Last year I had the pleasure of shooting my best friend and her husband’s engagement session at Dallas Arboretum. Charlene and I met at Howard University in 2004 and she has been around since the creation of Rhea Whitney Photography so, it was truly an honor to be able to photograph this special moment in Charlene and Steven’s life! Excitement is definitely an understatement! I’ve been dreaming of this day for years as they have been together for 8 years.  As my first engagement session at Dallas Arboretum, I knew it would be nothing short of magical. I am a nature girl and flower child so it was really the best of both worlds. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom and everything was so pretty.

If you know anything about having an engagement session at the Dallas Arboretum you know March is a prime season for shooting.  There were photographers EVERYWHERE. Shoots from weddings, family portraits, quinceanera and maternity sessions were all around us.  However, Charlene and Steven made my job very easy as we zipped in and around the people at the Dallas Arboretum.

Everything is bigger in Texas (duh), and so having an engagement session at the Dallas Arboretum was a perfect backdrop for several ideal scenic locations to shoot love. And if you know me you know I love to shoot engagements. Here is some feedback from the couple themselves about their session.

Engagement Session at Dallas Arboretum

What was your favorite part of the engagement session?

My favorite part about the engagement session was the gorgeous scenery at the Dallas Arboretum. There are so many cute little pockets to use as backdrops for photos. We were able to have 3 outfit changes, which was crazy since we got it done in a short amount of time. I also enjoyed shooting with Steven and see him get into his photography zone. Although photos aren’t really his thing, Rhea was able to make him feel comfortable in front of the camera.  

How would you describe the Rhea Whitney photography experience during your engagement session?

Fun! Of course, I’m biased because Rhea is my best friend, but shooting with her is always fun.  It was really interesting to see her navigate through the pool of people who were at the Dallas Arboretum that day. Rhea makes sure her couples feel good and are energized to shoot. She can tell when someone is really enjoying the shoot and when the couple is over it. Even though she is my best friend our Engagement Session at Dallas Arboretum was still extremely professional of course. Rhea was well prepared and on time ready to shoot when we arrived.

What advice would you give to new couples entering the wedding planning process?

Pray! No seriously, make sure you and your partner have a clear understanding of what you want your wedding day to be. Don’t do things just to make others happy (mom, grandma, best friend, etc.) Understand it is a celebration for one day, not the rest of your lives. Invest your money and resources into making memorable moments that you, your spouse and your guest will enjoy. 

What’s your favorite part about being married?

My favorite part is the same part I loved when we were engaged. Having a partner to learn and grow with knowing they will continue to love you no matter what.