Florida Weddings

A Beach Wedding Designed With Organic Elegance

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Beach Weddings

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Arthur and Danielle ventured all the way down to the Florida Keys from New York City for their intimate destination wedding. The beautiful Largo Resort was the perfect backdrop for such an affair- serene bungalows for their family and friends, lush foliage that made you feel as though you had stepped into an exotic destination, and crystal clear waters.

Peggy Russell from Destination Wedding Studio was at the helm of styling this event, and created an outdoor dinner experience under the palms that provided the perfect ambiance for the low-key, laid back Florida Keys affair.

I’m convinced Alys Beach is one of the prettiest places you can marry here in the states. A little gem tucked away on the Florida Panhandle, it’s backdrop to this charming wedding with must-see floral moments (hello, lush greenery!) designed by Myrtie Blue. No surprise, Lauren Kinsey captured in her signature fine art fashion and the film from Joshua Kidd is the cherry on top of this perfect cake.

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5 Ways to Involve Pets in Your Wedding

Hands down, there’s nothing better than a sweet fur baby making an appearance on your Big Day. So if your best friend happens to be an adorable pooch (or cat, or bird, or pig…), we’re teaming up with The Westin Birmingham to run down a list of 5 ways to include your loves in the most important celebration of your life. Prepare for a cuteness overload below.

ONE: AS THE CUTEST BEST MAN OR MAID OF HONOR EVER

There’s nothing cuter than a pet in a bow tie or floral crown, so when it comes to stealing the show (they will), let your sweetie shine as your Best Man or Maid of Honor. You’ll love it, your guests will love it and it will most definitely go down in history as one of your fave wedding moments.

Photography: Jose Villa

TWO: AS THE PERFECT FAVORS

Love your furry friend more than anything? Then be sure to pay tribute to them in every possible way. One of our faves? A cute little favor that also happens to be in the shape of their likeness. It’s taking “puppy treats” to an entirely new level and your guests will appreciate the ode to your sweet little pooch.

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography

THREE: AS YOUR INVITATION SHOWPIECE

Want your fur baby to make a giant wedding statement? Then include them in your invitation suite, so your nearest and dearest know just where your heart is. It’s creative, unique and, let’s be honest, sooo darn cute. We’re totally on board with this.

Photography: Brumley & Wells / Invitation Design: Karen O’Bryan

FOUR: AS CRAZY CUTE ESCORT CARDS

And speaking of paper, why not include Fido on your escort cards? Whether you’re having a romantic soiree, a modern celebration or something else entirely, it’s a detail that will leave everyone talking. We promise.

Photography: Jasmine Lee Photography

FIVE: AS THE MOST ADORABLE RING BEARER IN THE WORLD

Your nephew is definitely a cutie, but you know what’s even cuter? Having that sweet little guy walk your adorable pooch down the aisle. It’s a double dose of sweetness that will make your entire day. We promise.

Photography: Jose Villa

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From the cutest Best Man ever to a yummy treat your guests will love, including your fave fur baby in the celebration of the century is a definite must. Just be sure to book a pet-friendly venue like The Westin Birmingham, so that everything goes off without a hitch. Think breathtaking views of Uptown, an amazing locale close to awesome eateries and shopping and a team of talented wedding coordinators that will take your pet-centric celebration to the next level. You’re going to love every moment of your Big Day… and so will your best friend.

Photography: Jose Villa Photography | Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Photography: Brumley & Wells | Photography: Jasmine Lee Photography | Invitation Design: Karen O'Bryan

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Jose Villa Photography

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Finding the Perfect Combination of Rustic and Elegant

This is what winter in Florida looks like; a.k.a. gorgeous and I promise I’m only a tiny bit jealous. With styling and planning by Fabulous Chic Weddings, stunning film photography by The Ganeys and the perfect touch of rose gold, it all makes this rustic meets elegant celebration feel so, so luxurious.

