2023 Anna Maria Island Weddings

Contents

I DO’S AND DON’TS

06 Destination Wedding Etiquette Expert Tips for Navigating Your Dream Wedding in Paradise by Karen Riley-Love

ISLAND WEDDING TRENDS

10 Love Logistics: The Power of the Planner Rachel + Senthil / by Kristin Swain

86 Orchestrating LoveThe Role of a Wedding Officiant by Joe Hendricks

STYLED SHOOTS

32 Cortez Dockside Cottages Sandhill Photography

ISLAND FEATURES

22 Top 5 For Choosing a Destination Photographer by Karen Riley-Love

50 Marvelous Miniature Matrimony by Emma-Rose Triscritti

68 Cortez Village is Reeling in Charm by Karen Riley-Love

96 Ask Anna by Mrs. Anna Maria

Photo by Love and Style Photography

88 Morgan & Ethan Love and Style Photography 78 Dayna & Michele Love and Style Photography

24 Rachel & Shayne Love and Style Photography

70 Hayley & Dirk Love and Style Photography

54 Whitney and Jeff Love and Style Photography

62 Joanna & Rob Sandhill Photography

42 Mina & Rob Sandhill Photography

Destination Wedding Etiquette

Expert Tips for Navigating Your Dream Wedding in Paradise

Article by Karen Riley-Love

I Dos and Don’ts for Anna Maria Island Brides and Grooms

I Do Don’t

DO communicate early and clearly:

Give your guests ample notice about your destination wedding plans. Send out savethe-dates well in advance and provide them with all the necessary information, including travel details, accommodation options, and any pre-wedding festivities.

DON’T forget to offer assistance:

As your guests prepare for their trip, provide guidance on transportation, local attractions, and activities they can enjoy on the island. Consider creating welcome packages with maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations to make them feel comfortable and excited about their stay.

I Do Don’t

DO respect the local customs and environment:

Anna Maria Island is known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. Inform your guests about respecting the environment. For example, let them know that turtle hatchlings use the moonlight as a guide to find the water. So, ensure rental house lights aren’t visible from the beach, and if using a flashlight on the beach at night, add a red filter so you don’t disorient nearby turtles.

DON’T overlook local vendors:

Anna Maria Island boasts a talented community of wedding professionals familiar with the island’s unique features and can offer valuable insights. Supporting local vendors adds an authentic touch to your wedding and contributes to the local economy.

Custom save-the-dates by Sadgebrush Design, a luxury design studio dedicated to crafting invitations and signage that tell your love story. Their meticulous hand-painted designs capture the essence of your special event, be it a wedding, anniversary, or other milestone celebration.

Custom-made tumblers, a design collaboration between the 2021-2022 3rd graders and PTO at Anna Maria Elementary School feature artwork by the talented young students. By purchasing these tumblers for your welcome baskets, not only do you acquire a local item, but you also support the AME PTO. Proceeds from the sales directly benefit students’ educational experiences at Anna Maria Elementary School. Head to Beach Bums on Pine Ave to pick up your AMI tumbler.

Love Logistics:

Article by Kristin Swain

The Power of the Planner

Your wedding day is one of the most important milestones in your life, and pulling off the perfect celebration requires more than just a checklist. In the world of wedding planning, Laura Detwiler stands out as an event planner extraordinaire, armed with a level head, a healthy dose of creativity, and a knack for thinking outside the box. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Laura has mastered the art of event management, ensuring that every couple’s special day is nothing short of magical.

For Laura, cookie-cutter weddings are a thing of the past. Instead, she seeks to craft a unique and immersive experience for couples and their guests. Often spanning multiple days and venues, each event, from the welcome party to the ceremony, reception, and farewell brunch, is meticulously planned as a distinct and unforgettable chapter of the celebration. This approach allows Laura to infuse every aspect of the wedding with its own personality and flavor while maintaining a cohesive thread throughout.

