When your engagement session includes sprinkles, strawberry scoops, and a hint of nostalgia... you know it's going to be a good one.

Natalie and Chris are getting married next March and brought the cutest idea for their engagement session: a throwback to one of their very first dates at Merla Mae Ice Cream in London, Ontario. It was perfect.

Merla Mae is an iconic gem in London with classic 50s vibes, neon signs, and more flavours than your average Baskin Robbins dream. For Natalie and Chris, it wasn’t just about the aesthetics, this place was part of their story. So obviously, we had to go full circle.

Nat ordered her go-to strawberry cone with rainbow sprinkles, and the two of them sat down in a booth just like they had all those years ago. It felt less like a photo session and more like a memory in motion, which is totally the goal. The whole vibe was lighthearted and so them, playful, a little flirty, and full of candid moments. Natalie showed up in a short white dress with a bow on the back (so fun + bridal) and had her wedding hair and makeup trial done that day, she looked amazing. And yes, we 100% got a shot of her ice cream melting all over her hands like the (relatable)

We also had a total DIY moment: we ripped up a cardboard box and made a “Save the Date” sign on the fly, which added this grungy, imperfect charm to the photos.


Thinking About an Engagement Session Like This?

I always tell my couples: do something that feels real to you. That might be hiking your favourite trail, wandering a farmers market, or like Natalie and Chris, going back to the place where it all began. Engagement photos don’t have to be formal. They should feel familiar, effortless, and fun.

If you’re dreaming of a unique engagement session in London, Ontario (or nearby!), let’s chat. I’m all about helping couples plan something meaningful 💘

P.S. Engagement sessions are complimentary with all wedding photography packages, so let’s make some magic together 👇




Photography: Three Sugars Photo, Kyra Cameron

Venue space: Merla Mae, London ON

Makeup: Vanity Studio Group

A couple holds ice cream cones with sprinkles and whipped cream against a light-colored background at Merla Mae in London Ontario
Black and white photo of casual interaction in Merla Mae showing two people at table, one wearing white Converse sneakers. London Ontario
A romantic engagement photo session at Merla Mae in London Ontario
A couple shares ice cream cones and laughs together at a retro-style diner booth at Merla Mae in London. London Wedding photography
Black and white photo of a couple laughing together while sharing ice cream cones at a table. London Ontario Engagement Photos
Two hands hold ice cream cones topped with colorful sprinkles and whipped cream in a romantic close-up shot. London Ontario Engagement Photo
A couple shares an intimate moment while enjoying ice cream cones together in a pastel-colored cafe setting.
A romantic couple shares sweet moments while eating ice cream together on a comfortable couch.
Romantic couple sharing ice cream cones under a neon flamingo sign at an ice cream shop. London Ontario Wedding Photography
Close-up of a white chocolate-dipped ice cream cone topped with colorful rainbow sprinkles.
A couple sharing playful moments while eating donuts against a neon-lit background.
A hand wearing a diamond engagement ring holds a dripping ice cream cone with sprinkles.
Young couple posing together at various spots in an ice cream shop. London Ontario wedding photographer
A series of black and white photos showing two people embracing in front of a restaurant menu board.
Romantic couple sharing an intimate moment at an ice cream shop counter with menu boards displayed above.
Black and white photo of a couple standing at an ice cream shop counter with vintage menu boards and signs on the wall.