Tara and Alan had two priorities: a passport-free wedding venue with destination vibes, and a place where their two families could make lasting memories together over a long weekend. “We loved the idea of being able to host a full weekend of events at our own private resort.” Tara shares about her chosen venue, Coconut Palm Inn, located in the upper Florida Keys. We're delighted to share their day full of tropical details and blissful emotions, all captured by Stacia Morgan Photography. 2025 Trend Alert! We're spotting vibrant colors and coordinated yet eclectic attire, especially in tropical destinations. Tara went truly tropical with exotic florals by Island Blooms, thoughtfully paired with bamboo and wicker accents. The couple’s award-winning photographer, known for her vibrant work, was a perfect fit. You can follow her work on the gram @staciamorganphotography. She continues, “We knew that we wanted to host a long weekend filled with events, so having the resort to ourselves for the three days was perfect. We were able to host a rehearsal dinner, pool party, wedding, and brunch all at the resort. Not only that, the resort itself is magical. The second we walked onto the property we knew this was it.” “Al and I had been taking dance lessons for a few weeks prior to the wedding. We were quite serious about it and really wanted to nail our first dance. When its time for our dance the beat of the song was slightly off and Al completely blanked and forgot the dance. Luckily I was able to lead us and we made it through. Funny part is that everyone loved it and had no clue we messed up!”, says Tara sharing a little secret with us! This beach beauty also reveals that her “favorite part of the planning was the actual day of the wedding. I was completely stress free, and everything was organized and running smoothly.” Tara & Alan’s best advice to newly engaged couples? “Don’t stress! There were times when I was so stressed for no reason. Try to enjoy the process as much as you can. Also… get a wedding planner!” Vendor Applause:
Planning: Key Destination Weddings Venue: Coconut Palm Inn Catering: Chef Drew's Island Catering Dessert: Maggie's Bakery Florist: Island Blooms Rentals: Keys Audio Party Rentals Steel Drums: Bob Lyons Reception Music: DJ Mayner Beauty: Beautiful Bride of the Florida Keys Photobooth: HNO Productions
0 Comments
We are all about palm trees & puppies, which made this wedding and easy one to fall in love with. Amanda & Nathan married at the sunset-facing Dolphin Point Villas, where they could celebrate with all of their loved ones, their fur-baby, and the dolphins! The event details spoke to natural ambiance of the bayside Key Largo location, and also to the unique personalities that were joined on the beach point. LV Photography captures all the love effortlessly - scroll and enjoy! Getting ReadyFirst LookCeremonyWedding Party Processional – “Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo Bridal Processional – “Helpless’ by Minnz Pimno Recessional – “You Sexy Thing” by Hot Chocolate Keller was the bestest boy as he filmed all of the guests arriving and had the best seat to watch his parents unite their lives! ReceptionIntimatesDancingFirst Dance – “Is this Love” by Luke Burr Last Dance – “Friends in Low Places” – Garth Brooks Vendor Applause:
Photography – LV Photography Planning – Key Destination Weddings & Events Venue – Dolphin Point Villas Catering – Miami Grill Catering Wedding Cake – Key Lime Pie Lady Personal Flowers – Floral Fantasy Rentals – Keys Audio Party Rentals Specialty Furniture – Flaming Flamingo Palm Tree Rentals – Shady Business Band – Bay Kings Band Beauty – Ciao Bella ![]() Today, we're thrilled to share the story of Stephanie and Mark's Key Largo wedding at the beautiful Ocean Reef Club. From their heartwarming journey as childhood friends to their breathtaking celebration at the Ocean Reef Club, this San Francisco couple's special day was an unforgettable experience. Stephanie and Mark's love story began way back in 7th grade, where their friendship blossomed on the cross-country team. Who would have thought that calling Mark her "gal pal" would eventually lead them to the altar? Fast forward to their senior year of high school, and they discovered their