He pushed up his sleeves like he was preparing for something important. Braced himself. And then, effortlessly, he picked her up. His hands wrapped around Nicole’s waist as she threw her head back laughing, and just like that, he spun her around in a circle like they were the only two people on campus.
It was one of those moments. The kind that feels like it belongs in a movie. The kind that could easily be labeled as cheesy… but somehow isn’t at all when it’s real. Because this wasn’t staged.
This was Nicole and Will.
We were wandering through Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, surrounded by stunning architecture, the quiet buzz of students passing by, and the soft sound of church bells echoing in the background. It felt romantic without even trying. Effortless. Just like them.
And here’s a little behind-the-scenes secret. Nicole had told me ahead of time that one of the photos she really wanted was Will picking her up. And let me tell you… he absolutely delivered. But what made it special wasn’t just checking a shot off a list. It was how natural it felt. How them it was.
Because Nicole and Will don’t have to try to be playful. They just are. They laugh constantly. Like, truly constantly. It’s the soundtrack of their relationship. The kind of laughter that bubbles up easily and spreads to everyone around them. The kind that makes you feel lighter just being near it.
They share so many similarities, and loving each other feels effortless because of it. They understand each other. They support each other. And most importantly, they genuinely enjoy being together. After wandering through campus, we made our way over to Lighthouse Landing Beach, where the evening softened into that dreamy lakefront glow. The energy didn’t change, it just settled. Still playful. Still joyful. Still them.
Nicole and Will are the kind of people you want in your corner. Not just because they’re fun to be around (which they absolutely are), but because they are deeply, genuinely kind. The kind of kindness that isn’t forced. It just naturally pours out of them and into everyone they interact with. And honestly, that’s what makes their love so special. It’s light. It’s joyful. It’s full of little moments that don’t feel little at all when you’re in them.
This session was such a beautiful reminder of something we all need to hear more often. Don’t take life too seriously. Find joy in the small moments. Laugh a little louder. Be a little sillier. Because when you allow that kind of lightness into your life, everything feels just a little bit easier.
Nicole and Will, thank you for trusting me to capture this season of your story. Thank you for your laughter, your kindness, and the joy you bring into every space you walk into. Your love is something special, and I feel so lucky to have witnessed it. 🤍
