Kelly and Matt considered canceling their Florida destination elopement in Indian Rocks Beach due to the threat of COVID-19, but ultimately decided to move forward with their intimate guestless wedding.
“We made the choice to continue our plans since there was little to no cases in Florida at the time. We had a small gathering that was perfect for us and felt safe,” the bride shared.
MORE: INTIMATE WEDDING INSPIRATION
When it came time to decide between having a “typical” wedding or a private elopement, Kelly relied on Marry Me Tampa Bay’s influential advice regarding the pros and cons of both options.
“I used many sites and Marry Me Tampa Bay helped me on my decision to elope,” Kelly remarked.
The New York couple’s main priorities including a stunning sunset backdrop, beautiful flowers, and an amazing photographer to artfully capture their special day. After researching Amber McWhorter Photography Kelly and Matt immediately connected with the beach wedding photographer’s style and storytelling.
“I looked for someone that I trusted. Amber is not only extremely talented, but she’s kind, professional and so fun!” the bride raved. “When my husband and I were just engaged, we went to Tampa, Florida for a vacation. I had an idea to do our engagement photos while we were there and I came across Amber’s Instagram. Her photos were stunning, but her captions told a story that made her photos even more beautiful. We finally met in person to have our engagement photos taken and, at that moment, we knew we wanted her as our wedding photographer too. She made us feel comfortable and captured our relationship perfectly.”
Kelly recalled two very special moments that have become treasured memories from their beachside celebration.
“My husband’s smile during our vows was my most memorable moment,” the reminisced, “However, having my stepson see me as a first look was the highlight of the day.”
The pair plan to renew their vows for their five-year anniversary and host a larger event with friends and family at that time. Nevertheless, the bride encourages other couples to embrace the opportunity to have an intimate wedding elopement, even during these challenging times.
“Keep it small, safe, and outdoors. You will enjoy it as much as you would if you had a large wedding,” Kelly advised.
The Proposal:
Matt proposed during a getaway in the Finger Lakes. We were right by the water when he proposed, and then we headed to the wineries to celebrate!
What did you look for in a wedding photographer?
I looked for someone that I trusted. Amber, the owner of Amber McWhorter Photography, is not only extremely talented, but she’s kind, professional and so fun! When my husband and I were just engaged, we went to Tampa, Florida for a vacation. I had an idea to do our engagement photos while we were there and I came across Amber’s Instagram. Her photos were stunning, but her captions told a story that made her photos even more beautiful. We finally met in person to have our engagement photos taken and, at that moment, we knew we wanted her as our wedding photographer too. She made us feel comfortable and captured our relationship perfectly.
What advice would you give to other couples who have been affected by COVID or choosing to have an elopement?
Keep it small, safe, and outdoors. You will enjoy it as much as you would if you had a large wedding.
Photographer: Amber McWhorter Photography *Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Pro
Florist: 2Birds Events
Cake: Publix
DJ: iTunes
Dress Shop: Donna Marie’s Bridal Boutique
Dress Designer: Casablanca Bridal
Hair and Makeup: Glam to Be
Quotes have been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.
*Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Pros are highly respected by our local wedding community and have been personally vetted by our editor.