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A Beach Wedding Inspired By Downton Abbey

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Outdoor Weddings

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Rustic

From Courtney of Fabulously Chic Weddings… The bride described how she wanted her wedding to look as “romantic, soft, classic, clean, rustic, and natural”. Ali wanted to accent the beautiful dusty blue shade with gold, rose gold, and the natural element of wood, for the perfect combination of rustic and sophistication. For the florals, the bride wanted mostly ivory flowers with hints of soft blue. We opted for greenery to tie into garden feel of the courtyard, and Queen Anne’s lace for a little more of the rustic feel. LaTavola’s Tuscany line was the perfect linen-like texture for the rustic look. The subtle blue shade “Ocean” brought the perfect blue-gray hue that didn’t look like a baby shower. With religion being such an important part of their lives, they opted to unite in front of an 8 foot tall wooden cross, accented with beautiful blue chiffon and garden florals. Although Ali wanted a beautiful wedding, at the end of the day, what was most important to her was how fun the day was. Ali and Brock opted to do a first look and family photos before the ceremony, which allowed them to enjoy the cocktail hour under the ambiance of the cafe lights and perfect Florida “winter” temperatures to the fullest. The detail the couple cared about the most was the donut bar. Bennet’s donuts are a favorite of the bride and groom’s. They were so excited to share the tasty treat, especially their favorite flavor, maple bacon, as a late night snack and favor for the guests to take home.

From Emily of Emily Katharine Photography… My favorite part of Ali & Brock’s wedding day was the first look. They opted to do something that most couples don’t to make this time even more unique. After their first look, they exchanged their wedding vows. They loved the idea that it was more intimate, and a way to make that commitment to each other with no other distractions. They both ended their vows with the same sentence, and after that, I lost it. It was a beautiful moment.

Take an English-inspired wedding design to Rosemary Beach, Florida and this is what you get. A day anchored in classic design with regal touches for that Downton Abbey vibe the bride sought to capture. Of course, her vendor crew including, Myrtie Blue and Shelby Peaden Events worked their magic behind the scenes and Lauren Kinsey didn’t miss a single moment.

When your bride describes her vision for her wedding as “‘Downton Abbey’ meets Rosemary Beach”, you know it’s going to be lovely. And when your bride and groom are as wonderful as Sara Kell and James, it’s even more lovely.

Sara Kell and James came to Rosemary Beach seeking a paired down version of what they imagined as a classic, English inspired wedding. From the creeping vines and other greenery foraged by Myrtie Blue to the classic Rolls Royce getaway car, every element of the day was thoughtfully planned and executed to perfection!

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Shelby Peaden Events

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Classic Black + White Oceanside Wedding

The vision for this Clearwater wedding was classic as can be. Think black and white elegance set oceanside, with an epic cocktail hour and dance party to keep guests partying well into the night. K and K Photography, LLC and Voila Cinematic captured all the fun, and we’re soaking up every last second.

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“Fairytale Garden Party” Style Wedding

From the Bride… My vision for the wedding was traditional. I wanted to keep everything very light and white and off-white. I wanted elegant black bridesmaid dresses and some light greenery incorporated into the flowers. The things that were important to me at the wedding were the band, the food (having lots of it), and all of the attendees having a great time. That was really the focus of my thought process. Once we locked in the best band in Florida (Heat Wave), created an epic cocktail hour (I describe it as “food falling from the ceiling” – it was everywhere) – I knew the guests would be happy.

My favorite moment was after the bridal party introduction when we all went right into a giant dance party – everyone was up and out of their seats. We jumped up and down to the Black-Eyed Peas “Tonight’s Gonna Be A Good Night” – it was the dance party of my dreams. I was so overwhelmed (in a positive way) that I couldn’t hold the tears back during our first dance. The night was magical.

In my humble opinion, blush pink is one of those colors that will never (and should never) go out of style. It’s sweet, it’s subtle, and it was the perfect color palette anchor for Briana and Patrick’s Sarasota wedding at the Ringling Museum. Designed around the idea of a fairytale garden party, the images by K&K Photography are one dreamy moment after another, including this happily ever after kiss you simply have to see.

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Museum

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A Ridiculously Stylish Miami Wedding

From the Bride… Patrick and I met at a bar in New York City during Hurricane Sandy. We lived in New York City together for two years before moving to Sarasota, Florida.

