Some love stories just have that wild, overgrown, meant-to-be magic—like vines weaving together over time, shaping something unshakable. That’s exactly the kind of love Charlize and Jacob share.
These two are high school sweethearts, and when they finally got engaged, they asked me to photograph their love story. HELL YES, I said! I couldn’t wait.
I’ve known Charlize since she was just 14 years old, back when she was modeling for a nonprofit I worked with. Even then, she was bold, brave, and full of fire—even through any struggles life threw her way. Fast-forward to today, and she’s found someone who matches her energy and softness in the best way.
Their session? Absolute magic. But getting there took a little creative thinking…
April Showers & a Blooming Good Plan – How We Picked the Perfect Utah Engagement Spot 🌧️🌱
Charlize and Jacob wanted their engagement session in April, but if you’ve ever stepped outside in Utah that time of year, you know it’s basically a mud pit with mood swings—one day it’s snowing, the next it’s raining, and suddenly, BAM! Summer. They wanted greenery, not gray skies and frozen toes. So, I pitched an idea: a greenhouse engagement session. I’ve shot in a few gorgeous Utah greenhouses, and I knew they’d get the lush, romantic vibes they wanted without worrying about muddy shoes or chattering teeth.
They were instantly on board. We decided on Cactus & Tropicals in Sandy, Utah, a greenhouse dripping in jungle-core romance. Since I always make sure my couples are covered, I called ahead to check on photography rules (yep, there was a small fee, but WORTH IT), and we locked in a time where we’d have some privacy to shoot. And let me tell you, that decision saved us.
A Rainy Day, A ‘Moss’merizing Greenhouse & the Magic of Soft Light 🌿✨
On the day of the shoot? It. Was. POURING. Like, torrential downpour, the kind that soaks your socks in five seconds and makes you question all your life choices. If we had planned an outdoor session, it would have been a cancel-and-cry situation. But instead, we stepped into this warm, light-filled, jungle dreamland. The rain outside just made it cozier.
One of the BEST things about shooting in a greenhouse engagement session is that the light is chef’s kiss perfection. Even on dark, stormy days, the glass panels bounce light beautifully, wrapping everything in this dreamy, fairytale glow. I barely even needed my flash—I could even use the lights they had aimed on the plants to my advantage!
Snapping the ‘Aloe’ You Need is Love Moments 💚📸
Shooting in Cactus & Tropicals was like stepping into a hidden oasis—it’s not the biggest space, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in wild variety. We got candid, playful moments—Jacob making Charlize laugh, her pulling him in by the collar, those real, unfiltered, just-us smiles. We played with fun poses & movement—twirling between giant palms, leaning into vintage wooden beams, letting them get lost in each other.
And yes, we got the RING shots! Because let’s be real—showing off that sparkler is a MUST.
‘Potted’ Over Here – A Unique Ending to the Session 🏺
Most people shooting in a greenhouse only focus on the greenery—which is great, but predictable. So, we shook things up. Throughout the session, I had Charlize and Jacob pose near different displays full of beautifully arranged pots and ceramics.
It wasn’t an obvious backdrop, but because they chose neutral, earthy tones for their outfits, the scene turned into something playful, fresh, and totally unique. From the classic terracotta pots, to a pottery “shop”, to white pots, there was plenty aesthetic displays to play with. The result? Some of my favorite shots of the day.
Leaf it to Me – Tips for a Killer Greenhouse Engagement Session 🍃
Thinking of booking a greenhouse engagement session in Utah? Here’s what you need to know:
🌱 Beware of the green cast! The light bouncing off all that foliage can make white clothing reflect green. To avoid looking like a swamp ghost, balance it out with earthy neutrals, warm pastels, or even bold contrast colors.
🌿 Skip the head-to-toe green… unless you want to become one with the plants. Green outfits can make you blend in too much, and red can look too Christmas-y. Instead, go for peach, mustard, terracotta, or soft blues—colors that complement the greenery instead of competing with it.
🌵 Check with the greenhouse ahead of time. Many greenhouses require a small photography fee or reservation. If you book with a Utah engagement photographer (like me 😉), I can handle all of that for you!
🌸 Get creative! Greenhouses aren’t just about the plants—use textures, architecture, and props to make your session unique.
A ‘Grow’geous Session That Proves Love Always Finds a Way 💖
Charlize and Jacob’s greenhouse engagement session turned out to be everything they dreamed of and more. Even though the weather outside was a total mess, inside, we had nothing but light, warmth, and love.
So, if you’re dreaming of a romantic, lush, and STRESS-FREE engagement session, let’s make it happen. As a Utah engagement photographer, I know all the best spots to make sure you get photos that actually FEEL like you.
Whether it’s a greenhouse, a moody mountain backdrop, or a wild desert scape—I’m here for it.
📍 Now booking 2025 engagement sessions! Click [here] to chat about making some magic together.
