When I first spoke to Nikki and Dustin, I knew that their love story was a special one. I also knew that their Florida engagement session and wedding day were going to be epic. Little did I know just how epic it would be!

Nikki and Dustin

This couple met at work five years ago. At Publix, Nikki was office staff while Dustin was a produce clerk. Fast forward to a few years later, Dustin proposed to Nikki at the island in Pigeon Forge island. They’re now in the process of planning their Bahia Mar wedding, working long hours, and settling into their place with their fur-baby.

Florida Engagement Session

As most of you know, I moved from Florida to Austin. Now, I use any excuse to go back for a visit (especially when I can sneak in a trip to Disney). And, lucky for me, in my line of work, I am able to continue to travel and photograph love and weddings.

Nikki and I brainstormed quite a bit when it came to choosing an engagement location. At first, they were thinking a ranch, field, and/or horse stables because they love horses.

In the end, we decided on the beach. Even though their venue has direct access to the beach, they are wanting to stay on the other side of the street on their actual wedding day (so as to not get sandy and/or lose too much partying time). So doing their Florida engagement session here presented the perfect opportunity for us to still take photos at the beach.

Plus, Nikki wanted to do some romantic and fun in-the-water photos, which I am always down for!

My favorite photos are the series below when Dustin sweetly kisses Nikki before throwing her into the water!

I love using the natural surroundings of wherever a session takes place for a good macro ring shot. In this case, I am obsessed with the algae and wet rocks that were sitting by the water. With the low tide, I was able to utilize the area and texture for this picture (without the fear of losing the ring to the ocean):

Congratulations, Nikki and Dustin! I absolutely cannot wait for your wedding day!!!