We have had the pleasure of photographing destination weddings in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Missouri/Kansas. I couldn't wait to tell Lisa about Key Largo in July! And after a few weeks of planning, everything was set for three nights at Marriott Key Largo Bay Beach Resort.
Thursday was a travel day but we were able to have a nice meeting with Jessica and her bridesmaids and family by the beach when we arrived that night. We were blessed with gorgeous sunsets each night.
On Friday afternoon, we were invited to a 4 hour snorkeling trip along the reefs. Lisa and I had never been snorkeling and we were so excited to be a part of the afternoon with 23 of the wedding party and guests. I picked up a few underwater disposable film cameras before we left. I also carried one of my Nikons for the boat shots. The underwater cameras worked well and Lisa performed her skills on the "Jesus of the Abyss" statue. It was a good thing, too, because all I was able to get were bubbles from the scuba divers.
We also provided photography coverage for the rehearsal and the rehearsal dinner on Friday evening. On Saturday, Lisa went along with Jessica and her bridesmaids, Tiffany and Kelly, to the salon in Islamorada. I met with the guys for their "getting ready" shots. I feel bad sometimes because the spa is usually a 4-6 hour event and the guys take about 10 minutes to get dressed. Lisa does a wonderful job knowing when to step in and take the shot and when to stay back. When I have photographed the brides getting ready they usually have a "there's a man in the room" look on their faces.
When I went to the beach to photograph the guests arriving, I was surprised at the large crowd of family and friends that had made the trip. The skies were clear and the wedding of photographers' dreams was about to take place.
Lisa stayed with Jessica all afternoon. As she walked down the aisle, Lisa then found a nice balcony to shoot from while I roamed behind the guests.
Cocktails were served for the guests while Lisa and I photographed the formal group shots on the beach.
The reception soon followed at Upper Gus a few yards away where we all enjoyed a wonderful meal with ocean views from three sides. But it was the DJ, Larry of "Lawrence of Florida" Entertainment, who had all of the guests join Jessica and Brian on the dance floor only to sneak the couple outside where we could get the requested sunset photos all to ourselves...a brilliant move!
Larry and his assistant kept the crowd on the dance floor all night which made our job so much easier. It was a fun time for everyone!
We said our goodbyes and instead of our normal 1-2 hour drive home, we strolled a few steps to our comfortable room.
Jessica and Brian, we want to thank you again for letting us share this wonderful day with you. Thanks for all of the hospitality that you showed us!
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