Photography

Taralynn and Eric | Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

He proposed during a historic snow storm on the Seattle waterfront, cleverly hiding the ring in some foil so that she wouldn't notice a big clunky box in his pocket. Their Key West wedding was originally set for Summer of 2020, but like so many other couples, Taralynn and Eric would have their big plans put on hold.

But finally on a beautiful afternoon with their children at the altar with them, the couple were finally able to exchange their vows with warmth of the setting sun, accented by a gentle tropical breeze and the love of their friends and family around them.

Press PLAY to relive the beautiful day!

My day with them would begin in the historic location of Fort Zachary Taylor. As Eric waited patiently under the brick arches, Taralynn approached from across the lush green lawn looking picture perfect in her Watters designed gown. She snuck up behind Eric, and after a quick tap on the shoulder, he turned around to see her smiling back at him, as they enjoyed their first few moments together before the rest of the day got started.

We took advantage of not only the fortress's cool shaded interiors, but it’s dramatic rows and architecture for some couples portraits and individual photos of the bride and groom. The kids also jumped in for a few as well, and there were lots of smiles and giggles from this fun-loving and friendly couple.

As we headed toward the ceremony spot, we took a quick stop off to meet up with family to get some group portraits, with the big blue water and sky of the Key West Harbour shining in the background.

At last, it was time to get married! As I grabbed some photos of guests arriving, the groom got his flower pinned on and the bride snuck down the walking path to wait for her cue with her father.

I remember looking over and seeing that through the dark greens and warm browns of the surrounding tree line, there was one magnificent beam of light that was landing right on the bride, making her all the more radiant than she already was!

The ceremony was a lovely series of vows, exchange of rings, and promises to love each other forever. Having the kids up at the altar with the couple made it even more special, as they all joined officially as a family.

After the ceremony, we headed out onto the beach to gather the entire family for a large group photo, and after some celebratory cheers, the guests headed off to the reception while Eric and Taralynn hung back with me to take in the warm glow of sunset. The couple snuggled on the rocks and under the swaying fronds of the nearby palm trees, heading off to join their friends and family once the sun had gone down.

At the reception it was time to dance, laugh, and enjoy everyone’s company. But first, the couple made their grand entrance and kicked off the evening with their first dance as husband and wife.

The night continued with lots of love and laughter, a toast by their daughter, and words of thanks by the couple to their guests. Everyone had dinner, danced, and had a great time with the newlyweds. We wrapped up the evening with some final night shots on the beach, then said our goodbyes and wished everyone well!

Congratulations to the happy couple on their romantic sunset wedding ceremony in Key West, and special thanks to all the vendors who made it all possible!

Real WeddingsKarrieFort Zachary Taylor State Parkkey west wedding, fort zachary taylor, beach wedding, covid19Comment