A Tropical-Kissed Wedding Blending Family Legacy and Colombian Spirit

By Kevin Harson22 January 2026

Deep forest greens, creamy whites, tan with accents of soft pinks, gold, and bright white.

From the Bride: “Our wedding was layered with meaning and family history. We chose to celebrate at the very same location—now a newly opened hotel—where my parents were married 28 years ago, creating a beautiful sense of continuity across generations. My husband, who is from Cartagena, Colombia, wanted the day to reflect the vibrancy of his tropical hometown, so we incorporated orchids and lush tropical florals that brought the setting to life. One of the most special parts was having his family travel all the way from Colombia to be with us, and my grandmother—who had just turned 90—joined in the celebration. The day became a joyful blend of cultures, traditions, and loved ones, making it uniquely and unmistakably ours.”

From the Bride: Our engagement was nothing short of magical — and the best surprise of all. What I thought was a work dinner for Juan turned out to be the night he proposed. When we arrived, instead of a business meeting, we were greeted by the sight of a beautifully set private dinner on the beach. The sun was beginning to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink as the waves rolled gently onto the shore. In that perfect moment, he got down on one knee and asked the question that changed our lives forever. Afterward, we enjoyed a romantic candlelit dinner surrounded by flowers and soft lights, with a violinist playing softly under a canopy of stars. It was the most incredible surprise — and the start of our forever.

Ashley’s Mark Ingram gown beautifully reflected the tropical and floral energy displayed throughout the wedding weekend. It held a nice balance of classic charm and modern sophistication that the overall design carried throughout.

To further the narrative of tropical meets classic, the bridesmaids wore black dresses that allowed the elements around them to truly pop!

The culinary experience beautifully reflected the weekend’s blend of classic charm, modern sophistication, and tropical flair. Guests were greeted by a seating chart wall adorned with engraved coconuts, a playful nod to the couple’s coastal setting and the groom’s Caribbean roots. The dinner menu showcased an elegant balance between local coastal flavors and timeless favorites. Each course was thoughtfully crafted to complement the setting, refined yet inviting, with just the right hint of tropical indulgence that perfectly mirrored the celebration’s aesthetic.

The design seamlessly transitioned from airy coastal romance to modern, moody sophistication. The ceremony featured a lush blend of white and soft pink blooms paired with palm fronds and Monstera leaves, framed by the dreamy blue waters of the Gulf. As guests entered the reception, the atmosphere shifted into a rich and intimate setting. Floor-to-ceiling draping in deep forest green created a dramatic backdrop, while the warm, ambient lighting by Fyerfly Productions added a sense of depth and glow. The custom-wrapped dance floor served as the visual centerpiece of the evening. The floral story continued through the reception with tropical white orchids and roses surrounded by sculptural greenery.

The St. Regis Longboat Key created a timeless confection that beautifully complemented the day’s refined aesthetic. The three-tiered white cake was adorned with cascading white orchids and creamy roses, reflecting the floral story woven throughout the celebration. Its simple and elegant design captured the essence of the weekend, combining classic charm with a touch of tropical romance.

From the Bride: Meaningful Details: Every element of our wedding was designed to feel personal, romantic, and full of life. I wore my grandmother’s jewelry — a timeless and sentimental way to honor her memory and feel her presence with me throughout the day. Our menu was a reflection of us: elegant yet fun, filled with our favorite flavors and an incredible dessert display that indulged our shared sweet tooth. To honor Juan’s coastal upbringing in Colombia, we incorporated custom coconuts and a vibrant hora loca that brought an explosion of color, energy, and laughter to the dance floor. The day felt like a perfect blend of love, culture, and celebration — a true reflection of who we are and the life we’ve built together.