I Love You 3000: Tessa & Stephanie’s "Stark" Inspired Sparrow Lane Engagement Session

Every once in a while, I meet a couple whose story feels like it was written for the big screen. Tessa and Stephanie are exactly that. Their journey is a beautiful mix of fate, "unhinged" holiday projects, rave culture, and a shared love for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

We spent their engagement session exploring their wedding venue grounds, tapping into their "beauty, strength, and inner nerd," and honestly? It was a total level-up.

The 10-Year Journey to "Stark"

It started with Iron Man 3. On their very first date, they sat in a dark theater, unaware that the movie on the screen would eventually define their future. Though life pulled them apart for two years, fate (and Tinder!) brought them back together, and they’ve been inseparable for over a decade.

When it came time to choose a last name for their marriage, they wanted something that signified strength and courage. Drawing inspiration from both Tony Stark and Game of Thrones, they officially chose Stark. It’s a name that perfectly fits a couple who handles every "storm" by rallying together.

Two Proposals, One "Yes"

When you’ve been together for ten years, one proposal just isn’t enough!

• The NYC Moment: On the 82nd floor of the Empire State Building, Tessa asked Stephanie to look out at the Manhattan skyline for a photo. When Stephanie turned back around, Tessa was on one knee. There were tears, a few whispered words, and an immediate "Yes!"

• The Full Circle: Back home in Spruce Grove, Stephanie pulled a surprise of her own. She took Tessa back to the school where they first met and held hands. There, on the ground where the sparks first flew, she popped the question right back.

  
  

Raves, Cats, and 12-Foot Skeletons

What I love most about these two is how they champion each other's passions.

• Tessa is the "Let’s do it!" partner. Whether Stephanie wants to build custom window frames for Christmas lights or park on the street for a month so a giant Halloween display can occupy the driveway, Tessa is there with the tools and the support.

• Stephanie is the adventurer. She’s the one who brought three wonderful cats into their lives, bit Tessa with the travel bug, and introduced her to the electric, "be-yourself" energy of the rave scene.

  
  

A Wedding Bathed in Holiday Magic

Tessa and Stephanie are getting married during their absolute favorite time of year: Christmas. They are infusing "holiday magic" into every corner of their day, but the moment they are most excited for? Seeing each other for the first time as they walk down the aisle.

"Relationships aren't always sunshine and rainbows. It takes work. But when your partner is your best friend and #1 champion, you can weather any storm." — The Future Starks

A Note from Chelsea

Tessa and Stephanie, working with you was a dream! I loved how you brought your full selves—nerdy details and all—to this session. Seeing your vision come to life on your venue grounds was the perfect preview for the Christmas magic to come. I love you guys 3000!