“Distance is not for the fearful, it is for the bold. It’s for those who
are willing to spend a lot of time alone in exchange for a little time with
the one they love. It’s for those knowing a good thing when they see it,
even if they don’t see it nearly enough…” -Unknown

Real-life fairytales don’t happen very often, but this couple really has a storybook love. They attended the same school since kindergarten, and met on an FFA trip during their freshman year in high school. They became high school sweethearts, and have been together for five years. Although deeply in love, they didn’t know the obstacles and heartache they were facing when Deion enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. “I never imagined the heartbreak that would occur when he left for training”, says Haley, “The eight weeks were an emotional rollercoaster. I remember the first phone call I received from him, during his training. It had been weeks since I had hear from, or seen him, beside the letters he had written. I picked up the phone, and we both began to cry. In that moment, I knew that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him, and thankfully, he had the same idea”. The two were engaged in November, 2014. Although their engagement has been lengthy, Haley explains that it has allowed them time to grow and strengthen their love. “For the last two years, we have spent most of our time apart, and have been able to prepare for our future together”, she shared, “In May, I will be graduating with my bachelor’s degree in speech pathology. I took 18 hours a semester so that we could be married in November of 2017. We have been given this opportunity, through being long-distance, to also grow spiritually”.

I loved how their session was relaxed and so much fun. They are truly a beautiful couple, and we shared plenty of laughter during their shoot. This sweet couple made it so easy, with very little prompting! I am so looking forward to capturing that long-awaited wedding day next year! “Finally being together is amazing, and we can’t wait to start our life together with new dreams and adventures”, Haley concludes. November 4th, 2017 will be a day to remember!

Paula Goforth Photography is a full-service photographer serving the Orange, Beaumont Nederland and surrounding areas in Texas. She specializes in seniors, families, and newborns.