The future is looking a bit brighter for our wedding and event celebrations here in the sunny Florida Keys! With an opening date to tourism on June 1st, we’ve been brainstorming ideas with our fellow vendors on the best way to transition back into weddings and events! Together, we’ve compiled the things that you can expect when finalizing details with each of your vendors. ​
​All photography by La Vie Studios

Kat Newman, owner of Ceremonies by Kat, brings good news: you do not need to worry about your wedding officiant wearing a surgical mask during your ceremony! Could you even imagine those wedding photos? Rather, expect your officiant to keep 6’ away from you and your bridal party during the ceremony.  

With distancing in place, we want to make sure your guests can hear every magical moment! Unfortunately, microphones have always been subject to germs. For that reason, your wedding officiant will likely request a personal lavaliere (aka clip on) microphone. “I will be using my wireless lavaliere mics for all officiants so they never have to touch it”, says Florida Keys wedding DJ, Russ Ginsberg of Florida Keys Wedding DJ.  

In addition, Kat Newman strongly suggested against the ‘exit detail’. Throwing dried petals, confetti, beach balls or blowing bubbles will need to be placed on hold to avoid a cloud of germs around our beloved couple’s ceremony finale. Instead, may we suggest elegant satin streamers with wedding bells like these? ​

Russ Ginsberg may also be implementing a new way to request songs; Offering the guests a special phone number or portal to text their favorite tunes will reduce the amount of face-to-face contact and still keep everyone out on the dance floor. Russ also intends to have at least two microphones, one for Master of Ceremonies and one for guests’ speeches.  
Another way to collect wedding song requests will likely be in the form of request cards. 

Florida Keys wedding DJ, Shawn Stazzone of Aries Entertainment explains that the cards would be placed at the guest tables, and can be collected throughout the night (while wearing gloves) to keep everyone’s favorites on the playlist!  

A wedding song request book (similar to a guest book), where guests could write in their preferences could be placed in a convenient area for the DJ to reference. Some DJ’s have also been seen with plexiglass facades, and even LED masks! The point? No matter which options you choose, you can be sure that the Florida Keys wedding celebration will go on! ​

Florida Keys Bridal Team owner Linda Schonning gave us insight into how her team will operate. She wanted to be clear that their make up & hair kits have always been sterilized before and after every wedding, and they will continue to do so.  

As Florida Keys wedding hair and beauty stylists, it’s part of their job to lean in close and create the perfect bridal look you’ve always envisioned. The lips, the lashes, the curls! So to continue with social distancing while still creating a flawless look, their team will have face shields, masks and gloves for the safety of both parties. In addition, they will be limiting services to no more than two ladies at a time. And as always, Linda works closely with your Florida Keys wedding planner to ensure the timeline remains smooth and stress free! 

Something we loved to hear that is so important is how they are avoiding a ‘double dipping’ situation with their products. Linda ensured that each bridal party member will have a unique set of brushes. In addition, items like wax paper, spatulas, and disposable brushes will assist in the effort as well.  

And for our favorite part! Florida Keys Bridal Team is now offering custom make up brush sets for your leading ladies! What a great way to make your gals feel extra special while getting ready! It’s little touches like these that will create silver linings during the transition! ​

Your Florida Keys wedding photographer is with you almost all day, from getting ready to the grand farewell. Most photography teams are made up of 2-6 shooters so it’s important to know you are safe while working with them.  
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So what to expect? Florida Keys wedding photographer, Claudia Rios Photography informs us that she will be using a stronger camera lens so that she can zoom in close enough for those intimate ceremony & sunset moments and still keep to the required 6’ distancing standard.  

And when it is required to be in the bridal suite or other contained areas, a mask will be worn. Knowing that photography is often of the highest importance at weddings, Claudia reassures her couples: “I will also be taking precautions such as sanitizing my hands and my photography equipment throughout the day. I will ensure that the environment my guests are photographed in is safe and comfortable. My clients are a priority.”  ​

Let’s keep things sweet! We spoke with Florida Keys wedding cake maker Nancy Davila at Unique D’Lites Custom Cakes to see what ideas she’s been baking up for her clients. With the restrictions on travel, she is offering the option to ship Tasting Boxes to the customer for larger events (weddings, quinces, etc.) for a package price. Nancy explains “Since travel is going to be limited for now, this would be something customers can look forward to. Especially couples planning on their wedding for next year.”  

