Mandee and John’s Key West Casa Marina Wedding

Winter weddings in South Florida are a gift; not too hot and the bluest of skies. It was just perfect for Mandee and John’s beach wedding at Casa Marina, one of the loveliest properties on Key West.

To mix it up a bit, I started the day with the guys, which was full of just what I like; a bunch of guys talking smack and joking it up, which definitely made John feel more relaxed and ready. I have to say that the highlight of the getting ready for me was meeting their dog, Diesel. Diesel wasn’t too keen on the proceedings at first, but he and I came to an understanding. He seemed to look at me and say, “seriously? I have to do this?” as they got him into his wedding vest and tie for photos, and I said, “It’s okay, buddy,” and he did his duty. Good boy, Diesel!

Then it was off to the getting ready for the ladies and to do some casual portraits of Mandee before the ceremony. I like doing them at this time of the day because I can imagine that she remembers how these were the moments before her life changed forever when she looks back at them.

And, welcome to Florida, where the iguanas have a front-row seat to anywhere they like. This friendly fella (?) oversaw the entire ceremony, and while I’m not sure that it’s good luck to have an iguana at your wedding, the guests sure got a kick out of it.

I’m not sure who was more nervous about the trek up the aisle, Mandee or Diesel. Mandee’s dad guided her where she needed to be with expertise and a dose of fatherly love, and when Diesel balked at going up the aisle, I called to him and he and I ran it together. Good boy, Diesel!

Some quick portraits of the family before the wind kicked up and then sunset photos with the waves crashing in were super cool because it’s usually pretty calm on the water that time of day!

Mandee and John did their whole wedding on the beach, and their first dance was just after sunset, which made for some dramatic looks with the silhouette of palm trees and the string lights around the reception site. I love it when you can get different looks like that in photos.

There were some really heartfelt toasts by John’s Army buddies, and then the night kicked off strong. We took a few minutes to take advantage of the cool holiday uplighting on the palm trees at Casa, and then it was right back to the party.

That beach dance floor filled up while kids made their own fun by digging sand holes that they proudly showed off to Mandee. I think it’s safe to say that there was a good time had by all.

Mandee and John, thanks for your trust in my vision for your day and for sharing your friends and family and my buddy Diesel with me on your wedding day. Cheers to an amazing life together!