Southport Harbor Engagement Session in Fairfield, CT | Kate & Dan

A SOUTHPORT HARBOR SUMMER ENGAGEMENT SESSION

What a beautiful evening we had for Kate and Dan’s engagement session along Southport Harbor in Fairfield, Connecticut! This little neighborhood in Southport is situated right on the water, and it’s one of my favorite spots to photograph our couples, especially in the summertime. Dan and Kate brought their sweet pup, Archie, to include in a few of their engagement photos. He may or may not have stolen the show when he was there, but I’ll let you decide that when you see his photos below!

Tranquil views of the harbor and its boats always make for beautiful portrait backdrops. We walked around the nearby streets together, stopping here and there to snap more engagement photos. Arturo and I had a fantastic time chatting with two and learning more about what they’re planning for their coastal wedding celebration next summer. From what they shared, we know it’s going to be a good one!

THE PROPOSAL STORY

One summer, Dan joined Kate’s family on their annual trip to Cape Cod for the first time. They had always stayed at the same cottage every summer, but with a growing family and everyone getting older, they moved to a different cottage that year. As far as Kate knew, Dan had never seen the old beach that she used to stay at with her family in past years, so the two enjoyed a walk there before dinner that evening.

As they strolled along the beach together, Dan stopped, pulled out a ring, and asked Kate to marry him! Her whole family was hiding in the brush above the beach and came running down the beach steps after he had popped the question. They FaceTimed friends and family to share the news of their engagement, and then enjoyed a lobster cookout by the dock.

As Kate recalls, after dinner that evening, two swans appeared just as the sun was setting. No one had ever seen swans in that area before that day, and never did again after that night. Everyone knew it had to be Kate’s grandmother and Dan’s grandfather (both of whom had sadly passed away) to come and celebrate the bride- and groom-to-be!

These two are getting married next August at the Inn at Longshore in Westport, Connecticut, and we cannot wait for their day to arrive! Congratulations Kate and Dan!

When did you know you'd found "the one"?

Kate: “When I saw how amazing he was with my family the first time he came to visit Fairfield. It felt seamless, like he had known all of them for years. The bond he has with my brothers makes me even more excited for the future.”

Dan: “There are two instances that come to mind: 1) When we had such an amazing time at her Xavier University dance and I got to see how much joy she has. She really brings out the best in people; and 2) She was great around my grandpa, and was respectful and heartfelt in each of her interactions with him.”

What's one thing you love about your partner?

Kate: “How patient he is. He always goes with the flow and doesn't sweat the small stuff in life. He helps me keep things in perspective.”

Dan: “Being so thoughtful. Never have I met someone who thinks 50 steps ahead on everything and shows how much she cares about those around her.”

Besides getting married, what is one thing you're looking forward to on your wedding day?

Kate: “Dancing! I LOVE to dance and hope our dance floor is packed all night. I'm also excited about the appetizers. I saw mini lobster rolls on the list and that is right up my alley!”

Dan: “Having a nice cocktail and relaxing outside and looking at the sailboats with my family. Will be so exciting to share a slice of Connecticut and our life here with my friends and family from Ohio.”

What's one thing you're looking forward to about marriage?

Kate: “Family traditions and travel! We both love traveling and can't wait to explore more of the world together. I grew up with a lot of holiday traditions so I'm really looking forward to starting a few of our own.”

Dan: “Exploring the northeast, being each other’s companions, and navigating our 30s. I couldn't ask for a better partner to tackle life with.”

I hope you enjoyed this summer engagement session at Southport Harbor!  Do you know Kate and Dan?  Show them some love by commenting below!


ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shaina Lee Photography is a husband and wife photography team serving Connecticut, New York, and beyond.  We specialize in timeless, elegant, and romantic weddings while celebrating all couples in love. 

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