When you go to a college as big as the University of Illinois, it is impossible to know everyone there … let alone everyone in your major. Monica and Ben had been in the same accounting program for nearly two years before their paths first crossed.

It was the last week of their senior year, and they were assigned to work on a group project together. It was all business as their group members diligently wrapped up their assignment. But soon after, Ben asked Monica to meet him out. They spent some time getting to know each other, and their lives were forever changed.

In each other, they found someone they couldn’t live without. Years later, Ben dropped to his knee and asked Monica to spend forever at his side.

For their engagement session, Monica and Ben chose to document their love in Chicago as it is the city where they started their home together.

We had a perfect fall day complete with the most gorgeous colors around Lincoln Park.

I had serious hair envy ….. I mean look at Monica’s gorgeous locks.

A favorite ….

Ben managed to keep Monica laughing throughout our shoot … and I just LOVE photographing authentic laughter.

swoon!

This is one of my favorite spots in the city because for a moment you escape the big city and are surrounded by beauty.

I first met Monica and Ben at our shoot, but I instantly felt like they were old friends. I had a blast hanging out with them and reliving all the hot spots at our alma mater, U of I.

Ben is a charming guy with a great personality and a great smile.

Nothing like a quick kiss along the way …

Seriously, how cute are these two?  I kept telling Ben, just one more shot, and I promise we are done … probably a few times … but I couldn’t get enough of these two.

Monica’s energy is completely contagious. She is bubbly and  beyond sweet.

After a quick outfit change, we headed to North Ave beach for some Chicago skyline photos along the lake.

Monica and Ben humored me when I asked them to dance (sans music) for me.

And I’ll leave you with this one ….