mariella & andy - a chicago summer engagement session

As I sit here excitedly selecting some of my favorite summerlicious images to share from (the STUNNING) Mariella and Andy's engagement session, I am reliving that perfect August afternoon we spent frolicking around Montrose Beach and Harbor. Blue skies. Sparkling blue surf. White sand. Bright greens and yellows and colorful blooms in the nearby bird sanctuary. It was one of those glorious days that make you incredibly grateful to be alive. In a nutshell, absolute perfection, folks.

And then I am suddenly awash with the realization that it's already mid-August and Chicago's winter months are drawing ever nearer...but I'll focus on the good!

Nay, the great! The only thing lovelier than this gorgeous, golden afternoon is the was that Andy looks at Mariella when she laughs (which, lucky for us all, is often!). These two are tying the knot next month and I am so pumped to be there to capture it all. Mariella and Andy clearly love each other in that wonderful, joy-filled, easy way that is not always easy to come across.

Scroll on down to check out some of my faves from the day and see what has me so excited for this amazing couple!