Finding the perfect destination wedding location was a breeze for Adrian and Michael. The tropical feel of the Hyatt Coconut Point in Naples, Florida had just the vibe two were looking for. 

It all began with a click and a swipe. Every day, more and more couples are finding their “forever and always” online. This was no different for Adrian and Michael. Although the two still joke to each other about their first impressions of each other, their journey happily brought them to the altar where they pledged their love. 

A Tropical Escape Venue

Deciding on what they wanted their big day to look like was the biggest factor in choosing a destination wedding. The couple desired not only a spectacular wedding day but also an extended weekend celebration in a beautiful setting. Michael had first visited Southwest Florida in 2013 and it immediately had a special place in his heart. So when he and Adrian became engaged, they employed the help of his mom and sister and the hunt was on for just the right venue there to make their dreams come true.

It had to have all of the markings of that Florida tropical feel that Michael loved, a vast contrast from their Northeast views. When they saw the palms, lush greenery everywhere, and a view of the bay, their excitement grew.  “All I could think of was how these would make great pictures!” Michael tells us. “We were thrilled to book the venue.”

Bringing the Dream to Life in a Tailored Ceremony

The secluded glade among the palm trees swaying in a bay breeze made for a magical place for their union. Three aisles were lined with bouquets of Monstera and palm leaves accented with florals to add to the tropical feel. The wedding arch was dressed similarly with gorgeous white roses and white moth orchids. “Adrian and I come from traditional family backgrounds and wanted to incorporate those values into our wedding, even though it was a gay wedding,” Michael tells us.

“However, we knew that some aspects of a traditional wedding wouldn’t apply to us, so we tailored our ceremony to our own preferences.” Their officiant, a close friend of theirs, incorporated non-religious readings. The center aisle was for the bridal party as the grooms walked up the outer aisles in their smart, white tuxedo with their parents. Adrian added a touch of his personality with black rhinestone loafers. After exchanging their most heartfelt vows, they stepped into the center aisle and walked down hand in hand for the first time as a married couple. 

Making Memories in Naples

The Estero Ballroom was just the right place to get the party started. The elevated centerpieces of Monstera, palm and roses adorned each table. A wall matching the floral theme of the day displaying a neon sign that said “Better Together” made the perfect accented piece. And, as the night went on, music and dancing filled the room.

The pair attribute the success of a beautiful wedding to their tenacious planning, budgeting, and their excellent wedding planner, Cece. Michael had hoped that with their dream location, they would have gorgeous wedding photos. And, he was right. They are picture-perfect.

Vendors: Photographer: Bohemian Road Photography; Designer: I Dew Events; Planner: So Eventful; Event Venue: The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa; Videography: Sky Helm Weddings; Beauty: May Paulina Hair & Makeup; Equipment Rentals: Trinity Event Rentals, Niche Event Rentals & I Dew Events; Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Garmany; DJ: The DJ Tommy G; Musicians: Jade Strings