Engagement Session with a Vintage Canoe: Stephanie + Markus

canoe engagement

Let’s sail – err, row – right into the weekend with an ultra pretty Seattle engagement sesh, that took place on the Puget Sound! Stephanie + Markus wanted their engagement photos to represent their love for Seattle’s great outdoors, and the time they spent exploring it together. So taking a vintage canoe, adorned with the loveliest eucalyptus and rose garland, out for a spin was just their speed. Marissa Maharaj really couldn’t have done a better job capturing this pretty, pretty session. It has such a sweet, playful vibe! Let’s hear how Steph + Markus met:

Markus and I met in college and had instant crushes on each other. I used to make my friends pretend that they needed tutoring so that he would come over to our house. Meanwhile, he was working up the nerve to ask me on a date! We finally figured it out and have been together for four years now.

lake engagement

lake engagement

lake engagement

lake engagement

rainboots

lake engagement

lake engagement

lake engagement

rainboots

rainboots

engagement

lake engagement

vintage canoe engagement


That gorgeous garland, designed + assembled to the canoe by Marigold and Mint, really brought this shoot to life! We love the combination of elegance + nature – and the notion that florists don’t have to be reserved for the wedding day only! :)

vintage canoe engagement

oars

lace ivory dress

engagement ring


Stephanie’s sweet lace dress was a Free People find!

vintage canoe engagement

flowers in canoe

vintage canoe engagement

vintage canoe engagement

flowers in canoe

vintage canoe engagement


Markus popped the question one beautiful December night on a dock by the Sound. It’s a special little dock to us – it overlooks the city that our story has taken place in, the water we love, and the mountain that is Seattle’s pride and joy. This was the spot in which we first decided to date, and we’ve had many talks and walks here since. After an evening of poetry, Thai food, and reflections on our commitment to each other, we both said “yes” in this sweet, familiar place.

Big congrats, you two! And thank you for sharing your photos with us!

photography: Marissa Maharaj // florals: Marigold and Mint // wedding dress: Free People // location: Puget Sound in Seattle, Washington

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