To begin the planning process for this multi-day wedding extravaganza, Laura sat down with the couple to understand their vision. One of her favorite aspects of the job is the personal connection she establishes with her clients. “Some

people come to me with a clear vision, while others need guidance to think creatively and step outside their comfort zone,” Laura reveals. Once the couple’s ideas start to take shape, Laura collaborates closely with them to select the perfect vendors and locations for each event. By maintaining consistency in vendor choices across the various celebrations, she ensures a seamless experience while allowing each occasion to have its distinct atmosphere.

While the traditional multi-day wedding celebration often includes a rehearsal dinner, welcome party, ceremony,

Continued on page 18

Photos by Beth Joy Photography

Wedding planner, Laura Detwiler.

Photo by Lifelong Photography

Continued from page 11

reception, and farewell brunch, Laura believes in expanding the possibilities. After-parties and engagement parties are just a few additional events she encourages her clients to consider. Moreover, exceptional venues like the magnificent Powel Crosley Estate in Sarasota become a viable option for grander affairs. Nestled by the water, this historic mansion boasts enchanting indoor and outdoor spaces capable of accommodating over 200 guests. Laura describes it as a rare gem that combines ample capacity with a rich cultural heritage: “Powel Crosley is not only stunning, but it also holds a deep sense of history. Its location by the water adds to its allure.”

Laura’s passion and expertise shine through in every wedding she plans, and Rachel and Senthil’s particular celebration perfectly exemplifies her creative prowess. Working with the couple honoring both American and Indian heritages, Laura orchestrated two distinct wedding events. Initially expecting a guest list of 400-500 attendees, the celebrations ultimately welcomed around 250 guests. “It was an exhilarating event,” Laura reflects, recalling the couple’s exceptional ideas that transformed the wedding into a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone involved. “I cherish opportunities that allow me to think outside the box and unleash my creativity. I genuinely love what I do; it’s my passion.”

Love and Style Photography’s Summer Whitton shoots an Anna Maria Island Wedding.

Photo by Jocelyn Vedder Greene

Top 5 Tips

For choosing a destination photographer

Article by Karen Riley-Love

Look local.

Look for photographers who have shot weddings on the island and are familiar with scenic locations. Check out their portfolios to understand their style and whether it matches your vision for your wedding.

Ask for recommendations.

Another great way to find a photographer familiar with Anna Maria Island’s scenic locations is to ask for recommendations from locals. This could include wedding planners, florists, or other vendors on the island. They can recommend a photographer with an excellent community reputation who knows the best spots to capture stunning photos.

Schedule a consultation.

Once you have a shortlist of potential photographers, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with each of them. During the consultation, you can discuss your wedding vision and ask the photographer about their experience shooting on Anna Maria Island. They can also show you samples of their work and discuss their approach to capturing your special day.

4. 5.

Plan an engagement shoot.

Engagement shoots allow you to establish a connection with your photographer, build rapport, and understand their working style. It’s a chance to see how comfortable you feel in front of the camera and how the photographer guides you through different poses. This experience helps you gauge whether their approach aligns with your vision and allows you to communicate your preferences effectively. Feeling at ease with your photographer will allow them to capture genuine emotions and create timeless memories that reflect your unique style and personality as a couple.

Discuss logistics.

The first step in choosing any vendor for your destination wedding on Anna Maria Island is to look for someone with experience in the area. 1. 2. 3.

Finally, when choosing a photographer for your destination wedding on Anna Maria Island, it’s vital to discuss logistics. This could include transportation to different locations, permits for shooting in certain areas, and backup plans in case of inclement weather. Ensure you clearly understand the photographer’s fees and what is included in their packages.

the Couple

Rachel Shayne &

Alexandria, MN

the Vendors

AMI Beach Weddings event coordination

Love and Style Photography photographs

Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound welcome party

Flowers by Edie floral design

Joe Braccio ceremony music

Hometown Desserts cake

Rachel and Shane’s destination wedding on Anna Maria Island was a picturesque celebration of love and serendipity. The couple’s engagement unfolded during Shane’s sister’s wedding, as he seized the opportunity to propose during the flower toss—a moment made even more meaningful by his sister’s long-held dream of witnessing a proposal at her own wedding.

