Paige & Akhenaton’s engagement session was the kind of story that feels written by the architecture itself—timeless, grand, and rich in emotion. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, their portraits embody the elegance of a bygone era, framed by baroque sculptures and pink-toned columns that reflect Florida’s golden light.
From the beginning of their story in a city commission meeting to shared nature trails and stolen laughs, their journey has always blended meaning with magic. This session captured more than just style—it revealed the unshakable joy, connection, and quiet strength that define their love.
“Love becomes more than just a word—it’s a feeling beyond explanation.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
Akhenaton and Paige met in February 2020 right before the world shut down due to COVID. Akhenaton worked for the Tallahassee City Commission and Paige was attending a City Commission meeting for her job at the time with a local Museum. At the conclusion of the meeting, Akhenaton approached Paige claiming that they had met before and asked if she was interested in getting involved in some events around the city. Paige didn’t remember meeting him but figured they must’ve met a t a fraternity or sorority event.
Turns out, they’d never actually “met” but Akhenaton saw Paige from a distance a few weeks earlier encaptured by her beauty and aura, he was determined to say hello when the next opportunity presented itself. After that, they texted off and on until the pandemic gave them a reason to connect more deeply. Their first date turned into an adventure exploring Tallahassee’s nature trails, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. They quickly discovered shared quirks like being left-handed and having birthdays in the same month of September, just five months apart, among a number of other things.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
Paige came into our relationship with a Yorkie named Bella and she has become a huge part of our lives but it took Bella a little time to “warm up” to AK and become comfortable. Towards the beginning of our relationship, Paige left AK at her house to watch the dog while she went to a church event and Bella hid in Paige’s closet and wouldn’t come out. AK looked all over for her and thought she might’ve gotten out of the house because she wouldn’t come out when her name was called. He called Paige to come home immediately because he thought something happened to Bella and as soon as Paige walked in the house, Bella came downstairs out of the closet.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
AK- One of the biggest hurdles I’ve had to overcome—especially during our relationship and even more so throughout the wedding planning process—has been stepping fully into my role as a leader and partner. As a boyfriend, I had to become comfortable with the responsibility of making decisions that reflect what’s best for us, not just what’s best for me. Being an only child, I’ve spent most of my life focusing on my own needs, wants, and perspective. But in a committed relationship—especially one that’s moving toward marriage—I’ve had to shift that mindset.
Paige- Communication has been the biggest hurdle I have had to overcome. Being in a long-term relationship allows you to realize that there’s not necessarily a “right” or “wrong” way of doing things, just different. So with those differences, we have to be open and communicative about our viewpoints while being understanding of each other and willing to listen and comprehend.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
We’ll be “jumping the broom” with the same broom that Akhenaton’s parents used at their wedding. We’re also setting up a table with photos of relatives who have passed—those who played significant roles in our lives—so we can honor their memory and have a piece of them with us on this special day. In addition, Paige will be wearing a second look dress at the reception made from her mother’s wedding gown, adding another beautiful and personal touch to the celebration.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
Saying “I Do”—walking into forever with my partner as we officially become one and begin our own special journey. It’s not just about the ceremony; it’s about continuing the legacy our grandparents started. We both come from two-parent households and believe that family is at the heart of lasting success. This day represents more than just a union it’s a continuation of a tradition rooted in love, commitment, and legacy.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
From Paige, I’ve learned how to be vulnerable to communicate my emotions thoughtfully and openly. She’s taught me the importance of being present and consistently striving to grow, not just for myself, but so I can be the best partner possible for her.
From AK, I’ve learned how to never stop learning and yearning for knowledge. He’s the smartest guy I know and never stops trying to learn new things! Since we’ve met, he’s always had a book (or four!) in his backpack to read whenever he has some downtime. He’s currently teaching himself three different languages and has made a lot of progress. It really keeps me motivated to continue to work on myself and know that it’s never too late to learn something new.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
I love Paige’s go with the flow personality. If I want to take a spontaneous trip out of town, she’s down for it. If I suggest a late-night run to the gas station for peanut M&Ms or a trip to Insomnia Cookies, she’s ready to ride. Even when I just want to slow things down and focus on getting some work done, she’s right there by my side. Having someone who’s all in and genuinely enjoys our time together—no matter what we’re doing is hands down the best thing about her.
I love AK’s humor and natural ability to make me laugh. We just have a great time together doing literally anything. Sometimes we joke and say we are the opposite gender of one another because we are so much alike. We finish each other’s sentences and often catch ourselves making the same expression. He also appreciates my humor and compliments my ability to keep the mood light and make a joke.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Honestly, it’s been the journey. Every part of the experience has been enjoyable. I know most people are just eager to get to the Big Day, but we’ve truly loved the process having meaningful conversations, selecting the color scheme and vendors, traveling to coordinate outfits for our engagement photos, and soaking in the anticipation of what’s to come. Those moments have truly been our favorite.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Remember that your partner is your teammate, be willing to compromise, and stay open to the entire journey. Always keep in mind that this is a celebration of your commitment to one another. When planning your guest list, prioritize the people who will support your marriage long after the wedding day. If you can’t imagine turning to someone for guidance in your marriage, they might be better suited to hear about the celebration through social media or a follow-up message. Scrutinize the guest list!
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
People often say that marriage and relationships are hard and take a lot of work, and while there’s some truth to that, I see it a bit differently. If you don’t have it in your heart and mind to grow, to expand, and to be equally committed, then yes, it can feel like a struggle. But when you see your partner not just as a girlfriend or wife, but as a true friend, it transforms your raison d’être your reason for being becomes rooted in building something lasting, not just coexisting. When you genuinely want the best for your companion, it shows in your actions, in your words, and in the way you move through life together. You begin to wake up excited to take another step on the path to forever. Love, at that point, becomes more than just a word it’s a feeling beyond explanation. And when you reach that space, I believe you begin to understand the kind of love that carries couples through 40+ years of a happy, enduring marriage.
Photography: Kingsley James Studios / @kingsleyjamesstudios
Couple: @onepaigeatatime_ & @houseofaten_22
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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