Wayne and I have been a part of quite a few moments in the history of these two sweethearts. From helping Zach stage a “graduation photoshoot” that was really a surprise proposal to capturing their engagement to FINALLY the day that we and all their family were waiting for… their wedding day.

Their love story: Zach’s feelings for Carly began in early high school.  He asked her out a few times, but that friend zone thing was REAL with them. He didn’t want to push his feelings on her, so instead he focused on their friendship. He knew that they were just at different places at the time and he wanted to respect that. Plus, he knew that he would rather have a friendship with Carly than nothing at all, even though in the back of his mind…he knew she was the one. Carly said that Zach pursued a friendship with her every day. He was all in and in the most genuine sense. Zach was always been there for her, never wavered on being her best friend. “Always be friends” is the advice Carly’s dad gave her. That really stuck with her.  “Zach is the best friend I’ve ever known and our relationship starts and ends there each day.”

Their wedding day: This beautiful day dawned with overcast weather and so much excitement from everyone involved. Us very much included. Their wedding invitation suite by Sugared Fig Paperie set the tone for this beautiful outdoor Estate wedding. Claire designed a suite that included the couple’s wedding monogram and a hand-drawn depiction of the Cypress Grove Estate House. The texture of the paper goods, the colors, and the detail were beautifully designed to set the tone and feel of the wedding.

Carly wore the most beautiful Emmy Mae gown with a plunging back and delicate lace details. Her hair was pulled back ever so slightly and delicately curled. Her makeup was fresh showing off her natural beauty. She looked utterly stunning!

The ceremony and reception were held on the stunning grounds of the Cypress Grove Estate House. The couple wanted their venue to take the center stage of their wedding so Bella Sposa Events incorporated white floral arrangements, candles, accents of gold, elements to tie in the bridesmaid’s floral dresses to reception space and the couple’s wedding monogram!

Their dessert bar featured many 8 different kinds of donuts and a small wedding cake.  (these two have a sweet tooth) Florida Candy Buffets worked with Bella Sposa Events to design this with beautiful and yummy display. Later in the evening during the dancing, the catering staff served bagel bites (the bride’s favorite snack) to the guests who were dancing their hearts out.

One of my favorites moments from the day was the couple’s first look. Zach had been waiting to marry Carly. When he finally got to turn around and watched as his bride approached him, he bent over and LOST it. It was the sweetest moment of anticipation. Another favorite moment was when we learned of a unique tradition this family has when a wedding takes place. Since 1932, there has been a family dollar bill that has been signed by all women who marry into the family. For almost 90 years, the bride will add her signature and date to the bill on her wedding day. Then she becomes responsible for protecting the bill and eventually, she will hand it down to the next bride. What a sweet tradition!

| Band: Bay Kings Band |  Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Cake: Sugar Sugar |  Catering: Big City Catering |  Calligraphy + Signage: Lettered Moments | Donuts Bar: Florida Candy Buffets | Dress Designer: Emmy Mae | Dress Shop: Lighthouse Bridal | Floral Designer: Gather & Grace Designs | Hair + Makeup Stylist: Before The Aisle |  Invitation Designer: Sugar Fig Paperie  | Planner:  Bella Sposa Events  | Rentals: RW Style | Suit: The Black Tux | Venue: Cypress Grove Estate House | Video: Meet the Garrs |