I wanted to plan my wedding a la carte – meaning I wanted to pick and choose each element to create an experience that transported my guests into a fairytale garden party. I wanted to create an environment that was all-encompassing and focused around a celebration of love, family, and incredible friendships. I found images online of what my wedding looked like in my mind and our wedding planner (Nicole) did an unreal job executing.

My color palette was white, blush and natural greens accented with gold. The venue could not have been more perfect for my vision and ended up being the perfect backdrop for photos. I knew I wanted sprawling greenery and overflowing orchids for the florals. I wanted ethereal lighting in the way of moonlight, string lights and chandeliers in the trees as opposed to any direct lighting or up lighting. It was important that I have long wooden feasting tables without linens, laden with gold trimmed plates and flatware that felt opulent but also inviting.

As most of our guests were traveling from New York and Massachusetts we wanted the food to be indulgent Florida fare and served an incredibly fresh and decadent menu (with the most incredible chef and catering staff, Fete!). My brother officiated the wedding and we entrusted him to craft a meaningful ceremony and he ended up setting the mood for the whole night with a dissertation on love, companionship and Kanye West’s “Bound 2”.

For my dress, I wanted something chic that felt like me (not like I was wearing a costume) – the dress I wore on my wedding day was actually my second dress after the first one was ruined by the tailor! Picking my dress and shoes and accessories was definitely the most fun! The bridesmaids dresses I found at Bloomingdales and fell in love with as they encapsulated the vision of my wedding, and they had pockets which the girls appreciated!

My one piece of advice for brides is to constantly remind yourself that this process should be FUN – don’t get caught up in things being perfect or feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, enjoy the journey and make sure you and your partner (and your parents, and bridesmaids…) are having fun every step of the way! Also, being meticulously organized will make the process so much easier.

If real weddings won medals, this one would undoubtedly snag the gold for chicness. With layers upon layers of thoughtfully designed style and Masi Events, Thierry Isambert Culinary + Event Design, Unearthed Vintage and Jarrell Entertainment working their magic behind the scenes, there’s no denying this day is one for the books. Kat Braman photographed, and the fun is only just getting started.

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Spring Weddings

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Estate Weddings

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Modern

From the Bride… We always knew we wanted our wedding to be outdoors and we wanted the reception to be one big fancy-dress dinner party with delicious food, free-flowing wine, and all night dancing.

The overall vision changed dramatically as we started out planning an October wedding in the Hudson Valley, which meant cool weather and warm fall colors. But we ended up wanting more of a warm weather destination feel and Miami is still hot and gorgeous in October. Carlos spent several years in Miami for his residency and still has great friends there. We went there together on our first weekend getaway, and try to go back at least once or twice a year. So it’s come to be a special place for both of us. And who doesn’t love a weekend in Miami?!

Stylistically I wanted to approach it the same way I would an interiors project – lots of small thoughtful details and layers that in the big picture added up to feel harmonious, striking a fine balance between an elegant black tie wedding and a good old fashioned throw down! Carlos and I love to throw parties and entertain our friends and family, so it was very important to us that the evening encapsulated that same sense of intimacy you would feel in our home.

Because the Deering Estate is such a spectacular setting, both indoors and outdoors, we let it do most of the work and kept the color palette and decorations very neutral and unobtrusive. My bridesmaids were super chic in a variety of black dresses and a jumpsuit, and the flowers were a flawless mix of whites, ivory and greenery. I spent hours and hours putting together inspiration boards for each aspect of the evening and my amazing team of vendors ran with it! They captured all the subtle nuances I was looking for and the night came together beautifully.

Our photographer, Kat Braman, was beyond words. We had already spent a weekend with her in New York taking photos at our home upstate and around Brooklyn. So we were really comfortable with her on the day of and felt confident that she would capture the essence of the celebration on film. And she did a fantastic job! We couldn’t have asked for better photos.

The entire weekend was filled with lots of little moments that meant so much to each of us. We both wanted live music for the ceremony and the cocktail hour. I grew up playing the cello and still think it’s the most beautiful sound in the world so that was a necessary for the ceremony. For the cocktail hour, we wanted something jazzy and loose. In came Chad Bernstein to the rescue. He’s a local musician (who also runs an amazing non-profit called Guitars Over Guns) that was recommended to me by a vendor. He put together a trio for the ceremony including himself on trombone, a cellist and a guitar and created a custom arrangement our music selections.

