Gina and Jorel are adventurous and fun-loving, and from the moment we started talking, I knew that we were going to kill it together at their wedding here in Key West. They are all about moments and sharing them with people they love, and that translates into amazing photos.
They chose Ocean Key Resort not only because of the perfect location in Key West, but because the amenities in this resort are outstanding. Because they had so many people coming from the east coast to the west coast, they wanted a place where everyone could feel like they were on the best vacation they ever had.
Ocean Key’s address is Zero Duval, which is just cool as hell…the very end of the line, but top in luxury. Every single room has a killer view, and you are steps away from Mallory Square. We started with some photos in the rooms and then headed over to one of my favorite places to do the first look at Fort Zachary Taylor.
When you get married in Key West, you’re going to get some great tropical/sunset photos; that’s a given. I think it’s nice to mix things up a bit, and Ft. Zachary has a bit of grit to it, which is a nice juxtaposition. Here we focused on finding some strong light, some bold architecture, and took advantage of the flow of Gina’s veil to make some awesome portraits.
The wedding ceremony was held on the Ocean Terrace, easily one of the best views on the island. The light was killer; the ceremony was just short and sweet just like they wanted it, and their adventure as a married couple begins!
We popped upstairs to take advantage of the views of the sunset and got some nice stuff! A little different angle was what I was looking for these photos, and I like the pastel of the sky, but the warm orange glow of the sun on the building.
Then, bam…we are walking back down to the party, and I see how the light is playing with the shadows and man, I love unexpected surprises like this. The right lighting conditions turn a hallway into a great place for portraits.
The tented area at Ocean Key is perfection. Just enough exposure to outdoors to give it that island vibe, but terrific for photos with all that white draping and chandeliers. The marquee lighting and uplighting around the tent gave it the right party atmosphere, and Gina and Jorel led the way and gave it their all.
Ocean Key can host weddings for up to 200 people, so if you’re considering a destination wedding in Key West, definitely give them a call. With such a central location, your guests can stay on the property and never need a car, which is a big plus on this tiny island. Gina and Jorel had nothing but praise for the way the staff treated them!
Gina and Jorel, I’m so glad you guys decided on a Florida Keys wedding. I know you had considered many other locations for your destination wedding, but I could tell that Key West was the perfect spot by the smiles on the faces of everyone at your wedding. Thanks for making some great photos with me!
Planner: Simply You Weddings
Photography: Michael Freas Photography
Second Photographer: Julio G
Video: Dream Light Visuals
Hair/Makeup: Studio Marie Pierre
Venue: Ocean Key Resort
Entertainment: Cutting Edge Entertainment
Floral: Milan Event
Bakery: Cupcake Sushi