Love Divine: A Stunning Outdoor Engagement Session in Las Vegas, NV

Elle and John were introduced in September of 2023 through a mutual friend while John was searching for a podcast guest. From the start, their connection felt divinely inspired. Although John wasn’t seeking a relationship, he made his intentions clear — he was courting Elle with marriage in mind.

Over the next five months, they navigated a long-distance relationship rooted in faith, praying and fasting together, attending virtual church services, and sharing daily prayers. Their travels took them across the U.S. and abroad, but their bond remained centered on God. To John, Elle is a Proverbs 31 woman — a true gift from God and the partner he had been praying for.

The lovely couple celebrated their upcoming wedding with a stunning engagement session, captured by YNOT iMages.

Bride: Elle Drane, CEO of 3 Corporations and Fashion Model

Groom: John Barbee, Professional Corporation Coach and Motivational Speaker

Photography By: YNOT iMages

Place of Residence: Las Vegas, NV

Engagement Shoot Location: Venetian Resort, Las Vegas, NV

Wedding Date: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico on December 11, 2026

Engagement Story

While on vacation in Cabo San Lucas in December of 2024, Elle and John’s love story reached a new chapter. John had been stationed in Stuttgart, Germany for nearly two years and was finally home for much-needed rest and time with Elle, whom he had been courting for almost a year. Wanting to make their trip unforgettable, he arranged a dinner at a stunning cliffside restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Before dessert, John playfully presented Elle with a candy ring, complete with colorful sprinkles — a lighthearted moment captured on camera that left everyone laughing. What Elle didn’t know was that the real proposal was moments away.

After dinner, John led her down to a quiet, sandy landing by the water. Hidden under seashells on a nearby table was the true engagement ring. As the waves crashed below, John told Elle how much she meant to him, moved the shells aside, and dropped to one knee. At first, she thought he was joking, but when she looked into his eyes, she knew it was real. With joy and surprise, she said yes — a perfect ending to a night neither will ever forget.

What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?

We truly understand God brought us together for His purpose due to the fact we were neither looking for a relationship. Secondly, we are looking forward to getting married on a beach facing the Pacific Ocean surrounded by our dearest friends and family to join each other to become one flesh and spirit. Finally, and most importantly, I am looking forward to seeing Elle walking down the aisle in her beautiful gown looking amazing. The joy on my face will be beyond words.