The wedding ceremony was a vision of elegance and simplicity, as pampas grass and macramé delicately adorned the arch and the guests gracefully dressed in shades of white and tan. After the ceremony, the bride gifted her flowers to a local nursing home, spreading joy and warmth beyond the celebration.

Styled Shoot

Cortez Dockside Cottages

The Vendors

Sandhill Photography photographs

Body and Sol hair and makeup

AMI Coconuts custom coconut water

Tipsy’s Catering dessert catering

Something Blue Bridal Boutique bridal gown

AMI Beach Weddings shoot design

Weber Scenic Productions rental

Nectar Custom Floral Designs floral design

Sadgebrush Designs invitations

Step into the enchanting world of Citrus Bliss, a styled shoot at Cortez Dockside Cottages. The venue, nestled amidst the historical allure of Cortez Village, offers breathtaking views and delightful 1930s cottages painted in green, yellow, and coral, providing the perfect backdrop for our featured wedding shoot. Experience the joyous celebration of love and the tropical spirit as we capture the essence of luscious Florida oranges in this dreamy setting, where warm, sunny hues create a cheerful atmosphere against breathtaking views.

the Couple

Mina Rob &

Franklin,

TN

the Vendors

AMI Beach Weddings event coordination

Sandhill Photography photographs

Hometown Desserts cake

Flowers by Edie floral design

The wedding ceremony of Mina and Rob was a heartfelt celebration of love, family, and shared passions. Their journey began after a memorable Christmas family trip to the Opryland Hotel, where their deep connection became apparent. With a desire to create a united family, Mina, and Rob’s wedding incorporated their three beautiful daughters as bridesmaids, symbolizing the merging of their lives. The beach of Anna Maria Island set the enchanting backdrop for their vows, where Mina’s parents, though unable to attend in person, joyfully witnessed the ceremony live from afar. To honor their union, Rob’s father walked Mina down the aisle, symbolizing the love and support that surrounded them. It was a wedding filled with love, cherished moments, and the promise of a bright future together.

Marvelous Miniature Matrimony

Article by Emma-Rose Triscritti

“Mama,” Celeste sighed as I kissed her goodnight, “Papa Puppy and Mama Owl are getting married.” “Oh really? That’s very special,” I replied without too much thought. “But Mama...” she continued, “When they are gettin’ married, are you goin’ to take their pictures...?” And at that moment, I knew this whimsical backyard elopement of two stuffed animals would become an unforgettable event and one of the most cherished weddings I would ever photograph.

A few weeks later, I found myself fully immersed in the preparations, from planning and coordinating to hosting and capturing every enchanting moment with my camera. The invitations were sent out, RSVPs poured in, and the excitement grew. Dressed in their finest garden party attire, the guests eagerly gathered to witness the union of our beloved stuffed animal couple.

Papa, not the plush puppy but my loving husband, took on the role of DJ, setting the tone with melodious tunes. Tears filled my eyes as I watched my daughter proudly walk the bride and groom down the aisle, accompanied by the heartfelt melody of “A Thousand Years.”

Amidst laughter and applause, guests savored light Hors d’oeuvres and chilled rosé. Meanwhile, I captured the couple’s portraits, preserving their love in timeless images. Our three-year-old daughter’s anticipation for the cake was contagious, bringing smiles to all who witnessed her excitement.

This intimate affair was a testament to the power of love and the magic seen through the eyes of a child. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged, starting with the vibrant floral by Blooms By The Beach. Owner Felica Goett fully embraced the vision, providing an elegant boutonniere, arch and miniature bridal bouquet. The Cheesecake Cuties crafted a perfectly petite wedding cake, symbolizing the sweetness of this unique union.

In the end, it was the simplicity and innocence of this celebration that made it truly unforgettable. Through my camera lens, I witnessed the magic that unfolds when we embrace love with open hearts, just as a child does. This extraordinary wedding united two worlds—the world of grown-up responsibilities with the world of innocence and pure love. It serves as a lasting memory—a testament to the boundless power of love, the enchantment of a child’s imagination, and the unbridled joy seen in their eyes.

