Destination Wedding Planner Andrea Eppolito. Images by Nicole Hernandez

In the quaint charm of El Dorado Hills, amidst global uncertainty, a love story unfolded that seems ripped from the pages of a romantic comedy. Mikayla and Brandon, former residents of this idyllic town, found their way back to a familiar place. Mikayla decided to return to be close to her family after successfully launching a tech start-up. Brandon was in the midst of a career change and wanted to be closer to family while working from home. Neither knew what they viewed as a “temporary” location would change their lives forever.

Every great love story has a plot twist. In the case of Mikayla and Brandon, their move back was orchestrated by none other than their mothers, each of whom suggested the same apartment complex as the perfect place to stay while searching for permanent places. Mikayla moved in first, embracing the new start with open arms. Little did she know, destiny was about to knock on her door—or, more accurately, move in right across the hall.

Brandon, carrying boxes filled with his life, was the new neighbor moving in just a few doors down. Their first meeting was nothing short of a movie scene—casual, unexpected, and instantly electric. In a hallway that served as the crossroads of their lives, the connection was undeniable. Following their serendipitous meeting, Mikayla and Brandon decided to venture just steps from their new sanctuary to a local restaurant for their first official date. The proximity, while convenient, brewed a pot of logistical questions and awkward anticipations. Should they walk together? What if the evening didn’t sparkle as they hoped?

In a moment of nervous contemplation, Mikayla decided to watch from her window as Brandon set off first. It was a small gesture, giving both a moment to breathe before diving into what could be the beginning of something extraordinary—or a swift return to friendly neighbors. She watched him approach the restaurant, her heart raced with the possibilities.

Taking a deep breath, Mikayla followed shortly after, stepping into the unknown. The date was filled with laughter, endearing moments, and shared glances that spoke volumes. Despite the initial jitters, the evening unfolded beautifully. Each of them may have walked to the restaurant alone, but by the end of the night, they left as a couple. Their connection was undeniable. Mikayla and Brandon quickly found themselves inseparable.

After spending much of their adult lives exploring what the world had to offer outside of El Dorado Hills, their relationship felt like coming home. Two years later, Brandon's proposal was nothing short of a fairytale moment. Brandon got down on one knee, surrounded by their families at Mikayla’s parent’s home. Now, with their two precious pups by their side, Mikayla and Brandon continue to weave their dazzling, once-in-a-lifetime story, proving that love not only finds a way—it thrives in the nurturing presence of family and the comforting embrace of home.

When we discussed planning their engagement session, it only felt right to return to their old apartment building and tour the city that they now call home. While these photos are absolutely stunning, what makes them so special is how sweet and intimate they feel. These images tell their story; the apartment where they fell in love, the home where they got engaged, and the winery is a nod to their upcoming wedding, which will take place in Napa Valley in July 2025.

It has been an honor to become a part of this family and to take them through the wedding planning process. Enjoy these photos and leave them your well wishes below.

Always…Andrea