Catawba Brewing Co. Engagement Session: Kari and Jeff

How It All Began

“He has red hair and a beard; SOLD!!” Before there was even the thought of an engagement, Kari’s first impression of Jeff was pretty favorable, and, based on the way Bumble is set up, the ball was in her court. So she reached out, and…crickets. The match expired. Not too long later they were matched again, so, again she reached out. This time? More crickets. But, the third time’s the charm, so when she pointedly asked him after their 3rd match if he would actually talk to her this time, he responded with three short words: Let’s make out. So they did.

And the rest, as they say, is history.

An Engagement Story

Once Kari and Jeff started talking, they quickly found that they had a lot in common. They share a personal understanding of what it is to lose a parent, and they’ve connected over running and volunteering. Kari quickly got Jeff involved in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society volunteering and helping to raise money for cancer research and running half marathons with the same society.

They were in Kiawah Island cheering for friends of theirs who were running a half marathon one weekend when they got engaged. They’d talked about marriage prior to that, so she knew it was coming eventually. She wasn’t necessarily anticipating it that weekend, but while on a walk to look at a beautiful property she’d notices for sale, they crossed this gazebo-type structure with a gorgeous view over the sound. They paused to enjoy the lookout, and she caught herself thinking, “Hmm, this would be a perfect spot to propose!” But nothing happened.

Meanwhile, Jeff was trying to psych himself up. “Just do it!’ “Get down on your knee!” “Come on! Just bend your knee!” “Dude! Come on!” And on and on raced his thoughts. Kari turned to continue the walk. And Jeff finally found his voice. “Kari, wait!” She turned. And there he was on one knee. He asked her the question. “Will you marry me?”

She accepted. 🙂

The Engagement Session

We took Jeff and Kari’s engagement portraits at one of their favorite date night spots in Charlotte: Catawba Brewing Company, and it was perfect!! Not only is Catawba a gorgeous venue with a beautiful skyline view of Charlotte from their patio, it’s also a place that employs the nicest, most welcoming people! Thanks, Catawba, for such a wonderful place for engagement portraits!!

Jeff and Kari, taking your engagement portraits was so fun! I love the fun way the two of you interact. I know you guys have a lifetime of laughter, love, and adventure ahead, and I wish you all the best!! The two of you individually have already impacted so many lives in a positive way; I know being married to one another will only increase your impact. Not only is our community and the world a better place because you’re in it, but it’s a better place because you’re together.

Congratulations on your engagement!! I can’t wait to see you at your wedding!!