Photos by Sandhill Photography

Photos by Sandhill Photography

the Couple

Whitney

Jeff &

Bradenton, FL

the Vendors

AMI Coconuts custom coconuts

AMI Beach Weddings event coordination

Love and Style Photography photographs

Flowers by Edie floral design

Margot Zarzycka violinist

Breezy Bakery cake

Whitney and Jeff’s wedding on Anna Maria Island was a true testament to the beauty of love and the allure of a beachfront celebration. From the custom-branded coconuts that added a personalized touch to the presence of their loyal service dog, Jadey, every aspect of the wedding reflected the couple’s unique style and thoughtful choices. The live violin music, mingling with the soothing sounds of the ocean, created an enchanting atmosphere that perfectly complemented the contemporary elegance of the event. With barefoot bliss and a sense of togetherness, Whitney and Jeff embarked on their journey as a married couple, leaving cherished memories in the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness their special day.

the Couple

Joanna Ron &

Longboat Key, FL

the Vendors

AMI Beach Weddings event coordination

Casey Hoffman officiant

Sandhill Photography photographs

Hometown Desserts cake

Flowers by Edie floral design

Carlann Evans ceremony music

Doctor’s Garden reception

On a crisp January evening, Ron and Joanna celebrated their love in an intimate wedding ceremony at the Doctor’s Garden. The couple’s joy and warmth were palpable despite the chilly weather, transforming their special day into a beautiful winter tale.

The celebration crescendoed into the reception, where guests were treated to a luxurious feast of lobster and filet, a nod to their shared love for the sea and its bounty, offering a perfect end to a day that merged past memories with new, beautiful moments.

Cortez Village

is Reeling in Charm

Article by Karen Riley-Love

Nestled in an intimate corner of the Gulf Coast, Cortez Village has a rich history that reflects its tight-knit community and reverence for tradition. Cortez is designated on the National Register of Historic Places as the last working fishing village on the Gulf Coast. Still, its story extends far beyond its fishing roots.

Established in the late 1880s by families from North Carolina, Cortez has withstood the test of time, adapting to changes while honoring its independent spirit.

Cortez’s resilience became evident during the Great Depression, as the villagers relied

on plentiful fish catches and traded with local growers, refusing federal aid.

Within the Florida Maritime Museum, artifacts and exhibits serve as relics of Cortez’s history, transporting visitors to a time when the village’s docks bustled with activity and the sea held both bounty and challenges.

From its earliest days, the village has nurtured a rich tradition of artists. From brushstrokes on canvas to melodies from the fiddle, artists in Cortez find fertile ground for their imaginations to flourish. The village’s idyllic charm, steeped in

its coastal heritage’s sights, sounds, and stories, provides inspiration for these artistic souls.

As Cortez continues to evolve, it remains a place where history and innovation intertwine. The village proudly preserves its heritage, cherishing its fishing roots and celebrating the indomitable spirit of its people. Cortez is not just a village; it is a living testament to the enduring connection between fishermen and the sea—a place where the past meets the present, where artists find inspiration, and where the saying “The finest kind” resonates in the hearts of all who call it home.

Photo by Karen Riley-Love

the Couple

Hayley

Newton, MO

Dirk & the Vendors

AMI Beach Weddings event coordination

Love and Style Photography photographs

Sunshine Concierge Partners beach picnic Graze Street AMI catering

Flowers by Edie floral design

Hayley and Dirk’s intimate ceremony took place on pristine white sands, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. With the gentle caress of the ocean breeze, they exchanged heartfelt vows, sealing their love. Afterward, they indulged in a curated luxury picnic with artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and delectable treats. As the sunset painted the sky, they raised their glasses to toast their love. Their spontaneous and intimate celebration highlighted the beauty of simplicity and the sheer bliss of being together.

the Couple

Dayna

Tampa, FL

Michele & the Vendors

AMI Beach Weddings event coordination

Sweet Bloom Cupcakes cake

Casey Hoffman

officiant

Flowers by Edie floral design

Love and Style Photography photographs

Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound accommodations

Dayna and Michele celebrated their love with a picturesque beach wedding on Anna Maria Island, surrounded by the stunning ocean backdrop. The ceremony’s highlight was the heartwarming inclusion of their daughter, who played an important role in uniting their families. The couple sealed their vows with a magical shell blessing, as their loved ones made wishes for their future together and joyfully tossed the shells into the glistening ocean, symbolizing a lifetime of happiness and shared dreams.

