Grace & Martin’s Soft, Romantic Wedding at Selby Gardens in Sarasota

Some weddings feel like they were lifted right out of a dream, soft, genuine, and effortlessly beautiful. Grace and Martin’s Selby Gardens wedding in Sarasota was exactly that. Surrounded by blooming florals, golden light, and the peaceful energy of the gardens, their day was the perfect reflection of who they are: kind, genuine, and full of quiet joy.

A Couple Rooted in Kindness

From the moment I met Grace and Martin, I could tell how deeply they cared about creating an experience that felt warm and welcoming. They’re the kind of couple who make everyone around them feel at ease. They were polite, thoughtful, and refreshingly easygoing. Throughout the planning process, they trusted our team completely, leaning on our guidance and expertise to bring their vision to life while keeping things calm and simple.

It was clear that their love wasn’t about grand gestures or over-the-top moments, it was about authenticity, laughter, and the beauty of being surrounded by their closest friends and family.

The Perfect Sarasota Setting

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens was the ideal backdrop for their wedding, lush, serene, and endlessly romantic. With Sarasota Bay glistening nearby and tropical blooms all around, the gardens created a setting that felt naturally beautiful and full of life.

Grace and Martin were drawn to Selby Gardens for its charm and intimacy. They loved how everything felt close-knit, from the ceremony among the greenery to the reception under a canopy of trees and soft lighting. It was a place where every view was stunning and every moment felt meaningful.

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. It was a quintessential Sarasota day with golden sunshine filtering through the palm trees and just enough of a breeze to keep everything light and comfortable. It was the kind of day that matched their personalities perfectly: calm, soft, and full of quiet happiness.

A Romantic, Blush-Hued Design

Grace envisioned a wedding that felt pretty, soft, and romantic, with tones of blush, gold, and

ivory setting the mood. The color palette came to life beautifully through lush floral arrangements, elegant table settings, and subtle details that added texture and depth.

The blush glassware was one of my favorite design elements of the day it added a delicate pop of color that elevated the tablescape and tied the entire palette together. Every element was curated to feel cohesive yet effortless, from the gold accents to the ivory linens that softened the space.

Personal Touches Inspired by Love

One of the most charming parts of Grace and Martin’s wedding was how they incorporated their beloved dogs, Boddie and Tucker, into their celebration. Their signature cocktails were even named after them, a sweet and personal touch that guests loved!

They carried this playful theme throughout the reception, with custom matchboxes, napkins, and bar details featuring the dogs’ illustrations. It added such warmth and personality, and it made everyone smile every time they noticed a little detail tied back to their furry family members.

A Celebration Surrounded by Love

Grace and Martin’s wedding was full of laughter, happy tears, and an undeniable sense of closeness. Their large bridal party brought an incredible energy to the day, from the emotional ceremony moments to the fun and lively reception that followed.

As the sun began to set over the gardens, soft string lights glowed above the reception space, and guests gathered for heartfelt toasts and joyful dancing. It was one of those nights where time seemed to slow down, and every moment felt golden.

A Planner’s Perspective

From a planning standpoint, one of the things I loved most about this day was how naturally everything came together. Grace and Martin trusted us completely, and that allowed us to focus on the experience, ensuring that each moment flowed seamlessly into the next.

Our team brought in custom blush glassware to enhance the tablescape and tie the romantic palette together. It was a simple detail, but it made such an impact on the overall design — and seeing Grace’s face light up when she saw the reception for the first time was unforgettable.

Working at Selby Gardens is always a dream, but this one felt extra special. Between the stunning surroundings, the thoughtful couple, and the soft, romantic energy of the evening, it was the kind of celebration that reminds you why you love creating weddings in Sarasota.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding at Selby Gardens?

If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature’s beauty, where every moment feels soft, genuine, and effortlessly romantic, Selby Gardens in Sarasota is the perfect place to say “I do.”

Our team specializes in creating weddings that feel authentic, personal, and beautifully designed. Whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony or a full weekend celebration, we’ll guide you through every step of the process with expertise and care.

Let’s start planning your Sarasota wedding. Inquire to begin creating a day that feels completely and beautifully yours.

Vendor List:

Catering: Michaels On East

Officiant: Bob Spencer

Hair/Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne

Hair/Makeup: Loch Nessa Makeup Creations

Permanent Jewelry: linkxluxe

Florals: Beneva Flowers

Rentals: Affairs in the Air

Rentals/Decor: So Staged

Cake: Cakes by Ron

Photography: Beth Joy

Videographer: CGM Productions

Photo Booth: Tampa Flower Wall

Ceremony Music: Matt Dendy

Band/DJ: Bay Kings Band

Transportation: Siesta Trolley