What a beautiful day it was for Joseph and Kristiana’s engagement session at Side Cut Metropark! Having shot many sessions in this area of the state, I can say Toledo, Ohio, has great locations for engagement sessions. Side Cut Metropark boasts a combination of nature, bridges and walkways, waterfalls, and old stone buildings. This sweet couple was such a privilege to capture on camera, and they radiated joy and love throughout their photoshoot. Their wedding later this summer is going to be such a gorgeous event! 💛

One of Toledo’s Oldest Outdoor Parks

Side Cut Metropark is one of Toledo’s hidden gems, going all the way back to when it was established in the 1920’s. It sits along the Maumee River and attracts fishermen from all over the country. The park is named for its “side cut” extension of the Miami and Erie Canal that once connected the main line of the city. The WPA workers preserved some of the original locks during the Great Depression. They also built shelters within the park. In addition to the features mentioned above, it has a playground, picnic areas, a sledding hill, and wildlife viewing areas.

An Adorable “How We Met” Love Story

One of the ways I book weddings is from referrals and past wedding couples. This is just how Joseph and Kris found me. I shot Jennie and Jamin’s wedding back in 2021, and as friends of this lovely engaged couple, they talked very highly of me! Their wedding is also one of my very first wedding blogs ever. 🥹

Kris and Joseph met in September of 2024 at a bar located in the Levis Commons shopping area, a popular destination in the Toledo, Ohio area. One evening, while both of them were out enjoying drinks, Joseph spotted Kris across the room and walked right up to her with the most charming line: “You look like my next girlfriend.” I mean, come on! Talk about confidence! His line worked because the rest of that evening, the two of them enjoyed chatting, laughing, and getting to know each other.

It was truly the start of something magical. Kristiana said, “We were pretty much inseparable after our first date.” After spending time with them during this engagement session, I completely believe it. The chemistry between these two is undeniable and so incredibly fun to photograph! ❤️

A Holiday Proposal at The Top of the World

Some of their best memories together include ice skating, a road trip through the Florida Keys, bull riding events, football games, and dirt track races. However, Kris and Joseph also treasure the quieter, everyday moments such as cooking, tending to their garden, and going out for weekly date nights. Their favorite restaurant is Levi and Lilacs in Maumee, Ohio.

A week before Christmas, Joseph whisked Kristiana away to New York City. At the top of the iconic Empire State Building, he got down on one knee and asked her to be his forever. She was completely caught by surprise! Could you dream up a more picturesque fairy tale proposal? 😭This story alone had me gushing at our session, and I think it perfectly captures exactly who Joseph and Kris are as a couple: adventurous and romantic.

They will be keeping with the same theme for their wedding, as it will take place at Maumee Bay State Park. The ceremony and reception will be right along the Maumee River, which will make for some gorgeous portraits. I can’t wait for their wedding in August!

If you’re engaged and planning on getting married, my calendar for 2027 is open! Send me a message so I can be your wedding photographer!