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Welcome to the blog, a place for RECENT weddings,  inspirING portraitS, BranD SHOOTS, tips, and MORe.

hi, I'm EMILY

find me elsewhere:

hi, I'm EMILY

Kristen & Brandon’s Washington Oaks Gardens Proposal

Jacksonville, FL

Some moments unfold so naturally that they feel like they were always meant to happen, and that’s exactly how Kristen and Brandon’s proposal at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park felt. With sweeping moss-draped oaks, quiet garden paths, and the softest Florida breeze moving through the trees, the entire setting seemed to pause just for them.

What began as a simple stroll through one of Palm Coast’s most beautiful parks quickly turned into a memory they’ll tell for the rest of their lives.

A Walk Through the Gardens That Became Forever

Washington Oaks is known for its lush greenery and timeless Old-Florida charm. Brandon chose it intentionally — a place that felt peaceful, romantic, and “them.” The two wandered past the koi pond, stopping here and there to admire the flowers and the way the light danced between the branches.

Kristen thought they were just enjoying the gardens.
Brandon knew he was moments away from changing everything.

As they reached a quiet spot near the water, surrounded by vibrant blooms and the huge twisting oak branches overhead, he took a breath, reached for the ring he had carefully hidden, and dropped to one knee.

Kristen’s reaction? Pure disbelief, followed by the biggest smile and the sweetest “yes.”

It was the kind of joy you can feel just by looking at the photos.

Celebrating the “Yes” in One of Florida’s Dreamiest Locations

After the proposal, we spent time exploring the gardens together while Kristen and Brandon soaked in the moment. Their happiness was effortless, laughing, twirling, walking arm in arm through the pathways like the world had shifted underneath them.

Every corner of Washington Oaks gave us something beautiful to work with:

The Gardens

Soft greens, blooming flowers, and Spanish moss created the most romantic backdrop for their first photos as an engaged couple.

The Pathways

They walked hand in hand beneath the oak canopy, stealing glances and smiling like they were the only two people in the world.

Kristen and Brandon walking through flower-lined path.

The Beach

We ended the session with barefoot moments along the shoreline — the perfect mix of calm, connection, and excitement for what comes next.

Kristen’s white dress, the warm tones of the park, and Brandon’s genuinely smitten expression made this proposal feel like a scene from a movie.

Why Washington Oaks Is One of My Favorite Proposal Locations

If you’re dreaming of proposing somewhere that feels magical without being overly crowded, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is such a beautiful choice.

You get:

  • romantic garden paths
  • quiet spots for private moments
  • dramatic Spanish moss
  • lush greenery year-round
  • the beach right across the street for a second location

It’s peaceful, timeless, and gives your proposal space to feel intimate and meaningful.

Kristen & Brandon — What Comes Next

Seeing these two celebrate the very beginning of their engagement season was such a joy. Their connection is easy, warm, and full of laughter, and photographing this moment felt like an absolute honor.

Kristen and Brandon — thank you for trusting me with such an important chapter of your story. I cannot wait to see where this journey takes you next. 🤍

Planning Your Own Proposal? I’d Love to Help.

Whether you already have a plan or don’t know where to start, I help my proposal clients with location guidance, timing, posing, and everything in between, so you can actually enjoy the moment instead of stressing.

Ready to plan a proposal as meaningful as your “yes”?

Reach out here to get started → our contact page

Proposal Photography

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