Winter engagement session in White Bear Lake | Anna & James

White Bear Lake has been the backdrop for so many important moments throughout Anna and James’ relationship, so it was the perfect spot for their engagement photos. Knowing how cold our Minnesota winter days can get, we decided that before we ventured downtown, we’d do some indoor photos at the church where these two met (and are getting married!). Anna showed me around the building a few days earlier, and I ended up seeing a ton of potential in the basement of all places! With its white walls, a bit of furniture, and windows that provided just enough natural light, it was a great blank canvas for a DIY studio. Anna and her sister decorated the place with a some cute rugs, throw pillows, candles, and plants, and it ended up feeling super homey!

Afterwards, we headed into downtown White Bear Lake and despite being freezing, had a great time. It definitely helped that Anna’s sister brought a bluetooth speaker and kept us dancing by playing some good oldies! Music always helps people loosen up in front of the camera and it led to lots of great moments with natural movement and laughter. I loved both sets of outfits, but I’m especially fond of how Anna’s green ensemble contrasted with the warm-toned bricks in the downtown photos. Complete with her beret, James’ cozy sweater, and the quaint setting, they seriously look like they walked out of a Hallmark movie.

These cuties get married this June and I cannot wait! If the fun, sweet love that was on display during their engagement session is any preview of what the wedding will be like, I already know it’s going to be beautiful.