Michelle and Zach may have gone to the same high school, but their love story does not start there! It actually starts with social media, and a Sponge Bob meme!

These two had only passed each other a few times as teens in the halls, but they knew of each other enough to give one another a follow! Years later, Zach took a look at what Michelle had been up to and thought she was beautiful, so he took a chance and messaged her to ask her out. But instead of a fancy first line, he decided to make his first move with a Sponge Bob meme – and Michelle loved it! Since then, they have been traveling to amazing places like Costa Rica and Playa del Carmen together, and they look forward to traveling even more once our world returns to a new normal. This past September, Zach popped the question with both their families in the backyard and Michelle excitedly said, “Yes!”

Seeing couples in my work constantly, I can always tell when a couple is head over heels for each other, and that is certainly these two! You can tell with every small look between them that they are each others’ very best friend. Every kiss is intimate, and every touch is filled with such appreciation for the other! It was beautiful to see! We laughed so much during their Kent session, and I couldn’t stop saying, “Wow!” the entire time!! They are just so precious!

Michelle & Zach, congratulations on finding your person and always enjoying life with your bright smiles! It is so much fun to be around you two and I cannot wait for your wedding!! September 27th, here we come!

Kent State University
Jessie & Stephen’s Fellows Riverside Gardens Engagement
Photography by Bree Thompson