I just received some amazing pictures from Shannon & Marc’s destination wedding at Lido Key (thanks to Kimberly Romano at Kimberly Photography) and I’m so excited to finally share them with the world!  Shannon and Marc were married in April at the beautiful Lido Beach Resort (a warm and sunny change from their home in Massachusetts).  This wedding was even more special because it symbolized the creation of a new family, when Shannon’s daughter Eden participated in the ceremony.

We began with a color palette of deep berry and fiery orange, inspired by the colors of a sunset.  The ceremony was set on the private white sandy beach, with a gorgeous custom bamboo arch accented with flowing organza fabric and tropical foliage (all flowers provided by the talented Arlene Floral Designer).  Guests kept cool with printed straw fan programs (custom stationery by Jennifer Hutchinson Design Co).

The bride wore a beaded chiffon gown by Maggie Sottero.  She made her entrance to the song “Marry Me” performed live by a ukulele and steel guitar duet (kudos to Steve Boisen).  She carried a tropical bouquet of hydrangea, gerbera daisies, and orchids.  Her sister of honor and her daughter both wore berry chiffon dresses by Alfred Angelo Bridal, and the gentlemen sported khaki suits with tropical boutonnieres.  The new family partook in a unity sand ceremony wherein each poured different colored sand into an apothecary jar, signifying the coming together of their new family.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour overlooking the ocean before making their way to the upstairs ballroom for the reception.  Wood troughs of berry sand displayed rows of sugar starfish tied with printed escort cards directing guests to their tables.  These also doubled as favors, noting the charitable donation to the Autism Speaks foundation.

The guest tables were draped with iridescent orange crinkle linens accented with berry napkins and berry chair sashes (kudos to Connie Duglin Linen).  Centerpieces featured tall vases filled with sand and starfish, topped with tropical arrangements.

The three tier wedding cake from Cakes by Ron was accented with pink-tipped sugar shells and topped with a “family” of starfish.

Guests dined on delicious surf and turf and danced into the night (music provided by JAM Entertainment).  When the evening came to an end, no one wanted to leave (a sign of a great party)!!

Thank you Shannon and Marc for trusting me with the decisions and details for your big day, especially from a distance!  It was such a pleasure working with you and I wish you all the best in your new life together!