The Early Bird Gets the Perfect Engagement Photos
Let me start with a confession: I am not even remotely a morning person. I’ll take a slow chai latte and a snooze button over a sunrise most days. The one exception to this rule is when creativity calls and I get the chance to do something so beautiful, so completely magical, that it makes the early alarm totally worth it.
This shoot with Pat, Lauren, and their golden retriever Kai? One of those mornings.
The Morning That Felt Like Magic.
Just after sunrise, Vail Village was completely still. The cobblestone streets were empty, the air was crisp, and the whole place felt like it was holding its breath — waiting for something special.
And then came Pat and Lauren. Wrapped in the soft glow of golden hour, hand-in-hand with Kai trotting beside them, it was as if they’d stepped right out of a movie. Their connection was effortless, their laughter genuine, and their love… well, it showed in every frame.
They’re the kind of couple who make you believe in soulmates — and maybe even waking up early on purpose.
Location Spotlight:
Vail Village, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Vail Village is a hidden gem for early morning photoshoots. With its charming alpine architecture, winding stone pathways, and postcard-perfect backdrops, it's a dream location — especially when it’s completely empty and bathed in morning light.
The aspen trees lining the walkways filtered the sunshine into streaks of gold, creating natural spotlights that danced across the village. Wooden balconies, sleepy storefronts, and flower boxes still clinging to summer added to the European-meets-Colorado charm. There’s nowhere quite like Vail, and it gave us pure magic.
Golden Retriever Hour
Of course, no shoot with Pat and Lauren would be complete without their four-legged sidekick: Kai, the golden retriever with a personality as big as her paws.
She was a natural in front of the camera — running, posing, and occasionally photobombing with perfect comedic timing. It was golden hour, after all, so naturally we had to call it: Golden Retriever Hour. 🐾✨
Kai brought so much energy and warmth to the session, reminding us all that love comes in many forms — and sometimes, it comes with a wagging tail.
Unexpected Adventure: The Pirate Ship in the Trees
Just when we thought the morning couldn’t get more whimsical, we stumbled across a hidden wooden pirate ship play structure nestled in the trees. Yes, you read that right — a pirate ship. In the woods. In Vail.
Without hesitation, Pat and Lauren climbed aboard, playful and adventurous as always. And yes — Kai joined them. With a bit of coaxing (and a biscuit bribe), he hopped into the boat and became Captain Kai, ready to sail the seven seas of matrimony.
It was the perfect ending to a shoot all about new beginnings, shared journeys, and letting love steer the ship.
