When planning your Ohio engagement session, there are a few factors to consider. Wardrobe, style, and mood are all huge influences on how your love story will be portrayed. The one factor that impacts all of those things is WHERE you choose to have your engagement session.
Whether it be a more “moody” session in the woods, or a “romantic” session overlooking the sunset - we know of several picturesque locations to capture your engagement session that will best reflect your story in the Toledo area!
Keep in mind - these are in no particular order! We just want you to choose a spot that will compliment who you are as a couple so you will be comfortable, confident, and BEAUTIFUL!
TOLEDO METROPARKS
If you are from Toledo, you’ve hopefully visited one of the NUMEROUS Toledo Metroparks! Each of them provide their own unique setting and “vibe” that can really help enhance your photos!
Oak Openings
If you're looking for something a little adventurous, Oak Openings in Swanton is such a beautiful spot! With its tall pines, sandy trails, and tons of greenery, it's perfect for those dreamy, outdoorsy photos. The lush greens in the summer are gorgeous, and when fall rolls around, the changing leaves add so much color and warmth to your pictures.
Middlegrounds Metropark
Right along the Maumee River, Middlegrounds Metropark gives you the best of both worlds: nature and the Toledo skyline! The open fields and waterfront views make it a great spot for a relaxed, laid-back session. We can even bring along a picnic blanket or include your favorite furry friends for some extra personality in your photos!
Wildwood Preserve
Regardless the season, Wildwood Preserve in Sylvania contributes a beautiful and diverse array of backgrounds. In the summer you can find tall grass and wildflowers, and in the fall you’ll discover an endless amount of rich colors and textures. To top it off, the Manor House, the ‘secret gardens’ and the huge covered bridge are one of a kind!
Sidecut Metropark
Sidecut in Maumee has so many different locations to go to that provide ample photo opportunities! From going down on the Maumee River to the waterfall area, there’s nothing short of spots to get cozy, have a picnic, and include your dogs.
Glass City Metropark
Sitting right across the river from downtown Toledo, Glass City Metropark gives us beautiful river views with the city skyline in the background. It's a great choice if you love the outdoors but want something a little more modern and urban mixed into your photos.
Toledo Botanical Gardens
Toledo Botanical Gardens is such a beautiful spot for a timeless, romantic feel! Between the gorgeous gardens, charming stone architecture, and peaceful pond, there are so many little corners that make this the perfect setting.
Toledo Museum of Art
Not only does The Toledo Museum of Art have beautiful architecture with tall white pillars, but it’s a classic Toledo symbol! The perimeters of the museum are also embellished with beautiful art sculptures and greenery.
Downtown Toledo
If you’re looking for an urban backdrop for your engagement photos, we love the character and history that can only be found on the streets of Downtown Toledo! You will make great memories on the tops of parking garages and against charming murals. (Ask us about the sweet parking garage shots we got overlooking the Hensville fireworks)
Local Cafe, Winery or Brewery
The Toledo and greater area are full of charming businesses with cozy interiors. To name a few: The Brew House in Downtown (speakeasy bar vibes) OR Maumee (cozy grandma’s house vibes), The Flying Joe, Maddie and Bella, Queen Bee & Honey (inside a greenhouse, so it’s a twofer!) or Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room!
Any of these spots are great recommendations for photo-friendly indoor options!
Perrysburg / Maumee / Sylvania Downtowns
The various towns/ cities surrounding Toledo have amazing downtown areas with those local breweries, wineries, and coffee shops mentioned above! Not only do they have the cute charm, but also Perrysburg and Sylvania have their farmers market from May - October, perfect for a fun little date night.
Lake Erie Coast
Lake Erie is surrounded by some really cool spots. Just on the edge of Toledo is Maumee Bay State Park which has huge rocks along the water - perfect for sunset pictures! If you head a little further you’ll hit Marblehead, Kelley’s Island, Put-in-Bay, and Catawba.
We’re always amazed with the scenery on the lakeside during golden hour.
Greenhouses
A Green House can provide a really unique setting for photos. You can always count on having plenty of good and natural light! Haines Garden Center, Hoen’s Garden Center, Whiteford Greenhouse, and Hecklinger Green House, are all great options for an indoor engagement session with an outdoor feel!
Seasonal Favorites
Being apart of the Midwest, we like to take advantage of ALL the seasons in order to get the best engagement photos possible. Whether it be Gusts Sunflower Farm in the spring for a playful, flower picking session, or one of the many apple orchards and pumpkin farms in town, you really can’t go wrong.
Another option is going to your wedding venue and taking photos there! We know Nazareth Hall offers their couples access to the property for photos. It’s something to consider when trying to find the perfect location!
No matter what location you decide to have your engagement session, it’s all about what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and make sense to you as a couple! Be on the lookout for another blog on ways you can make your engagement session personal and fun!
