In early October when many parts of the country were hunkering down for cold weather and restrictions on indoor celebrations, Rachel and Austin were happily celebrating their wedding weekend with family and friends at a private beachfront property in Siesta Key.
Most of the guests, including the bride and groom, were from the Louisville, KY, area. Siesta Key was warm and familiar to Rachel and her family as they vacationed there almost twice each year. It was the natural choice for the wedding location even before the pandemic played havoc with celebrations.
The Sunset Beach Resort boasts six separate units accommodating over 40 guests on site. The accommodations are in two remodeled beach homes separated by a spacious tropical lawn area. Within walking distance of the popular Siesta Key eateries and shops, its Gulf beach location makes it the perfect destination.
~~~~~ Pro Pictures from Lifelong Photography Studio ~~~~~
Rachel was able to make two visits to the area in the 12 months that preceded her wedding. During those visits we knocked out site visits, tastings, event/table design, and get togethers with other vendors.
As the wedding day got closer, Rachel's guest count whittled down from the anticipated 80 guests to just over 50.
Rachel's mom became her inventory specialist and enlisted our help in shipping many items like signage, candles, pictures, etc. to our secure UPS Store location. We then brought to the site rehearsal afternoon.
Although a drizzle or two made an appearance during the reception time, it did not dampen the spirits of Rachel and Austin nor their guests. Social distancing was at everyone's discretion, but all of our staff wore masks the entire time.
Rachel's color selection of mauve, pink, white and gold was highlighted in her flowers and other table accents. She chose our trio of glass cylinders with floating candles for the guest tables.
Our staff handled the placement of all client items such as signs, head table backdrop drapery, pictures, and table assignments.
One of the most amazing things about the day was the original videographer canceled the day of the wedding due to Covid. Within a matter of hours Artistry Films stepped in to handle the job.
Her photographers from Lifelong Photography, did a dreamy job capturing the spirit of the celebration. Below are images of the wedding day.
What's the Timeline?
YOUR TIME!
When you book a private vacation rental house, time is what you make it. You have the entire weekend for spending time with family and friends you haven't seen in a while.
You have time to relish in getting ready and getting "goofy" with friends you haven't seen in a while.
You have time to share special moments with your mom and dad before the formalities of the day begin.
A first look with dad
Reflective Poses
And then it begins!
One of our easels holds a welcome sign greeting the guests.
A combination sign in table, gift, and welcome table awaits guests as they first arrive on the property.
Beneva Florist in Sarasota provided the floral magic in decorating the natural wood arbor and other elements of the wedding.
Our gold floral stands were set in the sand to direct the bridal party entrances.
Social hour was held on the back lawn facing the ocean as the bridal party focused on formal photos.
We provided the bar services with some special drinks requested by the bride and groom.
The photographers had everything "covered" with intermittent rain.
Our buffet and stations received a drizzle or so, but stood up well outdoors in the open.
Our cylinders were graced with fresh eucalyptus stems.
The large white tent from U. S. Tent, provided plenty of space for guest tables. Amber overhead lighting addressed the sea turtle mating season by limiting shore illumination.
Guest tables ranged from four to eight chairs for social distancing purposes.
Rachel discovered a wonderful dessert table idea on Pinterest. She provided the wood pallet and laser cut signage and we completed the look with dessert stands and decor. Cakes by Ron provided the cake and miniature sweets.
Our popular Paella was a big hit as a station.
A traditional head table for all bridal party members.
Our favorite wedding dj, Bill from DeLite Entertainment, created a casual party atmosphere.
Congratulations, Rachel and Austin on your destination wedding.
