Erin & Michael | Small Wedding with Big MOMENTS at Hyatt Centric Key West
Erin and Michael Celebrate a Small Wedding with Big Photography wishes at Hyatt Centric Key West
Photographs play a vital role in capturing the essence of ANY wedding, but often when you're celebrating with a smaller group, some couples underestimate the impact of these images, often believing that a smaller gathering means less significance. Not Erin and Michael. They knew that photos matter, and chose the style that fits their celebration, and the importance of planning photo opportunities.
Erin, the bride, an avid reader with a love for romance and thrillers, and Michael, whose curiosity and love for new experiences were evident from the moment we met him, were a joy to work with. From the start, it was clear that their wedding day would be about creating lasting memories with their closest friends and family while staying true to their personalities.
By effectively communicating with your photographer, you can ensure every moment at your stunning venue like Hyatt Centric Key West, an amazing resort on the island, and other nearby iconic locations like areas near Duval Street or Mallory Square is beautifully documented to enhance your wedding memories, especially in picturesque settings like Key West.
Understand Why Photos Hold Significance for Small Weddings
Photographs are vital for small weddings as they capture the genuine emotions of intimate celebrations. They showcase unique details that reflect personal styles, document the charming atmosphere of the venue, and preserve precious moments with loved ones. Thoughtful images create lasting memories and tells personal stories, enhancing the significance of the day.
This day began with Erin getting ready in the boardroom at Hyatt Centric Key West, while Michael prepared in his suite. Erin’s Maggie Sottero gown, sourced from Debra’s Bridal Shop, was stunning—and yes, it had pockets! One of our favorite moments was during their first look in a secluded beach nook on the property. Erin, always playful, surprised Michael with mini liquor shots from her dress pockets, making for a lighthearted and unforgettable moment that had us all laughing.
Capture the Emotions Involved in Intimate Celebrations
Capturing emotions at small weddings is essential for crafting lasting memories. At a picturesque resort in Florida such as the Hyatt, couples can create an intimate atmosphere that reflects their personal style. The joy of sharing a mojito toast with close friends and family adds to the overall experience, making each image a meaningful snapshot of love and connection.
Set Boundaries for Privacy and Special Requests
Setting boundaries for privacy during a small wedding is vital for both couples and their guests. Couples should openly discuss any preferences for which moments they wish to keep private or any specific types of images that should be off-limits from candid shots.
Additionally, couples may have special requests regarding certain moments or rituals they want to highlight. For example, if a couple intends to share a private toast before the ceremony, notifying us in advance will ensure this intimate moment is documented without intrusion. By establishing these boundaries and requests early, couples can create a more personalized and enjoyable photography experience that truly reflects the significance of their small wedding.
Choose the Right Style of Photography for Your Event
Selecting the right style of photographer is essential for reflecting the couple's vision at a small wedding. Different options, from traditional to candid coverage, cater to various preferences and personalities.
Planning Ideal Photo Opportunities Throughout the Day
Preparing for photo opportunities during a small wedding requires thoughtful planning. Couples should create a shot list of must-have photos, ensuring essential moments are captured. Scheduling time for pre-ceremony and post-ceremony shots, incorporating details of the ceremony, and designing a timeline that utilizes natural lighting will enhance the visual narrative. Including unique rituals and designating someone to manage photography coordination adds personal touches to the experience.
This strategic approach allows couples to maximize their photography while capturing genuine emotions and meaningful interactions throughout the day. With this planning, every image will contribute to a cohesive story of their celebration.
Preserve Special Moments With Family and Friends
Photos taken at small weddings play a crucial role in preserving special moments shared with family and friends. When a couple focuses on capturing candid interactions, such as heartfelt conversations or joyous laughter, these images become lasting tokens of the love and support surrounding their union. For instance, a shot of a parent sharing a proud smile during the vows not only immortalizes that moment but also reflects the deep connections that make the day truly significant.
These cherished photographs serve as reminders of the bonds formed on the wedding day, allowing couples to revisit the warmth of shared experiences with their loved ones. By prioritizing moments spent with family and friends, couples create a visual narrative that highlights the essence of their celebration. In years to come, looking back at these images will evoke feelings of nostalgia and appreciation for the people who stood by their side on such a momentous occasion.
Reflect on Personal Stories Through Photographs
Wedding photography is unique in that it serves as a powerful storytelling component, capturing personal narratives that reflect the unique journey of each couple. Every image taken during a small celebration tells a story, whether it's about the couple’s first look, a shared laugh among friends, or the quiet moments of reflection between the vows. These visuals become cherished reminders of the day, allowing couples to recall the emotions and connections that defined their celebration, reinforcing the significance of their relationship.
Family photos were an important part of the day, even if they were more about preserving memories for the future. We kept things efficient and comfortable, focusing on what mattered most to Erin and Michael.
