Carly and Kyle | Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Wedding
Carly and Kyle’s wedding at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West, FL, was a beautiful celebration of love, adventure, and the joy of stepping outside comfort zones. Their love story began over brunch, where they quickly discovered their mutual passion for travel, dogs, and quality time with friends. This connection blossomed into a partnership filled with shared adventures and spontaneous experiences.
Key West did not feature just in their wedding day, either. During a sunset cruise on a previous trip, with the golden sun dipping below the horizon, Kyle surprised Carly by asking for her hand in marriage. This moment set the stage for their dream wedding at one of Key West’s most historic and picturesque locations, which I had the honor of being part of.
Press PLAY to relive the beautiful day!
As Carly and Kyle’s wedding photographers, Mark and I arrived early to capture the atmosphere of the getting ready room at Santa Maria Suites. We started with shots of Carly getting ready with her bridal party, capturing candid moments and details of her elegant dress and accessories..
The First Look took place in the scenic Truman Annex, where Carly and Kyle shared an emotional and intimate moment upon seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day. Following this, we explored the charming streets of the Annex and captured stunning couple portraits around Key West, including the iconic Customs House. The historic settings added a unique and personal touch to their wedding photos. They then met their family and friends for group portraits, with the fort’s scenic views adding to the ambience of each shot.
The ceremony was a heartfelt affair, with Carly walking down the aisle arm in arm with her dad. The couple exchanged vows under the iconic arches of the fortress, with several emotional moments that had the entire group of guests, family and friends dabbing at their tear ducts. As they were pronounced husband and wife, cheers and applause filled the air, celebrating their union.
Post-ceremony, the couple enjoyed time with their loved ones during cocktail hour, as Mark and I meandered about capturing details, candids, and the overall lively activity of the event. The couple were introduced into the reception space by their DJ Aaron Moore, each couple in the bridal party adding some flair and personality to their own entrances as well.
After a few words from dad, and a blessing from mom, dinner was served by the amazing team of Catered Affairs. Soon the sun started to get closer to the horizon, and it was time to tap the couple on the shoulder to head upstairs on the rooftop of the fort and overlook the ocean views, with the azure and tangerine hues stretching across the sky as the sun did it’s nightly dip into the horizon.
The reception was a lively and joyous celebration, featuring plenty of dancing and revelry under the party tent with the inky blue sky dotted with stars overhead. Carly and Kyle’s adventurous spirit was evident throughout the evening, from their ready laughter, playful dance floor light stick props, and a final group dance floor photo to close out the evening.
Congratulations to Carly and Kyle! May your life together be filled with adventure, love, and countless happy moments. It was an honor to capture your special day, and we wish you all the happiness in the world.
With appreciation and best wishes, Karrie and Mark
SPECIAL SHOUTOUT TO THESE AMAZING WEDDING VENDORS, WHO MADE THIS DAY POSSIBLE!
Venue: Fort Zachary Taylor State Park | Kirsten Corpion and Taylor Blount
Planner: Bernadette McCall | Family Affair Key West Wedding & Event Services
Hair and Makeup: Frankie Flemming
Officiant: Thomas McCormick
Dessert: Catered Affairs
Florals and Decor: Love In Bloom
Music: Aaron Moore on behalf of SoundWave
Transportation: Conch Train
Catering: Catered Affairs
Photographers: Karrie and Mark