compatibility was off the charts. Being friends for so long and sharing a similar background made the transition into dating a breeze. When it came to choosing their Key Largo wedding venue, Stephanie and Mark knew they wanted something extraordinary. The Ocean Reef Club had become their home away from home over the years, brimming with cherished memories. It felt only natural to say their vows in a place that held so much meaning. Throughout the whirlwind wedding planning process, Stephanie and Mark entrusted their vision to their talented Key Largo wedding planner, Wendy. From initial inspiration to pulling it all together, Wendy guided them with expertise and care. Stephanie had always envisioned a dreamy affair with a white monogrammed dancefloor and cascading flowers, and Wendy worked her magic to make it a reality. One of the standout features was the consistent monogramming, creatively designed by Carole Obernesser from CSO Creatives. The couple's initials with palm motifs were present on everything from the invitations, dancefloor, programs, menus, and even an ice sculpture! It added a touch of personalized elegance throughout the event. But it wasn't just about the monograms. Stephanie and Mark injected their playful spirit into the celebration with unique touches. Guests couldn't resist the charm of the tequila foreman ice luge, which quickly became a crowd favorite. The cigar bar provided a relaxed atmosphere for those seeking a break from the dancefloor. And let's not forget the unforgettable welcome party, complete with a mesmerizing fire dancer, mouthwatering tacos, and glow-in-the-dark golf into the lagoon. Talk about setting the mood for an unforgettable weekend! Of course, a wedding wouldn't be complete without sensational entertainment. Stephanie and Mark's 12 piece band, Libido, brought the house down, captivating their guests from the moment they stepped into the ballroom. The continuous music during dinner created an energetic ambiance that had everyone raving. Now, as they embark on their journey as a married couple, Stephanie and Mark have some wisdom to share. They advise future lovebirds planning their own Key Largo weddings to relax and focus on each other. Your friends and family are simply delighted to be in the Keys, sipping drinks by the pool and enjoying a fantastic vacation. Trust that the magic of the destination will create an unforgettable experience for everyone. And, of course, find a skilled and organized Key Largo wedding planner like Wendy to alleviate stress and allow you to savor every moment.
We hope you've enjoyed this sneak peek into Stephanie and Mark's remarkable wedding day – a celebration perfectly curated by Key Largo wedding planner, Wendy Cole of Key Destination Weddings and Events. Don't forget to check out the stunning photos captured by La Vie Studios, as they beautifully showcase the love and joy that surrounded this unforgettable day. 'Meet me by the sea' seemed to be the theme within the planning of Hailey & Calvin's wedding plans. With a proposal well planned with an epic Pacific view, Calvin asked for forever atop a cliff in Palos Verdes - followed by a helicopter tour and complete with dinner on the California coast. When choosing their wedding day venue, it was a clear choice to share their love from coast-to-coast and say I do in the Florida Keys! Hailey was also clear on the vision: flirty, modern, minimal. Heavy on the white, styled with Bali-inspired accents (in honor of their first vacation together). The Islander Resort offers a rolling lawn with an oasis of palm groupings on the edge of an expansive panoramic beachfront. The perfect setting to create the dream celebration for Hailey & Calvin, all captured intentionally by the lovely Yolanda Hill Photography. The applique lace and sheer illusion of Hailey's dress had more than the groom swooning over her bridal look! From the champagne monogram to the hand selected postcard guestbook, thoughful details were important in making this day truly their own. Dear Wendy: We are so grateful to you. You made our wedding planning process so easy and working with you was a great pleasure. Thank you for all the hours behind the scenes! We could not have done this without you! 'The Jacobs' Vendor Applause!