Erin and Michael's ceremony, officiated by Aaron Wechter, was held on the Hyatt Centric's gorgeous waterfront, with florals by Karro Events & Floral adding the perfect touch of color and elegance. Erin and Michael's choice of desert coral, royal blue, light gray, silver, and navy as their wedding colors complemented the island backdrop beautifully. With their toes in the sand, and their hands intertwined with each other, Erin's dress flowing beautifully in the ocean breeze, and the beauty of their love clearly exchanged between them, it felt like paradise not only in the literal sense, but in a romantic one as well.
In a setting where island adventures may follow the ceremony, the camera has a way to evoke the spirit of the occasion long after the day has passed. Each image serves to commemorate not just the vows exchanged but also the laughter, warmth, and shared moments that define a small wedding. By focusing on these heartfelt interactions, couples ensure that their special day is forever preserved in vivid detail, emphasizing the unique charm of intimate celebrations.
Showcase Unique Details That Define Your Style
Photos taken at small weddings can highlight unique aspects that reflect personal style. For instance, a couple might choose to showcase a charming balcony overlooking the ocean at the Hyatt Centric Key West, capturing stunning sunsets as a backdrop for their ceremony. Additionally, details such as custom decor or signature cocktails served at the reception can help personalize the experience and create visual memories that resonate with their individual tastes. It's very common for a boat to go by heading back to its marina in the distance while the couple are saying "I do",
Another important element is the venue's atmosphere, which can enhance the overall aesthetic of the day. Following the exchange of vows, we made the wedding photography by capturing portraits around the property and iconic Key West spots, including the Greetings from Key West mural and the Southernmost Point. This event truly exemplified that a small Key West nuptial doesn't mean sacrificing photographic opportunities. With careful planning, we captured every cherished moment and detail.Each of these elements tells a story about their celebration, allowing them to relive the day through images that pay homage to the unique details of their intimate affair, making every moment a treasured keepsake.
Document the Venue Atmosphere and Charm
Documenting the venue's atmosphere and charm is essential for small weddings, especially when the location offers stunning views of the ocean, epic balcony shots captured downward toward the unfolding events, and unique features like white Ibis birds wandering nearby. Capturing these elements in their wedding photography not only provides a beautiful backdrop for the couple but also highlights the natural beauty and accessibility of the venue, enhancing the overall narrative of the celebration. Photos taken in these picturesque settings allow couples to revisit the ambiance of their special day long after the event has concluded.
Images that showcase the venue's charm can evoke feelings of warmth and happiness among guests. For example, capturing candid moments of laughter against a backdrop of vibrant scenery or the calming ocean waves can reflect the joy of the occasion. These photographs tell a story that resonates with every attendee, reminding them of the delightful atmosphere and the love shared, making the memories even more impactful.
Include Rituals and Personal Touches in Photos
Including unique rituals and personal touches in photographs can enhance the overall narrative of the celebration. For instance, if the couple has a tradition of writing personal vows or sharing a special drink during the ceremony, capturing these moments helps tell a more intimate story. Because this particular soiree was happening on a major holiday - Halloween to be exact - the bride infused a few subtle spooky details, making sure that the symbolism of the day was represented but without turning the day into an outright obvious homage to that holiday. For example, her French manicure had little ghost motifs on one finger, there were some cute miniature skulls as part of the table decor, and the kids were able to dress in their costumes halfway through the reception. These photographs not only preserve specific activities but also add depth and meaning to the visual documentation of the day.
When couples prioritize photographing these personal elements, they ensure a more comprehensive and heartfelt collection of images that truly represent their love story.
Create a Timeline That Allows for Optimal Lighting
Creating a timeline that accommodates natural lighting is essential for capturing stunning images during a small wedding. Photographers often recommend scheduling key moments, such as the ceremony and couple portraits, during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset. This lighting produces a soft, warm glow that enhances the overall aesthetic of photographs, making the couple and their surroundings look vibrant and beautiful.
To achieve the best results, couples should communicate with their photographer about optimal times for different shots throughout the day. For instance, planning outdoor ceremonies in the late afternoon can provide excellent lighting for candid moments with guests, while pre-ceremony preparations can benefit from morning light. By discussing and establishing a clear timeline, couples can ensure their photographs capture the essence and intimacy of their celebration while showcasing the venue in the best possible light.
Share Examples of Photos You Love for Reference
Erin made our job so rewarding by sharing examples of photos she loved early in the planning process. She provided inspiration that helped us understand her aesthetic, from the bright, airy tones she admired to the vivid colors and thoughtful framing she appreciated in our work. This collaboration allowed us to tailor every shot to reflect Erin and Michael’s personality, ensuring that their wedding gallery felt uniquely theirs while giving us the creative freedom to bring their vision to life.
