It was a really, *really* hot Saturday in Orlando, FL where I met Udani and Ron. They both came to me with the idea of getting their engagement pictures done at the Grand Floridian and the Rivera Resort, and if you know me at all, you know my immediate answer was "yes!"
We started off our session at the Grand Floridian resort. Just to preface, getting to capture these gorgeous photos here were a *big* deal. I have been in love with the atmosphere of the Grand Floridian for as long as I can remember. This was also Udani and Ron's first time at the resort, so they were taking it allll in. I mean, c'mon, the grand staircase, chandeliers, the clean smells, the sound of light jazz music as you walk around, what more could you want?
One of the coolest things about this session was Udanis dress. This dress was every princesses dream. It was covered in these gorgeous jewels, had just the right amount of tulle to twirl in, had a slit that you could zip/unzip, and had POCKETS. (To this day I say the only flaw with my wedding dress is that it didn't have pockets LOL). In the Florida heat, this dress was both absolutely stunning, but the perfect way to combat the Florida heat.
After about an hour at the Grand Floridian, it was time for a little break and an outfit change for these two.
PRO ENGAGEMENT SESSION TIP: If your photographer allows it, it's always a good idea to have 2-3 different outfits planned for your session! We want to capture every part of you. It's very common to have an outfit that is dressed up, while also having an outfit that still looks nice, but is dressed down to a more causal, everyday look. Not only does this help with switching locations, but it can also make you feel more comfortable in front of the camera.(It can especially help if its a hot day in Florida and you need something lighter).
Located at the Rivera resort were these two beyond beautiful murals. If you couldn't guess already, we're all humongous Disney nerds, so these were an obvious stop. I myself am a huge lover of the movie "Tangled". The movie has been my comfort movie for years, and the lantern backdrop just fits these two so perfectly. It was almost like watching the lantern scene come to life!
One of the most beautiful parts of the Rivera is the rooftop views. Located on the 10th floor, you can access these amazing views and look at places like Disney Springs, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and other Disney Resorts. The terrace is located within the restaurant called "Topolino's Terrace". You do have to ask if you can go out to the terrace if you don't have a reservation already, but of course in true Disney Cast Member fashion they made some magic happen for us to capture these gorgeous photos up there.
We finished off this beautiful session with a classic Cinderella shoe prop photo. If you ever get the chance to capture some memories with me at one of these fabulous resorts, you'll see that if you've got the shoe, we make that photo prop happen. I mean, you're at the happiest place on Earth, ya gotta add just a *little* bit of a 'happily ever after' touch to it ;)
I had such a magical time getting to take these wonderful pictures for these two. I am also so grateful I got the opportunity to get these two amazing locations off of my bucket list! These two lovebirds get married next year, and I cant wait to see what magic lies in store for them in the future. :)