Planning: Key Destination Weddings Venue: Islander Resort Florist: A Lavish Event Design Specialty Furniture: Elements & Accents Event Rentals: Keys Audio Party Rentals Photography: Yolanda Hill Videography: Falcon HD Videos Officiant: Ceremonies by Kat Entertainment: DJ Trakz Beauty: Florida Keys Bridal Team If you ever feel stuck in your planning, or are unsure of a decision on design or tradition - ask yourself, is this timeless? This question answers most hesitation as every couple wants to look back 10 years later and still fall in love with their wedding design and celebration. Olivia and her mom came to us unsure of their vision for the overall wedding weekend, but knew it had to be tropical, modern and timeless. Olivia also has a very cool and edgy vibe, so we wanted to incorporate her personality. With Kenny living across country in Alaska, Olivia also wanted to highlight how they met - on a cruise! Coming full circle back to the Ocean's edge for their union felt perfect. And so, they chose the luxurious Cheeca Lodge & Spa for their I Do's! The design included classic colors, with black & gold lines, and lush greenery to accent the tropic setting. Stacia Morgan captures on the details below! The wedding bliss continued with a stunning intimate photo shoot the following day! Vendor Applause:
Venue: Cheeca Lodge & Spa Lighting: Keys Audio Party Rentals Furniture Rentals: Elements & Accents Linens: Nuage Design Florist: Lavish Event Design Photography: Stacia Morgan Hair & Make Up: Ciao Bella Entertainment: Miami DJs Wedding Cake: Maggie's Bakery Signage: Blue Thistle Studio
It was March 2020 if I remember correctly, when Kaley and Michael came to us with over-the-moon excitement to plan their wedding day - I correct myself - their best day ever. The rest of the world was in chaos, yet they found everlasting light in their love and eagerness to share in celebration. We welcomed their ignited passion and were ready to plan all the details - even though we were over a year from their big day. As planners, we know that day comes too quickly, and jump at any opportunity to begin the creative process.
Kaley's vision was clear: neutral & lush bohemian oasis. And the first step was easy - Largo Resort was an ideal venue for the island-whimsy ambiance of the celebration. And the rest of the vendors fell into place like the confetti over our bride-to-be. Please take your time to enjoy this special occasion, and in our hearts, everything that wedding day vibes should be! Photography and video (at the end!) by our very talented friends at La Vie Studios :
Scent-sory Inspiration: gift each other a signature scent for the big day. Anytime you wear it following your wedding, your all the best memories will fill the moment!
Planner Tip: Use social media as place for inspiration. Be sure to include your own style and personal touches. This is your day and it should reflect the two of you.
A sweetheart table allows you to have your first dinner as husband and wife. With so much happening on wedding day, it's such an important time together to slow down and connect as newlyweds. And we love the idea of creating an extra-special design with lux seating and full florals just for your VIP table!
![]()
Just us note on how obsessed we are with this ice cream cart. Dessert perfection!
Vendor Applause & Ovation:
Venue: Largo Resort Planning: Key Destination Weddings Photography: La Vie Studios Catering: Dade County Food Group Florals & Installation: Floral Fantasy Entertainment: Rusty Lemmon X DJ Buggy Sparkler Boxes: HNO Productions Local Rentals:Keys Audio Party Rentals Specialty Rentals:Elements & Accents Tent: Sperry Tent Officiant:Ceremonies by Kat Beauty: Lashes & Curls Studio / Industry Hair Company Ice Cream Cart:Key Largo Chocolates Balloons: The Balloon Faktory Transportation: Island Time Trolley Of all seasons, Spring is a time to embrace color and sunshine! Something about the color fuchsia pops just right among a tropical landscape and Caribbean blue water. During our planning sessions, we loved that Jessica & Paul weren't afraid to show their personality while keeping the design for their best day ever truly timeless. In the theme of vibrant and classic, they chose Margeaux Boles to capture their love and all the details. Her vivid perspective was the perfect pairing - and after two years of waiting to