Jillian and Steve’s Vizcaya Museum and Gardens engagement session was nothing short of romantic. With a perfect spring breeze, timeless style, and undeniable chemistry, every moment felt effortless and deeply them. As their South Florida engagement photographer, I loved capturing this chapter of their love story in such an iconic, scenic location.
A Love Story Years in the Making
Long before Jillian and Steve became a couple, their lives were already intertwined.
Both originally from PG County, Maryland, they had unknowingly crossed paths for years attending the same events and taking group photos at parties. They were even at the same pool party in middle school. Their families had known each other since the ’80s. Old college and family friendships quietly linked their stories in the background.
It wasn’t until 2015, when a mutual friend finally introduced them, that everything clicked. They hit it off immediately talking constantly and realizing how natural it felt to be together. Jillian describes it as love at first sight. Steve admired her charisma and loved her taste in music. Both quickly knew they had met someone truly special. Their connection grew, and on New Year’s Eve 2022, Steve proposed in the most meaningful way by recreating one of their favorite early memories together. This took place at the Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C., surrounded by their closest loved ones.
Why They Chose Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Jillian and Steve are fun, down-to-earth, and full of warmth — the kind of couple you instantly feel at ease with. They chose Vizcaya for its romantic, Italian-inspired architecture and lush gardens. The ornate stone staircases and hidden pathways surrounded by greenery were a perfect match for their vision. It was something elegant, beautiful, and full of character.
Engagement Session Style & Outfits
The session began in the formal gardens, where Jillian stunned in a bold red dress. This added the perfect pop of color against Vizcaya’s neutral stone backdrop. As the light shifted, she changed into a one-shoulder, open-back white gown that felt effortlessly elegant and classic. Steve complemented her look in a sharp suit that added a polished, editorial feel to the setting.
We ended the session at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Jillian changed into a low-back, flowy silk dress that caught the ocean breeze with every step. Steve kept it relaxed in a soft beige look that fit the coastal scene beautifully. Between the beach, the golden light, and their natural chemistry, the entire second half of the shoot felt dreamy and free.
A Session Full of Feeling
What really stood out wasn’t just the beautiful light or outfits — it was the way Steve looked at Jillian every time she stepped in front of the camera alone. You could feel how much he admired her in those quiet, unscripted moments. Their connection was present in every frame. This made my job as a photographer feel more like witnessing than directing.
Jillian and Steve first discovered my work through a wedding I photographed that was later featured in Vogue. They said they loved the elegance, timelessness, and documentary style of my images. They especially appreciated the way the colors stayed true and natural. It was an honor to create something equally meaningful and honest for their engagement session.
Planning Your Own Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Engagement Session?
If you’re dreaming of your own Vizcaya Museum and Gardens engagement session, I’d love to help you bring it to life. Whether you’re drawn to the European architecture, the soft Florida light, or the intimacy of the coast, let’s create something that feels true to your love story. Reach out to connect — I’d be honored to document this season for you.
If you’d like to see a full wedding day at this iconic venue, check out this Vizcaya Museum and Gardens wedding
Planning your own engagement session? I’d love to create something timeless and true to your story — get in touch here to start dreaming together.
comments +