Some love stories don’t follow a traditional timeline—and honestly, those are always my favorite to tell.

Courtney and Patrick’s engagement session at Garfield Park wasn’t just about celebrating what’s to come—it was about honoring everything they’ve already built together.

---

How did Courtney & Patrick meet?

Like so many modern love stories, theirs started on a night out—but this one has a little extra magic.

They met at a bar in Broad Ripple the night before Halloween. The kind of night that could’ve easily been forgotten—but instead, it became the beginning of everything.

When did they get married?

Here’s where their story stands out.

Courtney and Patrick were actually married in May 2022 in a courthouse ceremony, with just their parents present as witnesses. It was intimate, intentional, and centered completely around their love.

No pressure. No big production. Just them.

And honestly? There’s something so beautiful about starting your marriage that way.

---

The proposal (yes, there was still one!)

Even though they were already married, Patrick made sure Courtney still got her moment.

Three months later, he proposed in Las Vegas—turning their story into the perfect blend of spontaneous and romantic. It’s proof that you can write your love story however you want… and still have all the meaningful moments along the way.

---

What is their life like now?

Today, the two live in Washington, D.C., while Patrick serves active duty in the U.S. Navy.

Their relationship is built on commitment in every sense of the word—love, distance, sacrifice, and choosing each other over and over again.

And you can feel that depth instantly when you’re around them.

---

Why take engagement photos if you’re already married?

This is something I get asked more often than you’d think—and Courtney and Patrick are the perfect example of why the answer is always yes.

Engagement sessions aren’t just about the proposal—they’re about documenting a season of your relationship.

Whether you’ve been together for months or years, whether you eloped, had a courthouse wedding, or are planning a full celebration later… your story deserves to be captured.

For these two, this session marked the transition into their long-awaited wedding celebration.

---

Their Engagement Session at Garfield Park

Garfield Park showed off in the best way for their session.

The soft light, the historic details, the greenery—it created the perfect balance of romantic and timeless. But what made this session stand out wasn’t just the location…

It was how natural they were together.

No forced moments. No over-posing. Just connection.

The way Patrick pulled Courtney in without thinking. The way she laughed mid-sentence. The quiet, in-between moments that say more than any pose ever could.

That’s where the magic always is.

---

When is their wedding?

Courtney and Patrick are planning their full wedding celebration in January 2026 at Lizton Lodge—and it’s going to be so worth the wait.

After already building a life together, this day is all about celebrating with the people they love most. And those kinds of weddings? They just hit different.

---

Advice for couples planning engagement photos in Indianapolis

If you’re planning your own engagement session, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Choose a location that feels like you
Places like Garfield Park are perfect if you want variety, natural beauty, and a timeless feel—but the best location is always one that reflects your story.

2. Don’t stress about posing
You don’t need to know what to do. The best photos come from movement, connection, and just being present with each other.

3. Think about the season
Indiana weather changes everything. Whether you want lush greens, golden tones, or a cozy winter vibe, timing plays a huge role in your final gallery.

4. Wear something that feels like you—elevated
You don’t need to be someone else for your photos. Just step into a slightly more polished version of your everyday style.

5. Remember what this is really about
It’s not just photos for your save-the-dates or wedding website. It’s documenting your relationship as it exists right now.

---

Final Thoughts

Courtney and Patrick’s story is proof that there’s no “right” way to do love.

Courthouse wedding first. Proposal after. Wedding celebration later. Military life in between.

Every piece of their story matters—and getting to document even a small part of it was such an honor.

I truly cannot wait to celebrate with them at Lizton Lodge in January. It’s going to be one of those days you just feel.

Courtney & Patrick | Romantic Garfield Park Engagement Session | Indianapolis Wedding Photographer