A Modern Classic Engagement Session in Atlanta, GA

Candyce and Patrick found love in the club on August 10, 2019. The two met at a day party at Whiskey Mistress, where Patrick was out celebrating his birthday. He gave Candyce his number, but never asked for hers (he says his pickup game was rusty). Lucky for them, she was trying to expand her network, and figured she’d use it. Timing was not right though to pursue something more, since Candyce was busy setting up her practice. Two years later, Patrick invited her to his house for a post-wedding brunch he was hosting for his friend and the rest is history.

Featured in the summer 2023 issue of Black Bride Magazine, the couple’s gorgeous engagement session in Atlanta, Georgia was captured by Fotos by Fola.

Bride: Candyce Thompson, 37, Dentist

Groom: Patrick DeLisser, 34, Physician

Place of Residence: Atlanta, GA

Engagement Shoot Location: Atlanta, GA at The Haven (also known as Candyce’s mother’s house)

Wedding Date: September 29, 2023

Engagement story

Candyce loves puzzles, so I made her a custom puzzle based on a picture of her. She put the puzzle together, and soon realized a few of the missing pieces were all surrounding her ring finger. When it came down to the final piece, I let weeks go by with nothing.

One night, I told her we were going to swing by her favorite bar after dinner, but I needed to go by the house first because my brother had left my stove on. She didn’t want to go initially, but finally agreed to come. Inside, the puzzle was set up on an easel with rose petals around it, and I had a custom song playing that ended with “I want you to marry me.” I pulled out a small jewelry box that contained the final piece of the puzzle, which revealed the wedding ring I had Photoshopped on her finger. I led her to my roof deck, which had been transformed with roses, candles, and a “Will you marry me?” sign. Knowing Candyce is very close to her mother, I knew I had to have her there. I popped the question and got a lot of giggles and head nods in response, which I took as a yes.

What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?

Celebrating this moment with loved ones. I plan to enjoy every second of a day I didn’t expect to happen and marry a man I would have never believed existed.