Michelle and Ben’s waterfront Sarasota wedding didn’t skip a beat when it came to capturing a timelessly elegant ambiance reminiscent of an old time movie. Combining a neutral color palette with whimsical decor, the bride and groom perfectly nailed their vision.

“I’ve always been inspired by timeless movies such as White Christmas. From a décor and entertainment standpoint it’s what I was envisioning for my big day,” the bride shared. “I really wanted our guests to feel like they stepped back in time to a super elegant dinner party with live music and white glove service. I think this style really stuck with me because I grew up watching a lot of films from the 1950’s and have always loved the glamour of the era!”

Searching for a Sarasota wedding planner who could easily play off of their ideas and turn them into something extra special, the Chicago-based couple chose NK Weddings.

“Nicole from NK Weddings allowed me to throw out fun, creative ideas, no matter how crazy they seemed, and never once shot them down,” the bride beamed. “On a personal level, I just really liked Nicole. I loved that she always found a way to incorporate anything we wanted and always seemed so organized. She really knew all of the right contacts in the area and didn’t limit us in any way shape or form. NK Weddings did such a wonderful job, and truly gave me a day free of worry or stress!

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Envisioning a relaxing environment with plenty of entertainment, Michelle and Ben incorporated a magical fireworks display and plenty of personalized details.

“We truly just wanted everyone to have fun! As much as the day was supposed to be about us, having our friends and family fly down to Florida to celebrate with us made our big day that much more special. We really wanted to incorporate plenty of entertainment since most of our guests were making a vacation out of it,” the bride explained. “From the fireworks show to the cake mapping to the congo band into the ballroom from dinner, we didn’t miss a beat when it came to ensuring our guests had a great time. We also wanted everyone to feel welcome and important on our day, so we made sure to incorporate little things like personalized acrylic name cards at each plate and pashminas for the ladies!”

Looking back on their magical celebration, the couple will never forget a few special moments from their big day.

“Taking pictures together just us two was really meaningful to us. We didn’t have a first look, so seeing each other for the first time as I walked down the aisle made waiting that much sweeter,” the bride reminisced. “Although we did miss our cocktail hour from all the fun we were having taking pictures, finally getting to dinner and seeing everyone we love in the same place was a surreal moment we’ll never forget.”

The Proposal:
Ben and I visit Door County, Wisconsin often with his family, and there’s a candy shop called Door County Candy I absolutely love. My husband and I had planned a weekend in D.C. with my sister and her husband who live in California, so it was going to be a special weekend regardless. Prior to dinner, Ben said he wanted to walk in town. He led me into our favorite candy store, and inside were his grandpa, aunt, uncle, and cousin. I thought it was a bit odd, but they visit there a lot as well, so I didn’t think too much into them being there. He then got down on one knee and instead of a candy surprise, there was a ring and a heart-shaped box that said, “Will you marry me?” It was a very sweet proposal and exciting that some of our family was there for it!

How would you describe your theme/wedding design inspiration? 
I’ve always been inspired by timeless movies such as White Christmas. From a décor and entertainment standpoint, it’s what I was envisioning for my big day. I really wanted our guests to feel like they stepped back in time to a super elegant dinner party with live music and white glove service. I think this style really stuck with me because I grew up watching a lot of films from the 1950s and have always loved the glamour of the era!”

What were your colors?
Neutral, A lot of pinks, beiges, whites, and creams. Our home is decorated in neutral tones, so deciding our wedding colors was easy!

What did you look for in a wedding planner?
I looked for someone who didn’t mind thinking outside the box.

Nicole from NK Weddings allowed me to throw out fun, creative ideas, no matter how crazy they seemed, and never once shot them down, On a personal level, I just really liked Nicole. I loved that she always found a way to incorporate anything we wanted and always seemed so organized. She really knew all of the right contacts in the area and didn’t limit us in any way shape or form. NK Weddings did such a wonderful job, and truly gave me a day free of worry or stress!

What advice would you give to other Sarasota couples?
Listen to the local vendors and read local magazines! Find someone you trust and lean on them for guidance with who to work with!

Ceremony and Reception Venue: Ritz Carlton Sarasota
Photographer: Hunter Ryan Photo
Videographer: Current Films
Planner: NK Weddings *Preferred Marry Me Tampa Bay Wedding Pro
Florist & Rentals: So Staged Event Rentals
Rentals: Tony Brewer & Company
Tent: US Tent Rental
Entertainment: Innovative Entertainment
Band: The Red Hot Band
Cake Mapping and Entertainment: Mark Joseph Creative
Fireworks: Zambelli Fireworks
Technical Production: Lightworks Productions
Dress: Mira Couture
Invitations: Accessory to the Party
Hair & Makeup: Fresh Salon Sarasota