Stephrod +Cale | North Carolina Mountains to Sea Engagement
I have known Steph (aka Stephrod as I call her) since my freshman year of college out at Northern Illinois University. We have been coworkers, roommates, and most of all, very good friends. I remember the very first time she introduced me to her friend Cale and I immediately thought to myself that he was “the one” for her. I can’t say that this had ever happened to me before- and I don’t think it has ever happened to me again since, but I was so sure of it. Only problem was, that Stephrod was in total denial. For years, they remained just friends, until finally, one fateful New Years Eve, they kissed! And that was all they needed to see that they are a perfect match! I just cannot tell you how happy I am that these two are now getting married!
Not long after they got engaged Stephrod sent me a text asking me to be her photographer. Josh and I were so excited! We knew that we had to do something extra awesome for their engagement session. So, we had them come out to Raleigh for an epic Mountains to Sea engagement week. We took them to our favorite spots on the coast at Fort Fisher and Carolina Beach, spent some time brewery-hopping in Raleigh, and then headed up to Virginia to show these two lovebirds what fall is like in the mountains.
To start out, we headed up to Grayson Highlands State Park. Anyone who knows us, knows that Josh and I are kind of obsessed with this area. There are jagged rocks, wild ponies, and beautiful fall colors. The weather on top of the mountain can be very unpredictable, but lucky for us, we got clear skies that day. I just love the pictures we got of these two among the beautiful scenery. The next day, we took Stephrod and Cale out on our favorite bike ride down the Virginia Creeper Trail. The Virginia Creeper trail is a 12 mile downhill bike path. It goes over old railroad trestles and passes by beautiful mountain views. This time of year, the leaves and ground were covered in colorful leaves. I’m so glad we were able to share this beautiful place with our friends!
Stephrod and Cale, thank you so much for bringing your sense of adventure on this engagement session! You two are made for each other and I can’t wait to photograph your wedding in Chicago next fall! ~ Shelley and Josh Hartman, North Carolina Mountain Photographers
