Allison—one that symbolizes not just our family, which we are so excited for Allison to officially be a part of, but their beautiful future ahead.
Photography by Shelby Darling Photography
