Nicole + Luis Step Into The Limelight | Fort De Soto Park | Pinellas, FL

 Nicole & Louis at Fort De Soto | A Coastal Engagement Session

At Limelight, we always enjoy getting to know our couples before the big day, and Nicole and Louis made it easy. We met up for the first time this week at Fort De Soto Park in St. Petersburg, an incredible backdrop that blends Florida’s natural beauty with deep historical roots. Built during the Spanish-American War, Fort De Soto once stood guard during the Civil War and World War II. These days, it’s a quieter place, perfect for exploring, walking along the shoreline, and in our case, capturing some genuine moments between two people who clearly feel at home with each other.

Nicole and Louis met back in college through mutual friends, and their connection is easy to spot. They’re laid-back, love movies, and are always up for checking out a new brewery together. Louis proposed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, and now they're gearing up for their October wedding in St. Augustine.

They’ll be tying the knot on October 19, 2025, at The Treasury on the Plaza, one of St. Augustine’s most iconic venues. Originally built as a bank in 1927, the space has been thoughtfully reimagined into an elegant venue that still holds onto its classic charm. From soaring ceilings and art-deco touches to the unique bank vault-turned-cocktail-bar, it’s the perfect mix of history, glamour, and modern style—an ideal setting for what’s sure to be an unforgettable celebration.

We’re looking forward to being part of their wedding day this fall and capturing the next chapter of their story!

Lead Photographer | Jeff Mitchell

Bella + Reed Step Into The Limelight | Sarasota Beach | Sarasota, FL

Bella & Reed’s Surprise Engagement at Sunset 🌅

Some moments are so magical that they feel like they belong in a movie. This engagement session on a Sarasota beach at sunset was one of those moments—filled with love, surprise, and the most breathtaking colors in the sky. And to make it even more fun? I had to go undercover to pull it off!

When the groom-to-be reached out to me about capturing his proposal, he had one request: Make sure she doesn’t suspect a thing! So, I came up with a plan… I would pretend to be a beach resort employee, casually strolling the shoreline while secretly keeping an eye on them. Dressed the part and blending right in, I waited for the big moment, camera in hand.

As they walked along the water, the sky transformed into a stunning canvas of pink, orange, and soft purple hues. Just as the sun kissed the horizon, he dropped to one knee. Her hands flew to her face in shock, and before he even finished asking, she was already nodding through happy tears.

From the raw emotion of the proposal to the joyful laughter that followed, I captured it all—every hug, every tear, and every moment of pure bliss. The colors of the sunset painted the perfect backdrop, making their photos feel almost dreamlike.

After the proposal, we took some more photos as they soaked in the moment. The excitement, the love, and the golden light all came together to create the most magical engagement session.

To the happy couple—thank you for letting me be part of your love story (and for trusting me in my not-so-secret disguise!). Sarasota, you outdid yourself with this sunset. 🌅💍✨

Thinking of planning a beach proposal? Let’s chat and make sure your big moment is captured beautifully! 📸💕

Lead Photographer | Carolyn Place