Creating an intentional South Florida wedding day isn’t about following trends or checking boxes. It’s all about designing a celebration that reflects who you are, where you come from, and what matters most to you as a couple.

Nichole and Steven’s modern, formal wedding at Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo is a beautiful example of how thoughtful choices can transform a wedding day into something deeply personal and unforgettable. Every part of their celebration, from quiet, emotional moments to high-energy cultural traditions, was chosen with intention.

Here are five meaningful ways to create an intentional wedding day that is true to you, inspired by their Florida Keys celebration.

Table of Contents

1. Choose Moments That Are Meaningful to You
2. Create Space for Connection
3. Honor Your Cultures & Beliefs
4. Design a Celebration That Feels Like Joy
5. Let the Setting Support Your Vision
6. Client Testimonial
7. Capturing Intentional Wedding Days in South Florida & the Florida Keys

1. Choose Moments That Are Meaningful to You

Intentional wedding days start with asking one simple question: What moments matter most to us?

For Nichole, that meant turning her getting-ready time into something playful and nostalgic. Having known most of her bridesmaids since childhood, she wanted the morning to feel like a throwback to the sleepovers they grew up loving, not a stiff or overly traditional bridal prep.

With pastries, popcorn, lipstick, magazines, custom newspapers, and fun props, the morning felt relaxed, joyful, and full of genuine connection. Those details weren’t chosen for photos alone. They reflected real memories and real relationships, which made the images feel authentic and alive.

Intentional takeaway: Don’t default to what’s expected. Choose moments that feel emotionally meaningful to your unique story.

2. Create Space for Connection

In the midst of a busy wedding timeline, carving out quiet moments can make all the difference.

Nichole and Steven chose to have a private first look, followed by intimate vows shared just between the two of them. Away from the crowd, they were able to slow down, connect emotionally, and truly be present with one another before the ceremony began.

Later in the day, they also set aside time for sunset portraits, and the Florida Keys delivered the most breathtaking golden light. These unhurried moments allowed them to soak in the day together, creating images that felt calm, romantic, and timeless.

Intentional takeaway:
Privacy creates presence. Build space into your timeline to simply be together.

3. Honor Your Cultures & Beliefs

One of the most powerful ways to create an intentional wedding day is to honor where you come from and where you’re going together as a married couple.

Nichole and Steven’s ceremony was officiated by both a Rabbi and a Pastor, blending Jewish and Christian traditions in a way that felt inclusive, respectful, and deeply personal. Rather than choosing one path, they created a ceremony that reflected both of their identities and the life they’re building together.

The result was a ceremony that felt heartfelt, unique, and incredibly moving.

Intentional takeaway:
Blending traditions, faiths, or cultures can make your wedding ceremony even more meaningful. Don’t be afraid to try something unique to you!

4. Design a Celebration That Feels Like Joy

An intentional wedding doesn’t have to be quiet or understated. Sometimes, intention looks like pure, uninhibited joy.

Nichole and Steven kicked off the dancing portion of the night with an epic 15-minute Hora, setting the tone for a celebration rooted in tradition and energy. And just when guests thought the party couldn’t get better, the reception transformed into a full Hora Loca, which is a South Florida favorite inspired by Hispanic culture.

With disco-ball-clad performers, drummers, and nonstop movement, the dance floor became a shared experience that brought everyone together. It was bold, fun, and completely them.

Intentional takeaway:
Celebrate in a way that feels natural to you! Whether that’s elegant, energetic, or somewhere in between, it’s your choice.

5. Let the Setting Support Your Vision

Your venue should support your vision, not compete with it.

Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo provided the perfect backdrop for Nichole and Steven’s modern, formal wedding. With lush greenery, ocean views, and a peaceful Florida Keys atmosphere, the setting elevated their celebration without overpowering it.

Even their choice of a Publix wedding cake fit seamlessly into the day. Publix Bakery cakes are a local favorite that are both stunning and delicious. It was a reminder that intentional choices don’t have to be extravagant; they just have to feel right.

Intentional takeaway:
When your setting aligns with your vision, every detail feels cohesive and effortless.

Client Testimonial

“Michelle and Pete did a wonderful job making us feel comfortable on the big day! We had so much fun with them and the results are stunning!” — Nichole & Steven