When we were planning Matt and Ciara’s engagement session, they shared with me that they were looking for a place that had lots of greenery – which is totally up my ally! We were going back and forth on different places, but I’m so glad that they decided on the Manayunk Bridge BECAUSE this is where they got engaged!! It couldn’t have been the most perfect location! Also, we had the best fall weather, too! We had a ton of sunshine, and it wasn’t too cold either – just slightly windy! 🙂 They were so kind, loving and adventurous throughout their entire session, and that’s always my hope as a photographer!!

It was so refreshing to photograph in a new place, as well! I have only visited Manayunk, but had never walked around that area! The spot that their session took place was underneath the bridge! I cannot get over how perfect their location was! Can’t you tell? 🙂

Most of all, I couldn’t wait to spend time getting to know Matt and Ciara more! I had met them for a brief period of time before their engagement session, but learning more about how they are as a couple and all of the plans they have in store for the future is ALWAYS a highlight for me (that’s why I LOVE engagement sessions SO much!)!

Also, Matt and Ciara have known each other since ELEMENTARY SCHOOL! How awesome is that!? When they shared that with me, I told my husband, Herbert, because that’s how long we’ve know each other, as well! It’s not too often that I meet other couples who have known each other since grade school! 🙂

I’m SO excited to share their engagement session with you all! Matt and Ciara are so sweet, down to earth and so ready to be married! I cannot wait for their wedding at HollyHedge Estate next year!

How They Met

“We go back all the way to elementary school. We actually have photos of us in the same class! Our relationship didn’t begin until high school when a mutual friend-Matt’s best man, brought us together. We dated long distance for a while and then ended up going to Penn State together, and eventually moved into our home in Manayunk! We dated nine years before he popped the question!”

The Proposal

“Matt proposed on the Manayunk Bridge while we were walking our dog, Gerty. It was just a normal Thursday night when he suggested we take our nightly walk on the bridge. He said Manayunk was a special place where we started our life together, and that he wanted us to look at the bridge each day coming in and out of the city and remember the moment. It was just us, and it was perfect! I was so surprised!”