When we first started talking about engagement session locations, we had thrown around a few ideas; maybe a beautiful park or down by the beach.  But then we started talking about the things they enjoyed doing together and about some locations that might hold a special meaning or have some significance to them and their relationship.  They came up with a few fun ideas and then both of them looked at each other and almost at the same time said:  Cafe Firenze.

These two met at this beautiful bar/restaurant in Moorpark.  They had both been frequents at the bar but had never noticed each other until one evening back in 2014 when Zak sat in the empty seat next to Nina and as they say it, the rest is history.

Not only did they meet at this bar, but they still go nearly every week… so naturally, this was the absolute perfect place for their engagement session and I’m so excited to share some of my favorite images from it!

Cafe Firenze Engagement Photos

From her:  “Our first date happened the day after we met at Cafe Firenze, he called me and asked if I wanted to go for sushi with him.  He took me to Omino in Northridge.  It was delicious and we laughed pretty much the whole night!”

From her:  “After we had been dating for a while he invited me over to BBQ and to watch football.  I knew that he was the one when I was perfectly content and not wondering what my friends were doing.”
From him:  “I had known for a while, but it was over dinner one night when she ate tomatoes for me.  She hates tomatoes!!”

Proposal

“We went to dinner in Beverly Hills at Wolfgangs.  Enjoyed some martinis and appetizers.  He wanted to get the tomato and onion salad ( as previously mentioned, I hate tomatoes ) but I said it was fine.  Apparently that was his big “I love you moment”, haha!  He gave a little speech and told me that he loved me.  I cheersed him and told him that I loved him too and then he said “So is that a yes?”  He hadn’t asked me anything, haha, and then that’s when he asked “Will you marry me?””

From her:  “My favorite date was when we went to Nobu at the Hard Rock in Vegas.  Amazing food, great drinks, the service was awesome, and we laughed the entire time.  It was perfect.”

Nina:  “What I admire most about him is his kind heart/generosity, and his love for his children and animals.” 
Zak:  “I admire her kindness, integrity and devotion to her family.”

From her:  “I’m most looking forward to finally being married and enjoying the special day with everyone we love.”
From him:  “I’m looking forward to Nina being able to have the special day she has always dreamed about.”
Um, can we all just give a big “awwww!”

When your best friend crashes your engagement shoot… haha!

Nina and Zak, I am so excited for your wedding next year!  I had such a blast with you two and I cannot wait for your big day next March!!  (Update: they are officially married!!  Check out their beautiful wedding here!)

And a huge thank you to Cafe Firenze for letting us shoot in your beautiful space!  It was perfect!!

Love,
Stefani Ciotti