Love Without Limits: An Engagement Session That Celebrates You
At Stills by Hernan | Stills the Studio, we believe every love story deserves to be seen, celebrated, and honored with artistry. When Sam and Kylee reached out for their engagement session at Hotel Escalante (290 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102 | @hotelescalante), we knew this would be more than a portrait session-it would be a joyful declaration of queer love, authenticity, and belonging in the heart of Naples.
Their radiant smiles and infectious laughter were a testament to a connection that’s both playful and profound. As a proud LGBTQIA+ friendly photographer, my team and I are committed to creating a space where all couples-regardless of gender, orientation, or identity-can take up all the space they want, feeling seen, heard, and celebrated.
Why Hotel Escalante Is a Dream Venue for LGBTQIA+ Couples
Hotel Escalante is a hidden gem in downtown Naples, renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and intimate, luxury ambiance. It’s also a venue that welcomes all love stories, making it a favorite for LGBTQIA+ couples who want their engagement or wedding to feel both private and spectacular.
Venue Details:
- Address: 290 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
- Website: hotelescalante.com/wedding-events/
- Instagram: @hotelescalante
Why We Recommend It:
A team that believes in love without barriers
Romantic courtyard gardens and old-world fountains
Customizable events for every couple’s wishes and dreams
Option to reserve the entire property for privacy
Steps from Naples’ vibrant LGBTQIA+ welcoming downtown scene
The Session: Joy, Connection, and Authenticity
From the moment Sam and Kylee arrived, their energy was contagious. We wandered the sun-dappled courtyards, capturing candid moments of affection, laughter, and quiet connection. Their session was filled with genuine joy-no forced poses, no stereotypes, just love in its truest form.
We believe in photographing LGBTQIA+ couples with the same artistry and intention as any luxury engagement:
- No binary assumptions-just your story, your way
- Safe, affirming collaboration-share your vision, your style, your love
- Editorial, timeless images-because your legacy deserves to be celebrated for generations
LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Planning: Naples’ Best Planners & Florists
A welcoming, affirming team makes all the difference. Here are Naples’ top LGBTQIA+ friendly planners and florists who will make your engagement or wedding unforgettable:
Planners
- Anna Lucia Events | @annaluciaevents
Known for bespoke, inclusive luxury weddings and events. - Lark & Willow Events | @larkandwillowevents
Celebrated for modern romance and personalized, affirming design. - Jet Set Wed | @jetsetwed
Experts in destination and LGBTQIA+ weddings. - Margaret Events | @margaretevents
Classic luxury, meticulous attention, and a welcoming spirit. - SBS Weddings & Events | @sbsweddings
Full-service planning with a commitment to inclusivity. - Kelci Leigh Events | @kelcileighevents
Collaborative, creative, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Florists
Kaleidoscope Floral | @kaleidoscopefloral
Organic, romantic, and always welcoming to all couples.
Naples Picasso Flowers | @naplespicassoflowers
Renowned for bespoke, vibrant, and inclusive floral design.
Tom Trovato Floral | @tomtrovatofloral
Lush, elegant arrangements for luxury and LGBTQIA+ weddings.
Naples: A Welcoming Destination for LGBTQIA+ Love
Naples is home to a growing number of LGBTQIA+ inclusive venues and vendors, from Hotel Escalante to the Ritz-Carlton, Naples and LaPlaya Beach Resort. OutCoast’s guide highlights the area’s most affirming destinations, ensuring you and your partner feel celebrated at every turn.
Why Choose Stills by Hernan | Stills the Studio for Your LGBTQIA+ Engagement or Wedding?
- Queer-owned, queer-affirming: We don’t just photograph LGBTQIA+ couples-we are part of the community.
- No stereotypes, no assumptions: Your love is unique, and we honor it as such.
- Editorial, luxury style: Your photos will be as beautiful and timeless as your love.
- Safe space: We create an environment where you can be fully yourselves, every step of the way.
We donate a portion of all LGBTQIA+ bookings to Equality Florida, because visibility and advocacy matter.
Planning Your Own LGBTQIA+ Engagement or Wedding in Naples?
Trust your photographer: Choose a team that makes you feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
Book affirming vendors: Choose planners and florists who celebrate your love.
Take up space: Your joy deserves to be front and center.
Share your story: Let your engagement session reflect who you truly are.
More LGBTQIA+ Love Stories & Inspiration
- Sam + Kylee Hotel Escalante Engagement Session
- LGBTQ+ Tampa Proposal Photographer | Davis Islands Beach
- Naples Luxury Beach Wedding Photography
- About Hernan
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are you really LGBTQIA+ affirming?
A: 100%. We are queer-owned and believe all love deserves to be celebrated with artistry and respect.
Q: Can we bring our own vision and style?
A: Absolutely! Your session is about you-bring your ideas, outfits, and personalities.
Q: What’s the best time for engagement photos at Hotel Escalante?
A: Golden hour in the gardens is magical, but the venue’s Mediterranean courtyards are beautiful all day.
Q: Can you recommend other LGBTQIA+ friendly venues?
A: Yes! Ritz-Carlton Naples, LaPlaya Beach Resort, and Naples Bay Resort are all inclusive and affirming.
Ready to Celebrate Your Love Out Loud?
If you’re searching for a Naples Florida Hotel Escalante Engagement Session, a Hotel Escalante Wedding Photographer, or simply a team who will honor your love story, contact Stills by Hernan | Stills the Studio today.
You belong here. Your love is beautiful. Let’s capture it, together.
Harper, for Stills by Hernan | Stills the Studio
Your Naples LGBTQIA+ Wedding & Engagement Photographer