Karen and Keith | The Reach Resort Wedding in Key West
Who knew that showing up to a Willie Parker signing for the PIttsburgh Steelers would lead to meeting the love of your life? That’s just how Karen and Keith’s story begins, as the caring, outgoing bride started to get to know her groom, and quickly learned he loved biking, cooking, cars, and sports. Their relationship got closer as they realized a shared interest in world travel, movies, going to concerts, and spending time with family. That family, she would soon discover, would also be the ones dancing and celebrating with them at their Key West Wedding at The Reach Resort!
Press PLAY to relive the beautiful day!
I arrived to Karen’s getting ready suite at The Reach Resort, where we captured some details and the behind the scenes moments as her mom helped her get into her dress. We then headed up to the fourth floor terrace which was the perfect spot for the couple to spend a few moments together getting some photos with the swaying palm trees and blue ocean views behind them. We then headed down to the lawn area to capture some family group photos on the lawn, and then some fun photos of the couple next to the giant chess board, and tossing the bean bag into the nearby “cornhole” game. Before long, it was time to head to the ceremony and finally say “I do!”.
The ceremony was held at the end of the wooden gazebo dock on the beach of the Reach resort, so guests assembled in their chairs, as the officiant, an officer in the Navy, took his place at the front to await the groom’s entrance, the cue of the music, and the arrival of the bride.
After the exchange of vows, rings, and a celebratory kiss at the end of the service, the couple strolled merrily back down the aisle, officially “Mr and Mrs” for the first time! Joined immediately by family and friends, we took a large group photo with everyone in attendance, then headed to the cocktail hour so everyone could cool off and enjoy some music and revelry before dinner.
As everyone was enjoying themselves, the couple snuck off with me for a few minutes to captures some scenic portraits overlooking the shoreline, then down on the beach as the sun started to set. Eager to get back to the festivities, we then headed over to the beachfront dance floor where the couple went into their first dance as their family and friends looked on. The couple received a blessing and had some time to sit and enjoy themselves with their guests.
Mother Nature was just as excited about the big day as everyone else, and her gentle breezes turned to enthusiastic gusts of wind as the evening drew nearer, so - having planned ahead for such a moment - we all headed up to the Caribe ballroom where the party proceeded without a hitch.
The music played, drinks were poured, everyone danced and celebrated, dinner was served, and the party continued into the night.
After cutting the cake and a final round of dancing, it was time to say our farewells and wish everyone well for the rest of their visit to Key West.
Congratulations again to Karen and Keith! Wishing you many years of happiness and many new travels, concerts, and - heck, maybe even a few more serendipitous autograph signings - along the way!
SPECIAL SHOUTOUT TO THESE AMAZING WEDDING VENDORS, WHO MADE THIS DAY POSSIBLE!
Venue: The Reach Resort
Planner: Jenn Perez - Simply You Weddings
Officiant: Navy Chaplain
Hair and Makeup: Frankie Flemming
Cake: Cakes by Karol
Flowers: Milan Events
Photographer: Karrie Porter
Photo Assistant: Ali Knowles