Erickson Photography » Fine Photography - Weddings, Children, Family

Engagement Sessions are always fun here in Seattle, but when I go somewhere and photograph with a very fun couple in the SUNSHINE I will have my bags packed in minutes! Michelle and Paul are having their “BIG DAY” here in Washington but live in Arizona. So I took a few days to travel to Arizona and take photos of them at the gorgeous Botanical Desert Botanical Gardens, the location was modern, yet so beautiful. The flowers and plants were gorgeous and I could not get enough photos of the different kinds of cactuses. We then had a wonderful lunch to discuss wedding details and take a break from the heat before we headed off to the second location at The Arizona Biltmore. The resort was packed with four weddings going on in different locations on the premises. Every corner you turn at this venue was breathtaking. I even loved photographing every minute in the 100 degree heat.

Now a little bit about the couple:
Paul and his family moved to Anacortes when he was eight years old. While there, he enjoyed time with his family, played baseball, and football. Paul also enjoyed video games and has always been interested in the field of electronics. Currently he works as an Audio Video Installation Technician installing A/V equipment in courtrooms nationwide.

Michelle is from Yakima, but lived in various locations throughout her childhood. Although she grew up in a few different cities, her love of the arts and education were a consistent part of her life.  She attended Seattle University where she majored in Visual Art and Spanish. Currently Michelle works as a Project Manager in the Wireless Department of a multi-disciplined architectural firm.

The happy couple met via Match.com in 2004. After a few weeks of corresponding via email, they met in person at a rock concert featuring the band of Paul’s best friend in downtown Seattle. Michelle and Paul moved in together after a year and a half of dating. While living in Seattle, the couple enjoyed picnics at Green Lake, playing board games, and having fun nights out on the town with friends and family. Four years ago the couple decided to move to Mesa, Arizona for a change of pace and new opportunities.  They enjoy hiking at Superstition Mountain and participate in outdoor activities year round.  They also just adore their pug Momo, who is indeed part of their family.

After almost six years, Paul proposed by surprising Michelle with the ring they had picked out earlier that weekend because he was too excited to propose as planned a week later. The couple will be getting married at the end of next month at an intimate ceremony in the sculpture garden of the bride-to-be’s aunt and uncle’s house in Seattle.  The celebration will continue at a reception in Yakima, WA the following day.

And, a few of my favs:

Thank you again so much Michelle and Paul! I am so excited for your big day next month!

Cheers, Rachelle J