We adore Maria and Derek’s gorgeous wedding at the incredible Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and the absolutely stunning images from Maloman Studios. Maria’s elegant and classic style, the sophisticated color palette, and that amazing setting all made for gorgeous photos of their romantic wedding day.

The Goals: Both Derek and Maria said that their main priority was to have their family and friends in attendance to celebrate and enjoy their wedding. Beyond that, they wanted something elegant, romantic, and unique at the most beautiful location, so they chose Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. They used a liberal officiant willing to combine their Baptist and Catholic beliefs into a ceremony perfectly tailored to them.

The Design: Maria said – Our wedding was breathtaking…memorable…warm! We wanted to have an elegant and classic event. We did not have a specific theme for the wedding or reception, but our best decision was to have only our siblings as the only members of our bridal party. The wedding day and days leading up tend to be very stressful so only having family around made things easier and more intimate. Later at the reception, we had a short ballet show with a dancer that also played an electric violin. This show consisted of about 10 dances that entertained our guests using a somewhat alternative interpretation of classical music. During the last hour of the wedding we had the “hora loca”. This time consisted of our guests finding and wearing a variety of hats, masks, headpieces, and props enhanced by the participation of multiple costumed dancers to a variety of Spanish music. Our goal was to have the party end with a BANG!

The Look: I wanted something elegant and timeless. I didn’t want to wear something I would cringe about when looking back. I loved the detail of the stoned headband and my AMAZING bouquet. I was so happy to be able to wear my mother’s earrings that I have always said I would wear to my wedding, that she received as a gift from my dad about 10 years ago.

The Moments: The ceremony stands out to both of us the most. We could not believe how beautiful our ceremony site was, with all of our guests there, sitting in complete silence taking in the moment even before the ceremony began. Our toasts were also very memorable as our siblings and parents were able to share with the guests what we believed to be the best qualities we each hoped to bring to our marriage, currently and in the future.

Our first look was one of the most sentimental moments of the entire event. Our parents traveled to Vizcaya from the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove as we wanted them to be able to watch our first look. During our first opportunity to see each other, Maloman Studios was able to capture our parents watching us from above. It was incredibly emotional and exciting to see each other all dressed up and preparing to take this important next step in our relationship in the presence of the most important people in our lives.

The Pros: For all the details on the talented team of professionals that brought Maria and Derek’s vision to life, please visit the couple’s page in our Real Wedding Library.

Thank you Maria and Derek for sharing your elegant wedding day with us! A huge congrats to you both on your new life together.