February 25, 2025
Emily and Seth’s engagement session was a beautiful blend of classic romance and rich cultural tradition. We began in my natural light studio for portraits that felt both intimate and elegant, then explored the lush spaces of Texas Discovery Gardens in Fair Park to create something romantic and timeless.
One of the most meaningful parts of this session was seeing Emily and Seth in their traditional Burmese attire. They chose to honor their heritage by wearing outfits inspired by traditional Myanmar wedding garments — vibrant, woven textiles known for their rich color, fine detail, and symbolic patterns.
For centuries, Burmese clothing has been handwoven using silk or cotton, often featuring intricate designs that represent regional identity and social status. The wrap-around longyi and structured blouse worn by the bride, and the shawl-like paso worn by the groom, reflect cultural elegance and continuity passed down through generations.
The second half of our session took place at the Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park. With blooming florals, soft light, and winding garden paths, it was the perfect setting to capture the connection between these two in a more relaxed, romantic setting. The contrast between their studio portraits and the natural greenery brought their story to life with variety and heart.
One of the most magical spots at Texas Discovery Gardens is the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House. Surrounded by lush greenery and filled with free-flying butterflies, it offers an atmosphere that feels both serene and refined. The dappled light and vibrant botanicals create a setting that is naturally romantic and quietly captivating. It’s a space that brings a sense of stillness and wonder, perfect for portraits that feel intimate and timeless.
What shines through in these images is a deep sense of love, mutual respect, and cultural richness. Photographing this beautiful season of life for Emily and Seth was a true honor, and it’s easy to imagine the beauty and meaning they’ll bring to their marriage.
A romantic engagement session at Texas Discovery Gardens in Dallas, blending natural beauty with cultural elegance. Emily and Seth brought warmth, tradition, and timeless style to every frame, including a stunning nod to their Burmese heritage.
How a personal family story inspired me to become a wedding photographer — and why creating timeless, heartfelt images means so much more to me than just taking pictures. This post shares my journey, what it’s like to work with me, the kind of couples I connect with, and the vision behind my photography style.
Let me know if you want a slightly shorter version, or one focused more on a luxury aesthetic or emotional storytelling.
Creating visual poetry — your photos should be as beautiful as your love story.
© JoAnna Marie Photography 2026