There are some sessions I simply can’t wait to share on the blog, and Tim and Lena’s anniversary photos in downtown Lafayette, Indiana are definitely one of those sessions! From their perfect outfit choices to all of the special details Lena worked into the session, these two were a DREAM to photograph.

 

Anniversary photos were a surprise for Tim!

This darling couple has been married for four years, and believe it or not, they have a toddler girl and baby boy at home. With their wedding anniversary approaching, Lena wanted to gift Tim with something a little different. And, since they hadn’t had photos taken of just the two of them since their wedding day, Lena contacted me about a surprise anniversary session for Tim!

Lena let Tim in on the surprise a few days before their session so they could coordinate outfits and so he wasn’t caught off guard. But, how sweet is this idea?! (Side note: Gentlemen, your ladies would LOVE if you did something like this! Zach, that’s a hint for you too!)

Wanting to make a whole night of it, Lena booked a babysitter, and this lovely couple enjoyed an anniversary photo session, a toast to their marriage on a Lafayette rooftop, and dinner afterwards.

This was such a thoughtful gift. You go, Lena!

 

Lena made their anniversary session sentimental.

Not only did Lena put thoughtfulness into planning the evening, but she also put thought into props and their session location.

For example:

• Tim and Lena purchased a car earlier this year specifically for date nights. Tim LOVES this car, and Lena asked if we could work it in somehow.
• Lena brought champagne to toast their marriage on a rooftop.
• Lena asked that we take photos around the courthouse because this is where a friend of hers brought Tim up for the first time. Lena and her friend were running in downtown Lafayette, and her friend said, “I know a guy I think you should meet.” Tim and Lena got married barely over a year later!

Before photo sessions, I send couples and families a style guide with outfit suggestions. This style guide also recommends working in a few props or locations that are important to the couple or family. Lena did an incredible job with this! She’s amazing.

 

I like to ask couples a few questions before their anniversary sessions.

I love weddings, but I am crazy about marriage. I’ve shared this before, but Zach and I will both tell you that marriage is the hardest and most rewarding thing we’ve ever done. And, although we had a phenomenal premarital counselor, I wish more couples in our lives would’ve been honest and real with us about how hard, but also wonderful, marriage would be.

With this in mind, I really like asking married couples about their experiences when they schedule anniversary sessions. Since the session was a surprise for Tim, Lena got to answer these questions and gave the best answers!

 

What’s the best thing about being married to your spouse?

“Tim is my biggest supporter and truly my best friend. He is very selfless, and our little family is always his number one priority. I love that he chooses to spend time with us.”

 

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to other married couples?

“Life is very busy with its constant demands of work, family, and children, and it is extremely easy to get caught up in things and lose that special touch and connection with your spouse. Especially in today’s world when you see everyone being glued to their smartphones even on a date! So my advice is to try your hardest to keep the flame of your relationship alive and don’t forget where your started!”

 

Happy anniversary, Tim & Lena!

Tim and Lena, I hope that when Zach and I have little ones, we are still every bit as infatuated with one another as the two of you are. You’re a great example of what a loving marriage looks like.

Thank you for trusting me to take your anniversary photos in downtown Lafayette, Indiana, and congratulations on four years as husband and wife! I wish you many more!