Football to Forever: Sofia & Parker's Balboa Park Engagement

There’s something timeless about a Balboa Park engagement — the lush gardens, historic architecture, and soft golden light make it one of the most romantic places in San Diego for couples to celebrate their love. For Sofia and Parker, these photos are a joyful reflection of their story — one that began with an unexpected meeting and has blossomed into a love full of laughter, adventure, and deep connection.

An Unexpected Meet-Cute Watching Football

For Sofia and Parker, it all began one autumn evening inside a packed Busby’s bar during a Jets vs. Dolphins game. Parker walked in, scanning the crowd for a seat, and the only one left just happened to be next to Sofia — who had recently moved to Los Angeles and was out with her friends. What started as small talk over football quickly turned into something more. They exchanged career stories, shared a few laughs, and decided to add each other on LinkedIn before the night ended. A few days later, Sofia, new to California and looking to make connections, sent Parker a message asking if he’d like to grab lunch. He said yes, and soon they found themselves sharing sushi rolls at Kazunori — talking for hours, completely at ease in each other’s company. Before the day was over, Parker asked for her number and later, a second date. Little did they know it would be their last first date.

Over the next four years, their relationship blossomed beautifully. Together, they’ve explored the world — sailing off on romantic cruises, wandering through the cobblestone streets of Greece and Spain, and exploring the charm of England and Portugal. Through every adventure, their bond deepened — a partnership built on laughter, respect, and genuine love for life.

Beach Proposal in Marina del Rey

Then, on a special November day — the same date as his parents’ wedding anniversary — Parker decided it was time to make forever official. He planned an intimate proposal on the sandy shores of Marina del Rey, complete with white roses, a stunningly decorated arbor, and the soft glow of the ocean sunset. As he knelt down and opened the ring box, Sofia’s eyes filled with tears. With joy in her heart, she said yes. It was the perfect beginning to the next chapter of their love story.

Their Balboa Park Engagement Session

Fast forward to today, and Sofia and Parker are planning their spring wedding — a celebration that promises to be as joyful, elegant, and full of heart as the two of them are. For their engagement session, we spent the afternoon wandering through Balboa Park. The sun peeked through the trees, wrapping them in golden light as they laughed, danced, and shared the sweetest, unprompted kisses. Their chemistry was undeniable — the kind of love that feels effortless and deeply rooted all at once.

Capturing their connection was such a joy. From their playful energy to the quiet, stolen moments between smiles, Sofia and Parker radiate a kind of warmth that’s contagious. Their story is a reminder that sometimes love finds you when you least expect it — maybe even watching a football game.