Kendra & Ryan’s Romantic Elizabeth Park Engagement Session in Hartford, CT
There’s something incredibly special about photographing couples who have truly grown up together through the years, and Kendra and Ryan’s engagement session at Elizabeth Park, in Hartford, CT, was filled with exactly that kind of heartfelt connection.
From their sweet beginning working together as teens, to building a life with their beloved rescue pup, Luna, their story is full of friendship, laughter, and the kind of love that quietly becomes forever.
As Connecticut engagement photographers, sessions like this remind us why we love documenting couples in meaningful locations with the people (and pets!) they love most.
A Love Story That Started with Takeout Orders
Kendra and Ryan first met while working together in a restaurant. Kendra was taking phone orders while Ryan worked as a delivery driver. And, according to Kendra, she may have “accidentally” sent him on a few wild goose chases thanks to incorrect addresses and phone numbers.
What started as a funny workplace dynamic quickly turned into something much deeper once they got to know each other. They discovered shared values, common interests, and a connection that only continued to grow stronger over the years.
Nearly a decade later, they’re officially planning their wedding day together.
Including Their Dog, Luna, in Their Engagement Photos
One of the most meaningful parts of this session was incorporating Luna, their Bluetick Coonhound mix, into their engagement photos.
Kendra shared that rescuing Luna in 2021 became one of the most memorable moments in their relationship. She has been part of their lives for over half of their time together, and it was important that she be included during this season of celebration.
As both engagement photographers and Connecticut elopement photographers, we absolutely love when couples bring pets to their sessions. Not only does it make photos feel more personal and authentic, but it also helps tell the complete story of your relationship.
Luna was incredibly sweet throughout the session and added such a fun, relaxed energy to the evening at Elizabeth Park.
Their Magical Maine Proposal
Ryan’s proposal to Kendra was thoughtful in every possible way.
Knowing how important Old Orchard Beach in Maine was to Kendra and her family, he planned a surprise beach proposal surrounded by both of their families. While Kendra’s family watched from their usual beach spot, Ryan secretly coordinated for his own family to stay nearby so they could witness the moment too.
After proposing on the beach at low tide, the couple celebrated with a rooftop dinner, a beachside prosecco toast, and the blending of both families together in one unforgettable moment.
Kendra also shared that Ryan designed her ring himself with the help of his sisters, making the proposal even more personal and meaningful.
Why Elizabeth Park is Perfect for Engagement Sessions
Elizabeth Park in Hartford, Connecticut, is one of the most beautiful engagement session locations in New England, especially during golden hour.
With its historic greenhouses, stone pathways, romantic gardens, and seasonal blooms, the park creates a timeless backdrop that works beautifully for couples wanting elegant yet natural engagement photos.
For Kendra and Ryan, the setting perfectly matched their vision: romantic, relaxed, and meaningful without feeling overly posed.
Even though they mentioned feeling a little camera shy beforehand, they absolutely crushed their session. Honestly, most couples feel nervous at first, but the best engagement photos happen when you simply focus on each other instead of the camera.
Congratulations to Kendra and Ryan!
Kendra and Ryan’s session was such a beautiful reminder that the best love stories are often built slowly over time, through everyday moments, shared adventures, family, and a rescue dog named Luna.
I cannot wait to see where the future takes Kendra and Ryan!
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For Couples Planning an Engagement Session with Their Dog
If you’re considering bringing your dog to your engagement session, I always encourage it.
A few tips:
- Bring treats and a favorite toy if you think your dog may need some encouragement
- Consider having a friend or family member help for part of the session
- Choose a pet-friendly location
- Don’t stress about perfection! Candid moments are often the best ones
As a Connecticut engagement and elopement photographer (and officiant), I love helping couples create sessions that actually reflect their relationship and personalities.
Planning an Elopement or Intimate Wedding in Connecticut?
Whether you’re planning a traditional wedding, intimate celebration, or adventurous Connecticut elopement, documenting your story in an honest and meaningful way is always the priority.
We also offer officiating services for couples looking for a seamless and personal engagement and elopement experience, making it easier to create a wedding day that feels authentic, relaxed, and fully centered around the two of you.
