Joanna + Michael | Ranstead Room Engagement
Mike proposed to Joanna last summer at the restaurant where they had their official first date; he even made sure to wear the same outfit that he'd worn to that first date. During dinner, Mike gave Joanna a memory book filled with all of the couple's firsts, right up to their first house. Even before Joanna made it to the last page, she could feel a ring and knew that this was the moment. Suddenly she got the overwhelming feeling that she didn't want their proposal to happen surrounded by other people; Instead, she asked Mike to step outside so that the memory would include just the two of them. Once outside, Mike proposed to Joanna with her family heirloom ring worn by 4 generations. For Joanna & Mike's engagement session, we decided to continue the sentimentality by visiting some of the spots in Philly where they had gone on dates early in their relationship. I met the couple outside of the Ranstead Room, a speakeasy style lounge in Center City located behind El Ray. Taking advantage of the beautiful December light, I literally could have spent the entire session photographing in that little alley! I'm glad that we didn't though because this was followed by a private seating inside the Ranstead Room and a walk through Rittenhouse Square.
I thoroughly enjoyed spending the afternoon with Joanna & Mike and can't wait for their wedding in the fall! Enjoy.
