JT and Lauren’s Wrightsville Beach engagement session was one of those evenings that just felt easy and fun from start to finish. Even though it was November, the weather felt more like spring, and we ended up with the most beautiful sunset to close out the night. From the second we started shooting, these two were total naturals in front of the camera. We spent most of the evening laughing and just enjoying being out around Wilmington together!

Exploring Wilmington

We started the session at a marina in Wilmington, which is one of my favorite spots because it has such a relaxed coastal feel. The light was already soft and beautiful, and it was the perfect place to ease into the session.

After that, we stopped along one of Wilmington’s streets covered in Spanish moss. The golden light coming through the trees there was incredible, and it gave everything that warm glow that photographers are always hoping for. JT and Lauren were joking around the whole time, which made getting those natural moments so easy.

Two Outfits + A Wrightsville Beach Sunset

Lauren and JT planned two outfits for their session, which I always love because it gives a little variety in the photos. They started with a dressier look in light neutral colors that photographed beautifully. Later, they changed into something a little more relaxed before we headed to the South End of Wrightsville Beach to finish the evening.

By the time we got there, the sunset was unreal. We took our shoes off, walked along the beach, and just let them have fun together. Those carefree beach moments are always some of my favorite photos from engagement sessions.

Their Story

JT and Lauren met at NC State when Lauren was on the cheer team and JT played baseball. I actually met Lauren for the first time at one of JT’s last games, and over time I’ve gotten to become really good friends with both of them. It’s always extra special getting to photograph people you genuinely love spending time with!

JT and Lauren’s Proposal

Just a few weeks before this session, I had the honor of capturing JT’s private proposal at the Umstead Hotel in Cary by the lake. After Lauren said yes, they celebrated with a surprise party with both of their families waiting for them. Getting to photograph both their proposal and their engagement session has been such a sweet part of their story.

What’s Next After Their Wrightsville Beach Engagement Session

JT and Lauren will be getting married later this year at Donovan Manor, which is one of my favorite venues in the Triangle area. I already know their wedding day is going to be such a fun one! After the session wrapped up, we celebrated the best way possible with margaritas and dinner at K38. Cheers to the future Jarretts! I cannot wait for your wedding day.

If you’re planning an engagement session in Wilmington or Wrightsville Beach, I would absolutely love to be part of it. My goal with every session is to make the experience feel relaxed, fun, and completely true to you while capturing images you’ll treasure for years to come. You can inquire about engagement sessions or wedding photography here, and I’d love to hear more about your story and what you’re dreaming up.