While I love a big party, I can’t help but feel that COVID has brought many of us back to where we belong, shifting our focus from extravagant celebrations to intimate occasions full of meaning, and most importantly, the people we love. Few weddings have reminded me of that shift more than Mackenzie and Micah’s intimate coastal cottage wedding, which, in addition to being full of personality, was surrounded by a small but dear group of family and friends who heaped love and admiration onto the couple at every turn.

A Meaningful Venue

Mackenzie and Micah chose a venue that was dear to their hearts. The Warwick River is a place the couple has spent many hours kayaking, paddle boarding, and watching sunsets.

A Coastal Cottage Wedding Vision

The natural beauty of the Warwick River helped the couple spur a simple coastal cottage wedding theme. The color palette of blue and white provided a stunning neutral palette that contrasted beautifully against bright spring flowers, creating an overall sense of whimsey. Edison string lights and lanterns added soft whispers of romance, while perfectly imperfect coastal cottage themed décor helped tie the entire event together without feeling too stuffy or contrived.

The First Look

The first time a couple sees each other on their wedding day is such a precious moment, and a thrill to capture.

It’s the perfect opportunity to separate oneself from the worldliness often associated with weddings, and take a moment to reflect on the true importance of the day.

The looks on their faces say it all.

Straying from Tradition

One of the things I truly loved about Mackenzie and Micah’s wedding day was that they weren’t afraid to stray from tradition a bit. Mackenzie’s mother and father walked her down the aisle. Both bride and groom chose to have non-gender specific wedding parties; Mackenzie’s brother, Shane, was her Man of Honor and Micah’s sister was his Best Woman. The couple wrote their own vows.

The couple also chose to forego booking many of the traditional wedding vendors, opting instead to do it themselves or enlist the help of friends and family. While this can get tricky for larger weddings, it was the perfect option for their intimate celebration! For example, a friend of the Bride’s helped with hair and makeup. Friends and family all pitched in to decorate the venue. Micah’s aunt and mom lovingly prepared delicious key lime cheesecakes in lieu of a traditional cake. Rather than hiring a DJ, Micah and Mackenzie prepared a mood setting own playlist using Spotify. The delicious dinner was catered by Bonefish Grill, but served by close friends who wanted to pitch in. Everyone came together as a team to make Mackenzie and Micah’s wedding day absolutely perfect from them; you could truly feel the love emanating from every guest in attendance!

The Ceremony

Micah couldn’t stop smiling as Mackenzie walked towards him and the rest of their life together as husband and wife.

The bride and groom stood beneath an expertly-decorated greenery-covered arch with blue flowers.

Dolphins made a surprise appearance during the ceremony. Surely that’s a sign of good fortune for the years to come!

The Reception

Rather than a big dance party immediately following their ceremony, Mackenzie and Micah opted to create a dinner-party atmosphere (complete with Spotify playlist to set the mood) to truly connect with their cherished guests. It was the perfect time gather around a delicious meal and soak in the company of friends and family!

The Getaway

A sparkler exit to a fun green vintage car, dubbed “Pea Soup,” wrapped up the evening.

From the Couple’s Point of View

Whatʼs one word you would choose to describe your wedding day? Magical

Do you have any advice for couples planning their big day? It is easy to get caught up in expectation. Remember to include details that are meaningful to you and don’t get to caught up in creating a movie perfect wedding. Make it your day. If you are having a larger wedding (which we didn’t), I would recommend having a matron of ceremonies or day of coordinator. Plan early if you can and give yourself time to relax before the wedding day. 

The Vendors

Photographer EmmiClaire Photography
Wedding Dress Here & Now Bridal
Veil Blush Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen Attire JC Penny’s
Florist The Gardener’s Workshop
Caterer Bonefish Grill
Invitations Canva
Bride’s Hair Angel from Animare Salon & Spa

Ready to book your wedding photographer?

Are you looking for a wedding photographer who captures authentic moments that speak to the the heart of your wedding day? Contact EmmiClaire Photography today!