I feel like I’ve been dreaming of writing this post for years! Dominic and I became fast friends at our old financial services firm back in 2013. He was the one that toured me around the office (and showed me where the secret candy room was… #priorities). We had monthly lunches and weekly Monday morning catchups. A few years down the road, Abbey joined the firm as a writer. These two didn’t officially begin dating until after I had left my job there, but you better believe I still wanted to get all of the details as their relationship formed. The jury is out on who officially made the first move between the two, but it is easy to see how these two ended up together. They both are passionate, intelligent people. They love trying new things and appreciating the finer nuances in life. I’m very grateful to call them friends – and very excited that they let me take these Russian Ridge engagement photos of them while they were in the bay area!

Abbey and Dominic decided to make the most out of 2020. After getting engaged in Big Sur at the beginning of the year (gahh – is there a more epic backdrop for a proposal?!), the pandemic hit shortly after. Living in Chicago in a small apartment wasn’t the most ideal situation, so, when their lease expired, they decided to get a storage unit, buy a car, and travel the west coast. They rented long term airbnbs along the way and got to truly experience living in different cities. They weren’t just on vacation – they were living their daily lives there – working, going grocery shopping, exploring the local gems. They’ve made an effort to visit national parks along the way, often spending the night in their tent. I so admire the fact that they did something remarkable with this year and I’m sure it will be one that they look back on fondly for decades to come.

For their Russian Ridge engagement session, we headed down south to Redwood City. I had never been to the preserve before, but I had seen photos and knew it would be beautiful. It was gorgeous and came with so many incredible views. However, it was also super cold and windy – but these two champed up and made the most out of it! We capped off the evening with some celebratory champagne. Doesn’t get any better than that.

Dom and Abbey, we are so, so excited for you both! I’m so glad that I got to play a small part in this chapter of your lives! I’m so proud of what you’ve both been able to accomplish in the last few years and that you had the courage to do something different this year. Congratulations again! Hugs!

Are you hoping for a Russian Ridge engagement session and still looking for a wedding photographer? Send us a message!

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