When you get engaged, it feels like everything’s coming up roses. Well, make that cacti for Arizona couple Christina and Eric. They paid homage to their desert roots with a scenic Phoenix engagement photography session at Desert Botanical Garden. Blooming with painterly color and intriguing texture at every turn, it’s no wonder why botanical gardens are one of our favorite spots for engagement sessions!

How cool do the cacti look in the background of their shots? Sculptural and larger than life, these arid beauties made for a striking, natural prop. In addition to posing among towering cacti, Christina and Eric made their session interactive with creative props of their own, including a wooden Mr. and Mrs. sign and an Arizona State University blanket for a personal touch. They also made use of the architectural structures throughout the botanical garden, like the brick red arch, which glowed in the sunlight.

From dressy to casual, their fashion was on point for all three outfit changes - a growing trend for engagement photography. For every outfit, the couple perfectly complemented each other without ever looking matchy-matchy. The palette Christina wore, including dusty rose and blush pink, looked especially lovely during their golden hour session - the most magical time for outdoor photos. Think of it as a natural filter that bathes you in the most flattering light.

Feeling overwhelmed with what to do now that you said “yes?” Here are 10 things to do when you get engaged.