I agree with the previous two comments.
First up Candice is a little bit uncomfortable in the shot, but the answer there is just a bit of time trying different (relaxed) poses and inolving props like a fence or a log or a grassy mound or an old chair or bench, or rock, or rustic wall, something for the subject to interact with (leaning, sitting, reclining, holding).
2nd, the sun is quite high and you will find it is best to shoot very late in the afternoon when the light is very soft and low.
In brighter contrasty light you need to subtract a bit by choice of location.
3rd, try as Derek and Odille suggested move the subject well forward of the back ground and shoot at the widest possible aperture.
Sometimes shooting with a longer lens helps to seperate the layers too. It is all good fun trying to get "the shot" and I'd suggest grabbing hold of any friends and family that will spend 20 or 30 minutes with you trying different combinations.
I find that the best way to raise the level of inspiration is to look at the work of leading exponents: Check out the poses and light at these sites:
Kelly Munce:
http://www.kellymunce.com/ Kelly only picked up camera later in life after raising a family. Within 5 years she was stealing the show at major international competitions. Stunning, beautiful work. Check out how she has convinced a heavily pregnant lady to lie in the local creek and the result!
Greg Dries:
http://www.moodsphotography.com/ Greg is a Master photography and happens to be a brother-in-law and is the reason for us being in the business. Again some pretty special shots
Rob Heyman:
http://www.heymanphoto.com/ws/ Also a Master photographer. Speaks extensively on use of light.
Jerry Ghionis:
http://www.jerryghionisphotography.com/ has been rated one of the top 10 wedding photographers in the world. Speaks all over the world. But read his intro bio on the front page.. a very humble start. He just kept at it.
I visit sites like this a lot as they provide little ideas that you can draw from.
