A few weeks ago, CJ emailed me and asked if I was available to spend the morning capturing a huge milestone in his and his brand new fiancé’s lives. The had just gotten engaged at Brookside Gardens but for Alice’s traditional Vietnamese family that wasn’t enough. In the traditional Vietnamese culture, an engagement ceremony is required to be seen as officially engaged to wed. The Groom’s parents must ask the Bride’s parents for permission to enter their home & for their son to wed their daughter. Once inside families are introduced, Bride is presented, prayers are said & then CJ could put the ring on Alice’s hand and everything became official! I love the opportunity to take a step into your lives for a day especially when I get to learn so much about another culture through the process. Before the morning’s events were over, I took Alice & CJ out for some portraits. I just love the way these two interact – they needed to guidance!