This Naval Academy Engagement session tugged at our heartstrings and we knew that our readers would absolutely love to share in Jen and Scotlin’s story! Liz and Ryan submitted this beautiful Annapolis session to us and we’ll let Liz + Ryan take it from here:

“God be with us together and apart” was the inscription on their matching key chains. At first, one my think this is simply a nice memento to hold onto while they were away from each other throughout the day either at work or school. But for Jen and Scotlin, this inscription meant so much more. You see, the weekend we got to spend with Jen and Scotlin was the last weekend they would spend together for six months. In just a few short days, Scotlin, an Officer on a submarine in the United States Navy would be deployed.”

Story Continued: “In just a few short days, Scotlin, an Officer on a submarine in the United States Navy would be deployed. Not only was it one of the last times they would see each other until Scotlin returns for their wedding, but it was also most likely one of the last times they would be able to speak to each other since submarines don’t exactly have the best telephone reception.

The emotion and love was evident throughout the entire session. As we left downtown Annapolis to take photos at the United States Naval Academy, we could easily see just how much Jen and Scotlin truly loved each other. To survive six plus months without communication is sure to be tough. But it was easily evident that Jen and Scotlin have both the commitment and courage to surpass such a test. As the sun began to set, we took a step back and gave Jen and Scotlin a few moments to take in each other. Without words, they hugged tight and let each other know exactly how much they meant to one another.

After a quick outfit change (Scotlin put on his Summer Whites) we drove over to the World War II Memorial. When Scotlin was trying to decide if he should attend the Naval Academy, he spent some time at the memorial with his father. It was here he says he felt as if God called him to attend the Academy. Eventually, that decision would lead him to his soul mate. Jen and Scotlin met while he was still in Annapolis at the Academy. “