Embarking on an engagement session is always an exhilarating experience – we anticipate finally meeting the couple and spending an afternoon getting to know them. We were even more excited for Kate and Jackson’s session, as it brought us back to the spot of their very first date – The Hog Island Oyster Company! And while oyster bars aren’t in our typical restaurant rotation, we always love the opportunity to try something new and share a meal with our couples!

Six years ago, Kate and Jackson’s paths crossed at Berkeley when they were just freshman. They were both studying economics, and their social circles often overlapped. While they didn’t start dating immediately, they were always there for one another. Eventually, time brought them together and their slow burn kindled into a profound connection.

In the realm of shared interests, Kate and Jackson found common ground in their love for the outdoors, being active through golf, skiing, and biking. Jackson, a lacrosse player, took up golf for Kate, while she, a high school golf enthusiast, embraced skiing for him. Their adventurous spirits led them to cross off many bucket list hikes – including the W trek in Patagonia and Machu Picchu in Peru.

In June 2023, Jackson concocted the perfect plan to propose to Kate. Lake Tahoe was a spot where they had many shared memories, and with it being incredibly beautiful, it seemed like the perfect place to pop the question. Jackson orchestrated a Lake Tahoe weekend under the guise that his sister would soon be moving to the east coast and they should have one last Tahoe weekend with the families. Jackson brought Kate out to the end of a pier to soak up the views, and to ask her a very important question. As the families witnessed the proposal from a distance, they were all able to celebrate together that weekend.

For their engagement session, we started the afternoon at Hog Island Oyster Company sharing dozens of oysters and charcuterie. From there, our journey led us to the misty and overcast landscapes of Point Reyes, where the couple’s radiant energy illuminated the foggy surroundings. Despite the weather, Kate and Jackson’s love shone through, creating enough light to capture beautiful photos.

Jackson and Kate, thank you for being such troopers! I know the weather wasn’t ideal – but you two made the most of it and we had the best time getting to know you both that afternoon. I love that you two are so adventurous and that you cherish the outdoors. We can’t wait to see you again and celebrate in Carmel this summer!

Are you looking to have a Hog Island Oyster Co engagement session and looking for a photographer? Send us a message – we would love to hear from you!

We are husband and wife California Bay area wedding photographers. We strive to capture joyful moments. We use film and digital cameras to capture your wedding with a timeless, fine art approach.