Our photographer, Jennifer B, doubles as blog writer. She wrote it best. Read our story below. "Where to begin… Corey and Jenna have known each other for about 12 years, but have officially been together for five years. Funny enough, their story started long before they ever imagined it would turn into this. Jenna first met Corey while working as a hostess at Valenti’s. His family would come in on the weekends, and that’s where their paths first crossed. Not long after, he was working as a barista at Mean Bean Coffee over by the college — alongside Jenna's best friend. At the time, she was in nursing school, so she practically lived on caffeine and spent plenty of time there. Life moved on, as it does… and a couple of years later, they reconnected and have been inseparable since. In March 2025, Corey proposed in downtown Southern Pines by the train station — a spot that will forever hold a special place in Jenna's heart. His brother and girlfriend came up with a story about the painted ponies and a friend who had supposedly created one. It was the perfect distraction to get Jenna down there without suspecting a thing. And then… he popped the question. He even had a friend nearby capturing candid photos of the moment — something they will treasure forever. Afterward, they headed to dinner... But when she walked in, she was completely shocked — a room full of their closest friends were waiting for a surprise engagement party. It was the sweetest thing. Now a year later, it only felt right to take their engagement photos in downtown Southern Pines — the very place where he asked her to marry him. We wandered through the streets on a beautiful, sunny Saturday afternoon. Downtown was surprisingly busy, but that didn’t stop us. When we wanted a quieter backdrop, we slipped away to Weymouth Gardens for some serene and peaceful moments surrounded by nature. The contrast between the charm of downtown and the softness of the gardens made the session feel complete. There’s something so special about photographing a couple in a place that already holds meaning. Every corner felt like a memory in the making. Their wedding day is this September, and I truly cannot wait to celebrate them again — this time as husband and wife. 🤍" https://www.jenniferb.photography/blog/2026/3/Downtown-Southern-Pines-Engagement-Corey-and-Jenna