Isla Bella Resort Wedding

Some connections span decades, and when Ekta first reached out about photographing her wedding, I couldn’t help but smile thinking back to when we first met over twenty years ago. She was shadowing at the architecture firm where I was interning in Jacksonville—both of us just starting our careers with no idea where life would take us. We stayed in touch through the years, and when she got engaged to Dan, I was honored she thought of me to capture their special day!

Their celebration took place at Isla Bella Beach Resort in the heart of the Florida Keys as a two-day event that honored both their cultures. The festivities kicked off with a vibrant sangeet the night before the wedding, where Velour Events designed something truly magical—a clear tent with colorful traditional umbrellas suspended from the ceiling like floating artwork, paired with rich lounge furniture below. A Lavish Event Design and MPE Event Group brought this vision to life flawlessly as family and friends performed dances and musical performances.

I started the wedding day photographing both Ekta and Dan getting ready, including a sweet pre-ceremony toast with Ekta’s closest friends just outside her room before she put on her stunning wedding outfit. Ekta’s vision was part mermaid-inspired, and her ocean-blue and gold outfit perfectly echoed the colors of the turquoise water that would serve as her ceremony backdrop—a thoughtful choice that connected her to the ocean setting in the most beautiful way.

The ceremony setup was breathtaking in its simplicity and elegance. Velour Events designed a beachfront ceremony that perfectly balanced tropical beauty with refined sophistication—clear chiavari chairs arranged on the beach facing the ocean, with string lights woven between towering palm trees creating a canopy of light. Working with A Lavish Event Design, they executed stunning altar arrangements featuring birds of paradise and tropical greenery. Ekta and Dan exchanged vows on the wooden deck extending over the water, with Christa Morera’s violin providing the soundtrack.

As the sun set, guests moved to the clear-top tent where Velour Events had envisioned thousands of string lights creating a ceiling of stars. Ocean Breeze Party Rentals executed this vision beautifully, while the centerpieces mixed vibrant orange roses with tropical elements and tall glass candlesticks. Pavan Events kept the party going with music that honored both cultures, and the night ended with a magical sparkler exit.

Looking back at these images, I’m reminded of why destination weddings in places like this work so beautifully. The natural setting creates this shared experience for everyone involved—guests aren’t just attending a wedding, they’re part of a celebration that unfolds over days in a place where every moment feels a little more intentional.

Congratulations, Ekta and Dan! Thank you for letting me be part of your story, and for choosing such an incredible team to bring your vision to life in paradise!