Shelli and Matt Hopkins Park DeKalb Illinois Engagement Session

Photographers are officially able to work again so long as we wear a mask, keep our distance, and shoot outdoors. Shelli and Matt’s engagement session at Hopkins Park in DeKalb was the first shoot we had since quarantine began. I was pretty nervous about the masks, not because I feel like I shouldn’t wear one but because I am already a soft talker to begin with. I was nervous they wouldn’t be able to hear me. Or feel encouraged because of the lack of visibility with facial expressions. But honestly it all worked out just fine :) We got to catch up, have some fun, and capture some beautiful moments in the park!

Shelli, Matt and I worked ( and met!) at the NIU Holmes Student Center Accounting office together for about 2 years when I was in college. I was looking for a student job that I could do in between classes and saw the posting. Not sure how I, as an art student, got a job in an accounting office when I know nothing of accounting but I must have had a dazzling interview. Working in the accounting office was so odd at times. I could write a whole book on some of my stories from those 2 years but the one great thing that came from it was meeting these two.

When I found out Shelli and Matt were dating I was SO excited for them! I knew from the minute I saw these two interact that there was something there. Even if it took a few months to get there :)

9 years later and they will be getting married this summer! It has been hard to plan a wedding during a pandemic especially when you aren’t sure what will be allowed when it comes time for your wedding. But I think they are focusing on all the right things and know that they will be getting married regardless of how it happens. And thats what matters most, right?

Congratulations you two! SO incredibly happy to for you guys and that Lex and I could could be a part of your engagement :)