Abigail and James
St Mary’s Star of the Sea | The Resort at Longboat Key Club
“We really leaned into the tropical beauty and relaxed atmosphere of Longboat Key. Since the majority of our guests traveled from out of state, we wanted them to experience the true feel of the island. Steel drums were an absolute must for me—they instantly set the tone for a fun, coastal celebration.
We chose vibrant tropical flowers to complement the island’s natural scenery, and our main focal point was the dance floor, complete with disco balls, to get everyone in the mood to celebrate. Our colors were pink and green; they complemented the venue without taking away from its beautiful landscape.” -The Bride
FEATURING
Abby and James’ luxurious Longboat Key wedding was a vibrant fall celebration set against the sweeping waterfront views of The Resort at Longboat Key Club. With 120 guests in attendance, the October affair unfolded on the Harbourside Lawn, where an open-air ceremony gave way to an effortlessly elegant reception beneath the stars. The island setting framed the celebration beautifully, blending refined coastal style with an energetic party atmosphere that carried from sunset well into the evening. Thoughtful personal touches and immersive entertainment transformed the waterfront venue into a polished yet playful seaside escape that felt both elevated and inviting.
“The most important thing to us was that our guests had the best time and felt completely relaxed to enjoy themselves,” the bride beamed. “Since so many people traveled from out of state, we wanted the day to feel like an easy, tropical getaway. We focused on creating an atmosphere that was fun and welcoming—from the steel drums and tropical flowers to the lively dance floor with disco balls, a live saxophonist, and tambourines. Every detail was meant to make people smile, have fun, and feel part of the celebration.”
The Bach Party & Honeymoon
“My bachelorette was in Newport, Rhode Island, where I grew up.
We are taking our honeymoon to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We wanted a combo of beach and relaxation, plus some culture!”
The Proposal
James proposed in Cape Town, South Africa, at Maidens Cove during sunset.
The Details & Experience
“A cigar bar was a must for James—it’s one of his favorite pastimes and added such a fun personal touch. We really wanted everyone out on the dance floor having a great time, so we handpicked all of our music and added interactive elements to keep the energy up. The saxophonist joined everyone right on the dance floor, and we passed out tambourines for guests to play along—it made the night feel so lively and unforgettable.
The most important thing to us was that our guests had the best time and felt completely relaxed to enjoy themselves. Since so many people traveled from out of state, we wanted the day to feel like an easy, tropical getaway. We focused on creating an atmosphere that was fun and welcoming—from the steel drums and tropical flowers to the lively dance floor with disco balls, a live saxophonist, and tambourines. Every detail was meant to make people smile, have fun, and feel part of the celebration.”
The Venue
The Resort at Longboat Key Club
“My family has deep roots in Florida—especially in the Bradenton area—where my mom grew up after her family moved there. My parents met while attending the University of South Florida and got engaged just up the road from the Longboat Key Club, on Lido Beach.
It was important for me to find an outdoor venue that did not require a tent. I saw one photo of the Harbourside Lawn and knew that was the spot! Having our wedding at The Resort at Longboat Key Club made things so relaxing for us. We were able to check in, and all the work was already done. Guests did not have to travel. We also had our welcome party on site!
Gwen Paseka went above and beyond. She was an absolute lifesaver in helping us navigate not only the venue logistics but also all the moving parts of wedding planning. Her guidance, warmth, and organization made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable!”
The Design
“We really leaned into the tropical beauty and relaxed atmosphere of Longboat Key. Since the majority of our guests traveled from out of state, we wanted them to experience the true feel of the island. Steel drums were an absolute must for me—they instantly set the tone for a fun, coastal celebration. We chose vibrant tropical flowers to complement the island’s natural scenery, and our main focal point was the dance floor, complete with disco balls, to get everyone in the mood to celebrate. Our colors were pink and green; they complemented the venue without taking away from its beautiful landscape.”
Content Creation
Behind the Vows
“I looked for someone who could capture small organic moments. I had seen previous videos Behind the Vows had made at the Resort at Longboat Key Club and knew they would capture everything I wanted!”
Which vendors really exceeded your expectations?
Flowers by Edie truly exceeded our expectations. Mark, the owner, was incredible to work with—he gave us his full attention throughout the process and crafted our floral arrangements with such care and artistry. Every detail reflected his passion and professionalism, and the results were absolutely stunning.
Gwen Paseka from The Resort at Longboat Key Club also went above and beyond. She was an absolute lifesaver in helping us navigate not only the venue logistics but also all the moving parts of wedding planning. Her guidance, warmth, and organization made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable!
What advice would you give to other Sarasota couples?
Planning may be stressful, but enjoy your time being engaged! It will be over before you know it!
