A Golden Hour Engagement Session by the Lake | Mt Juliet Photographer
An Easygoing, Joy-Filled Session at Percy Priest Lake
(One of My Favorite Hidden Gems!)
If you’ve recently gotten engaged, first of all—congrats!! This season is so full of big feelings and beautiful beginnings, and I absolutely love getting to document this exact moment in couples’ stories. As a longtime Mt Juliet photographer, engagement sessions are one of my favorite ways to help couples slow down and soak in the excitement of what’s ahead.
This recent shoot by Percy Priest Lake checked every box: golden light, peaceful weather, and a couple who couldn’t stop smiling at each other. It was calm, fun, and everything a relaxed engagement session should be.
The (Almost Surprise!) Proposal
Originally, this sweet groom-to-be reached out because he wanted me to capture his actual proposal. And honestly? I was so excited. I love a good surprise, and proposal photography is always a favorite… getting to capture THE MOMENT!? It’s so special!
But like so many great love stories, plans changed and he ended up popping the question a week early! So, when we met up for their engagement session, they were already celebrating and glowing with that newly-engaged excitement. That joy showed up in every single photo.
Why Percy Priest Lake Is One of My Favorite Engagement Spots
As a photographer in Mt Juliet, I’m always scouting for locations that give us variety without needing to spend half the session driving from place to place. This hidden spot near Percy Priest Lake? It’s got it all. A quiet little pond, woodsy tree-lined paths, open sky, soft light, and of course—those dreamy lakeside sunset views. It’s basically four locations in one… which is a win for any gallery.
Plus, after days of hot, sticky Tennessee summer evenings, this one cooled off just enough to be enjoyable. The calm of the water gave everything a soft, peaceful feel that really brought out this couple’s personality.
Their Vibe? A Little Bit of Everything
When I send out my pre-session questionnaire, I always ask couples to describe their vibe and I could totally relate to this couple. A little adventurous, a little romantic, and fully easygoing. Whether they were walking hand in hand, laughing through a prompt, or quietly soaking it all in, they made the session feel effortless.
My goal as your engagement photographer in Mt Juliet is to help you feel relaxed and connected—not stiff or overly posed. These photos should feel like you two, being yourselves, in a location that feels beautiful and natural. These two absolutely nailed that energy and went along with the flow and it showed in their photos. Check out a handful of images from their gallery!
Thinking About Your Own Engagement Session?
Here’s a little insider tip: You don’t need a huge plan or Pinterest-perfect outfits to book a meaningful photo session. What you do need is a photographer who knows how to help you feel at ease, gives clear direction when you need it, and helps you create photos you’ll love now and years from now.
Want to learn more about what it’s like to work together?
Why the Client Experience with Toni Viola Photography Feels Different
FAQs: Engagement Session Edition
Q: When should we schedule our engagement session?
I typically recommend booking your engagement session 6–9 months before your wedding, but there’s no wrong time.
Q: What should we wear?
Neutrals and soft tones always photograph beautifully, especially in nature. I send out a full style guide with all bookings to make it super easy to coordinate your looks!
Q: Can we bring our dog / kids / champagne?
Yes, yes, and YES. I want your session to reflect you! Pets, props, and fun little add-ons can make the session even more personal.
Q: How do I book?
Easy! Just click the link below, choose your date, and I’ll take care of the rest.
Let’s book your engagement session and capture this exciting season
Last Thoughts
Whether you're newly engaged or planning a surprise proposal, this is such a meaningful time in your story and you deserve to have photos that reflect not just how it looked, but how it felt. Warm, easy, joyful… and uniquely yours.
If that sounds like what you're looking for, I’d love to be your Mt Juliet photographer and help bring your vision to life.
Let’s make it official
Reach out here to start planning your session today.