Octavia and Larry met me out in the heart of downtown Winter Park for their city engagement session. A little bit of a rainy day turned out to be the perfect opportunity for beautiful cloud coverage and intimate portraits along the sidewalks of the little boutiques and restaurants.
Having met back in 2012 in downtown Orlando, the two would have never thought a dinner night out to celebrate their friends’ birthdays would lead to so much more. Sitting across the room from one another with their respective group, Tierra the birthday girl and Octavia’s friend, first noticed Larry glancing Octavia’s way. Encouraging Octavia to turn around and smile back at the handsome guy looking her way, her shyness almost got the best of her, but she did finally turn around, which led to Larry approaching her. The two chatted, exchanged numbers, and after an amazing first date became absolutely inseparable!
For Larry, he immediately fell in love with how incredibly compassionate and selfless Octavia is. From her day to day interaction with others to how she treats their relationship, Octavia gives her all during every single moment. For Octavia, Larry’s generosity and resilience drew her in and built her love for him. As she explains, “he shows his love and appreciation to me in so many ways and always does what’s best for both of us.”
Preparing to pop the question, Larry reached out to Octavia’s mom and aunt prior to his proposal to ask for their permission to marry Octavia. On Saturday, November 4th of 2017, Larry called Octavia that morning letting her know of issues with his truck – little did she know he was establishing a background story, which later that afternoon led to him asking her to pick him up. Concerned and worried, Octavia headed out immediately. Arriving quickly, she pulled up to where Larry was to be ushered out by a valet attendant. Very confused, she obliged and turned to see Larry with the “beautiful smile” she fell in love with holding flowers. He was standing at the very place where they first met and before she knew it was on one knee asking for her hand in marriage. Tears rolling down her cheeks, she said, “yes” with absolute sheer joy! The rest of their evening was spent celebrating their beautiful moment with friends and family!
Wedding planning is such an amazing time, but can also be overwhelming. My sweethearts recommend having a “No Wedding Talk Day” each week to concentrate on the things you love to do with one another that do not directly pertain to your wedding day. Great advice, this balance has helped keep my sweethearts focused and well ahead of planning by making specific time for both wedding and non-wedding passions.
Venue: Downtown Winter Park