She has also updated her website to make browsing designs and flavors, and even ordering cakes (yes, wedding cakes too) online possible.

Lastly, Unique D’Lites is not requiring deposits as a way of showing empathy to her customers. As planners, we always suggest putting some type of deposit down when booking any vendor, but knowing that your vendor has a warm heart is worth it’s weight in cupcakes. ​

The Florid Keys wedding vendor on everyone’s mind? Food & beverage services. Elena of Green Turtle Catering confirms that yes, they will be wearing masks and gloves when in the presence of your food, service items & your attendees. We suggest offering them comfortable masks that fit your wedding theme to keep the situation as light as possible. There are so many options for custom designs via Etsy, we love trendy printed ones like these. 

As wedding planners, if you intend to have stations or a buffet, we like to invite your guests as a personal touch and to limit the line. This is especially important now, and we plan to limit this to 10 persons at a time in a steady flow. We will also be ensuring that the wedding catering service staff is assisting on buffet (wearing masks and gloves) so that guests will not be handling serving utensils.  

With everyone trying to keep safe, it seems like disposable items are currently at war with sustainable living. We suggest using biodegradable items wherever it seems reasonable, especially at your bar. These cups are the perfect way to show your guests you are thinking of them and our planet. ​

​"Wendy & her team helped to execute our day flawlessly and bring our vision to life! From ensuring our vendors, bridal party & overall event remained on schedule to navigating last minute adjustments due to weather, Wendy handled it all, and made it so that we could relax and enjoy our special day as a couple.

We knew that planning an Islamorada wedding in FL while living in NY would be a challenge, but with Wendy & her team guiding us thru it, our dream wedding was able to become a reality.

Thank you so much, we couldn't have done this without you!"
​- Mrs. Kelsey Rubin

THE PARADISE DESTINATION: This Islamorada wedding took place at Postcard Inn in the Florida Keys.

BUBBLES + BRIDESMAIDS

THE ENTOURAGE

THE FIRST LOOK (break out the tissues!): Postcard Inn had a ton of great photo opps for this Islamorada wedding!

MAKING IT OFFICIAL

THE CELEBRATION

THE FRATERNITY SERENADE

THE EPIC LOVE

Vendor Applause:
@ashtynbrooke
@shutdownproductions
Bongo D
@keys_audio
@linensandmorefl
@marathonflorist
​@pciholidayisle

A vibrant event with a stellar menu, amidst an unforgettable weekend of celebrating - this was everything Colleen & Michael looked forward to on their South Florida wedding day. Working with Colleen on the design was so exciting, combining her love of bright colors and tropical touches was perfect for the Florida Bay backdrop at Coconut Palm Inn. 
Guests were welcomed with a refreshing Rum Punch and bamboo weaved hand fan to keep them cool as they awaited the bride, and the theme of paradise continued through the entire event. Gorgeous images by Stacia Morgan Photography. 

The beautiful lush tropical arrangements by the talented team of A Lavish Event Design!

The final design made our hearts sing, the colors and elements feel so joyful!

Vendor Applause:
Venue - Coconut Palm Inn
Photography - Stacia Morgan Photography
Rentals - Keys Audio Party Rentals
Catering - Chef Drew's Island Catering
Music - Florida Keys Wedding DJ
Florist - A Lavish Event Design
Beauty - Ciao Bella Salon
Shuttle - Emerald Transportation
Signage - Art by Ginger

They say if you love something, let it go and it will come back to you. Colleen & Michael reconnected after many years, and for a second time they felt that spark. The spark turned into chemistry, and the chemistry turned into a love that they knew would last a lifetime. They decided to make it official, and what better way than to celebrate with their toes in the sand in paradise?!
Coconut Palm Inn is an intimate tropical setting to invite their family & friends, and take over the resort for themselves. This allowed them to keep the party going for the entire weekend, taking in the sunny days and good times. 
Wedding day images below by Michelle Lawson Photography, you can just feel the joy come through the photos that was had that day!

