What better time to share a warm sunset than the day after Mount Pleasant had its first record-breaking freeze of the season? On a seems-like-ages-ago October day, I headed up Highway 17 to Georgetown and spent a relaxed afternoon with Shelley, Andrew and Winy (sounds like Winnie, short for the bay she was named for, Winyah). We started their DeBordieu engagement session by the woods, then headed to the edge of the island where Andrew proposed (he cleverly hid a video camera in palm fronds to document that day!) and wrapped up with a sunset cruise with a million birds and no other humans. Pure bliss. Even as a third wheel.

I’m so excited for these two! Shelley grew up at DeBordieu and Andrew’s family vacationed there many summers. They love the place, and it’s easy to see why. It’s extra special because I had the pleasure of photographing Andrew’s siblings’ weddings. Liz and Andrew wed at DeBordieu, and Michael and Sonia married in Charleston. As an added bonus, I will soon have enough photos of Andrew’s mom at various celebrations that we can whip up her own In Style 10 Best Looks spread. It’s an honor to document another big day for their family and for Shelley’s. Meanwhile, maybe these photos will help you defrost.

Oh, typically, the first few frames are to test exposure and help the subjects warm up to my big camera pointing their way. Never mind that the first image is off-center; it’s just so charming I had to include it.

If you like Lion King sunsets or know someone getting engaged, please “like” this post and spread the word. To see a recent DeBordieu wedding, check out McNeill and Patrick’s day.