From Church Choir to Forever: Kiersten and Daniel's Engagement Session in Nashville, TN

Although Kiersten and Daniel grew up in the same church, their paths didn’t cross much during their high school years while they were both serving at their church in 2004. Kiersten was an amazing singer in the choir, while Daniel worked behind the scenes on the media team, often admiring her from afar. It wasn’t until years later, after they had both embarked on their careers, that Daniel moved back to their hometown of Memphis, TN, and they finally had the opportunity to reunite.

They quickly realized that this was the happily ever after they had both dreamed of after their first date in Fall 2023, which lasted so late that they closed the restaurant. Fall in love with their stunning engagement session, captured by JAO Photography.

Bride: Dr. Kiersten Hawes, 34, Director of Trauma Counseling at a Children’s Hospital

Groom: Daniel Lee, 33, Data Governance Lead

Photography By: JAO Photography

Place of Residence: Memphis, TN

Engagement Shoot Location: The Conrad in Nashville, TN

Wedding Date: April 26, 2025

Engagement story:

What seemed to be our first official baecation to Miami turned into a proposal of a lifetime. On the second night of the trip I told Kiersten I had a surprise for her. The day started with a private boat ride and next, I lured her to what she thought was a dinner on the beach. When Kiersten noticed there were no tables or chairs, she began to question what was really going on. She then noticed a beautiful display with a red carpet lined with roses and candles leading to a ‘Will You Marry Me’ sign adorned with red roses.

When Kiersten heard her favorite song playing “You Put a Move on My Heart” by Tamia, she knew that this proposal was more than just our first baecation. I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me. With tears of joy she said “YES!”

What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?

We are most looking forward to bringing our two worlds together in one place, at one time to celebrate the beginning of our forever.