Frozen essential oil towelettes were a refreshing way for guests to cool down before the ceremony.

Bright tropical florals by Floral Fantasy complimented the joyous celebration!

Mouthwatering action stations by Chef Drew's Island Catering added to the fun-loving feel of the event!

Vendor Applause:
Venue: Coconut Palm Inn
Officiant: Ceremonies by Kat
Photography: Michelle Lawson Photography
Caterer: Chef Drew's Island Catering
Florist: Floral Fantasy
Rentals: Keys Audio Party Rentals
Entertainment: Rusty Lemmon

Moana is a Hawaiian story of mystic adventure along sandy shores and dreamy coral reefs. We fall in love with the vibrant colors and sense of magic that the film brings to your heart. When our talented friend Stacia Morgan Photography asked us to join in on the style & design of this photo shoot, it was an easy yes for us! 
Our backdrop is one of our favorite hidden gems in Key Largo. With lush scenery, stunning open sunset views, and hand-crafted foreign details, Largo Resort became our paradise Hawaii island for the day. The stellar team created scenes of our own story telling. And the couple modelling made the moments real, with candid laughter and moments of their true relationship. 
We hope you enjoy all the creativity and talent packed into this inspiring photo shoot! 

Isn't this drift wood arch insanely gorgeous? AND it's included with the venue!

Hand carved furniture imported from Bali create the perfect island vibe for day of "aloha".

Fabulous florals and a three tier tiki cake - all the details came together in perfect harmony!

Like moments from an island dream... we are just swooning over these photos!

Lovely cinematic film by Sky Born Visual:

The Dream Team:
Venue: Largo Resort
Photographer: Stacia Morgan Photography
Videography: Sky Born Visual
Decor & Design: Key Destination Weddings
Wedding Cake: Unique D'Lites
Flowers: Studio South
Hair & Make Up: Ciao Bella Salon
Stationary: Kitty's Hand Krafted

There's a certain charm to a Florida Keys wedding that you can't replicate. Sapphire ocean, salt air, plush sandy beaches, and breezy palm trees set the ambiance for vows in the sunshine and a celebration under the stars. The string of islands offers everything you could dream of for a romantic getaway.
Cheeca Lodge of Islamorada gives the picture-perfect paradise setting to commit your best life to each other. We congratulate the new Mr. & Mrs. Skuta on their joyous wedding day!
Beautiful photography by one of our favorite teams, Lisa & Greg Poland:

How fun is this confetti cannon? What a great way to celebrate you best day ever!

Vendor Applause:
Venue: Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Florist: Floral Fantasy
Photography: Lisa & Greg Poland
Rentals: Keys Audio Party Rentals
Ceremony Music: Pan Paradise
Reception Music: DJ Gunz
Cake: Unique D'Lites Custom Cakes

They say water and wine don't mix, but you will be persuaded otherwise after this post!
Lauren & Mike chose Dolphin Point Villas to celebrate their love with their intimate group of family & friends. The were drawn in by the warm sunset, modern villas, and enchanting dolphins. They even had one of the talented mammals paint a canvas in blues & purples, which was transferred in to a print for their wedding invitations. Now that is what we call personal touch!
Lauren was sure to include many elements to show their appreciation of vino. Wine boxes donned with wild-style florals, a custom oversized bottle acted as their guest book, and corks accented their guest tables. Enjoy this surprisingly well paired theme, and undoubtedly well paired Mr & Mrs!
Photography by the fearless Stacia Morgan:

Stunningly wild, the florals from Eufloria by Sarah felt fresh-picked and perfectly designed for the vinyard-by-the-sea theme.

Stunning cheese boards to pair with the self-service wine & cocktails bar - yes please!

We don't have to tell you that love is sweet, just try a piece of Unique D'Lites delicious cake and you'll fall in love too!

