Emily + Liam Step Into The Limelight | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

A Coastal Celebration at Longboat Key, FL

Emily and Liam’s love story began in college and came full circle on the beach, where Liam proposed and where they exchanged vows. Their wedding at Longboat Key Resort was the perfect reflection of who they are laid back, connected to the coast, and deeply in love.

The ceremony took place on the North Lawn with a view of teal waters and a soft ocean breeze. A violinist played as they walked down the aisle, adding a romantic and intimate feel to the moment.

The celebration continued at Spike ‘n Tees, an open air restaurant at The Resort at Longboat Key Club overlooking the golf course. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, putting on the green, and rounds of beer pong while Emily and Liam mingled with friends and family.

Every detail was personal. A mini boat at the bar held custom koozies. Emily designed all the signage. Bottles of sand decorated the tables. Instead of a traditional guestbook, guests left notes in a message-in-a-bottle. These thoughtful touches gave the day its charm and character.

After dinner and heartfelt speeches, we headed back to the beach for golden hour portraits. The light was perfect. Emily and Liam were completely in the moment, taking in the view and the love surrounding them.

The night wrapped back at Spike ‘n Tees with more laughter, games, and memories made. It felt less like an event and more like the gathering of one big family; exactly how they wanted it.

Emily and Liam, thank you for letting us tell your story. Your day was beautiful, meaningful, and completely yours!

With love,
Jeff

📸 Let’s capture your love story! Reach out today to schedule your consultation or explore our portfolio.

Lead Photographer | Jeff Mitchell
Associate Photographer | Noelle Topa

Bridesmaid Dresses | Azazie
Cake | Cakes by Ron
Caterer | Resort at Longboat Key Club
Ceremony Site | Resort at Longboat Key Club 
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events | Christina
Florist | Flowers by Fudgie
Hair Stylist | POSH Bridal
Make-up Artist | POSH Bridal
Reception Venue | Resort at Longboat Key Club (Spike N Tees)
Wedding Gown | Truly Forever Bridal

Kaitlin + Graham Step Into The Limelight | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

Kaitlin & Graham’s Joyful, Romantic Celebration at The Resort at Longboat Key Club

From the moment I captured their engagement session, I knew Kaitlin and Graham’s wedding would be filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and beautifully personal details. These two are best friends who bring out the joy in everyone around them — and their wedding day at The Resort at Longboat Key Club was everything a celebration should be: vibrant, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.

As a Sarasota Florida Photographer, I’ve had the honor of photographing so many incredible love stories — but Kaitlin and Graham’s is one I’ll never forget.

A Love Story Years in the Making

They first met at the University of Florida — Kaitlin was just starting her freshman year, and Graham, affectionately known as “the green guy,” was a preview staffer. One corny joke and a big smile later, and Kaitlin was hooked. Their friendship blossomed through marching band and service organizations, and after months of mutual crushes, Kaitlin finally made the first move in March of 2022. Since then, they’ve been inseparable adventure buddies — from college football games to European travels and adopting their two kittens, Clara and Luna.

The Sweetest Surprise Proposal

Longboat Key isn’t just beautiful — it’s meaningful to them both. Graham pulled off the ultimate surprise there, with a beachside proposal that caught Kaitlin completely off guard (she thought she was helping plan a dinner for him to celebrate a job offer — he had her fooled!). With champagne, family, and a perfectly timed sunset, Graham asked Kaitlin to spend forever with him. The look on her face said it all!

A Banyan Tree Ceremony & First Looks That Melted Us

Their ceremony took place under the canopy of a breathtaking banyan tree — one of the most serene, romantic spots you could imagine. With the ocean breeze and Spanish moss above, it felt sacred and magical. It was the perfect setting for the heartfelt vows they wrote for each other.

Before the ceremony, Kaitlin shared a tear-filled first look with her dad — such a powerful and emotional moment that had us all misty-eyed. Not long after, she met Graham for their first look — one of the most tender and genuine moments of the day. The way they held each other, smiled through tears, and soaked in the quiet before the festivities… it was absolute perfection.

Details Full of Heart and Personality

No detail was overlooked. Graham wore a custom sage green tux (his signature color), and Kaitlin’s bridesmaids looked radiant in varying shades of soft blue — her favorite. Her gown was a dream — romantic, timeless, and perfect for the lush, coastal setting.

Their DIY touches — including custom signage, place cards, and stationery made by Kaitlin herself — added so much heart. And don’t even get me started on the kitten cocktail napkins. Clara and Luna, you were well-represented!

From their music choices (subtle nods to Star Wars, Disney, Marvel, and more!) to their signature drinks and custom vow books, the day felt like a complete expression of them.

Pure Joy from Start to Finish

This wedding was everything I love about photojournalistic photography — raw, candid moments that tell the real story. From the laughter on the dance floor to the quiet glances between them during the ceremony, every image captured something real and meaningful.

Kaitlin and Graham — thank you for letting me be part of your story. It was truly an honor to document your love and all the magic that surrounded it.

If you’re planning your own dream day and want timeless, meaningful wedding photography in Sarasota Florida, I’d be honored to help tell your love story.

✨ Let’s capture your day with heart and joy. Contact Limelight Photography!

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | PJ

Bridesmaid Dresses | Revelry
Cake | Cakes by Ron
Caterer | The Resort at Longboat Key Club
Ceremony Site | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Banyan Cove
DJ | Tampa Bay DJ Co.
Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Events 
Florist | Flowers by Fudgie
Hair Stylist | DS Hair and Makeup Creations
Invitations | The Knot
Reception Venue | The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Harbourside Ballroom
Videographer | Limelight Photography 
Wedding Gown | Calvet Couture | Eva Lendel