Sometimes, I’m at a loss for words. Well, to be honest, I’m at a loss for words quite often. But this wedding, sent to us by Weddings by Socialites, really left me speechless. Kate ~ this stunning bride ~ seems almost ethereal, as though she was floating throughout the entire day!
floral design by signature florals
All of the accoutrements of the day … the bouquets, the floral centerpieces, the billowing fabric, and the most soothing colors in this seaside palette … peaceful, joyful, simple serenity …
images courtesy of Ashley Brockinton
from Kelly at Weddings by Socialites …
This quaint couple met, fell in love, and brought the majority of their family & friends from England in celebration of their marriage! This beautiful destination wedding was located on the water at Villa Aloreon, a private residence, in Fort Myers, Florida. The three story villa was large enough for the entire wedding party to stay and continue their fun. Kate had her hair and make-up done on site, and then shared a romantic first glance with Tim prior to meeting their wedding party for pre-ceremony photos on the picturesque grounds of the Villa Aloreon. Their ceremony on the bay was created to be very intimate and simply romantic underneath the bamboo blessing canopy. The cocktail hour had swaying sheer aqua linens and accents of sea glass, shells, and candles. A bubble motif was carried throughout the wedding, both high and low through details such as invitations, menus, escort cards and paper lanterns. The reception also included crisp white linens topped off with cheerful centerpieces consisting of deep purple hydrangea and bright coral roses. To add a little bit of European flavor each guest received a monogrammed pillow box of English breakfast tea.
Tim & Kate
Tim and Kate met in Cambridge, England while Kate was studying there in 2007. Of all places, they met during a rowing club social event at a pub in the city! They went out for their first date a week later and never looked back!
the proposal {from Kate}
Well, the day started out with a drive to an unknown location. This location turned out to be a beautiful beach that we never got to see. Unknown to Tim at the time, this was a government restricted area that you can only access by special permit! After a bit of panic and some tactful, ‘lets drive the scenic route home’ talk from Tim and some very interesting navigation with the GPS, we ended up at a gorgeous secluded beach at sunset.
the proposal {from Tim}
Once we got out of the car and walked along the beach I was very nervous although I don’t know why. I had the ring in my pocket and wasn’t sure when to ask Kate, although I knew she would be expecting it. We walked for a few minutes and then I asked her to marry me. I was so happy when she said yes!
change of plans
The planning of our wedding went through many different stages and eventually we settled on getting married in England. Then a job offer came through that we could not refuse and we threw all the plans out the window and moved ourselves and the wedding to America. With Kellyʼs incredible help we managed to reorganize the wedding in a little over two months!
the wedding
The best part for us was that almost all of our family and friends ~ from England and all over America ~ changed their plans and flew to Florida for the wedding. We hope they know how much it meant to us!
most memorable part
Our last dance is the moment that both of us remember more than anything else. Most of the guests had gone home and only Tim and I were left on the dance floor. During the song the whole world seemed to stop and we were the only people in the room. It was the best way to end a perfect day. (song: Boats and Birds – Gregory & The Hawk)
Event Design/Planning: Weddings by Socialites/ Kelly McWilliams
Photography: Ashley Brockinton
Flowers: Signature Florals
Cinematography: AMC Video Productions
Ceremony/Reception: Private Residence on the Gulf of Mexico
Hair: Jennifer King
Make-up: Heather Longshore
Cake: Mason’s Bakery