Meet-Cute

Nearly five years ago, Berkeley and Austin matched on a dating app while both were living in Washington, D.C.. Like many couples who met during that time, their first date had a bit of an unexpected twist. The bar they met at closed at 10pm due to COVID restrictions. But neither of them was ready for the evening to end.

Austin drove Berkeley home, and the two ended up sitting in her driveway talking for another few hours. Before leaving, Austin asked a simple question: “What are you doing tomorrow?”

From that moment on, their relationship moved naturally and quickly. Within three weeks of their first date, they were officially dating. Just a few weeks later, Berkeley met Austin’s parents, something that Austin’s mom still laughs about because she assumed they must have been together for six months already.

Sometimes, when you know, you know.

A “Short Long-Distance” Season

About a year into their relationship, Austin returned to school in New York City. For the next three years, they navigated what they affectionately call “short long-distance,” with Berkeley still in D.C. and Austin in New York.

There were plenty of train rides between the two cities and lots of time spent with Austin’s family along the way. Even with the miles between them, they continued building a life together, choosing each other again and again.

Last December, Austin finished school. As a member of the Navy, he knew his next station would be in San Diego. By the time that move came around, it wasn’t really a question of whether Berkeley would join him. It simply felt like the natural next step, and they started their next chapter together on the West Coast.

A Thanksgiving Weekend Surprise Proposal

Of course, Berkeley had been (lovingly) reminding Austin for quite some time that she was ready for a ring. But when the proposal finally came, it still managed to completely surprise her.

During Thanksgiving weekend at Berkeley’s parents’ home, she was convinced the proposal might happen at some point during the visit. Instead, Austin and Berkeley’s sister did an excellent job throwing her completely off the scent.

The Friday after Thanksgiving, everyone seemed unusually eager to rush Berkeley out the door for a morning hike. She couldn’t understand why there was such urgency when the only plan for the day was a simple hike. What she didn’t know was that one of her best friends and her friend’s mom were already hiding nearby, waiting to photograph the moment.

At a scenic spot along the trail, Austin proposed. Still in a blur of excitement and shock, Berkeley said yes. When they returned to her parents’ house afterward, both of their families were waiting to celebrate. It was the perfect surprise—and the beginning of their next chapter together.

Berkeley & Austin’s Coronado Beach Engagement Session

For their engagement session, we met at the beautiful sand dunes along Coronado Beach. The soft coastal light and textured dunes created the perfect setting for their first outfit, which leaned a little more dressy and timeless. Berkeley wore a stunning sky-blue dress that perfectly complemented her blonde hair and fair skin. Austin paired a crisp white button-down with classic khaki slacks, creating a clean, timeless look that fit perfectly with the coastal setting.

One of the things Berkeley and Austin love most about each other is how easily they make one another laugh. Their relationship is full of joy, playfulness, and a natural ease that you feel almost immediately when you’re around them. So during their session, we made space for that. We spent time letting them simply enjoy being together, walking through the dunes, laughing, and sharing quiet moments, while also weaving in classic portraits that reflect the depth and steadiness of their relationship.

The result was a session that felt joyful, relaxed, and timeless all at once.

To the couple:

Berkeley and Austin, getting to document your engagement session was such a joy, and it made Hayes and me even more excited as your wedding day approaches. The laughter you share, the warmth between you, and the way you naturally support one another is something truly special to witness. If your engagement session was any indication, your wedding day at Harbor View Loft is going to be filled with the same joy, laughter, and deep love that has defined your story from the very beginning, and we feel so honored to be the ones capturing it. We truly cannot wait to celebrate alongside you both in San Diego!

Location: Coronado Beach

Photographer: Bree Sherr