Orchestrating Love

The Role of a Wedding Officiant

Article by Joe Hendricks

Navigating the nervous excitement of your wedding day can feel like a daunting endeavor. Seasoned wedding officiant Stacy Prouty has found the antidote to calm those jitters. “I tell each partner, if you feel your partner is nervous, don’t wait for me to ask you to join hands. Give their fingers a small squeeze as you look them in the eye. That touch is magic - brings down blood pressure and helps the person be fully present,” she shares.

As the lead officiant and owner of Say “I Do” on the Suncoast, Prouty’s gentle approach, combined with her two decades of experience in officiating weddings, has proven to be a balm for nervous couples. This tranquil setting is especially poignant when set against the serene backdrop of Anna Maria Island, one of her favorite locales.

Prouty embraces the opportunity to tailor ceremonies to couples’ unique personalities and love stories. “Unity traditions are optional but can

I tell each partner, if you feel your partner is nervous, don’t wait for me to ask you to join hands. Give their fingers a small squeeze as you look them in the eye. That touch is magic - brings down blood pressure and helps the person be fully present.

help speak to what’s meaningful to you both,” she explains. And on Anna Maria Island, she gets to exercise her creativity: “At the beach, the sand ceremony takes advantage of the venue, using sand to represent blending two lives into one, and comparing the constancy of your love and devotion to the constancy of the tide—something we can count on day in and day out.”

With her team of officiants spread across the Suncoast, from north Fort Myers to Tampa and all the islands and beaches in between, Prouty ensures that each ceremony is conducted in accordance with Florida law. As an ordained non-denominational minister and a statecertified Florida notary public, she meets the legal requirements for officiating weddings in the Sunshine State. But for her, it’s about more than just legalities—it’s about the couples and their love stories.

Prouty’s unique role allows her to advise couples on the intricacies of a wedding ceremony and even the finer points of obtaining a marriage license in Florida. She also navigates the small but impactful details that can make a big difference, like ensuring the person officiating steps out of the way during the couple’s kiss for the perfect photo-op.

One of the most personal aspects of any wedding ceremony is the vows. Prouty assists couples in choosing or writing vows that accurately reflect their love and commitment. “Most people aren’t public speakers. What looks good on paper doesn’t always flow well in a spoken setting,” she shares, underlining her role in helping to guide couples to find just the right words. Her personal touch and experience allow her to bring each couple’s love story to life, celebrating their unity in a way that is as constant and enduring as the tide.

Stacy Prouty of Say “I Do” on the Suncoast embraces the opportunity to tailor ceremonies to couples’ unique personalities and love stories. Photos courtesy of Say “I Do” on the Suncoast.

- Stacy Prouty Say “I Do” on the Suncoast

the Couple

Morgan

Ethan &

Lockport, NY

the Vendors

Powel Crosley Estate venue

Affairs In the Air lighting

Love and Style Photography photographs

Mattison’s Catering Company catering

Morgan and Ethan’s wedding at the Powel Crosley Estate perfectly blended elegance, and the beauty of a bygone by the venue’s grandeur and coastal Morgan chose a color palette of delicate a touch of something blue. The bridesmaids stunning in their dusty blue gowns, contrasting with bouquets of floral soft anemones. Choosing Powel Crosley not only about aesthetics for Morgan it was a way to honor the past and memories for their future. Steeped the estate became a magical stage to unfold, reminding everyone present transcends time.

the historic blended romance, bygone era. Inspired coastal surroundings, delicate whites and bridesmaids looked gowns, beautifully floral white roses and Crosley Estate was Morgan and Ethan; and create lasting in history, for their love present that love

Ask Anna

Dear Anna,

With our wedding just around the corner, my fiancé and I are searching for a unique and inclusive pre-wedding celebration that differs from the traditional bachelor and bachelorette parties. We want an experience that allows us to celebrate with our closest friends. Do you have any suggestions for an unforgettable alternative celebration?

