Kacie and Donald | Old Town Manor Key West Wedding
What happens when a social butterfly who loves the water, the beach, and taking care of her garden as much as she loves taking care of other people, runs into an athletic yet handy outdoor enthusiast, as good at building projects around the house as he is at building campfires out on the trail? You get the perfect combination of characteristics that would lead Kacie and Donald to meet and fall in love!
Having met through a mutual group of friends in 2012, they then became neighbors for a short a time. After Donald moved away, the two remained friends, and it was during this time, that they decided to take a chance and go on a few dates.
When I asked the couple some of their favorite hobbies, it was immediately apparent why they enjoyed spending time together. Both of them are avid ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) riders who love camping, exploring, bike riding, and boating. These interests, originally enjoyed solo, would eventually serve as activities the duo could have fun doing together. The Keys, being one of their favorite vacation spots (right up there along with Sebastian Inlet, and Crystal River) would naturally be at the top of their list, as the bride and groom were considering a location for their destination wedding.
It was in that process of planning their Key West wedding, that I would get to meet them and be part of their big day!
Press PLAY to Relive The Beautiful Day!
Donald had proposed the previous year at the vacation rental that the family books for their yearly scalloping trip in Crystal River. On the large dock behind the waterfront home - notable because that’s where they take their family portraits every year - Donald had coordinated everyone for this typical annual photo ritual (or so Kacie was led to believe). She had absolutely no idea, however, that he was actually about to pop the question!
Naturally, the answer was “yes!” and they began the process of finding their wedding venue, shopping for gowns, ordering flowers, and booking catering.
When the bride and I discussed what kind of look she was drawn to for her wedding pictures, she indicated that she loved how bright and crisp my style tends to be. As is very common request from my couples, she wanted the photos to capture the colorful nature of the destination, and was drawn to the fun and less-stuffy approach to wedding day images.
And with that, I set about documenting their day with the romantic, joyful, colorful, and playful personality that was unique to this couple!
After the couple spent some time together getting photos around the immediate downtown Key West area, and arrived back to the venue at Old Town Manor, it was time for their ceremony to begin! Greeted by a beautiful circular arch with stunning florals by Karro Events and champagne chevari chairs, the guests were seated and the processional music began. It was a heartfelt service, presided over by one of the couples’ close family friends, and even included all their children in a meaningful gesture that embraced their now ever-expanded family.
This was followed by a fun-filled group photo, including every guest in attendance on both the upper and lower balcony of the Manor. Squeezing their kids tight and holding their loved ones close, the newlyweds enjoyed a celebratory cheer as their group congratulated them after the lovely ceremony.
We spent some time calling up family members for other group shots as requested, and then it was time to head to the party!
With the formal photos completed, everyone convened on the brick courtyard patio adjacent to the ceremony site, where they were greeted by a custom sign, delightful table decor, and picturesque surroundings. It was the perfect intimate setting for their reception. Everyone enjoyed the delicious food served by Great Events Catering, and cocktails and drinks served by the attentive bartending staff throughout the evening.
Once dinner was complete, the couple came together for their first dance, inviting everyone to join them on the dance floor as DJ Sanaris from Soundwave Productions kept them moving all throughout the night.
As the evening wound down, the couple encouraged their guests to enjoy a sweet treat from their cupcake tier, and a slice of the wedding cake, before wrapping up the evening with plenty of music, laughter, and love all around. Congratulations to Kacie and Donald on their amazing Key West wedding, and here’s to many happy memories to come! 🥂
Venue: Old Town Manor
Planner: Little Miss Planner
Flowers: Karro Events and Floral
Hair and Makeup: Key West Hair and Makeup Artistry
Dress Designer: The Bridal Gown Studio
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Groom’s Apparel: Cubavera
Rings: Jared
Catering: Great Events Catering
Cake: Key West Cakes
Videographer: Wonderdog Studios
Photographer: Karrie Porter
Photography Assistants: Michaela Schmidt & Chelsi Smith