For the past four years, Joe and Hannah have loved visiting the Smoky Mountains together. Anakeesta is Hannah’s favorite place to go, and Joe knew the popular tourist attraction in Gatlinburg was the perfect spot to propose. So, Joe told Hannah they were going to Anakeesta and that he had added on Anakeesta’s new personal photographer package (no, this package does not exist!)
On a rainy morning, I rode up the mountain in Anakeesta’s new enclosed gondolas. I met Joe and Hannah on the mountain top and explained that I would be following them through the park to capture the memories of their day. I suggested we start by going to the iconic Twigloo at the back of the park while it was still early so there wouldn’t be a line. Once we got to the Twigloo, I got Hannah to look at the mountains while Joe got down on his knee behind her. Hannah’s reaction when she turned to see Joe down on his knee was so sweet!
After Joe proposed, we took advantage of Anakeesta’s Treeventure and water features for photo ops. Then, we drove about 20 minutes to Elkmont to take advantage of the scenic river and woods with historic features like a stone troll bridge.
And now for the even sweeter surprise! During photoshoots, I am always on the lookout for phones in pockets, hair ties on wrists and anything else that may be out of place. Despite taking off their Anakeesta wrist bands, I noticed Joe still had on a blue bracelet. I asked him if the bracelet was super important to him, and he said yes … because he and Hannah are expecting a baby boy! Naturally we included a few maternity-style photos as well.
Joe and Hannah, you are the sweetest couple and I know you will be amazing parents to your little boy. Thank you so much for letting me capture such sweet memories!