Dear Searching,

How about organizing a memorable boat trip for you, your fiancé, and your closest friends along the stunning shores of Anna Maria Island?

Consider booking Shore Thing Tiki Cruises, which offers a delightful 30-foot decked-out boat accommodating up to 23 guests. The floating tiki bar adds a touch of fun, creating a laid-back atmosphere where you can laugh, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

Wishing you an incredible pre-wedding celebration that perfectly captures your unique love story!

- Searching from St. Louis

Photo courtesy of Shore Thing Tiki Cruises

XO Love, Anna

Dear Anna,

I’m seeking a fun and unique guest book idea for our destination wedding. Can you help?

- Wedding Wanderlust from Washington

Dear Wanderlust,

How about a postcard guest book? Create a postcard station where guests can write their well wishes or messages for the couple. Provide a variety of blank postcards featuring different scenic views or landmarks from Anna Maria Island. Guests can choose a postcard, write their message on the back, and drop it in a designated box. After the wedding, the couple can enjoy reading all the heartfelt messages and have a collection of postcards as a keepsake.

XO Love, Anna

Dear Anna,

As I prepare for my wedding day, I find myself longing to honor the memory of a beloved family member who has passed away. Can you offer any advice on respectfully paying tribute to them during the ceremony?

- Honoring Love from Houston

DearHonoring,

I’m sorry for your loss, and it’s beautiful that you want to pay tribute to your loved one on your special day. You can pay homage to them in several meaningful ways during your wedding ceremony. One idea is to reserve an empty chair with a sign in their honor. This reserved seat symbolizes their presence and serves as a heartfelt reminder of their memory. You could also attach a charm to your bouquet or wear jewelry representing their presence. Another option is to include a special reading dedicated to them during the ceremony. Choose a gesture that feels right for you and your partner, allowing their memory to be present on your wedding day.

XO Love, Anna

Photo by Love and Style Photography

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CONTRIBUTORS

Jocelyn Vedder Greene

Joe Hendricks

Karen Riley-Love

Kristin Swain

Emma-Rose Triscritti

MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES

If your wedding-related business would like to be considered for membership, please contact the Anna Maria Island Wedding Association at love@amiweddingassociation.com

dearReaders

Welcome to the third edition of Anna Maria Weddings magazine. As Editor, I’m delighted to share the latest updates and stories that embody our destination’s romantic spirit.

I am over the moon to announce the Anna Maria Island Wedding Magazine’s outstanding achievements at the 2022 Flagler Awards. These accolades celebrate how our digital magazine captures the essence of our beloved island and its enchanting wedding experiences. Our association’s magazine won two first-place Henry Awards, recognizing exceptional tourism marketing in Florida, including Best in Show. Our talented partner, Jocelyn Vedder Greene of Green Girl Design, is now a four-time Flagler Award winner.

In the past year, I have had the pleasure of establishing connections with a wide array of skilled vendors. These talented professionals include florists, event planners, musicians, caterers, bakers, and photographers, just to name a few. Their invaluable contributions have greatly enriched the pages of Anna Maria Island Weddings magazine. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to present their remarkable work to you. If you have any recommendations for exceptional local wedding professionals or if you would like to submit questions for Ask Anna, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

To our soon-to-be-wed couples, we extend our warmest wishes for a day filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. For assistance from our trusted wedding professionals, please visit our website at annamariaislandweddings.com.

Warm regards,

Karen Riley-Love Editor, Anna Maria Weddings

Karen Riley-Love, AMI Beach Weddings

Jocelyn Vedder Greene, Green Girl Design 2021 & 2022 Flagler Award Winners

Cover Photo by Beth Joy Photography

We are destination wedding experts located on Anna Maria Island, Florida, specializing in wedding ceremonies directly on the beach.