Jackie and Sarah: Montague Bookmill, Massachusetts Engagement Session

When Jackie and Sarah suggested shooting their winter engagement session at a bookstore, I was beside myself. A BOOKSTORE!?!? Um, yes please. That is right up my alley.

I had no idea how freaking awesome this particular bookstore was, though, until I pulled up. The hilly Massachusetts town was glittering with snow and ice. The Montague Bookmill is literally an old mill that straddles the hillside beside a river. Across the water, icy trees shone against whitewashed woods.

We arrived early on a Saturday morning, before the shop opened. Jackie and Sarah were incredibly kind right off the bat, and despite the cold they managed to stay warm and cuddly in each other’s arms as we took advantage of the picturesque surroundings.

There are certain places that are so photogenic, so insanely photographable, that I can get a little overwhelmed by the awesomeness of it all. This place was sort of like that. I couldn’t possibly get every photo I wanted—we would have been there all day. But what I soon realized was that no matter where I put them, their love shone through in playful and sweet gestures, looks, and words. I could have gotten great photos of them in an empty parking lot (which we actually did for a minute). They are adorable together. Totally right for each other.

When the bookstore opened I had another near heart attack upon entering it. It is the holy grail of cozy, historical New England bookstores. This was the kind of place I used to imagine Massachusetts was made up of, before I lived out east. To say it drips charm is to put it mildly.

We had increasing fun as the morning went on, and I’m so grateful that they let me into their self-described nerdy world. (I will take nerdy ANY DAY over “cool.”) They are into the same stuff; they are into each other. They made this session so much fun. I can’t wait to be with these two on their wedding and see the kinds of people they surround themselves with. And I’m SO grateful that they introduced me to this magical place!