Meagan and Thomas’ Epic Casa Marina Bash – Key West, Florida

From the beginning, I knew that Meagan and Thomas were not only madly in love, but that they were going to throw an epic party for their guests.  And it was, without doubt, a weekend to remember.

One of my favorite collections that I offer for wedding clients is the weekend package. I am there for my clients the day before the wedding, the wedding day and the day after… from rehearsal to welcome party to farewell brunch, I cover it all.

Meagan and Thomas got a weekend collection so I was there from start to finish for their wedding celebration.  After the rehearsal at Casa Marina, we went to First Flight. First Flight is a great little brewery in the heart of Old Town Key West (but off of Duval). The building it is housed in is known as the birthplace of Pan American World Airways.  Starting in 1927,  this was the headquarters for the well-known airline.  Not only does it have a cool history but its vibe is super chill; a total island hangout. I always recommend First Flight to my clients for rehearsal dinners or brunches. The food is great, the service is spot-on, and the photo opportunities are endless.

Meagan and Thomas brought in a band from Atlanta that played at both the rehearsal and the wedding. They knew how to bring the party.

Walking the quiet side streets of Key West at night has always been my favorite part of Key West.  Serene and cooler, you feel transported back to another time.  This building has always been one of my favorites. It feels so authentically Caribbean.

The wedding day started with getting ready at a private house near Casa Marina. As a destination wedding photographer, I always love getting ready opportunities at local houses. They are less cramped than hotel rooms and always bring a bit of local charm.

The historic Casa Marina was the perfect venue for their extravagant wedding. Plus, I thought Meagan picked the most perfect shade of pink for the bridesmaids’ dresses to compliment the elegant neutrals of this resort.

There was no first look between Meagan and Thomas so their first look while walking down the aisle was super special. Meagan even told me it was one of her favorite parts of the day and I can see why.  The look on Thomas’ face STILL makes me tear up when I see this photo.

The little ring bearer cheering in this photo just makes my heart happy.

Meagan and Thomas have a love story made for a novel.  It is precious and personal and made the wedding day even more exciting for everyone that loves them.  When I say everyone – I mean EVERYONE – has been waiting for this day since high school. 🙂

Never say no to a dress with pockets.

The reception was a crazy party full of love and laughter and tons of dancing.

Meagan and her sister had a time in the spotlight together and it was epic.

Meagan’s piece of advice for everyone – ENJOY the process. Have fun with the planning, because as stressful as it may get, you will probably miss it when it is over.

 

Vendor Love: 

Rehearsal Dinner: First Flight

Venue: Casa Marina

Planner: Destination Wedding Studio

Florals: Duarte Floral Design

Hair and Makeup: Bella Luxe

Videographer: Alan LeBlanc with Us Together

Cake:  Cakes by Karol

Band: Voltage Brothers

Party Rentals: Prestige Party Rental

Musician: Bongo D

 

*Megan Ellis is a destination wedding photographer who specializes in Smoky Mountain weddings, Key West weddings, and fun weddings anywhere in the world!  She lives permanently in East Tennessee but you’ll find her traveling the world as much as possible.