Carlos makes world-famous empanadas so we wanted to send everyone off at the end of the night with one of our favorite treats for the bus ride back to the beach. We ordered them from a local Argentine restaurant and they were delicious. Not as good as Carlos’ but a close second!

My maid of honor’s father officiated our wedding. We’ve known him for years and it was so special to have both of them standing up with us. I put the transcript for the ceremony and our vows into this lovely musical composition notebook and also used it as the guest book for the reception. In the back of it, I’ve saved lots of little mementos from the weekend so now we have one big scrapbook full of well-wishes and love, and lots of happy little reminders.

My father is a loquacious man, so we knew his welcome toast would be something to remember. But he surprised even me, bringing out a book I’d written in elementary school as a Father’s Day gift, listing all the things I liked about him, complete with illustrations. It was so sweet and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Then 10 minutes later I literally had to get up and remove the mic from him his hands. I don’t think anyone will forget that moment!
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My biggest piece of advice to other brides is if you don’t hire a videographer, ask someone to record the ceremony! I was having such an out-of-body experience during the ceremony, I didn’t even hear the music as I was walking to meet Carlos. All of our friends kept saying how beautiful the music was and I totally missed it! I would also love to be able to hear us saying our vows to each other again – we wrote our own and would love to relive that moment. That was, after all, what the entire day was about!

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Event Planning

Masi Events

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Pretty Shades of Berry + Blue Wedding for a Winter Wedding

A rich, jewel-toned color palette is one design decision I can always get behind, especially for a winter wedding like Lauren and David’s. They wed at St. Petersburg, Florida’s Museum of Fine Arts for a classic, wildly stunning setting and you can see every moment captured by The Ganeys.

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This Fashionista Bride Is Our New Girl Crush

From the Bride… David proposed in his hometown of Florence, Italy in the fall of 2015. As soon as we got back from our whirlwind trip of meeting his family and celebrating our engagement we started planning! Living in Florida I knew that I wanted a wedding in the cooler months and having a longer engagement sounded appealing after realizing everything that went into planning a wedding.

We knew we wanted to get married in downtown St. Petersburg so we could show off our city to all our family and friends! We looked around at a few different venues but I had my heart set on the Museum of Fine Arts early on. It is right next to a park with giant Banyon trees and backs up to the water and creates such a beautiful backdrop for our outdoor ceremony.

My dad built us a beautiful arbor that my sister-in-law decorated for us to stand under. Getting married in January made me want to have winter colors that still fit with our warm Florida weather. We went nontraditional with blue suits for the guys and burgundy dresses for my bridesmaids. I accented with lots of gold and kept the same color scheme inside for our reception.

Our nod to David’s heritage was a personal bottle of olive oil for all our guests with a family recipe attached. We had great blue up-lighting against the walls which created such a fun atmosphere for dancing after we finished our seated dinner. We chose not to do a send-off and instead celebrated into the night with all our family and friends!

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I think we can all agree Casandra is our new fashion idol. She geniusly paired a chic knee-length BCBG dress with a cathedral length veil for a nontraditional bridal look that stole the show. Big time. Her love Andy looked equally dapper as they wed in Panama City Beach, with Myrtie Blue behind every floral design moment. Pin your heart out in the photo gallery by Shannon Griffin Photography.

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Destination Estate Weddings

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From Shannon Griffin Photography… Casandra and Andy live in Brooklyn, but decided they wanted a beach, destination wedding. While they wanted it to feel like their guests were at the beach, they also made sure it felt elegant and timeless. They chose Brian of Myrtie Blue to do the florals with soft, romantic colors.

The bride wasn’t traditional in any sense and knew that a long and formal dress wasn’t for her. She chose a knee length BCBG dress with a gorgeous cathedral length veil. Casandra got ready at one of the beautiful homes in Carillon Beach and the ceremony took place in The Meeting House. The reception was tented and on the lawn next to The Meeting House. The ceremony was so full that they had to put chairs outside and people were still pouring in.

