I’m Stephanie, a wedding + lifestyle photographer based in Colorado Springs, Colorado and Warrenton, Virginia. Whether I’m by the mountains of Colorado or Virginia, my soul feels at home, surrounded by rural living and the raw beauty of nature. I genuinely love what I do, and feel so passionate to share the enthusiasm and joy of these celebrations with you!

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September 11, 2019

Danny & Andreea | Airlie, Warrenton Virginia Garden Engagement Photographer

There are couples you meet and you cannot help but think, “They were MEANT to be together.” That was exactly what I thought when I met Danny and Andreea in person! Even over the phone, I knew there was something special about their story. Now they are planning to get married next year, they wanted to celebrate this season! And I loved that they wanted their engagement portraits taken at Airlie in Warrenton, Virginia!

Danny, Andreea, and I met in the gardens at Airlie on a beautiful September day! Despite being overcast, I believe that was ideal in a garden setting. Despite being tired from flying at 4 a.m. that day, I felt energized when I stepped behind my camera. Their energy was contagious and it just made my day!!!

Our time together was effortless! Their love shines in these photos below … It helps that they are photogenic and have beautiful smiles. 😉 Their outfits inspired me as we wandered around the gardens. The butterfly garden blue arbor and door with the purple/magenta flowers perfectly complimented with Andreea’s blue dress. Check out some of my many favorites from our time together!! 🙂

Danny & Andreea’s Love Story

HOW DANNY AND ANDREEA MET

Andreea and Danny met while studying the same engineering major at the University of Virginia. From the moment they first crossed paths, Danny was struck by Andreea’s charm and beauty and knew there was something special about her. The timing was not right then, but fortunately they found themselves in many of the same classes and study groups where they got to know each other over the next few years. Fast forward to senior year, Danny did not hesitate at the opportunity to ask Andreea to a fraternity date function where they really hit it off. In the months that followed, as they continued to go on dates, Danny confirmed that Andreea was something beyond special. And after the final test, when Danny agreed to attend a group exercise class with her, Andreea was fully convinced that he was a keeper as well. 🙂  

HOW DANNY PROPOSED TO ANDREEA

Since they met at the University of Virginia, Danny felt that it was only fitting to propose to Andreea in her favorite spot in Charlottesville – the UVA Pavilion gardens. Danny had made plans to visit their favorite college town, convincing Andreea it was only a weekend getaway trip to visit vineyards, enjoy the beautiful weather, and soak in the mountain views. That morning, Danny took Andreea to the C’ville farmer’s market to help ease his nerves and enjoy some local snacks. They love to browse local farmer’s markets in all cities they visit, so this seemed like a regular Saturday to Andreea. She also didn’t think he had it in him to stay so cool, calm, and collected when the moment came.

Since they hadn’t been in town in two years, he insisted they walk the lawn and check out the gardens on the way to lunch on that beautiful spring day. After walking a few of the gardens, Danny knew he had found the right spot when Andreea’s eyes lit up at the beauty of a garden that held trees with bright pink blooms. It was then that Danny got on one knee, surprising Andreea, and proposed to his future-wife-to-be. Little did she know that this was just the beginning of a planned celebration at a vineyard and restaurant where her family awaited them!

Thank You!!

Thank you, Danny and Andreea, for having me photograph your engagement portraits at Airlie in Warrenton, Virginia!!! After getting to know you two during your engagement session, I cannot help but feel so blessed to have you two a part of my 2020 year!!! <3 I look forward to the memories we will experience next year when you are surrounded by your favorite people! In the meantime, enjoy your engagement. <3 It will fly by fast!!! CONGRATS!

A Garden Engagement in the Gardens of Airlie Conference Center in Warrenton, Virginia.

CONGRATS!!!!! I cannot wait for your wedding next year!!!

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