“Be happy” is beautifully written as a tattoo on her wrist. To remind herself that each day is a gift and that there is so much to be grateful for. It’s in the handwriting of her friend Mike, who was taken from this world too early in a tragic car accident a few years ago. It was Mike who brought Lauren and Spencer together. He was best friends with both of them through high school. And to Spencer, he was like a brother.

Through that heartbreaking time, Lauren and Spencer developed a close kinship, and eventually their friendship turned into love. After much thought and prayer, Lauren and Spencer came to the conclusion that God, and even Mike, knew they were meant to be. Their love developed in the darkest of times, and eventually their hearts knew it was time to move on and allow themselves to be happy again, as Lauren is so often reminded when she glances down at her wrist. “We both do our best to bring those words to life every day,” says Lauren.

And so Spencer’s deep and committed love to Lauren has brought him to put a ring on her finger, as she molds her heart into his.

I loved hanging out with Lauren and Spencer at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, in St. Michael’s, Maryland, for their romantic nautical engagement session. These images make me feel something; their deep-rooted love being felt through my lens. How they lean on each other for support and comfort and, well, happiness.

Congratulations Lauren and Spencer!