There are so many noteworthy engagement session locations in NYC, but it is always special when the location is meaningful to you as a couple. Lydia and Ryan opted to go with an East Village engagement session at a location that is significant to them – one of their favorite date night spots in their favorite NYC neighborhood, the East Village. The restaurant, Spes, is a cozy little wine bar and Italian restaurant situated right next to a record store. While we waited on Spes to open (they were kind enough to let us come in a few minutes before opening), we visited the record store, and Lydia and Ryan picked out a record to take home. What I love about engagement sessions like these is that Ryan and Lydia will leave the session with not just a gallery of images, but wonderful memories from their East Village engagement photos.

The staff at Spes was so incredibly kind and accommodating that I’ve added it to my long list of restaurants to try in the city. They brought out some spaghetti and wine for them to enjoy Lady and the Tramp style – by far the highlight of the session.