Today, I want to share with you the story of a couple that I had the pleasure of joining on their elopement as their trusty elopement photographer in Florida.
Now, I know what you're thinking – eloping at sunrise in Florida? Are they crazy?! Well, let me tell you, it may sound crazy, but it was hands down one of the most beautiful and special experiences I've ever been a part of.
And as someone who has been to her fair share of elopements, sunrise is always an incredible time.
So buckle up and get ready to hear all about how this couple embarked on a journey to make their elopement at dawn truly unforgettable, with some ideas when it comes to planning yours too…
Here’s to making the most of your Florida elopement at Sunrise!
A Florida Elopement at Sunrise
Why a Sunrise Elopement is the New “I Do”
Vows at Sunrise
Bridal Portraits
Let's go for a Swim!
A Romantic Picnic
Embracing the Unexpected
Why a Sunrise Elopement is the New “I Do”
Sunrise Elopements are all the rage these days!
And no, I am not talking about the late-night Vegas kind. This is not your traditional walk-down-the-aisle kind of gig. Imagine saying your vows with the golden rays of the sun dancing on your faces and the waves whispering sweet nothings to the shore.
And the best part? No frantic rush to get ready, no jitters about the big ceremony in front of a large crowd. Just you, your partner, and Mother Nature as the main witness (and possibly a very confused beach jogger).
A Florida elopement at Sunrise is the epitome of romantic spontaneity. It's for those who prefer sun-kissed moments over candle-lit dinners.
And let's not forget the exquisite photos! What could be more Instagrammable than an ocean backdrop bathed in the soft, warm glow of the morning sun? It is the best.
So, set those alarms and forget sleeping in on your wedding day – dawn is calling your name!
Vows at Sunrise
Oh, the vows! The heart and soul of any wedding, and in our case, taking place as the sun pulls up its fiery chariot to the sky.
Picture this: As the sky blushes with the first streaks of dawn, you look into your beloved's eyes. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like making a lifetime commitment when you're still half asleep – it adds a little frisson of danger, doesn’t it?
You might be whispering, "Do you take this person..." just as the sun bursts over the horizon, turning the sea into a glittering mirror. Heck, you might even time it so that you're saying "I do" just as the sun fully pops up – a natural firework display for your big moment.
You can even create an acoustic playlist featuring your favorite romantic tunes playing softly in the background. Don’t forget the tissues, because even the toughest of the tough are susceptible to a sunrise sob.
So, is it crazy to swap out champagne toasts for coffee mugs? Not if you're a dawn-treading, love-struck rebel! It's the epitome of saying 'I Do' with a view during your Florida elopement at Sunrise.
Bridal Portraits
Imagine the sun has finally clocked in for its morning shift, and you're standing there, dressed to the nines in your wedding attire, surrounded by nature's morning glow.
After your Florida elopement at Sunrise, it is time to flaunt your style.
The beach is your personal runway and you’re the star of the day which is exactly what this bride did on her day. Beachy bridal portraits are anything but ordinary. Who needs a fancy studio backdrop when you've got an entire seascape, right?
And the light! Oh, the light! The soft morning sun paints everything with a magical, almost ethereal quality, ideal for those dreamy bridal shots.
With Mother Nature on lighting duty and the gentle waves offering the perfect natural soundtrack, you've got the ideal setting for some swoon-worthy photos.
Relax, smile, and let the sunrise work its magic on your bridal portraits and show off how truly beautiful you looked on your wedding day!
Let’s go for a Swim!
Once the vows had been exchanged and the tears wiped away, the couple decided it was time to truly embrace the beach elopement vibe and enhance their Florida elopement at Sunrise even more!
Toss those tuxes and gowns to the wind (not literally, you may want them later) and shimmy into your finest swimwear like this couple did. Then, hand-in-hand, take the plunge into the crystal-clear waters. Nothing quite says "just married" like frolicking in the ocean while the rest of the world is just rubbing the sleep from their eyes.
It's chill, it's exhilarating, it's a dash of adventure mixed with a splash of romance. An opportunity to wash away the sleepiness and fully wake up to the reality of your newly-minted marriage.
So, dive in! The water's great, and hey, it's one way to ensure you're wide awake for the rest of the fun-filled day ahead!
A Romantic Picnic
Although I was only with this couple for 2 hours, I want to suggest an idea for your Florida elopement at Sunrise.
So, after the grand oceanic dip and the adrenaline rush subsides, it’s time to refuel! I am talking about breakfast – your first meal as a married couple.
Why not embrace a seaside picnic. There are some amazing companies in Florida, like Pretty Picnics and Memorable Picnics LLC, that specialize in setting up delightful beach picnics. (Or, if you prefer find a cute local diner for breakfast).
You could have a cozy blanket spread, a wicker basket filled with delectable goodies, and maybe even a bouquet of your favorite flowers thrown into the mix! This is more than just breakfast – it's the first chapter of your newlywed story.
Picture sharing pastries while the sun warms your skin, clinking coffee mugs or champagne flutes, and laughing together as a stray seagull tries to join your feast.
All the while, I'll be your fly-on-the-wall photographer, capturing these candid moments of joy and togetherness.
Remember, pancakes taste better on the beach, and love is the secret sauce!
Embracing the Unexpected
With no seating charts, guest lists, or worrying about Aunt Mildred's gluten intolerance, it's all about you and your love story!
But remember, anything that can happen, will happen. And that’s not just a threat, it’s a promise of fun! You may end up chasing seagulls who've stolen your breakfast pastries, or you might be serenading the sunrise with off-key renditions of your favorite songs.
Maybe the weather will pull a fast one and send a surprise shower your way. But don't fret! Dance in the rain and make a splash – literally!
Every stumble, every laughter, every unexpected moment makes your Florida elopement at sunrise an unforgettable adventure.
And me? I’ll be there, camera in hand, ready to immortalize these magical messes. With me as your candid paparazzo, you won't miss a moment of this joyous jamboree.
So, let's let the dice roll! Bring on the unpredictability and seize the sunrise – and whatever else the day brings. Remember, love isn’t just about perfection, it’s about embracing the unexpected, the wonderful, and the utterly ridiculous.
Ready for the ride? Then let's elope!
Ready to Elope at Sunrise?
There we have it – here is to making the most of your Florida elopement at Sunrise!
The golden hour is truly one of the best times to get married – the natural golden glow complementing your backdrop and images and the relaxed and intimate experience of little to no people around. What more could you wish for?
As a South Florida photographer, I would love to have a chat with you and hear all about your unique love story. So get in touch today!