This Miami wedding was a great change of pace and scenery from the North Carolina plantation farms and vintage homes we typically shoot. It was also such a joy to be a part of Gaby and Zach's nuptials. The wedding's setting was in the mild December weather, surrounded by lush palm trees, Spanish architecture, and cerulean skies.

There were so many beautiful details and intentional moments infused into the day. Zach had scrawled a sweet note to Gabby on the bottom of her glittered heels and their vows were recorded in classy vintage vow books. Gaby's dress and veil combination was a dream. She truly looked like a Spanish Princess. Capturing the tenderness between Gabby and her mom when she finished getting dressed reminded me why I do what I do. Their friendship was a site I was so honored to capture in these images.

Shortly after getting dressed, Gabby and Zach shared a "first touch" (alternative to first look). Gaby recalled it, saying, "One of my favorite moments of the wedding was when Zach and I stood on opposite sides of a pillar, prayed and exchanged gifts before the wedding. The minute he touched my hand, and we knew that the day we had been planning for had finally arrived, we both started crying. It got us GOOD." As you can see by the images, it was really difficult to not get teary-eyed with them.

The ceremony took place under the most gorgeous tree, and as they exchanged vows the sun slowly sank rendering the most golden, soft light in between the branches. After the ceremony, we headed to a nearby park that likened to a Spanish garden, complete with pergolas, tall weeping willow trees, an old fountain, and large pillared arches. It was the perfect pairing to the wedding venue, and the golden hour light was absolutely breathtaking.

At the reception, I enjoyed watching Gabby share a special dance with her mom. Gaby described that moment as a dance shared with her hero, "the woman who single-handedlysacrificed everything to raise my brother and I. Aside from God, she is the reason I am who I am today. I wanted to honor her on our best day, and I felt that was the most perfect way to do so. That moment was extremely special, and important to me."

They danced the rest of the night away, and waved goodbye to family and friends with a sparkler send off. It was truly a beautiful day in paradise.

Vendors:

Hair and Makeup Artist: Kristen Lewis (bridesmaid)
Dress Designer: Brides of Florida
Venue/Caterer: Coral Gables Country Club
DJ: Omega Events Miami
Florist: Unforgettable Floral Designs LLC
Cake Artist: Cake Designs By Edda
Videographer: John Robert Sammarco 47 Films LLC