Blog
What's Conch Got to Do with it?
If you’re considering a trip to Key West for a wedding, honeymoon, or just for fun, you’ve probably heard its nickname, the Conch Republic!
The story behind this name goes all the way back to the Revolutionary War. After America won its independence, those still loyal to the British, called Tories, fled to the nearest Crown soil: the Bahamas. Unfortunately for them, the British Parliament started taxing Bahamian colonists on imported food just like they had taxed Bostonians’ tea. In response, the locals said they’re rather eat conch - a large sea snail pronounced “konk” - than pay those taxes. And that’s what they did! Bahamians became known as Conchs, and eventually, many descendants of those Tories immigrated to Key West.
Callie and John Dimond Say Yes in Key West on 7.17.17
The Dimonds were married at Fort Zachary Taylor on the lucky date 7.17.17 at 7:17pm! Yes, lucky 7's for this adorable couple!
Alysse + Matthew Walavich Dream Wedding in Paradise
Alysse and Matthew Walavich met when they were freshman in high school in 2001. It wasn't until 2013 that they became official boyfriend and girlfriend. These high school sweethearts got engaged on the pink sand of Harbour Island, Bahamas in December of 2016! They are super adventurous, and love to travel so it was no surprise they planned a gorgeous destination wedding here in Key West, Florida!
Ally + Hunter Key West Wedding at the Beautiful Reach Resort
Along with their beautiful daughter Miller, Ally and Hunter said I Do in Key West, Florida at the famous Reach Resort on Saturday June 3rd, 2017! Every detail from the invites to the gorgeous leather name tags were very well thought out!
Kevin + Carlos Married In Key West
It may have been a little on the warm side here in paradise, but it was a flawless wedding day for Kevin and Carlos! The flowers and decor were perfect in the garden setting of the beautiful Audubon House. One of my personal favorites was the matted Audubon painting guestbook. Such a great idea! Grilled surf and turf, a homemade mac and cheese bar, and ice cold mojitos were just a few of the favorites from the lovely Great Events Catering Team. Jimmy Cooper kept the upbeat vibe going until everyone was ready to head off to the after party. The grooms' send off was in true Key West fashion... Drag queen style. What a unforgettable wedding!
Key West Engagement Session: Carmella + Chris + Alex
I absolutely LOVED meeting Carmella, Chris, and Alex for the first time a few weeks ago. They are no ordinary couple! These two are over the top fun, have adventure for life, and are very kind hearted! Even sweet Alex! Woof woof!
Candis + Ken- Key West Wedding Pier House 5.13.17
Candis and Ken (aka #Kendis) met in a subway in NYC on September 26th, 2013. They were both on their way home from New Jersey. Candis sat down next to Ken and that was all she wrote! :) Fast forward a few years later to this beautiful couple who said their I Do's oceanside at the beautiful Pier House Resort here in Key West, Florida!
This perfect wedding day was filled with love, laughter, and a few tears of joy.
Say “Yes” to Key West for your Engagement Photos!
So, you're engaged! Congratulations!!!
Whether you're basking in the festive afterglow or already feel like there are a million preparations filling up your to-do list, you may be thinking about celebrating this special time with an engagement shoot. With so many tasks on your plate, it’s important to slow down and enjoy these moments. It’s even better if you capture those moments as photos to cherish for a lifetime, and it’s BEST if those photos are taken in Key West!
Rachel's Top Things to Do in Key West
Welcome to Key West! Whether it's for your wedding, a loved one's big day, or just to get away, there is so much to do and see on this island! And since there's so much, my photography clients and their guests often ask me for my list of can't-miss places. I absolutely love showcasing my home of over 11 years, so without further ado, here is my recommended list of what to do in the Conch Republic!
The Many Faces of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
The island of Key West is not very large, but did you know it's home to an 87-acre park that includes beaches, pine trees, and a Civil War-era fort? That’s right, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park (or Ft. Zach for short) is one of my absolute favorite locations for photos!
Your 3-Day Key West Vacation Plan
Whether it's for your wedding, a loved one's big day, or just to get away, Key West is a wonderful island to stay for a few days - or in my case - over 11 years! Many of my photography clients and their guests ask me what they should do and see when they're not participating in wedding festivities. Showcasing my island home is one of my favorite things, so without further ado, here is my recommended itinerary for getting the most out of three days in Key West!
Key West Wedding Venues
Your wedding venue is the stage upon which life-long memories are created! From Key West's dazzling beaches to tropical gardens to elegant resorts, there is a location here that will fit the wedding of your dreams. In the 11+ years I've done wedding photography on this amazing island, I've learned the ins and outs of just about every venue here. Though it was tough to narrow it down to my absolute favorites, here are my recommendations for Key West's best wedding venues, in alphabetical order! (Many of them are also wonderful places for your stay!)
An "Around Key West" Photography Session Captures your Tropical Wedding Destination!
A very popular option among couples tying the knot is what I call “Around Key West.” In addition to the photos taken during your ceremony and at your wedding venue, it’s a photography session that showcases the two of you with your tropical destination as the backdrop!
St Mary's Star of the Sea: Key West Church
St Mary Star of the Sea is simply breathtaking! Many clients have chosen this Catholic Church to say their I Do's here in paradise. For my destination wedding clients, I wanted to share some photographs and information!
Rachel’s Guide to Key West’s Best Happy Hours
While Key West is arguably a 24/7 happy hour, many local establishments do offer food and drink specials during that magical time between lunch and dinner. So whether you’re going to the Conch Republic for your own wedding or a loved one’s, here’s a list of my favorite happy hours in Key West to help make your visit extra joyous!
Rachel’s Guide to Key West’s Best Restaurants and Bars
So you’re coming to Key West for a wedding or to have a great time with family or friends. Whether you're tying the knot or celebrating a loved one's big day, congratulations! Key West is a wonderful island to stay for a few days - or in my case - over 11 years! Many of my photography clients and their guests ask me for local restaurant recommendations. Showcasing my island home is one of my favorite things, so without further ado, here is a list of the best places for food and drink here in Key West!