A Halloween Love Story
Some love stories feel cinematic from the very beginning, and Emma and Trey’s started in the most perfectly chaotic, October-coded way possible.
They first met at UCF in October of 2020, during a semester shaped by COVID restrictions and creative problem-solving. Emma was working as a floor director for a class project when Jojo, their classmate and one of Trey’s best friends, brought Trey in as on-camera talent. Due to strict studio rules at the time, only talent and the floor director were allowed on the studio floor together. By pure coincidence, Emma happened to be assigned that role that day.
Between takes, they spent their time laughing, joking, and instantly clicking. The entire class was dressed up for Halloween, and UCF required crew members to wear masks and face shields when talent was unmasked. So when Trey met Emma for the first time, they were in a full astronaut costume, complete with mask and face shield. It was silly, unexpected, and unforgettable.
Falling in Love During a Shutdown
Because this all happened during the height of the pandemic, their dating options were limited. Trey lived with his family, and Emma lived in their sorority house. Instead of letting that stop them, they got creative.
Their early relationship was built on streaming movies together, playing online games, wandering campus, browsing record stores and thrift shops, sharing drive-thru meals in the car, and spending time at the beach. It was there, by the ocean, that they first said, “I love you.”
What followed were years full of adventure and connection. They traveled together, frequented theme parks, attended concerts, camped at festivals, and finished school side by side. In October of 2024, they welcomed the most hilarious Chihuahua puppy, Eve, affectionately called Eevee, into their lives. They had just turned one by the time their wedding arrived and were already very much part of the family.
A Chilling Proposal
In February of 2025, during a trip to New York City, which Emma insists took place on the coldest day on record, Trey proposed at sunset on the East River waterfront at Pier 35. With views of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, it was quiet, romantic, and perfectly them.
That proposal led them right back to where it all began. This Halloween, shortly after their fifth anniversary, Emma and Trey got married in a non-traditional, 150-guest, backyard DIY celebration that reflected their personalities, their love, and the community they’ve built together.
A Ceremony Framed by Florida Oaks
As the sun set, Emma and Trey’s Halloween wedding unfolded across spaces filled with family history. The ceremony took place in Emma’s grandmother’s backyard, framed by towering Florida oaks, Spanish moss, and a softly draped arch by the water. Emma even carried Eevee down the aisle in place of a traditional bouquet, setting the tone for a celebration that was heartfelt, playful, and entirely their own. Of course we had to take photos with a vintage red Corvette that belonged to Emma’s grandfather. As a full-circle family detail, Emma’s mother was brought home from the hospital as a baby in the back of that same car.
The reception flowed next door into Emma’s parents’ driveway, where black linens, fall florals, subtle skeleton details, and warm string lights brought the Halloween spirit to life while keeping the atmosphere intimate and welcoming. Emma changed outfits three times throughout the day, beginning in a classic gown with a dramatic cathedral-length veil, then a shorter veil and a tailored white bolero jacket, before shifting into bold red satin mini dress layered with a lace cape, sheer red gloves, and a matching veil. As the evening unfolded with dinner, heartfelt toasts, and a lively dance floor, it was a celebration rooted in family, self-expression, and joyful chaos — proof that the most meaningful weddings are the ones that feel like home.
Looking Back
When asked about their favorite part of the day, they didn’t hesitate.
They both chose the same moment. At the start of the ceremony, nerves were high. Standing in front of everyone they loved felt overwhelming until they reached each other at the end of the aisle. In that instant, everything softened. The stress melted away. Then they looked out at their guests, all dressed in wildly creative Halloween costumes, and the anxiety turned into laughter. It became a joyful realization. They were together. Everyone they loved was there. Nothing else mattered.
How to Plan a Backyard DIY Wedding
Planning a backyard wedding in just a few months came with challenges. There were plenty. But none of them overshadowed the heart of the day. It was deeply personal, completely them, and overflowing with love. Emma shared that they would do it all over again in a heartbeat because of how meaningful it was.
Their advice for other couples planning their wedding is refreshingly honest.
"Do not put so much pressure on yourself. You do not need a perfect wedding, a massive budget, or every tradition checked off a list. Planning in a few months is possible. Things can still work out. What matters most is remembering why you are there in the first place. It is about you, your partner, and the life you are building together."
How to Choose the Right Wedding Photographer for YOU
Emma found Koontz Photography intentionally. Their mom is a photographer, so they knew they wanted someone involved in the local professional photography community. They started looking within PPCF, found Daniella’s Instagram, and immediately connected with the work.
But it was more than the portfolio.
In Emma and Trey's review, they said they wanted someone who would make them feel comfortable, someone alternative, queer friendly, and calm in the middle of chaos. Wedding planning is stressful enough without feeling like you have to explain yourself or fit into someone else’s box. They wanted a photographer who felt like a personality match as much as an artistic one. That trust carried through every step of the process. Communication was open, fast, and consistent. Emma states, "There was always open communication and I always got a response super fast when I had questions... Daniella is on top of everything. Whenever I dropped the ball she was right there with solutions to anything and everything."
Emma and Trey’s wedding was proof that love does not need perfection. It needs intention, laughter, and people who show up fully as themselves. And honestly, October has never felt more fitting.
Are you an alternative or "offbeat" couple planning your wedding? Check out Koontz Photography's favorite wedding blog Offbeat Wed! There you'll find information on organization, obtaining a marriage license, along with other tools. Don't forget you can also look for like-minded vendors in your area by using their Vendor Guide!
Now for some more photos from Emma & Trey's wedding - enjoy!
VENDORS WHO MADE THIS DAY POSSIBLE
Cake:
Chairs & Tables:
Mobile Bar:
Restroom Trailer:
Wedding Dress:
Alterations:
Hair:
Styled:
Florals, Favors, Sheet Cake:
Nails:
Photobooth:
Madeline Davis
Officiant:
Father of the Bride