A Shape Magazine Editor Shares Her Dreamy Wedding Photos

Shape magazine’s Fitness Director, Jaclyn Emerick and her hubs Scott graced our pages back in November with their Florida e-session, and today these two are back to unveil the wedding day that followed. Set at the Watercolor Inn and Resort, Christina Gillon Events helped capture that organic, earthy vibe Jaclyn wanted and everyone – including the couple’s French bulldog, Chandler – took part in the festivities. Watch the day unfold with images captured by Lauren Kinsey.

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Spring Weddings

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This Mama-To-Be Bride was Glowing on Her Wedding Day

From the bride, Jaclyn… A mutual friend connected Scott and me, even though he was living in Los Angles and I was living in New York City. Our jobs took us to each other’s coast every couple of weeks, which was great but not quite enough. So three months later Scott made the decision to move to NYC. A year later we moved in together and a week later he proposed to me on a suspension bridge at dusk in the Costa Rican cloud forest.

Our relationship has always been about experiencing new things together, about exploring and adventuring and most importantly having fun. We wanted our wedding to feel that same way.

We had our wedding in Watercolor, Florida. My family moved there when I graduated college and it’s one of the most beautiful places in the country. Our ceremony was in a boathouse on a lily pad filled lake. Whenever we visit, we kayak or SUP on that lake, so it felt very authentic to us. And instead of hiding the boats and boards, I wanted people to see them so we had them out on the side deck. Our decor vibe was very rustic and earthy. We had fabric flowing from the ceilings and beautiful greens and flowers overflowing from overhead troughs. There were big candles lining the aisles and at the head of the room.

Local singer-songwriter, Chris Alvarado sang and played the guitar while guests entered. He sang an original song, Find Out Who We Are, while our families and we walked down the aisle (I wanted one full song rather than chopping up different songs for each “segment”). Scott and I both have a ton of close friends, but we are also both very close to our siblings, so instead of a traditional bridal party we decided to have my brother stand next to me and his sister and brother stand next to him. My brother walked our French bulldog pup, Chandler, down the aisle. She wore a flower collar and couldn’t get to the end fast enough. Our friend who introduced us performed our ceremony. People laughed more than they cried, which is exactly how we wanted it.

Our cocktail hour was a few feet away on a pool deck. (We didn’t want people to have to get in a car or walk far to get to each spot.) Chris continued to sing and play. We had lawn games (oversize Jenga, bags, ladder ball, and so on). It was so important to us that people had fun and like they didn’t always know what was coming next. We did our first dance outside (Chris sang Joshua Radin’s Lovely Tonight). Then we snuck away to the beach for sunset photos while our family and friends snacked and had cocktails.

Our reception was a few steps away and in the other, newer building on the lake called the Lake House. Guests entered to our big Motown band playing. Seating was up for grabs. It was a mix of long farm tables, high tops, and lounge spots with big couches and ottomans. Dinner was ready whenever. We wanted people to sit where they wanted, move when they wanted, and eat when and what they wanted, and to get out and dance when they wanted.

We had a lot of fun with our menu. We did five food stations and each station represented a city that had meant something to our relationship. For example, LA was tacos and Portland was mashed potatoes in an artisanal waffle cone with Pilsner gravy and toppings. In a way, none of the food actually went together, but it was so memorable to everyone because of the meaning behind it. We had a silly photo booth, a local artist made a big guest board for us out of reclaimed wood from a local beach walkover for family and friends to sign (it hangs in our bedroom now), the games remained outside for people to play when they stepped out to cool down.

My dad read a letter I wrote him when I was little. It was hysterical. Our cake looked like a beautiful tree, covered in flowers. The flower troughs were brought in and hung around the dance floor, there were candles and more draping and greens everywhere. Our band played all night (we extended the party to midnight). There were late night snacks (peanut butter, Nutella, and banana sandwiches, which is what we’d snack on after a late night out). The night ended with a ribbon tunnel. My brother pedaled Scott and me in a rickshaw across the street to the Inn.

