I first met Dillon and his family at his older brothers wedding (shout out to Brayden and Aeva!) he was in high school then. But I am not exaggerating when I say that this wedding stood out in my mind. Not just because Brayden and Aeva are awesome (because they are) but because their family is awesome. This translated into getting the chance to photograph Dillions senior photos. It was here I had the chance to meet Eden, get to know Dillon more, and his family. In both cases my impression of them and who they are only increased. And I genuinely loved talking with them. So when I found out that Dillon was going to propose to Eden, and that I was being asked to be there, I was so excited. Proposals are some of my favorite things, such excitement and emotion it feels so visceral.

Dom and Raegan's North Idaho Morning Engagement

What's weird about Dom and Reagan is that they met in person. Yeah, you heard me right, in the flesh and blood. They met at work, and while their friendship started there, it grew into so much more. They both love hiking and of course, their amazing dog. They love helping others, and being in the outdoors. They are kind, easy to talk to, and quick to laugh at a good joke. It’s all these little things that caused each of them to fall for the other. First friends, soon forever

Kevin & Annie's Downtown Spokane Engagement

They met when they were younger, because Annie is Kevin's friends little sister. For years, that's exactly how she was viewed as well - Alex's little sister. That said, it didn't actually stop Kevin from hitting on her now and then, but because she was in a relationship she didn't acknowledge it one way or the other. He was her brothers friend, after all.

Noe and Ellie's New York City Engagement

This would mark the fifth time I've had the privilege of going to New York City, although this is the first time in the last decade. It is my favorite major city in the US, it has culture, people, nature, and of course, it may be the most “epic” of all city’s. That said, being able to do engagement photos with two exceptional people in one of the greatest cities on earth was a huge privilege. I absolutely loved my time with these two, they were funny, easy to talk to, and so thoughtful. Their story was so good - from what I remember - although because of my location I didn’t get the chance to write it down as I normally would.

Justus and Meghan's Tubbs Hill Engagement

Justus and Meghan have such a cool story. One, they are one of those really rare couples that met in person - flesh and blood - so that already separates them. The other thing is their story spans about four meetings total, and has a lot of little details that are so interesting. But really, the first time they met, it was all fairly inconsequential. Meghan was working (she was a barista at the time!) when Justus and his friends came into the store, and they had very little time to talk. That said, they both caught each others eye but were ultimately not interested - they were both in relationships.

Kanaan and Jessica's Downtown Spokane Engagement

Kanaan and Jessica have a super unique story - very much so, in fact. They met in person. Yes, in real life! No app was involved, no swiping, just two friends named Will and Grace. Jessica and Kanaan were one friend away from meeting for a while, but initially things like both being in a relationship slowed it all down (naturally). But they would finally meet at a Denny's for brunch. No sparks flew. No numbers were exchanged. They met, they ate, and they left (Kanaan was still in a relationship at the time).

The Blog

Brent Looyenga is a Spokane wedding photographer based IN SPOKANE WASHINGTON and Coeur d’Alene Idaho area. He loves people and specializes in wedding, engagement, family and senior photography. You can like Looyenga Photography on Facebook or follow them on Instagram.