When I first talked to Jessica and Malakai on the phone I knew they were my kind of people! They were excited about their engagement photos, genuine, very loving to one another, full of energy, and most of all…kind! I got this all before even meeting them! So when I finally met the pair in West Peoria, Illinois it was at Malakai’s former firehouse where he volunteered. Currently, Malakai is driving back and forth from their home in Peoria up to the Chicago suburbs where he landed a job as a full-time firefighter. And Jessica couldn’t be more excited for him to follow his passion. Yet, they are missing one another as the distance between them is great as they are looking to sell their home in Peoria and permanently move to the Chicago area! I’m a true believer though that absence makes the heart grow fonder and this seemed to be on full display when we began their engagement sessions at the firehouse! Malakai spent a few hours making sure that the fire engines were sparkly clean for their close-ups! Jessica looked adorable in her white dress and red hot heels! We had a blast playing around and in the engines and these two are simply lovely together so it was easy to photograph them. Malakai towers over Jessica and he loves to make sure he snuggles her up as often as he can. 

Once we finished up at the firehouse, they did a quick wardrobe change and we headed out to one of their favorite walking trails in the woods! The path took us deeper into the trees where we found ourselves close to the water as it snaked through the woods. This area was near and dear to them as they have spent many hours walking with their two dogs and spending quality time together. Jessica and Malakai shared many kisses and squeezed in close throughout the entire e-session and I’m so thankful I was able to capture these special moments for them! Congrats and Enjoy the journey to the big day!

Warm Regards,
Lauren

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•