Location: Sarasota, Florida
Setting: Historic Mansion
Wedding season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 2 years
The number of guests: 70+
Wedding theme/style: Chic, Italian-inspired.
In the heart of a Floridian summer, Clara, a fashion and beauty editor, and Mark, a NYC marketer, celebrated a European-inspired wedding, starting a new chapter in their remarkable journey.
After getting engaged in July 2020, the couple dreamed about an intimate destination wedding in Europe. Mark, a master trip planner with a penchant for elegance, stumbled upon the old-world charm venue – Powel Crosley Estate in Sarasota, Florida. This hidden gem seamlessly blended a touch of European South nostalgia with easy accessibility for their New York-based loved ones.
Fox and Film Photography expertly captured every picturesque moment, transforming Clara and Mark’s wedding into a cinematic masterpiece. The couple’s intentional and leisurely timeline, including a welcome dinner the night before, allowed for creative photography and forged connections with friends and family, ensuring genuine moments were beautifully immortalized. From the bride: “We love the nostalgic element to photos, and the documentary style photos are always my favorite. What a great job capturing the intangible intimacy between the big moments.”
The meticulous planning of their wedding was in the capable hands of Ali Skokos of Lavish Designs, who transformed their dreams into reality. The couple drew inspiration from the vibrant hues of the Aperol Spritz and the romance of Italy, infusing joyful and bright emotions into every detail of their celebration.
Clara, with her background in fashion and beauty, showcased her exquisite taste through three breathtaking dress changes. The first, a Carolina Herrera gown, complemented by a punchy red lip and black Manolo Blahnik shoes, displayed the enduring sophistication.
She kept her hair simple and natural. Her makeup look was primarily nude tones with a punchy red lip.
Mark and his groomsmen, wearing black bow ties and the groom in a white blazer, radiated stylish James Bond vibes, adding an extra layer of elegance to the occasion.
As the ceremony unfolded in the mansion’s garden with a breathtaking view of the gulf.
Clara’s father, with a proud and tender touch, escorted his daughter down the aisle to her awaiting groom, where the couple exchanged vows and rings.
After the ceremony, Fox and Film Photography captured mesmerizing shots in front of the mansion, reminiscent of a scene from a magnificent Italian movie.
The cocktail hour on the terrace marked the couple’s first dance, a moment of pure joy and connection.
The reception, held inside the estate, embraced the Aperol theme in every detail: table setting, guests cards, even little hand fans. Victoria Blooms adorned the venue with floral arrangements, creating a cohesive and delightful atmosphere.
For the reception, Clara slipped into a silk gown by Halfpenny London, and the signature Aperol Spritz flowed freely as guests congratulated the newlyweds. Laughter, kisses, and warm words filled the air, turning the reception into a celebration of love.
As the evening progressed, the couple danced with their parents on the terrace under the joyful gaze of friends.
The day concluded with a picturesque photo session in front of the estate, followed by an invitation to guests for a glass of champagne.
When the evening lights turned on, Clara changed into her third dress by Birger Christensen, her hair in a ponytail with a white ribbon bow, and fuchsia shoes completing her party look.
The Italian-style barefoot dancing on the lawn marked the end of this enchanting day.
Clara and Mark’s celebration at Powel Crosley Estate shows true love, style, and the magic of a summer wedding. Every detail, from the elegant attire to the joyful atmosphere, blended seamlessly to create a wonderful day that will forever be remembered as a chapter in their beautiful love story.
PHOTOGRAPHER Fox and Film Photography | PLANNER Lavish Design Events | FLORALS Victoria Blooms | VENUE Powel Crosley Estate | DRESSES First: Carolina Herrera, Second: Halfpenny London, Third: ROTATE Birger Christensen