Some love stories shine so brightly that not even the coldest of days can dim their warmth. That was certainly the case with Yvonne and Anthony’s engagement session at the Chicago Art Institute last January. What seemed like the perfect setting for a romantic and elegant photoshoot had a hidden challenge—Chicago was in the middle of a polar freeze, with temperatures hovering near zero degrees.

Despite the bone-chilling conditions, Yvonne and Anthony arrived with the biggest smiles, ready to embrace the moment. Their energy was infectious, making it impossible to focus on anything other than the love they shared. As we wandered through the grand halls of the Art Institute, the couple lost themselves in the beauty of the artwork, pausing between shots to admire their favorite pieces. Each frame captured the tenderness between them—the way Anthony looked at Yvonne when she wasn’t watching, the way their hands found each other naturally, and the effortless laughter they shared.

After nearly two hours of photographing in the museum, we decided to brave the cold for just a little longer. We stepped outside and quickly made our way across the street to a cozy local café, where we wrapped up the session over steaming cups of coffee and buttery pastries. The warmth of the café matched the warmth of their love, making it the perfect ending to a truly unforgettable morning.

Looking back, I couldn’t imagine a better couple to spend the day with, especially in such extreme weather. Yvonne and Anthony’s love is a reminder that warmth doesn’t always come from the sun—it can come from shared laughter, lingering glances, and the quiet moments between two people who are meant to be.

This past June, I had the absolute joy of capturing their wedding day, which was just as incredibly beautiful as their engagement session. I can’t wait to share more from their special day and see how their love story continues to unfold!