Tropical & Romantic: Kaitlin & Jake’s Wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | Sarasota, Florida
Located in Sarasota, Florida, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota provided the perfect waterfront setting for Kaitlin and Jake’s vibrant tropical wedding celebration. Inspired by lush island escapes, the couple embraced a colorful design filled with bright florals, natural textures, and playful details that reflected their personalities. Their tropical color palette featured vibrant oranges, pinks, peaches, yellows, and fresh greens that carried throughout every space of the celebration. Every element was thoughtfully curated to create an elevated yet welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. From the very beginning, guests were immersed in a wedding day that perfectly blended timeless elegance with tropical charm.
The Ceremony took place on the hotel lawn with the waterfront setting serving as a beautiful backdrop for Kaitlin and Jake’s vows. A breathtaking oversized floral arch framed the altar, creating a stunning focal point filled with vibrant tropical blooms in shades of orange, peach, pink, yellow, and lush greenery. The aisle was lined with abundant floral arrangements, while the entrance featured statement arrangements displayed in rattan baskets overflowing with tropical florals that perfectly introduced guests to the colorful celebration. One of the sweetest moments of the day came when Kaitlin and Jake’s beloved dog walked down the aisle, bringing smiles to everyone in attendance before the couple exchanged heartfelt vows. Every floral detail complemented the tropical-inspired design, creating an unforgettable Ceremony that seamlessly blended elegance with the couple's vibrant vision.
Cocktail Hour welcomed guests with one of the most memorable experiences of the day—a custom coconut wall featuring personalized coconuts served as the signature welcome drink. Specialty cocktails, including an Old Fashioned and a Coconut Margarita, continued the tropical theme while guests enjoyed the beautiful waterfront setting. Bright florals paired with papayas, coconuts, oranges, and plantains incorporated throughout the design created a fresh and colorful atmosphere. Natural rattan accents added warmth and texture while complementing the vibrant floral palette. Every detail seamlessly tied together to create a relaxed yet sophisticated island-inspired celebration.
The Reception took place beneath a breathtaking open-air tent on the Healing Garden Lawn, complete with elegant draping that transformed the space into a romantic garden oasis. Long tables were adorned with lush floral arrangements overflowing with tropical blooms alongside glowing butter yellow candles that created an inviting ambiance as the sun set. The vibrant color palette continued throughout every centerpiece and design element, making the tent feel both lively and elegant. Kaitlin and Jake’s dog made another special appearance as custom cake toppers, adding a meaningful and personal touch to the wedding cake. As the evening progressed, Curate Entertainment kept the dance floor packed while guests celebrated with glow wands that brought incredible energy to the Reception.
The celebration continued into the Ca’ d’Zan Ballroom for an exciting After Party where guests enjoyed even more time together. Late-night slider and flatbread stations were the perfect way to refuel after an evening filled with dancing and celebration. The relaxed atmosphere allowed everyone to continue making memories well into the night while enjoying delicious comfort food. Every thoughtfully planned detail reflected Kaitlin and Jake’s fun-loving personalities and their desire to create an unforgettable experience for every guest. Their wedding beautifully balanced timeless elegance with vibrant tropical design, resulting in a joyful celebration that everyone will remember for years to come.
Vendor Team:
Coordination & Design: @mdpevents | MDP Events
Venue & Catering: @ritzcarltonsarasota | The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Florals: @blossmcart | Blossm Cart
Photographer: @autumnandjendry | Autumn & Jendry Photography
DJ: @curateentertainment | Curate Entertainment
Videographer: @lensculture | Lens Culture
Hair & Makeup: @adorebridalhairandmakeup | Adore Bridal Hair & Makeup
Linens & Rentals: @ustentrental @linensbythesea | US Tent Rental & Linens by the Sea
Pet Care: @fairytail_petcare | FairyTail Pet Care
Coconuts: @nauticoconut | Nauti Coconut
Wedding Dress: @elyseebridaldesign @enzoani | Elysee Bridal & Enzoani
Groom’s Suit: @tweedssuitshop | Tweeds Custom Suits
Bridesmaids: @showmeyourmumu | Show Me Your Mumu
Groomsmen Suits: @menswearhouse | Men's Wearhouse
Newlyweds: @kaitlinkodak @jakewiswall
