I can’t think of anything more romantic than saying “I do” in the very same place you first said “I love you.” Seriously. Swoon. Worthy. Well, this gorgeous couple did just that and so, of course, I am literally gooey over their stunning Santa Rosa Beach nuptials. Add to the romance factor the sunny skies, the lovely beachside location and the vibrant blue and yellow color palette and we’ve got ourselves a fabulous day of inspiration here on Style Me Pretty Florida. Captured by Candice K. Photography and coordinated by Rachel Kozloff Events, you do not want to miss one amazing image. Join me in the gallery for all of the pretty!
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From the Bride… After Josh and I got engaged, I knew I wanted to be married in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. A nearby beach was the first place Josh and I had vacationed together, and the first place he told me he loved me. To say it is near and dear to my heart would be an understatement. When we found Bentley’s on the Bay, we both felt right at home, and knew at once that it was where we would exchange vows. The months leading up to the wedding were busy ones, as my mom and I did much of the decor ourselves. I wanted it to feel more personalized than the average wedding, so we spent time making lanterns and inscribing our initials on wooden hearts, etc. We were both nervous the week before the wedding, wondering how on earth it would all come together. When it was all said and done, we loved every single detail that we spent hours pouring over.
The day of my wedding I awoke praying for no rain. I looked out the window and saw a completely cloudless, beautiful sky. Yipee! My bridesmaids and I spent the day relaxing at the beach house we were staying in, slowly getting ready and reminiscing. Josh and his groomsmen spent the day on the beach, trying to take full advantage of their time with Josh as a “single man.” Around 2, we headed to Bentley’s to finish getting ready and take pictures. Josh and I chose to have a “first look.” I felt it was important for Josh to see me before anyone else, and I also wanted that quiet time for just the two of us before things got crazy. Candice chose to have us do our first look on the dock behind Bentley’s, and it turned out absolutely perfect. Josh was facing the water when I started walking towards him, and while I thought I would be nervous, I absolutely was not. I kept wishing my feet were able to walk more quickly, but my high-heels were holding me back! I was so excited to see him!
In what felt like minutes afterwards, it was time for the ceremony. Our ceremony was held under a willow tree on the Bentley’s lawn, overlooking the bay. Looking out over the crowd, I finally let the enormity of the day hit me. It was an amazing moment. Afterwards, Josh and I headed off with the wedding party for a few quick shots and our guests headed in for cocktail hour. Candice makes taking pictures quick and painless (And she gets amazing shots – score!), and before we knew it we were back at the reception and ready to dance! The reception flew by. We got in the car to leave and I looked at Josh and said, “I don’t want it to be over!” We had an absolutely amazing day filled with those that we love and cherish, and I couldn’t ask for anything more!
Wedding Photography: Candice K. Photography / Wedding Reception & Ceremony Location: Bentley’s on the Bay / DJ: Darren of B-Boy Productions / Floral Design: Florals By the Sea / Wedding Coordinator: Rachel Kozloff Events / Desserts: Sugar Lilly Sweet Shop / Catering: Fire Restaurant / Bridesmaid Dresses: J.Crew / Wedding Gown: Saeyoung Vu Couture / Hair: Kara Christian Styling Studio