Beach weddings? They’re amazing. A fun, laid-back and totally elegant kind of amazing. Which is why we happen to be quite smitten with this pretty little affair from Nancy Cohn, one we’re calling the epitome of beach wedding perfection with its breathtaking seaside ceremony, gorgeous tented reception and bride and groom who couldn’t be more in love. And The Islander setting? Gorg. Click here for sooo much more.
From the Bride… Justin and I met right after New Year’s 2010, while with mutual friends out on the town. He swung me around the dance floor and I was in love. We got engaged in June 2012 and, after realizing we just couldn’t elope (because we wanted to include as many friends and family as possible), we decided on the relaxed vibe of the Florida Keys. The wedding took place at The Islander in Islamorada, Florida just two hours away from us. Many of our guests live in South Florida. It’s well-known resort dating back to the 1950’s, with a huge sandy beach area.
During the afternoon, while the groom was lounging at the pool, I took a few “beach babe” shots with some close girlfriends. We chose not to have a bridal party so our friends could enjoy their weekend, stress free, but I am forever grateful to my girls for bouncing around in their bikinis with me.
The weather was perfect the entire weekend. We were blessed with a bright orange sunset… matched only by the color of my father’s shirt (a fishing shirt he insisted upon wearing)! My father made the chuppah, deciding to make a simple design after reading that it represents the beginning of the couple’s relationship who then “embellish” it throughout their marriage. Not to be left out, the mother of the groom made the chuppah cover. Champagne and sparkling water was poured for our guests as they arrived at the waterfront location.
We had a Ketubah signing just prior to the ceremony and then, led by our brothers, we were walked down the “aisle” by our parents, as a four piece string ensemble played Muse and Guns N Roses’ “Sweet Child O’Mine.” At the last minute, we decided to go barefoot throughout the ceremony. Justin put on his brother’s topsider to break the glass at the end!
The reception took place under a white tent on the sand. Centerpieces were simple, alternating between white lanterns, white and green hydrangeas and white lily and rose combinations. A simple burlap runner and white napkins and table cloths. Chairs were bamboo and wicker to pick up some of the natural tones. Guests place markers were mini-succulents which also doubled as gifts to take home! The DJ got his start over 20 years at a local Miami skating rink, so the guests shook their booties to some high-energy Miami bass music. We shared our first dance to Led Zeppelin’s “Thank you” and invited guests to join halfway through, so it was a marriage of old and new.
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Wedding Photography: Nancy Cohn | Floral Design: Debbie from Floral Fantasy Weddings | Cinematography: Michelle Hemple | Wedding Venue: The Islander | Furniture + Decor: Brelex | Wedding Dress: Alfred Angelo | Men’s Attire: Tommy Bahama + Zegna | Hair: Taylor Emerick