Amanda and Joe | Opal Resort, Smathers, and The Reach's Four Marlins Reception

You just never know what a little persistence can do when planning the perfect wedding. Amanda and Joe had reached out to me a while back about photographing their Key West wedding, and we had remained in touch as they confirmed dates and details. But when scheduling conflicts mixed with COVID19 threatened to postpone their wedding, we thought for a minute that the dream destination event wouldn’t happen as planned. Finally, we got the go-ahead, and I was so glad I got to be part of this amazing couple’s big day!


Press PLAY to relive the beautiful day!

The couple stayed at the beautiful and recently renamed Opal Key West Resort and Marina on Front Street. It was there that we met up to do some getting ready photos of her dress and details, and grab a few images of the bride and her girls getting glammed up by hair and makeup artist Frankie Flemming.

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We arrived to the ceremony on Smathers Beach after running around to do photos around Key West. We even managed to sneak in a photo at the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy before pulling up to the palm tree lined beach and getting out to get the couple walking down the aisle.

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After the ceremony and some group photos with family and friends, it was time to grab some photos of the couple. As the guests headed to the reception, Amanda, Joe, myself, and my assistant headed out to the rock jetty to get some epic photos with dramatic skies. The cloudy background would normally make for a dreary effect, but with a little creative lighting, we were able to turn them into some truly “wow" photos!

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Lastly, it was time to head to dinner, where the family were seated at Four Marlins Restaurant at the beautiful Reach Resort. The fathers of the bride and groom signed the marriage license, and the couple cut the cake, before we snuck up to the rooftop to get some final sunset shots before calling it a wrap!

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It was a beautiful day filled with joy, smiles, laughter, and a lot of fun! Congratulations to Amanda and Joe on your Key West wedding!

Getting Ready Venue: Opal Key West Resort

Ceremony Venue: Smathers Beach

Reception Venue: The Reach Resort Four Marlins Restaurant

Planning, Flowers, Setup, and Videography: Weddings To Go

Hair and Makeup: Frankie Flemming

Cake: Key West Cakes

Photographer: Karrie Porter