Sheila and Alex were set up from the start. I mean literally! Their mutual friend, Ari, had been wanting the two to date each other for a long time. Ari invited both Sheila and Alex over “to just catch up” – without telling the other person. Both Sheila and Alex were surprised to meet each other but quickly began chatting. One thing led to another and next thing you know, Alex asked her out on a first date. Sheila was so excited and nervous before he picked her up that she tried on three outfits and four jewelry combos (something I can totally relate to!).

The date was perfect, and when Alex finally dropped her off, Sheila immediately called her friend Emily and said, “It feels like I have known him forever!” Needless to say, Ari’s plan worked, and the couple dated for over two years. When Alex proposed, he did so in the same house that the couple originally met in. Laying out rose petals and candles, Alex waited for her to return from work. When she walked through the door, Alex proposed to a stunned and elated Sheila!

I initially only met with Sheila and her mom, but after mom left, Sheila and I sat for almost another hour, gabbing like old friends while enjoying some wine and talking about her beau. Let me tell you, based upon on the way Sheila gushed about Mr. Berger, I knew he was going to be special! When I met up with them at the Desert Botanical Gardens to shoot their engagement session, within minutes, I knew it was going to be a fun time! They looked absolutely adorable together, snuggling and dancing with towering cacti and the picturesque red clay mountains in the background. We even explored a little bit of nearby Papago Park, but the warm desert and gorgeous scenery had nothing on the love, fun and laughter these two exuded in each another’s presence.

I can’t wait for their February wedding at Chateau Luxe! It’s going to be a day to remember for sure!