Kimberly and Darren | Casa Marina Resort in Key West

When Kim and Darren met working at a restaurant in Delray Beach, she didn’t realize it yet, but he would be the man she would one day marry! They went on their first date a few months later, and in Kim’s words, “it just clicked!”. I would get to experience my own “clicks” with them as well, as they invited me to photograph their wedding at the Casa Marina Resort in beautiful Key West, Florida, where their chemistry and love for one another was a joy to be a part of.

As a fun loving couple who loves to travel and go on outdoor adventures in their home state of Colorado, exploring the local food scene and diving into new experiences is just one of the things that they enjoy together. It was no wonder, then, that they would choose a destination like the Florida Keys, where beauty, culture, character, adventure - and yes, good food! - are in abundance!

Press PLAY to relive the beautiful day!

We started off the day in Kim’s bridal suite, where she was getting hair and makeup done by the team from Bombshell Makeovers, with her girls in a stunning room overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Her stunning gown designed by Leanne Marshall and purchased at Emma and Grace in Denver was hanging in the window, and the girls’ dresses by Birdy Grey were a lovely soft rose pink.

Darren was similarly spending his morning getting ready with his family and his guys, his stylish blue Canali suit prepped and ready for the big day. I documented the behind the scenes and details as the day got underway, including a few arrangements with her family heirloom diamond engagement ring, Brilliant Earth wedding bands, and specially designed cameo accents of beloved family members tied to her bouquet.

The Casa Marina resort is one of the premier wedding venues in Key West, not only because of the spacious grounds, stunning architecture, and lush tropical surroundings, but also because of its amazing staff and dedicated team of experienced wedding professionals.

Wedding Planner Jay Bertrand of Island Times Events kept the day moving along and in his usual cheerful and professional manner, answered questions, assisted vendors, and ensured everything ran smoothly.

Casa Marina team Blaire and Lori made sure that every detail was perfect, while I snuck the couple off to a picturesque corner of the resort so they could see each other for the first time, and exchange heartfelt messages to each other.

We then had some time to get photos of them around the hotel and with their bridal party, including a nice individual portrait of each bridesmaid and each groomsman with the couple (always a nice gift for each person) and some fun group photos with everyone.

As the ceremony time approached and the ketubah was signed, guests promenaded down the center walkway between the lines of soaring palm trees, as the groom took his place at the front of the ceremony. Positioned atop the wooden deck, the chuppah was adorned with sheer flowing fabrics and colorful flowers created by Duarte Event Florals.

The couple exchanged vows as the ocean lapped up softly onto the white sand beach, and the sunshine peeked through the tops of the coconut palms. Parents of the couple joined in the ceremony with readings and traditional prayers and words of advice shared by Rabbi Jordy Callman, who had joined them from Denver.

With the “I do’s” officially sealed, the glass broken to a boisterous “Mazel Tov!” cacophony, it was time to celebrate! While the guests headed to cocktail hour, we gathered the family for some group photos with the couple. With the sun also starting to set, it was the perfect time for some final romantic photos on the beach, before the bride and groom headed off to join the party.

After a few quick detail shots of the reception space, I meandered through the remainder of the cocktail hour, grabbing fun candids and informal photos of everyone having a great time, meeting and greeting, enjoying a tasty beverage and a few light bites before dinner.

Dj Leeor of LR Entertainment made the introductions and served as master of ceremonies for the evening, inviting up members of the bridal party and family for toasts and warm wishes, getting everyone on their feet to dance the horah, lifting the couple into the air in their thankfully-sturdy-yet-otherwise-elegant chivari chairs, and keeping the dance floor moving throughout the night!

As the evening wrapped up, the cake - a beautiful “naked” style design by Key West Cakes - was served, and the colorful orange and green trolley from Old Town Trolley arrived to the front of the hotel, where the guests loaded up to head down to Duval street for additional revelry and celebration with the happy couple. I said my farewells and saw them off with a few final photos, closing out an absolutely perfect day for these wonderful two individuals and their amazing families.

Congratulations Kim and Darren! I wish you many happy years and a lifelong of continued adventures and memories!

SPECIAL SHOUTOUT TO THESE AMAZING WEDDING VENDORS, WHO MADE THIS DAY POSSIBLE!

Planner: Jay Bertand | Island Time Events

Venue: Casa Marina Resort | Lori and Blaire

Hair and Makeup: Bombshell Makeovers

Florals and Decor: Duarte Event Florals

Officiant: Rabbi Jordy Callman

Dress Designer: Leanne Marshall

Bridesmaids Dress Designer: Birdy Grey

Bridal Boutique: Emma and Grace

Groom’s Attire: Canali

Invitations: Minted