A Playful LA Love Story: S + S’s Engagement Session at The Grove & Fairfax District
When you meet a couple like S + S, it’s instantly clear they’re the real deal. True LA locals with a love for weekend rituals, their perfect Saturday often includes wandering through The Grove (@thegrovela) and grabbing bites at the Original Farmers Market in the Fairfax District. So when it came time to plan their engagement session, they knew exactly what they wanted: something casual, playful, and authentically them. [ On Film & Digital ]
We kicked off the session with a stroll through the buzzing market stalls—colorful produce, the scent of fresh pastries in the air, and live music in the background. There’s a rhythm to this place that matches S + S perfectly: effortless, warm, full of life. They stopped for ice cream (a non-negotiable, of course), shared a slice of pizza, and people-watched from a sunlit patio table. Every moment felt real—not staged, not forced. Just them.
Why It Worked:
Choosing a location that reflects your real-life connection makes all the difference. For S + S, the familiar corners of The Grove and the Farmers Market weren’t just pretty backdrops—they were part of their story.
If you’re planning an engagement session and want that mix of city energy, iconic scenery, and personal connection, here are some of my favorite downtown LA locations that always deliver:
1. The Arts District
Perfect for: Creative couples who love bold colors, murals, and a bit of edge.
Think: Graffiti walls, warehouse textures, and sun-drenched alleys that glow golden in the late afternoon.
2. Grand Central Market + Angels Flight
Perfect for: Foodies who want fun, movement, and color in their photos.
Grab snacks, ride the historic funicular, and take in the mix of vintage and modern architecture.
3. Walt Disney Concert Hall
Perfect for: Couples who want drama and elegance.
The metallic curves of the building catch the light beautifully and make even simple outfits look editorial.
4. Vista Hermosa Natural Park
Perfect for: Nature lovers who want skyline views.
Tucked away on the edge of downtown, it offers sweeping views of LA without the crowds.
5. Spring Street & The Last Bookstore
Perfect for: Couples who love history and quirk.
With moody lighting, iconic interiors, and vintage charm, this is a great spot for cozy, offbeat portraits.
S + S reminded me why I love engagement sessions that lean into who you really are. You don’t need dramatic poses or over-the-top settings—just the places that feel like home and the person you love beside you.
If you’re thinking about your own shoot, I’d love to help you find a spot that feels just as special.
Locations:
The Grove LA https://thegrovela.com/
Original Farmer’s Market https://farmersmarketla.com/