Jess and Miguel met through the lens of an 8x10 camera. Jess was busy trying to learn the intricacies of the wet plate collodion process while Miguel was fulfilling a favor to sit for photos while catching up with friends. While nothing came from this initial meeting, as Jess was living in Chicago and Miguel in Santa Fe, a trend was born of crossing paths with one another which lasted over the next two years. Each time they met, the deeper their friendship began to grow. In the summer of 2013, Jess finally had a full summer in Santa Fe ahead of her. Once Miguel learned she was back in town, he immediately invited her to dinner the next night with a group of friends. Later that night while gazing at the stars, Miguel boastfully promised Jess the best summer of her life. He did not disappoint.

On their official first date, Miguel took Jess driving along the Rio Grande, through the mountains, and up a back road that leads to the Taos Gorge. At the top of the back road, there is a pull off that overlooks this amazing view. This specific spot quickly became “their spot” and has been the destination of countless day drives since. While spending a week New Mexico this past March with Madalyn and Julia, Miguel casually mentioned finding time to take the drive to their spot as it had been a while. The night before they planned to go, Miguel asked Madalyn and Julia’s permission to propose to Jess to which they replied “good luck!” The next day, Miguel and Jess ventured out on their familiar drive. When they arrived to the spot, they hiked down as they had countless times before. Although this time, as they were soaking in the view, Miguel got down on one knee and proposed! After a few tears and squeals, Jess said yes. We are so excited to celebrate our love with you all. See you in June!