Nicole + Brad | Ringling Museum & Courthouse Elopement
Nicole and Brad’s Courthouse Elopement was the kind of day that reminds you what weddings are really about at their core. Simple ad intentional. And, of course: full of joy. These two planned everything in just one week (!!!) and decided to say “I do” before the new year, tying the knot on December 30th, with only their closest family and friends by their side. I love a spontaneous moment! When you know, you know!
Before their ceremony, we started off with some portraits at the Ringling Museum.
The Ringling is one of those places that never gets old. I mean, the grand architecture, sweeping arches, palm lined walkways, and colorful tiled courtyards… what’s not to love? Cohesively, they create the dreamiest backdrop. (You can see an engagement session I photographed at the museum here!)
Nicole wore a chic, off the shoulder fitted gown with a soft train that moved beautifully through the courthouse corridors. Her bouquet by Lemon Drops featured romantic burgundy blooms with cascading greenery that added the perfect pop of color against her classic look. Brad kept things timeless in a black suit with a white bonbonnière and deep red floral accent that tied everything together effortlessly.
Nicole’s veil caught the breeze as they walked hand in hand toward the museum, and the soft afternoon lighting made everything feel romantic. It was literally the PERFECT day for an elopement.
Nicole and Brad shared quiet moments out by the water, and playful ones on the marble steps of the museum. We wandered the grounds, making sure to capture this moment fully for them. I couldn’t believe they had pulled everything together in a week!
After we wrapped up our portraits at the museum, it was time for their OFFICIAL Courthouse Elopement!
Their ceremony took place at the historic Sarasota courthouse. It’s a space filled with rich wood tones, arched ceilings, and old Florida charm. As a photographer, I always love working here.
One of my favorite things about a good Courthouse elopement in general, is how it strips away the pressure and keeps the focus exactly where it should be: on you & your partner starting this next phase of your life together!
Nicole changed into a second look for this part of the day. She wore a tea length dress with delicate buttons and flutter sleeves, paired with white heels and the sweetest bouquet of calla lilies. It felt vintage inspired and perfectly suited for a day eloping! After they officially became husband and wife, we all went outside for some photos! They grabbed a newspaper from the day, and wrote their announcement on it in sharpie. Perfect way to commemorate the day.
From the courthouse to the Ringling Museum, every part of their day was so very meaningful.
Quick planning did not take away from the big meaning of their celebration. It made it even sweeter in a way. Remember in Parks & Rec, when Leslie and Ben say: “I don’t want to spend one more day not married to you”? That was the feeling in the air this day. Nicole and Brad were just ready to be married. So they made it happen in a week!
If you are dreaming of a heartfelt and intimate Courthouse elopement, this Sarasota day is your sign!
VENDORS & LOCATIONS:
Ceremony Venue: Sarasota Historic Courthouse @SRQCountyGov
Portrait Venue: John Mable Ringling Museum of Art @TheRingling
Florals: @LemondDropsFL