shoot this special day, she absolutely delivered! From the groom: "She was so wonderful to work with. She kept Jessica and I smiling the entire time. She knew just how to capture the perfect picture. We have since received our sneak peak and WOW!!! Jessica and I are beyond speechless with how unbelievably beautiful these pictures are!!! The quality, the color, the lighting, the amazing backgrounds." Please enjoy this stunning day, every single second: Baker's Cay Resort will always have a special place in our hearts, and this elegant ceremony design has become one for the books! Hugging the natural arch of the Buttonwood trees, lush greenery and pops of Phalaenopsis compliment the white sugary sand of this Key Largo coast. Bravo Floral Fantasy on this gorgeous arrangement! Color us in love! We are obsessing over Jessica & Paul's paradise postcard station! Oh, and that view ;) Vendor Applause: Venue: Baker's Cay Resort Planning & Design: Key Destination Weddings Photo: Margeaux Boles Photography Officiant: Ceremonies by Kat Florist: Floral Fantasy Beauty: Green House Salon Steel Drums: Bob Lyons Welcome Sign: Art by Ginger Napkins: Keys Audio Party Rentals DJ & Cold Sparklers: Kiss Me Entertainment Wedding Cake: Unique D'Lites Custom Cakes A tropical, simple and stress-free day was the goal for Allison as she planned her Florida Keys wedding with her best friend and husband-to-be, Tony. “We both joke that if it were possible, he would have been my maid of honor and I would have been his best man. I know it’s cliché but we’re really each other’s best friend.” With that goal in mind, Key Largo was the perfect wedding destination for Allison and Tony. Not only does Key Largo embody this winning wedding combination, it’s also home to Allison’s parents, and some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the U.S. Including a magical bayside sunset was important to the bride because it was her way to include her grandmother, who passed away in 2018, in her special day. “We used to watch sunsets together on vacation. I felt like as long as we could watch the sunset, I knew I’d feel my grandma there with me.” Tropical? Check. Key Largo is also home to newly renovated Baker’s Cay, a beautiful 15-acre bayfront sanctuary. Adorned with an abundance of classic white peonies, lush evergreen garlands and monstera leaf accents, this nature inspired Florida Keys wedding venue perfectly achieved the tropical theme Allison and Tony were after. Simple? Check. Allison and Tony agreed not to sweat the small stuff. Their advice to newly engaged couples is to keep your eye on the prize – a long and happy marriage. “I keep telling engaged couples, that it’s not worth stressing the details. As long as you’re marrying the love of your life, nothing else matters.” Stress-free? Check. The simple act of hiring a top-notch team of local professionals for their Florida Keys wedding day covered this detail with ease. “Working with Wendy and Carin made the entire day so seamless and I can’t imagine that day without them and the team at Baker’s Cay.” Mission accomplished Allison and Tony! Best wishes to you both for a long and happy marriage. It was a pleasure and a privilege working with you on your big day! Vendor applause:
Wedding Planning/Day-Of: Key Destination Weddings & Events Venue/Catering/Rentals: Baker’s Cay Resort Wedding Cake: Maggie’s Bakery Florist: PCS Events Photography: Michelle Lawson Photo Videography: Peach & Orange Films Church: San Pedro Church Ceremony Singer & Music: Vic Garcia DJ & Hora Loca: Event Factor Hair & Make-Up: Make Up Artistry by Jessie Live Painter: Canvas and Confetti An Amazing YearHey stop eye rolling - sure, there was certainly some uncertainty but we are still standing and we're grateful for oh-so much! This is what happens when you LOVE what you do. Luckily for you, we have two doses of wedding obsessed planners to keep you moving steadily into the New Year. But before we fast forward, we'd love to reflect on all the celebrations of the last twelve months! Thankful for the HighlightsHosted the 3rd Annual Florida Keys Destination Wedding Show 4th Year of the Florida Keys Vendor Networking series Collaborated & styled 2 Inspiration Shoots Celebrated 6 Years of Business and 30+ years of experience Planned celebrations in 6 Cities throughout Florida Worked with over 15 Different Venues |