Before the Vows
You’re engaged—congratulations! One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate this exciting chapter is with an engagement photo session. More than just a photo op, it’s a chance to capture the joy of this season in a way that reflects your unique style and relationship. While it may be tempting to skip it, engagement photos offer so much more than a few pretty pictures.
They allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day, build rapport with your photographer, and create lasting memories in a relaxed setting. To make your session truly personal, think beyond the standard poses and traditional backdrops. Choose a location that holds meaning for you, wear outfits that feel authentic, and don’t be afraid to ditch the clichés in favor of a session that feels like you. A little planning goes a long way in making these images timeless keepsakes.
Real Couple Spotlight
Brenda Awuah & Erik Mason-Holmes
When Brenda Awuah and Erik Mason-Holmes got engaged, they wanted their photos to reflect more than just a milestone—they wanted them to tell their love story. Brenda found inspiration on Pinterest and TikTok, drawn to the idea of using a meaningful location to capture this chapter. After winning a social media photography giveaway from Makayla Jones Photography, Brenda shared her vision, and Makayla was immediately on board.
They chose Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas—an intentional choice tied to their relationship and their future. “Erik took me there on a date when we were still getting to know each other,” Brenda said. “It’s close to where we will be married, and it felt like a full-circle moment.”
Set against stunning architecture and art, the session felt both personal and timeless. The photos are now a keepsake of a season they will never forget, and a beautiful preview of their October 3, 2025, wedding planned by Texarkana’s own Erika Dougherty with ERA Planning & Design.
