At first glance you wouldn’t think this engagement session took place in the middle of the winter, but that’s the beauty of living in Florida. After all, those pink cherry blossoms scream spring vibes and we’re totally here for it. Not to mention, we love how natural this adorable duo is in front of the camera and we’re so happy Alice’s Art Gallery was there to capture their love on camera. See it all below.
From Alice’s Art Gallery…Elisa and Santiago met in their college Physics class at University of Central Florida. It was the very first class at UCF for the both of them. After being paired up as lab partners they soon determined it was more then just chemistry that made their bond so strong. Over time they grew closer and closer. Santi loved to go to the gym. Elisa eventually joined him and she discovered a passion for it too. It wasn’t easy for Santi to win Elisa over. This wasn’t the typical boy gives girl flowers and he declares his love for her. No. Santi asked Elisa out for a month straight if he could tell his mom that she was his girlfriend. So, one day after leaving the gym they walked to his car. He asked her one more time…and to his surprise – she said, “Yes!” On February 1st, Santi and Elisa officially became boyfriend and girlfriend. Although the year would change, this monumental February day became more than just where it all began. It now carried the weight of several happy milestones to a new beginning.
Upon the arrival of Elisa and Santiago’s engagement session in Winter Park on February 1, 2020 they shared with me the importance of why Elisa wanted to have our photoshoot on this day specifically, and of a not-so-secretive surprise! They eloped that morning!! Elisa and Santiago initial date was already snatched at their preferred wedding venue, and they wanted more time to prepare for friends and family to attend their big celebration, so they booked their wedding for 11/21/2020, but didn’t want to loose out on having 2/1/2020 as their real wedding anniversary. I was so pleased to be able to capture this time in their lives, and after hearing their story I just couldn’t help but share the same surprise I experienced. Speaking of surprises – the pink trees (come to find out are Eastern redbud trees) shown in this session just happened to be in bloom until the first week of February! While scouting for the best spots in the heart of Winter Park, I discovered their beauty on a random side street. Elisa and Santiago agreed. It was, meant to be.
Location: First Congregtional Chuch of Winter Park / Photographer: Alice’s Art Gallery