Vendor Applause!
Venue: Dolphin Point Villas
Photographer: Stacia Morgan
Rentals: Keys Audio Party Rentals
Florals: Eufloria
Catering: Mangrove Mike's Catering
Cake: Unique D'Lites Custom Cakes
Hair & Make Up: Green House Salon

Toes in the sand, a fun reggae band, and seaside vintage flare. Katie wanted something creative and unique for her day, without going over the top. The day was simply decorated, yet filled with Katie & Nick's personalities. After looking over many venues they settled on Baker's Cay Resort for their Key Largo wedding. Mind you, the resort was not yet open so they took a very big risk hoping it would be the venue of their dreams. We knew they would fall in love, as the resort checked off all of their must haves; Beach ceremony & reception under the stars, amazing Florida bay view, eco-friendly and historically interesting. 
Their day was complete with sea grape & orchid arrangements, family heirloom accents, and a breathtaking sunset! Wishing them many more evenings together, sipping on cocktails and watching the sun fade into the water. Enjoy the Key Largo wedding celebration all caught by Margeaux Boles Photography!

Are we in Greece or Key Largo? This entire venue is quite the hidden gem!

A naturally stunning backdrop for Nick & Katie's "I Do's"

Vendor Applause:
Venue: Baker's Cay Resort
Accent Decor: Linens & More
Rentals: Keys Audio Party Rentals
Florist: Studio South
Photography: Margeaux Boles
Band: The Freecoasters
Hair & Make Up: Green House Salon

On the first of a string of Caribbean islands is a hidden gem full of natural beauty, Largo Resort. Lillian & Brad had booked their wedding oasis sight-unseen, and were taken away by the combined ambiance of imported Bali decor and Florida Keys slow tropic living. They spent their weekend with their favorite people & ever-loved pup, Marie. (Who doesn't love a pet-friendly wedding?!) The now newly-weds wanted an unforgettable experience for the whole group. With simple complimentary decor and fun activities scattered over the entire vacation, Lillian & Brad said I Do forever. 
​
Beautifully captured candid moments and precious details by La Vie Studios, enjoy!

What better way to prepare for the best day of your life than to embrace the Key Largo way of life, a cocktail & cool dip!

We love a fun beach ball exit! Don't worry, Marie was on clean up and no sea life was harmed :)

Vendor Applause:
Venue: Largo Resort
Caterer: Green Turtle
Florist: Floral Fantasy
Photo & Video: La Vie Studios
Entertainment: Bay Kings Band
Beauty: Green House Salon
Signage: Art by Ginger
Ice Cream Cart: Key Largo Chocolates

Jessica's family has been long time friends with our planner Carin, so when she reached out with her engagement news we were over the moon excited to help plan her wedding! Jessica & Travis chose the luxurious historical Biltmore Miami to exchange their vows. The ornate character and charm of the resort that the venue is known for makes any occasion special, but when you pair it with a talented vendor group and a stunning design - you get magic. 
The vision was totally unique: powder blue, vivid garden hues, wooden accents. We love a bride who isn't afraid of color and knows what she wants! The florist Anthology Co. brought to life the garden theme with enchanting blooms and custom made twisted trees for add whimsy feel. Special lighting effects transformed the ballroom into another world where love and beauty shined over our couple all night long.
Please enjoy all the details and moments by J Photography, and cinema by Gannon Studios:

Between the love pouring from the groom's expression, and the ladies dreamy blue dresses we're just swooning!

Wooden accent decor for their welcome table, and cake stand were hand crafted by the groom as an added personal touch.

Anthology Co. created custom floral installations that turned this historical building into a whimsical garden wonderland!

Lose yourself in the romantic video created by the cinematic talents of Gannon Studios:

Vendor Applause:
Venue: Biltmore Miami
Wedding Cake: Earth & Sugar
Florals: Anthology Co.
Linens: Nuage Designs
Rentals: Elements & Accents
Photography: J Photography by Jessi Caparella
Videography: Gannon Studios
Officiant: Dr. Kenneth Claus
Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Strings Trio: AA Musicians
Reception DJ & MC/Specialty Lighting: Sarz Entertainment
Photo Booth: Mirror Me 24kt
Beauty Team: A’Laison Salon