I met up with Josh & Mercedes in Lombard last month for their Lilacia Park engagement session. While Lilacia is known for it’s lilacs and tulips, most of those were gone already. The park was still full of beauty, and I imagine it has a unique beauty to it during each time of the year. It was the perfect place for photos, so I’m adding it to my list of favorite suburban locations.

Their Story

Josh & Mercedes met in Philadelphia through her roommate, who just happened to be dating his roommate. They started dating casually, knowing that Josh was going to eventually be moving away to Chicago. During the early stages of their relationship, Josh encouraged Mercedes to apply to become a flight attendant. She got hired within a few weeks, was told she had to move in two, and their crazy schedules began. Once she moved, they Facetimed every day and when he was about to move to Chicago they decided to officially become a couple and make the long-distance work.

For 2 1/2 years, they navigated the challenges of long distance with Mercedes flying back and forth to see Josh a couple of times a week. Mercedes eventually got to relocate to Chicago, where the two moved in together, got engaged and are now planning a wedding.

Their Session

These two are so fun and playful. I had such a great time laughing with them and getting to know them. They wanted their photos to show how much they love each other, but also how fun and carefree they are. Josh used to be a college gymnast and while he wasn’t able to do any tricks for us that night, we did add in their signature pose with Josh in a handstand. 🙂

The Wedding

Josh & Mercedes are getting married in September of next year at Sundance Studios in Benton Harbor, Michigan. I can’t wait to photograph their beautiful day.

 

To see more engagement sessions like this one, head over here.

If you would like to know more about booking your wedding with me, contact me here or email me at karen@karenshoufler.com.