We had loads of fun on set with our Real Couple Models, Rachel and TJ and we want you to get to know them! Read on to hear about their experience and hear all about their love story.

On Rachel: Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Headband and Earrings by Mariell // On TJ: Suit and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s; Groom’s own shirt

Real Weddings: What made you want to model for this photo shoot?

Rachel: It was an opportunity to have a little fun and experience something new together.

RW: Tell us about your modeling experience.

R: It was amazing! Everyone involved was incredible. It was definitely something we’ll never forget.

RW: How was modeling with your significant other?

R: It was so great to get to do this together. We got to show off our personalities and create a lifelong memory together.

On Rachel: Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Headband and Earrings by Mariell // On TJ: Suit and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s; Groom’s own shirt

On Rachel: Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Headband and Earrings by Luxurious Bridal // On TJ: Suit and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s; Groom’s own shirt

RW:  Did you relate to the concept/theme?

R: Absolutely! Being newlyweds it was great getting to “relive” our special day.

RW: What was your favorite part of the shoot?

R: The dresses! I found my dress so quickly that I didn’t get to shop around, so it was fun trying on all of the dresses. Especially since they were so different from my own.

On Rachel: Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Headband and Earrings by Mariell // On TJ: Suit and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s; Groom’s own shirt

On Rachel: Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Jewelry from Macy’s // On TJ: Suit and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s; Groom’s own shirt

RW: Tell us about your love story. How did you meet? What was the proposal like?

R: We met through a mutual friend in 2018 at a car show. When I got there, I looked at my friend and said, “Alright, let’s go find my future husband!” I kid you not, true story. TJ was the last person I met that night. Later, I found out he was asking our friend about me. Three months later we hung out for the first time and the rest is history. TJ proposed to me on my birthday in Disneyland on Main Street right at the finale of the firework show. I was not expecting it at all. He said he had the ring in his pocket all day and was so nervous every time we got on a ride that it was going to fall out. I wouldn’t change our proposal for anything.

RW: Tell us about your wedding day.

R: It was perfect! From the people, the decor, the food, the music…everything was perfect! The friend that introduced us actually married us so that made it even more special. It couldn’t have been more “us” if we tried. Our friends still tell us that it was the best wedding they’ve been to and it was so much fun! It really was the perfect day!

RW: If you could offer any advice to engaged couples what would it be?

R: Plan your wedding for you and your significant other. It sounds harsh, but no one else matters.

On Rachel: Gown from Sparkle Bridal Couture; Jewelry from Macy’s // On TJ: Suit and Shoes from Tuxedo Den; Tie from Macy’s; Groom’s own shirt

Special thanks to our real couple models, Rachel + TJ, and all of the professionals who contributed to this feature!

To see more from our “Love on the Ranch” styled shoot, click here!

Blog post by Real Weddings Magazine’s Editorial Contributor, Emily Peter-Corey.

Photos by Jess Holle Photography/copyright Real Weddings Magazine.