When we heard that Kirsten and Al won a free wedding giveaway hosted by Local Life Magazine and Hitched Charlotte, we were thrilled to be part of it. As a giveaway partner, we gifted the couple their dream engagement session— one that celebrated their story, their favorite city, and a rare moment home together.
Both Kirsten and Al were proudly serving in the military, stationed in different parts of the world. Their schedules, distance, and time zones would challenge any couple — but their love and connection are unmistakable. When they returned home from deployment in July 2024, we finally got the chance to bring their vision to life.
They chose Wilmington, NC — a place close to their hearts — for their engagement session. We knew right away we wanted to capture both the historic charm of downtown and the romantic coastline of Wrightsville Beach.
We kicked off their session near the Alton Lennon Federal Building and Courthouse. The timeless architecture, soft light, and quiet city streets created the perfect atmosphere for some elegant, editorial portraits. With warm smiles and sweet moments between them, Kirsten and Al looked effortlessly classic — like they belonged right in the pages of a magazine.
Downtown Wilmington gave us that perfect mix of refined and relaxed — brick buildings, stone columns, and blooming summer trees made every frame feel unique and full of character.
As the sun dipped lower, we headed to Wrightsville Beach, one of the couple’s favorite spots. It was the perfect contrast to downtown — relaxed, breezy, and full of golden light. Kirsten and Al kicked off their shoes, laughed their way down the shore, and soaked up every minute together.
We wandered near the pier, chased a few waves, and embraced the magic that only the coast can bring. The result? A gallery full of genuine connection, soft color palettes, and coastal beauty.
Wilmington is one of our favorite spots for engagement sessions because it offers so much variety. From historic streets to coastal sunsets, it gives couples the chance to express every side of their love story — and for military couples like Kirsten and Al, it’s a peaceful homecoming full of beauty and nostalgia.
Whether you’re dreaming of downtown elegance, barefoot beach photos, or both — we’re here to help you plan a session that feels personal and effortless. Especially if you’re a military couple with a tight schedule, we’ll help you make the most of every minute.