KELLI + MIKE
ST. AUGUSTINE + VILANO BEACH ENGAGEMENT SESSION
For them, it was love at first sight!
Kelli + Mike’s story began during their junior year of college, when mutual friends introduced them one night. It was supposed to be casual — just friends meeting friends — but the moment they locked eyes, something shifted. It wasn’t loud or dramatic. It was quiet yet deeply felt. Like recognizing someone your heart already knew.
From that night on, something about being together just felt right.
Their very first date says it all: Mike came to watch Kelli perform in her college dance showcase — already her biggest fan. Afterward, they went out for dinner, sharing food and stories, and discovering just how much they loved being around each other. It wasn’t extravagant, but it was real — and it laid the foundation for everything that followed.
As time passed, their connection deepened. Kelli says it was love at first sight — and as their story unfolded, it only became clearer that they were each other’s forever. As they describe it, their love wasn’t just built on romance — it was built on being each other’s safe place. Kelli says Mike has an incredible way of grounding her. He’s patient, driven, and endlessly supportive — the kind of person who shows up, no matter what. And Mike? He says Kelli brings light to every room she walks into.
“She makes everyday a bit better. We compliment each other well, and I am lucky to have her as my life partner.”
So when it came time to propose, Mike made it unforgettable. On a beach walk at Mother’s Beach in Kennebunk, Maine, he popped the question with a smile. Then came the biggest surprise — Kelli’s sister and parents were waiting at dinner to celebrate. Cue the happy tears!
“ I am so lucky to have found someone like him, and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with him by my side.”
We had the absolute joy of photographing their engagement session in historic St. Augustine, Florida, and it was everything. From the moment they stepped in front of the camera, you could feel how sweet they are together. And of course, their adorable chocolate lab, Delaney, joined in on the fun — and she was the sweetest little model! She smiled ( i swear, she smiles!), accepted all the snuggles, and stole the show (but only a little!).
We strolled through the romantic cobblestone alleys of downtown, soaking up the charm of every turn. Kelli + Mike laughed, twirled, hugged, kissed, and played with Delaney like no one was watching. As the sun started to dip, we drove over to Vilano Beach to catch golden hour — and wow, did it deliver. The sky glowed, the breeze was perfect, and the love between these two was unmistakable.
Now, here we are — just days away from their wedding at the stunning Casa Marina in Jacksonville Beach. Kelli + Mike are traveling down from Boston to celebrate with the people they love most. Kelli + Mike, we truly cannot wait to celebrate you! and obviously, cant wait to see Delaney! =)
It’s going to be beautiful. It’s going to be joyful.
And it’s going to be so them.
see you soon!
xoxo,
Kristina + Jerico
