Michaela + Noah
Michaela and Noah met as students at Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois. They were both Musical Theatre majors. The two instantly clicked and became best friends. It was clear to both of them that they had found their person. Considering they left college with matching degrees and their future spouse, I’d say college was a serious win for these two. ❤️
“… and that’s when I was like, “Oh, he could be end game.”” – Michaela
The day that Noah proposed started with a little heads-up. Noah told Michaela that today was the day, but not when, so she could be photo-ready when the moment came. After eight years together, Michaela was in on the plan enough to know she’d want her hair and makeup done, and Noah wanted to keep her guessing. He had a full day planned: museum visit, lunch, and a cheesy Christmas-themed JCPenney photoshoot, inspired by the viral TikTok trend.
During the JCP Christmas photos, the photographer handed Michaela a gift-wrapped box as part of the setup. The instructions were simple: just open it for the camera. Inside, waiting to surprise her, was the ring. Her reaction? Perfect.
Afterward, they went out to celebrate with friends, marking this next chapter with some new bling and some new Christmas card photos. Done and done!
Michaela + Noah’s Lincoln Park Chicago Engagement Session
I was so excited to travel to Michaela and Noah’s home base of Chicago for their engagement photos. I actually enjoy driving, so 8 hours (round-trip) of nothing but the open road, true crime podcasts, iced coffee, and snacks… count me in!
Although the whole open road thing was interrupted by the insane Chicago traffic, which I had not budgeted enough extra time for. Question for my big-city friends: How are you on time for anything, ever?
In the end, I made it, I showed up, and Noah and Michaela SHOWED UP. They were total naturals in front of the camera, and just fun to be around in general.
When you get to the twirling shots, slow your scroll because they need their moment. Michaela wowed me with these. I was like, you can stop if you get dizzy! She assured me she could just keep going, she has studied dance and was totally un-phased by those 15 back-to-back twirls she just did. 🙌
Keep reading for more of their love story! 💌
3 words to describe Noah, by Michaela | empathetic, persistent, funny
3 words to describe Michaela, by Noah | loving, adaptable, resilient
I knew I wanted to spend forever with my love when…
Michaela: “I think I kind of always knew, but the idea started before we were dating, Noah was always very kind and respectful- just a really really good friend to me and made me feel important in his life. He would come hang out with my roommate and I in our dorm, sometimes unannounced, we just really clicked and were best friends, like the kind that you don’t need to knock when you come over, you just walk in and are welcomed. One time he was messing around and said something about what he thought our kids names would be, and that’s when I was like, “Oh, he could be end game.””
Noah: “When she first cried I couldn’t imagine not being by her side.”
What is something you both have in common?
Michaela: “We have a lot of things in common, but mainly our college degrees (Musical Theatre) and just our love for theatre and performing.”
Noah: “Both love theatre and the arts overall.”
What is something totally different about the two of you?
Michaela: “He’s a lot more into sports and video games, whereas I like to craft and bake.”
Noah: “I’m pretty geeky about sports, she’s indifferent mostly.”
What is a fun fact/something people might not guess about your fiancé?
Michaela: “He’s a good dancer.”
Noah: “Was raised on Lord of the Rings and gets emotional when the Shire music plays.”
What part of the wedding are you looking forward to most?
Michaela: “Seeing his face when I walk down the aisle.”
Noah: “Kissing the bride!”
These two are so lively and fun! I can’t wait for their Old Hollywood Glam wedding on Friday at The Hotel Julien Dubuque!
If you are planning a Midwest wedding, and want authentic and joyful photos of your day, click over to my contact form & drop me a line!