Discuss Your Vision and Expectations Clearly
When planning for a small wedding, couples should articulate their vision and expectations to their photographer to ensure the most meaningful moments are captured. Clear communication regarding preferred photography styles and specific must-have shots can significantly influence the final outcome. For example, as the sun was starting to go down, we stole a few quiet moments with Erin and Michael for stunning sunset portraits, proving once again that even a small wedding can result in breathtaking, timeless images. Their day wrapped up with everyone dancing around them on the dance floor and a fun mock exit with friends and family cheering them on.
Discussing the overall tone and atmosphere desired for the wedding can also guide photographers in their approach. Couples may wish for a relaxed, joyful vibe, or a more formal ambiance, and conveying these nuances helps photographers select the right techniques and settings. By providing clear examples of desired images, couples increase the likelihood of receiving a collection of photographs that truly reflect their special day, encapsulating the emotions and connections that matter most to them.
Create Lasting Memories With Thoughtful Photography
Thoughtful creativity plays a key role in capturing the essence of small weddings, allowing couples to create lasting memories that reflect their unique story. Professional photographers can emphasize the emotional connections and candid interactions among attendees, ensuring that every precious moment is preserved in vivid detail. For instance, capturing the sparkle in a guest's eye during a heartfelt toast highlights the significance of relationships and shared joy on such an important day.
Utilize Photos to Enhance Your Guest Experience
When you don't have a huge guest list, you can use photos as a way to enrich the overall experience for guests. Setting up a photo booth during the wedding reception encourages interaction among attendees, and offers guests an engaging and enjoyable way to capture memorable moments. They can strike playful poses with provided props and backdrops that align with the theme.
A photo booth can also serve as a fantastic icebreaker, inviting guests to mingle and connect in a relaxed environment. As individuals and families step forward to take pictures, the laughter and camaraderie naturally unfold, enriching the overall atmosphere. Couples can later compile these images into a keepsake album, allowing everyone to relive the joy and connections made during the day, thus underscoring the importance of photos at their small wedding.
Your photography team can also encourage mingling throughout the cocktail hour and reception, walking around to capture table candids and informal bunches of individuals casually hanging out and enjoying the day. It feels more spontaenous than the formal posed photos, and makes the guest feel special that they were included in the memories. As guests of Erin and Michael's day sipped beverages and took in the views over the Gulf of Mexico, we were able to pause them for a quick moment and seal their presence into the history of the day.
Involving guests through activities such as a collaborative photo book adds an interactive element to the celebration. By inviting attendees to contribute their favorite polaroid snapshots from the day, couples create a collective keepsake that captures diverse perspectives and experiences. This approach enhances the sense of community, allowing everyone to feel included in the couple's special moments.
As the sun began its descent, guests enjoyed a sophisticated cocktail hour, mingling and savoring the coastal ambiance. The couple and their bridal party made a grand entrance into the reception space, where they shared a graceful first dance, setting the tone for an elegant evening. This was followed by touching dances with their parents, each step a reflection of love and gratitude.
Dinner was an exceptional culinary experience, crafted by the renowned team at Catered Affairs. As the evening progressed, we stole a few quiet moments with Carly and Kyle to capture the stunning Key West sunset, a perfect backdrop for their love story. The vibrant hues of the sky mirrored the warmth and joy of the day, creating unforgettable images.
SharING the Story With Future Generations
As we look back on Erin and Michael’s day, we’re excited to think about the stories we’ll help future couples tell through their wedding photography. Together, we’ll create timeless images that not only capture key moments but also share the story of your day with generations to come. We love working with couples to build collections that reflect their unique love stories, ensuring that each photograph holds meaning and emotion. Your wedding gallery will become a cherished visual narrative, connecting your family members to your journey and keeping those memories alive for years. We can't wait to be part of your story and help preserve it beautifully.
Conclusion
Capturing moments through photography is essential for small weddings, as it preserves the genuine emotions and unique details that make the day special. Thoughtful images tell the couple’s story, document memorable interactions, and showcase the intimate atmosphere shared with loved ones. By prioritizing photography and selecting the right style, couples can create lasting memories that reflect their personal journey. Ultimately, these photos serve as treasured keepsakes, allowing them to revisit their joyful celebration for years to come.
Being part of Erin and Michael’s boutique destination wedding at Hyatt Centric Key West reminded us why we love what we do. Small weddings offer the chance to create something truly special, and we are so grateful to have captured these memories for such a wonderful couple.
Special thank you to the other vendors who made this event a success:
Planner: Olena | Simply You Weddings
Flowers and Decor: Karro Events
Beauty: Casa Salon
The Dress: Maggie Sottero | Debra’s Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal
Groom’s Attire: Jos. A Bank
The Rings: Fox Jewelry with Family Stone
Officiant: Aaron Wechter
Cake/Dessert: Kermit’s Key Lime Pie
Invitations: Erin via The Knot
Signage: Blue Thistle Studio
Music: AJ Falcone | AJ’s DJs
Photographers: Karrie Porter and Mark Funkhouser
