Jess & Harper

For us, Polka Dot Bride is about showcasing all kinds of stories. From formal gowns and ballrooms to parks, sneakers and water fountains. For Jess and Harper, a day at the park (the beautiful Booderee Botanic Gardens) with son Elijah is just about as perfect as you can get, so what could be better than inviting Sarah Kennedy Photography along and popping one very special question?

It’s been a long time coming for these two – they met in high school, became engaged after nine years together and will tie the knot on their tenth anniversary. We’re so honoured to share in their story today.

On a picnic rug, with chalkboards, the surprise got underway, Jess remembering “So after harassing Harper for years  he had organised a surprise engagement shoot….”

“I had no idea about it, I thought we were just getting some updated family photos. We ended up sitting down to play a question game and we had fun, laughing at each other’s answers and how well we knew each other ”

“Then Harper wrote on his board “will you marry me”? I was in complete shock, I did not expect this moment to happen and I just cried. Of course, I said yes! I was so overwhelmed and happy.”

Could a day at the park be any more romantic? We think not! Jess agrees “Harper wanted to capture that exact moment that he asked me and then capture an engagement session at the same time. I had no idea about what was going to happen.”

On what they love about one another? Plenty! “Her patience and his honesty. Jess is an incredible mother and Harper works so hard for our family we just truly appreciate each other.”