Nikai & Louis // Laurel Hill State Park Engagement Photography

A little over 2 years ago, a story played out that almost seems too good to be true. It sounds like a movie or a tv show – one that a writer would craftily create, but could never happen in real life – or could it?

On one particular night, Louis & a friend of his, found themselves hungry. Guys are always hungry, right? They were really craving wings. And not just any wings – but the best wings around – which could only mean that they were headed into Connellsville, to this particular bar that had the best wings.

That same night, Nikai & a friend of hers, found themselves bored. They decided to head into town, to a particular bar, to grab a few drinks & socialize a bit. When they arrived, Nikai’s friend looked around the room & spotted a table with just two guys – a platter of wings between them. “Hey look!” she poked Nikai, “They look kinda cute – let’s go talk to them!” Nikai was hesitant, but followed her friend over to the table. They introduced themselves and sat down, an instant connection forming between the 4 of them.

Let’s just say, the clock did that magical thing it does when good times are being held because before anyone realized what was happening, the bar was closing down. Walking outside, they continued their conversation around Louis’s truck – talking and laughing into the early hours of the morning.

Nikai & Louis left that night wanting to get to know each other better. Louis suggested dinner at Robokyo in Greensburg and Nikai agreed to meet him there. They had talked for hours that night they met, but Louis had missed the fact that Nikai lived in Hopwood – over an hour from Greensburg. She didn’t say anything about it though and as dinner ended, she said she needed to head home – it was a long drive. Louis asked how long and when she told him, he felt horrible! Nothing could deter them though and before they knew it, they were officially dating.

By the way – Nikai & Louis’s friends – the ones who were with them that night at the bar? They started dating after that first night too. And – they got married this past August! And with Nikai & Louis’s wedding in just a few months, I guess you could say that going to the bar that night was the very best decision that the 4 friends ever made.

We met up at Laurel Hill State Park this past fall for Nikai & Louis’s engagement pictures & talk about perfect! Laurel Hill holds a lot of meaning to Nikai, as her family would spend as much time as possible there every summer. With all of those happy memories of swimming, hiking, & camping – it was pretty obvious how happy the State Park made her. And topped off with her best friend by her side, literally, nothing could wipe the smile off her face.

Did I mention that happiness just oozed from them? Nikai absolutely loves to laugh & Louis has the skill of making her laugh perfected.

So, Laurel Hill State Park is gigantic. Thankfully, Nikai & Louis had several specific spots in mind that they wanted their photos taken. And one of those spots was in the creek. Don’t let their photos fool you! It was a bit chilly the day we hung out – nothing could stop them though & I am obsessed with their adventurous spirit!

So, after climbing out of the water, they told me they had brough along a few props. I love when a couple brings a tangible item or two that holds special meaning, and I was so excited when they showed me what they brought!

You could say that Nikai is a bit of a Harry Potter fan (just a little bit) and Louis is a bit of a Star Wars fan (just a little bit). We had SO much fun with her wand & his lightsaber!
I have always been a Star Wars fan, but I know next to almost nothing when it comes to Harry Potter. I know so many people who have read the books & are obsessed – I just never got into it. Well you guys, I have been suddenly struck with curiosity after taking these pictures, so I’ve borrowed the books from my sister, and I’m catching up with the rest of the world! I will be well versed in Harry Potter lore by the time Nikai & Louis’s wedding rolls around!