Randi & Buddy by Julie Simmons

Randi & Buddy by Julie Simmons

SUGAR POINTE ESTATE

Photography by Alex Wisted Photography

Randi Dopson grew up playing in the green pastures of Sugar Pointe Estate, fishing on the dock, and dreaming of being a bride and saying “I do” one day under the property’s rich canopy of historic oaks.

“When I got engaged on Christmas Eve last year, the first thing I said was, ‘We are getting married at Sugar Pointe!’” And that Randi and Buddy Winters did in March this year.

For those of you unfamiliar with Sugar Pointe Estate, it’s an Old Florida, 50-acre estate originally established in the 1860s and boasting manicured pastures, 100-year-old oaks, maples, magnolias, and palms, with 2,500 feet of waterfront footage on the Bells River.

The property offers a couple of venue options for wedding celebrations, including the Sugar Shack, which offers a full kitchen and a 1,500-foot hardwood dance floor, along with The Boathouse positioned on the 1,000-foot pier extending over the river and featuring a rooftop deck. The property also lodging for the wedding party, including the 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath River House and an Air Stream that sleeps two.

“We absolutely loved that we could arrive on Friday, settle into the house, and then get to work preparing for the wedding with everything we needed onsite,” explains Randi. With a palate of plum, cabernet, emerald, and navy jewel tones, the décor was gorgeous beside the natural green pastures. Baker Boutique Design managed the florals, incorporating the same hues alongside signage that Randi created for a perfect finish. By the time the sun rose on the day of the wedding, everything was ready-to-go, and the bride was stress-free on her special day.

“After the rehearsal dinner, we kicked out all the boys, and my mom, aunt, and bridesmaids stayed up late laughing and telling stories. The next morning, we woke up and enjoyed more time together while Amelia Hair Therapy prepped us for the wedding.

Not only did local venues and vendors make for a perfect wedding, but Fernandina Beach’s own Beauty Within: A Bridal Boutique was where Randi said “yes” to her dress!

While Randi and her mom were into all the details, there were a couple of surprises that made the day even better. “When I walked out of the house to head to the ceremony, Buddy surprised me with a horse and carriage from Jacksonville Carriage Company. It was super romantic, and we enjoyed a stroll around the property after the wedding, too!”

“Randi and Buddy’s wedding showcased the true diversity of our property,” shares Sugar Pointe Estate owner Kelly Manus. “To accommodate something as magical as a horse-drawn carriage, and all of the other details that made their day so memorable, we were proud to take part in making their dreams—from long before we were even a venue—come true.”

At 5:30 p.m., the couple said, “I do,” with Randi’s aunt officiating and guests enjoying a “shot” with the couple for their first time as husband and wife. Nearly 100 friends and family were ready for a fun night, which kicked off with a cocktail hour featuring smoking drinks by Smokin’ Lew Cocktail Smokers and a charcuterie bar. The reception continued into the night with a plated dinner and entertainment by Freezers Mobile DJ.

As Randi looks back through her wedding album and reminisces, she will tell you that the day and venue was everything she dreamed about as a little girl—and more—with her new husband by her side. The newlyweds recently moved to Savannah, Georgia and are enjoying exploring a new town as they build their lives together.