There is something so special about having all of your most meaningful family and friends come together for one weekend to celebrate you. It’s something we’ll never forget. It all happened so fast but I am so thankful we have Lauren’s photos to be able to relive this night.

A wedding day in itself is already filled with so much joy. But when the Bride has a little extra reason to glow thanks to a sweet babe on the way? That joy is taken to the next level my friends and this beauty is proof. How lovely is that dress?! K and K Photography and Voila Cinematic captured Bob & Kristie’s entire day with such care and you can melt over it all in The Vault.

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Spring Weddings

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Romantic

From the Bride… After many years of thinking that ‘Happily Ever After’ was only a thing only in fairytales, we met and finally all of those cheesy, ooey-gooey, love-filled songs on the radio made sense. It was head over heels from day one…not your ordinary love, one of great magnitude and a depth that would make the ocean blush (I bet all of you brides reading this, can nod your head in agreement about your special someone, too!). We knew we were going to spend eternity together and start a family.

Okay, so you’ve found the perfect man—now you need to find the perfect venue, dress, flowers, cake, food… is your head starting to spin yet? I was in your shoes. Bob and I are very laid back and wanted our wedding to reflect that trait. We stumbled upon Cross Creek Ranch, as it is just minutes from our home and had stellar reviews—we had to see it for ourselves. From the first visit with the extremely helpful staff and coordinators there (that will soon turn into members of your own family) we knew we had our dream venue. Majestic oak trees, winding pathways, blooming gardens, and rustic character touches make this property stand out from your typical ‘cookie-cutter’ venue.

As if this venue was not naturally stunning as it, Alta Fleura shipped in over 10,000 flowers to add a sense (and smell) of romanticism. This extremely skillful team assembled a live flower wall that weighed over 800 lbs and smelled even more fragrant than it weighed! They covered the bridge that quaintly stretched over the bubbling brook below. Everywhere your eyes took you, there were flowers splashed so elegantly, accentuating the beautiful decor.

We chose soft blush and gold tones to play up the romantic, free-flowing, relaxed atmosphere that we had in our minds. Most importantly, we wanted our guests to have fun, feel comfortable, and soak up all the love in the air. Think about all of those boring, drawn-out, look at your watch every 10 minute kind of weddings that you had the ‘pleasure’ of attending (sorry, but you know what I’m talking about!) Our friends and family have been there for us through it all and we wanted our wedding to be but a small gift to them for all that they have done. Think about it, these are your most favorite people in the world!

After a teary-eyed first peek, where we exchanged cards to one another, it was time to say ‘I Do’. Pastor Brian led the ceremony inside the chapel that had 150 year old wood floors & our famous flower wall… I wish I could have one in my house 24/7! The ceremony was sentimental, had a few crowd-pleasing laughs, tears, and of course a BIG KISS! Pastor Brian was very down to earth and relatable, enough that our guests felt the connection to us and to their special someone as well. It was short and sweet. The perfect amount… we said I Do and everyone walked across the lawn to cocktail hour, just outside the rustic barn area where they were greeted with our signature drinks: “Something Blue” and “Say ‘I DO’ Sangria”. Everyone loved them!

No one wants to be stuck in uncomfortable shoes, sweating hot and listening to elevator music, so I made sure to have some fun DIY crafts on hand: Lavender Oshiburi towels (refrigerated) to keep guests cool, hand-held fans to ensure you were feeling the breeze, flip flops by the dance floor so no on had an excuse NOT to get up and bust-a-move, and a few other personal touches. We truly made our wedding day our own… and it was so special, not just for us but for everyone involved.

The sun began to set, dinner was in our bellies, cake served, and everyone was still talking about how VESH Catering & Alessi Bakery truly delivered—this was not your typical wedding food and our cake was moist and flavorful! Okay, now I’m daydreaming about prime rib and chocolate cheesecake layered cake. The bonfire was lit and s’mores were a huge hit with our guests, who doesn’t feel like a worry-free kid again eating gooey s’more?!

K&K Photography and Violá Cinematic immersed themselves into our wedding, they were extremely professional without being stale and the ‘typical’ stand here, say cheese, do this, do that kind of photographer/cinematographer. They allowed us to be ourselves… laugh, crack jokes, shed a sentimental tear, and enjoy the moment. The photos and videos truly reflect the love and fun that was at our wedding.

