Laid Back Ranch Engagement Photos

From happy hour at home to a sunset ride out in nature, this couple’s ranch engagement photos are laid back and beautiful. It all begins with his & hers old fashioned cocktails and a dance to their favorite tunes on vinyl. We could stop right there, but it gets better. Then, the pair went for a drive on the ranch and took in breathtaking views. With their dog in tow, and Matoli Keely there to capture it all it was not only an evening well spent, but also the perfect way to celebrate engagement.

The bride shares…

“Jack and I met for the first time at a polo game, the last of the season about three years ago. We saw one another during the divot stomp and ended up chatting. I remember his sparkling eyes and charming smile—I just knew there was something special about Jack. Eventually we had our first date at the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe and have been together ever since.

From regular treks across the Mojave Desert to hosting our annual 1950’s Christmas party, we have developed our own unique set of traditions. Our appreciation for certain aspects of pre-digital life made us especially admire our photographers dedication to film photography. Our favorite activities at home are listening to records, making cocktails and spending time with our pets. Many of our best weekends are spent in the 110, camping in places like White Mountain, the Anza-Borrego Desert and beyond.

We chose this particular ranch for a portion of our photos for many reasons. The 25,000 acre, privately owned cattle ranch dates to the era of the Mexican land grants and visibly wears the signs of primitive, Californio and Western history. The ranch is dotted with Engleman Oaks, Pines and Sycamore, as well as a variety of wildlife ranging from bobcats and turkeys to Golden Eagles and deer. And it just happens that my first visit to the ranch was the day Jack and I became engaged. It holds a very special place in our hearts, and it felt just perfect to take our photos there.”