Romantic Waterfront Engagement Session in Florida: Chrain + Derek

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.

Chrain and Derek are a union brought together by their shared love for God and commitment to serving the youth. In April 2010, while working on a youth conference the two began to catch each others eye. But, it wasn’t until June of that year, when the pair attended a graduation party for Derek’s mentee – that their story began. Following that night the two went on their first dinner date, which ended with a sweet stroll in the park and lots of affectionate hand holding.

Determined to keep their relationship both private and prayerful, Derek requested his pastor’s blessing prior to entering a courtship with Chrain. Upon receiving his blessing, in July of 2010 Derek asked Chrain if she also agreed to a courtship with him – and of course, she said yes.

After a whirlwind, 5 1/2 years together, on Saturday January 9, 2016 – Derek took Chrain to Savannah, Georgia for what she thought was a getaway. Instead, on that day Chrain’s dreams came true. After a beautiful horse and carriage ride through Downtown Savannah, they headed off for dinner at the Old Pink House. Taking a brief pause for what Chrain thought was a “picture opp”, Derek instead led her by the hand to Reynolds Square. He asked, “May I have this dance?” She cutely giggled and replied, “I would love to!” As Boyz II Men’s “Amazed” played, they danced and lovingly held each other tight.

As the song came to an end, Derek positioned his way down on one knee and later revealed ring box. While Chrain screamed, cried, and attempted to regain composure, Derek remained on one knee. Finally, he was able to utter, “Chrain Antionette Simes, would you do me the honor of being my wife?” Equally blinded by the beauty of her engagement ring and the overall beauty of the evening (which she says was one of the most beautiful evenings of their courtship by far)  – Chrain finally regained composure, and said “yes”.

Though this couple’s courtship has been filled with ups and downs, they site that each experience has only brought them closer together. This unique duo knows that their care, respect, and admiration for each other is what allows them to keep falling in love over and over again.

The pair shot this romantic waterfront engagement session in celebration of their upcoming nuptials with the help of coterie members photographer AJ Shorter of AJ Shorter Photography and make-up artist, Mia Hendrickson of Mia Farah Beautique! Read on for more of their photos and love story below!

Bride-to-be: Chrain Simes
Groom-to-be: Derek Walls
Occupations: Chrain: Educator | Derek: Financial Planner
Wedding date: 6/25/2016
Wedding location: Luxmore Grande Estate in Winter Springs, FL
Engagement shoot location: Weston, FL

What did you do on your first date?
Our first date was at Seasons 52 in Altamonte Springs, Florida, followed by a romantic walk holding hands in Crane Roost Park.

What’s your favorite thing to do as a couple?
Try new restaurants and go to the movies.

How has wedding planning been so far?
Pretty smooth. Definitely never have enough money for everything you want!

Advice to other engaged couples:
Stick to your budget and READ THE CONTRACT!

Tell us what you’re looking forward to most on the wedding day?
Being able to celebrate with our families and friends!

Vendors
Photographer: AJ Shorter Photography
Make-Up Artist: Mia Farah Beautique
Hair Stylist: LaShunya Campbell