White Ranch, Chico CA. Engagement Photographer: Cassie + Connor
Some romances start on a date, some happen by accident, and some are built over time with many years building into something wonderful. For this couple, their romance was a slow burn that ignited into something much bigger and more beautiful.
Cassie and Connor met at a Paradise Dancers class years ago, Connor had joined a few months before Cassie and their meeting was during a triple time swing lesson. Connor, being the more experienced dancer helped teach Cassie’s class and was paired up to show Cassie the steps. Cassie admits to instantly forming a crush on Connor that day.
While the romance didn’t catch right at that moment; it was just a matter of time before they would kindle the spark. Fast forward a bit and Cassie and Connor were co-teaching a class. During this time they both learned so much about one another and their romance started. Dance is a very connected and intuitive activity, you may know all the steps but you don’t ever really know the one your partner will lead you to next. It takes trust. Dance is a close and intimate connection. It is no surprise to me how many couples who met at Paradise Dancers have gone on to get married. (Thank you Don for giving so many young people a place to find a life-long connection and community)
Cassie and Connor found themselves spending more time together, flirtation grew into kisses and kisses grew into comfort. The relationship just took off and has been warming their hearts since. Cassie loves Connor’s compassion and how he takes time to acknowledge when she is upset and asks how he can help. He loves that Cassie encourages him to treat himself when he’s had hard days. They both express that there was not a singular moment of “they are the one for me.” But that it has been every moment growing together and working together, building each other up and encouraging one another.
Connor and Cassie’s proposal story was a night of drinks and light-hearted banter among Cassie’s family while they were camping. It came to light that the couple just felt as if they were already married minus the paperwork and they would when they wanted to. The conversation shifted to “Wanna get married then?”. The morning came with distant memories of the conversation but with a little cute (figurative) elephant in the room. After a few days Cassie finally came out and asked “Sooooooo, are we going to talk about this weekend?” Connor having a hazy recollection of the conversation asks her what they needed to talk about. She cleared his fog and they both agreed that it was indeed time to tie the knot.
In October the couple will be celebrating their marriage with their friends and family in Oregon.
We are so excited to join you in the festivities and capture the magic!
Chico Ca, Photographer : Exploring TJ Farms Estates.
Pumpkin Patch is open!
October 2nd, I had the pleasure of shooting a session at TJ Farms Estates. It has been a few years since I have visited the farm (due to moving out of state) and I was quickly reminded just how lovely the farm is with its timeless beauty and lush grounds.
During my session, we explored all around the farm. We picked out pumpkins, admired the buzzing bees, pet the cow, horse, donkey, and goats.
The animals are familiar to crowds and they are curious, they will welcome you to the farm and allow you to pet them. Remember to move slowly and speak quietly as not to frighten or startle them.
While at the farm we played on the obstacle course, tractors, and the hayride.
TJ farms Estates is such a wonderful little spot where it has the essentials for your fall fun. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful grounds while pulling the kiddos along on the farm’s buckboards wagons. They have great photo opportunities set up, you can have the kids sit on an old tractor, stick their heads through a silly pillory, or swing on the swing in the shade of the willow tree. Also on the farm the kids can crack corn, see an 1800’s blacksmith shop, and see how historical farm tools work and can still be used today. The obstacle course has a slide, a rope swing, hay bales to climb and jump to and from. Throughout the day there are hayrides offered around the farm which is a great little feature to enjoy with the family.
Perfect pumpkin picking!
When picking out your pumpkins I highly suggest taking one of their custom wagons which hold a pair of Loppers (garden clippers) for your cutting convenience. The farm plants a variety of pumpkins in their patch each year, here are a few to mention: Krona’s, Warty Goblins, Bus Stop, Polar Bear, Blue Dolls, Cinderella, Porcelain Princes, Howdens, and Naked bears. (examples taken from their website)
In the Barn
When you and the family are done playing, and picking out the perfect pumpkins you can check out in the barn. Inside, they have a variety of delicious products that are made with ingredients from the farm and proudly crafted by the owners. They sell their pickled goods, jams, and more on-site and can also be found at local shops. Below is a list of locations selling their yummy products.
In Redding
Enjoy the Store
In Red Bluff
Enjoy the Store
In Oroville
Bird Street
In Chico
Made In Chico
Little Red Hen
Maisy Jane Sunshine Products
S&S Produce Chico
Safeway on Mangrove
Safeway on East Avenue
If you follow this link you can see just how the farm suggests ways to enjoy their products.
https://tjfarmsestates.com/gourmet-products/
TJ Farms is a lot of fun for the family, it keeps shopping local and supporting our community. If you haven’t been to TJ Farms stop by and check it out. Here’s some information I’ve pulled from their website.
Pricing
FREE ADMISSION and FREE PARKING
PUMPKINS: $8 to $40, depending on size
Location
TJ FARMS ESTATES
Hours
Weekends: 10am to 6pm
Weekdays: 2pm to 6pm
Large groups: call for an appointment time
(530) 343-2294
School Groups: 9am to 1pm. Please call for an appointment time.
TJ Farms Estates is also a beautiful wedding venue throughout the year that offers indoor and outdoor setting options. I absolutely love working at TJ Farms during wedding season and I am looking forward to my upcoming wedding there this spring!
If you’re looking for more information about TJ Farms estates visit their website here:
https://tjfarmsestates.com
Thank you Dave and Mary for offering such a wonderful place to explore and enjoy!