There’s something magical about getting married by the ocean, the way the wind insists on being part of the celebration, the way the sunlight hugs every smile, and the way some couples manage to turn two ceremonies into the perfect script for a romantic comedy. That’s exactly what Allison and Aaron created: an elopement filled with laughter, unforgettable moments, and the iconic charm of The Don Cesar, where the hotel’s perfect shade of pink matched the glow these two carried all day.
There’s something magical about getting married by the ocean, the way the wind insists on being part of the celebration, the way the sunlight hugs every smile, and the way some couples manage to turn two ceremonies into the perfect script for a romantic comedy. That’s exactly what Allison and Aaron created: an elopement filled with laughter, unforgettable moments, and the iconic charm of The Don Cesar, where the hotel’s perfect shade of pink matched the glow these two carried all day.
Allison and Aaron met in college at Auburn University, of course they did. Where else would two adventurous souls who love hiking, traveling, and working out together cross paths? And after many journeys side by side, Aaron proposed on top of a mountain in Asheville, NC. Truly the perfect setting… though the real plot twist of the wedding day was him not convincing Allison to jump into the pool afterward. Allison, I’m sorry… but we need to acknowledge that would have been a legendary photo.
Their wedding day was everything they dreamed of: intimate, family-centered, beachy, and relaxed… well, almost relaxed. Because after any beautiful ceremony, there’s always that little adventure — and for Allison, it came in the form of the classic “real bride moment”: her dress got dirty in the car. And yes, Allison, I sincerely feel for you… but it was so worth it. Because we got the photo. And photos last forever, while wedding dresses go to the dry cleaners and return pretending nothing ever happened. Now you not only have gorgeous images, you also have a great story to tell every holiday from now on.
The first ceremony on the beach was everything they hoped for, simple, emotional, full of salty breeze and surrounded by the people who matter most. For Allison, having her family there was the heart of everything. Then we headed to The Don Cesar for round two (yes, this wedding had chapters): private vows, deep emotion, and that perfect historic charm they love so much. Honestly, having two ceremonies is kind of like working out at the gym… just when you think you’re done, surprise, another set.
What made this elopement so truly them? They didn’t want attention, spectacle, or anything extravagant. They wanted something real. Something intimate. Something meaningful. A small ceremony in a historic Florida beach town with charm, color, and a lot of personality, just like them.
Two ceremonies, one slightly dirty dress, countless laughs, and a love story that began in college and turned into a forever promise by the sea, right in front of the most iconic pink hotel in St. Pete.
Allison and Aaron, thank you for letting me capture and tell this beautiful story. And I promise… next time, I’ll be on Aaron’s side, cheering for the pool jump.
Congratulations!
With love,
Natalia Fontes
Lead Photographer | Natalia Fontes
Associate Photographer | Jalyssa Ellis
Ceremony Venue | The Don Cesar Hotel
Reception Venue | The Don Cesar Hotel
Hair Stylist | Adore Bridal
Make-up Artist | Adore Bridal