Nothing gets my heart racing quite like a proposal, especially when you’ve known the couple for over a decade. Sophia and Jake have been together for 11 years, and I first met them back in 2016! Being part of this moment so many years later was such an honor and truly a full-circle experience.

I met Jake in college when he played baseball with my husband at Benedictine. Sophia and Jake were dating back then, and I got to know Sophia during her weekend visits to see Jake. At the time, I was still new to photography and even asked them to model for me so I could practice posing and try out new locations in Downtown Naperville. Who knew that all these years later, Jake would reach out to have me capture one of the most important moments of their lives?!

Soph has been working hard in dentistry school and Jake has been studying to become a lawyer – truly a power couple! James and I could not be more thrilled for them as they take this next step together. It has been a long time coming, and it was absolutely worth the wait.

This was my first time photographing at the Chicago Botanic Garden, and I met with Jake a few days before the proposal to walk through the plan and scout locations. Of course, the weather had us scrambling for a plan B… But thanks to technology and some quick thinking, we were able to make everything happen!

The proposal itself could not have been more perfect or well thought out. Watching Sophia’s reaction and the pure joy on her face brought me to tears. Moments like these are exactly why I love what I do – capturing genuine love, excitement, and the start of a whole new chapter.

Sophia and Jake, your story has been a privilege to witness from the very beginning. I’m so honored to document this unforgettable milestone in your story together!

Jillian Photography is a Chicagoland wedding & senior photographer serving Naperville, St. Charles, and beyond. Get in touch with Jill here & follow along on social for what’s happening behind the scenes!

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