Alexa and Douglas’ surprise proposal in Jacksonville Beach, Florida was one of those moments that felt incredibly meaningful — both personally and professionally — and reminded me why I love being a Jacksonville proposal photographer.

Vicki, the owner of Lulu Events, reached out to me about photographing this proposal, and it instantly felt like a full-circle moment. Vicki was the very first bride who ever hired me, back when I was just a teenager in my first semester of college. At the time, neither of us could have imagined how our careers would grow into what they are today. Now, years later, Vicki runs a successful North Florida wedding planning company with an entire team, and I had the honor of capturing one of her own planners getting engaged.

When Vicki asked me to come on board for Alexa and Douglas’ proposal, I was beyond thrilled. Alexa is one of the planners on Vicki’s team at Lulu Events, and when I photographed her wedding years ago, little did either of us know how intertwined our professional journeys would become. Being trusted with such a meaningful milestone for someone so close to Vicki and her business made this proposal incredibly special.

Douglas had a beautifully thought-out plan from start to finish. He worked with Once and Florall Designs to create a stunning custom floral installation set directly on the beach at golden hour. The florals were absolutely breathtaking, intentional, romantic, and the perfect addition to the coastal setting. If you’re a couple planning a proposal or wedding in North Florida and looking for a floral designer, Once and Florall truly creates magic.

Before the proposal, Alexa and Douglas had dinner plans at Poe’s Tavern, while Douglas and I stayed in close contact to ensure everything went smoothly. As the sun began to set, they headed out for a walk along the beach, completely unaware of what was waiting for them.

The lighting that evening was unreal, with soft golden light, perfect weather, and a calm beach setting that felt almost surreal. When they reached the floral installation, Douglas dropped to one knee, and the moment unfolded so naturally and beautifully. Alexa was completely surprised, and the joy between the two of them was undeniable.

After the proposal, we spent time capturing engagement portraits on the beach as the sun dipped below the horizon. The combination of the ocean, glowing sky, and custom florals created the most romantic backdrop, and I truly couldn’t have asked for a better evening for them.

If you’re planning a surprise proposal, engagement session, or wedding in Jacksonville, North Florida, or anywhere along the Florida coast, I would love to help document your story. From working closely with your planner to coordinating timelines and scouting locations, I’m honored to capture moments that feel just as meaningful years down the road.