My favorite part of our wedding day, is that our Son, Tyler was able to experience it with us… from inside my tummy. Yes, I was 6 1/2 months pregnant at the time of my wedding. It was a beautiful experience. Having said that… most brides would cringe about trying to locate a dress for their ever-growing baby bump. My dress, with the help & style guidance from the super-fun employees of The White Magnolia, could not have been any more perfect. It was ‘me’, not ‘pregnant me’. I loved how it was tailored in just the rights spots and free-flowing and whimsical.

When going to plan your special day, my advice is to think of things from your guest’s perspective. Don’t go overboard trying to plan every minute, but think about what’s important to you and yours & share those elements with your guests. It will authenticate your special day and allow everyone to partake in that grand love you two share. Wishing you all a beautiful wedding and a story-book love that lasts until the end of time.

Looking for that perfect seaside locale? We’ve got the answer right here.

Celebrating your “I do’s” in paradise is sort of the end-all, be-all of glam weddings – and when it comes to finding that perfect locale to host your drop-dead gorgeous “party of the century”, The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel has you totally covered. Think world-class resorts, seriously stunning ocean views and wedding pros that will make all of your dreams come true. It doesn’t get better than this, loves… take a look below.

Destination weddings are all about kicking back with your toes in the sand, sippin’ those tasty libations and really, really pampering yourself AND all the ones you love. Whether that’s a day of fun-filled activities (hello, kayaking and beachside yoga), or simply spending some luxurious time in a Sanibel spa. That’s the beauty of The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel… with a plethora of amazing resorts and inns to choose from, you’re guaranteed a weekend (or week!) of total fun. From your sure-to-be awesome bachelor + bachelorette parties, to those breathtaking “I do’s” with the ocean waves crashing in the distance and the goodbye brunch with your nearest and dearest, it’s a vacation of a lifetime meets a beautiful wedding celebration. Ah, yes… that’s the best way ever to tie the knot.

We can’t say it enough, you guys… contact The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel TODAY to start planning that dream destination wedding with wedding experts that know everything about celebrating your “I do’s” in paradise. Then enter for your chance to win a romantic getaway for a much-needed preview. Details are below!

What: The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel is giving away a romantic getaway! See why there is no better place to say, “I do” and honeymoon.

How: Pin your “I do” and honeymoon, too! Choose your favorite wedding venue and honeymoon destination from The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel’s Pinterest board for a chance to win!

Who: One lucky person will win a three-night stay for two in a gorgeous Southwest Florida resort, plus a $1,000 travel voucher from Expedia!

To Enter and for Terms & Conditions: Click Here

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Soccer Star Dax McCarty Weds College Sweetheart

With every wedding feature I have the honor of putting together, I usually have a first impression moment. This one? Was most definitely the gorgeous Bride in that Pronovias dress. Mr. Dax McCarty, you are one lucky Groom sir. And then you’ve got these two cuties that are the cherry on top. Get ready to smile in The Vault with Kristen Weaver‘s captures.

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Saturday Morning Movie: Fast Track Love

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Country Club

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Romantic

From Kristen Weaver… Dax and Jen met on the campus of Rollins College nearly a decade ago. Now, the MLS Soccer star (formerly captain of the NY Red Bulls) and his college sweetheart chose the chapel at Rollins to marry! They’re wedding was simple and classic. Jenn wore a stunning Pronovias gown from Kleinfeld Bridal and Dax wore a sophisticated black tuxedo. Their dogs were front and center—Coji and Bali wore floral collars and joined their guests for the ceremony.

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Wedding Dresses

Pronovias

ATELIER PRONOVIAS

PRONOVIAS

Dancing Lights, Cruise Collection

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When you know, you know and this groom knew. And we shouldn’t be surprised; considering he’s a racecar driver, he lives life in the fast lane. So after three months of dating, he proposed and well, the rest is one beautiful happily ever after. But not before we get to hear all the details on this short and sweet courtship courtesy of Sixpence Productions’ film right this way!

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