Leigh and Julian, true creatives at heart, envisioned an engagement shoot that felt anything but ordinary. Captured through the lens of Rebeka Lucija Studio, their ultra-stylish session reimagines the classic "Date Night In" with an effortlessly chic twist. Dressed to impress, the hopelessly-in-love duo strolls hand in hand through the vibrant stalls of a farmers' market, handpicking ingredients for a celebratory meal. Back in the intimate warmth of their home, we see the newly engaged couple cooking together—a scene that feels less like a photoshoot and more like a love story unfolding in real time.
The Day We Met
Julian and I are a COVID online dating success story! We managed to sneak in our first date during a brief lifting of bar/restaurant lockdown procedures in September 2021 and became inseparable immediately. Both of us felt a bit nervous and intimidated before meeting, but the second we started talking, we instantly connected. We discovered that we have so many similar passions and interests. We went on our second date the next day and couldn’t wait to see each other again.
Our Engagement Story
For the proposal itself, Julian paid tribute to one of my family traditions. My dad used to create elaborate scavenger hunts for me as a child, so Julian put together one of his own, which led up to his proposal. Julian’s father is a retired goldsmith, and together they designed and made my ring. He learned a lot about jewelry making in the process, and we plan to make our wedding bands together as well. Our engagement story has deep family ties on both sides and feels incredibly special!
Our Engagement Shoot Details
I really wanted our engagement shoot to feel like a creative, fashion editorial. The inspiration was an exaggerated take on a classic couple’s “Date Night In.” We shopped at the farmer’s market, came home, cooked a meal, and dined together—dressed to the absolute nines. When I pitched the idea to our photographer, Rebeka, she was incredibly enthusiastic and brought her talent to my vision perfectly. I hoped this engagement shoot would stand out, and I think we accomplished that.
Plans for the Wedding
Julian and I are having a short engagement, so planning is fully underway. We’ll be getting married on the summer solstice this year, on a stunning family property in British Columbia’s wine country—hopefully (fingers crossed!) during wildflower bloom. I’m fortunate to have some talented friends in fashion and will be wearing a mix of custom couture and pieces from Canadian designers, as I really wanted to collaborate with as many locals as possible. We hope to infuse our creative, fun, and whimsical energy into a classic garden wedding setting. But most of all, we’re excited to party with our friends and family until sunrise.
Vendors:
Photography: Rebeka Lucija Studio
Creative Direction/Concept: Leigh Dickson
Hair: Leigh Dickson
Makeup Self: Leigh Dickson
Style
Dress: Rat & Boa
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Watch: Vintage Gucci
Jacket: Zara
Handbag: Vintage
Suit: Alexander McQueen
Sunglasses: RAEN
Shoes: Vintage Prada
