April 5, 2026 – Homestead, FL
“Chris and I met on a dating app. We chatted briefly about work, school, and our personal passions. Impressed with his initiative, I accepted his invitation to brunch one Sunday where we quickly learned that we were closer than we thought. We attended the same high school and college at different times, our younger siblings were best friends, he was a member of my home church, and I previously worked with his mom; but we never met or knew each other. The conversation at brunch sparked several dates, including trips and side quests that proved we had a real bond in the making. We dated seriously for a year before my job moved me to DC, but distance did not stop destiny.
After almost a year of splitting life between Alabama and DC, answered prayers opened an opportunity for me to return home. Chris insisted on a trip together before moving back. We chose to visit Maui, HI. Being the travelers we are, I didn’t suspect anything. Little did I know that the bag he was protecting with his life the whole way to Hawaii contained an engagement ring!
The morning of our second day, he wanted to get photos of the sunrise before we went on an excursion. He is a photographer so that was a normal activity. We traveled to a secluded cove with beautiful water, trees, and scenery. He set me up in a spot and told me to wait while he adjusted his equipment. Once adjusted, he walked up behind me, spun me around, and took a knee. I was floored! The most beautiful proposal in a beautiful place was captured by a photographer he had hired to document the moment. So many wonderful intentional surprises made the moment magical. We wanted to capture the essence of our beautiful beginning within our wedding celebration. Everything was a complete success!” – Donnisia
Advice From the Couple
“Our best advice for a destination wedding is to give your guests an experience that reflects the culture of where you are. Serve the local cuisine. Include local music and traditions. They have traveled to celebrate you so make it worth their while! Also, celebrate with each other at the wedding. Try not to separate so you can take in the full moment together.” – Donnisia and Chris
The Creatives
Bridal Gown: Lia Stublla Bridal. Bridesmaid Gowns: Moda Glam Boutique. Cake: Cake Emporio. Catering, Rentals: Events by Molina. Ceremony & Reception Venue: Secret Gardens Miami. Floral: Natinel Flowers. Lighting & Draping Design, Linen, Lounge Furniture, and Décor: Amor by Di. Groom’s & Groomsmen’s Attire: Dionicio’s Closet. Hair Stylist: Divine Locs Designs. Makeup Artist: Kimberly Johnson. Music/Entertainment: The Miami Events. Photography: B Nicole Photography. Rings: Osborne Jewelers. Stationery: C.Beyond Marketing. Videographer: Love Videography. Wedding Planner: All a Dream Planning and Design.
