After meeting over zoom, I knew seeing these fun, classy, joyful and gorgeous humans in person would be a good time! When they mentioned a studio session, it was new for me and therefore an exciting challenge! I always tell my couples to think outside the box with their engagement photos, so Kelli and Bruce’s Engagement Session at the Elevenhundred Collective Studio turned into just that! With two outfits and some furniture to mix things up, we started in…. but not until we had the perfect playlist from Bruce’s speaker. I hope you have mood music playing in your head when you scroll through these, because from pose to pose, we had an atmosphere and vibe that did NOT disappoint!!! All that being said – music or no – it’s no secret these two are in love. They are playful and fun but also authentic and very much ready to do this crazy little thing called love. Get ready for an epic post this May of their wedding! For now… check out their love story and take a glance at a few of my faves from last week!

Kelli and Bruce first met in 2015 in Las Vegas, NV on a group trip. Kelli went with a group of her close friends (two of her bridesmaids) and Bruce with a group of his guy friends. Bruce first caught Kelli’s eye at a nightclub. They were in the same section but never actually had a conversation inside of the club. As they were leaving Kelli realized she had also caught his eye. Bruce asked if he could see her again while they were in Vegas. They had dinner together the next night and hung out throughout the rest of their trip. When the trip was nearing the end he asked her if she would allow him to come to visit her in New York. 

Two weeks later… he was in New York. 😎 They took their time getting to know each other. The majority of their relationship has been long-distance – but when you know, you know. 

Bruce proposed on November 6, 2021, in the middle of the University of North Carolina football field during a commercial break of their homecoming game. He was receiving an award for the time he played football for the university – and used his recognition time to propose to Kelli. On top of the proposal, he surprised her and made sure her mom, dad, and two best friends (and godson) were also a part of the special moment. They all flew in from Texas. Bruce’s mom, dad, sister, and daughter were all there as well, so they were surrounded by so much love.

The Look!
•Zara (Kelli – Outfits and Shoes)
• Élevée (Bruce – Outfit 1)
• Kith (Bruce – Outfit 2)
• Banana Republic (Bruce – Outfit 2)
• Officially Claudia (Kelli’s Hair) The Bella 29 Lounge
• Sara Artistry (Kelli’s Makeup)
• Cole Haan (Bruce’s Shoes)
• Nisolo (Bruce’s Shoes)