Vermillion Falls Engagement Session | Vanessa & Brandon’s Joyful Love Story

There’s something so special about watching love stories ripple outward — one couple connecting to another, stories intertwining over the years. Vanessa and Brandon came to me through one of my past couples, whose engagement and reception I had the honor of photographing here in Cottage Grove. It’s such a gift to see those connections come full circle!

For their session, we met at Vermillion Falls Park in Hastings, and it was pure joy from start to finish. The waterfall roared in the background, the leaves hinted at fall color, and chatter filled every moment. These two are the kind of couple who can’t help but make each other smile — the kind of connection that’s real, contagious, and rooted in deep friendship.

Vanessa and Brandon met online (he messaged her first!), and it didn’t take long for them to realize they’d found something different. One of Vanessa’s favorite early details? The fact that Brandon was already a proud cat dad. Fast forward, and now they share a home filled with four cats — possibly five soon — joking that they’re well on their way to running a “cat sanctuary.”

This past July, they chose to marry at the courthouse — a beautiful decision to start their marriage focused on what truly matters: each other, not wedding debt. Their celebration was simple, intentional, and full of love — much like them.

​As we wrapped up the session, we talked about their shared love for humor and storytelling — they even recently went to see Nate Bargatze live together. Their joy, their connection, and their genuine hearts made this session one I won’t forget.

Congratulations, Vanessa and Brandon — your joy is contagious, and I’m so excited for this next season of your story.

Hey! It's Lindsay Wiggins!

Hi, I’m Lindsay — the “wifey” half of our husband-and-wife photography team based in Cottage Grove, Minnesota!Around here, I’m the one behind most of the portrait sessions, capturing families, seniors, and all the in-between moments. My husband, Mark, jumps in as my second shooter on wedding days, adding his creative eye and calm presence to the mix (because, well... #lifewiththreekids!). Together, we love serving couples and families across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, telling stories through timeless, joy-filled imagery.

get to know us

i want photos taken