SONJA + STEPHEN STEP INTO THE LIMELIGHT | THE VINOY® RENAISSANCE ST. PETERSBURG RESORT & GOLF CLUB + SUNSET BALLROOM | ST. PETERSBURG, FL

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…Sonja & Stephen…

How/when did you meet each other:: The first time they met: Sonja and Stephen met in March of 2013 in Connecticut, their home state. They met at work when Sonja was just 18 years old and Stephen was 24 years old. They knew they were soulmates from the very beginning and their very first kiss was absolutely magical. They moved in together within only 6 months of dating and they loved waking up next to each other every morning. The years passed one by one and they grew up together in love. Their little family also grew in size when their first gorgeous white Persian blue eyed fur baby Snowden came into their life and made their lives even fuller.

The Big Move: In 2018, Sonja's dream of becoming an attorney came true when she got accepted into law school in Florida. Stephen quickly and without hesitation followed the love of his life to the sunshine state. He says it was the best decision he ever made as they began their next chapter together in paradise! When the 2020 quarantine orders began in March, they fall in love once again as they welcomed their second fur baby, Simba who brought so much spunk and joy to the family alongside his big brother Snowden. They did not mind spending time together inside together in each other's lovely company.

How did he propose:: The Proposal: With only one year left of Sonja's law school career and 7 and 1/2 years of dating later (time flies when you're having fun!), Stephen knew it was time to seal the deal so he got down on one knee with the MOST stunning ring from Gold and Diamond Source (double halo emerald cut what Sonja dreamed of) at the stunning Isla Del Sol Yacht and Country club location waterside. It was the surprise proposal of Sonja's dreams and it still feels so surreal! Stephen secretly planned the whole thing with the help of Sonja's best friend, Shana who beautifully photographed the whole proposal and even created an outstanding balloon arch that matched the couple's outfits perfectly. It was a surprise holiday proposal and the happiest way to end such a hard year that 2020 was for all of us. Sonja and Stephen really enjoyed being engaged. They loved attending bridal expositions together, planned a fun engagement party last august, and even have planned every detail of their big day TOGETHER! Sonja is blessed that Stephen thoroughly enjoys being a big part of this wedding planning process, unlike other grooms - he is special. They are looking forward to celebrating their big day with their close friends and family at the pink Renaissance Vinoy Hotel in Saint Petersburg.

What do you love about each other:: They are truly opposites who attract! Sonja is fire and Stephen is her ice. They balance and compliment each other perfectly!

Interests/hobbies you enjoy doing together:: THE BEACH! They moved in 2021 even closer to the beach and now enjoy living only 15 minutes away from white sands and crystal clear waters. They also love spending time with their fur babies, family, and friends.

Sonja & Stephen’s wedding day was a true fairytale, Sonja wore a princess ballgown and even wore a crown like the true queen she is. The entire day felt royal and elegant with so many meaningful details and beautiful Albanian traditions. We LOVED experiencing such beautiful moments together with Sonja & Stephen and their loved ones.

Sonja & Stephen… may ALL your dreams come true.

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Miranda Gates